The South of Thailand has a wealth of beaches and stunning ones at that. It can seem there is so much choice so where do you start? Don’t worry, we have compiled a list of the best beaches in Southern Thailand so you don’t have to.
Normally the best way to get to the South of Thailand is from Bangkok. As most international carriers fly in here and you can get reasonable internal flights with AirAsia or someone like that, I would recommend booking with the carrier directly rather than going through a travel agent and reading your rules of the ticket carefully, you will also need to add baggage if you have more than 7kg carry on.
The main airports for the South to access beaches are Phuket (HKT), Krabi (KBV) and Koh Samui (USM). There are others but these are the best for beaches and most reasonable. You can easily travel overland from Bangkok on buses if you are there for a few months etc. But if you are there for a few weeks, flying is your best option.
So now let’s get into the list of the best beaches in Southern Thailand.
1. Railay Beach
This beach is situated in the province of Krabi. This beach is only accessible by boat, you’ll need to get one from Ao Nang Beach pier, the boat ride will take about 20 mins. A great part of this is seeing the natural beauty around you, including the limestone cliffs.
As it is cut off from the mainland you get that sense of being off grid. The beach itself has soft golden sand and clear waters, making it heaven for any beach lover.
This place is also popular with rock climbers attracting people from all over the world trying to conquer the limestone formations that stick out of the Andaman Sea.
The Beach itself is divided into two sections, West Railay & Phra Nang Cave Beach. West Railay is the place to be for dining and nightlife along with accommodation if you decide to stay on the island. Phra Nang Cave Beach is where you’ll find a sacred cave, an ancient fertility goddess shrine. This is certainly the place for a spiritual and better connection with nature.
In a way you are getting two beaches for the price of one, so this is why this place heads up our list and offers everything you’d need and takes the essence of all great beaches in Thailand.
2. Kata Beach
Kata Beach, nestled on the western coast of Phuket. This picturesque and popular destination that gives you a perfect balance between lively energy and relaxed charm. With its crescent-shaped bay, Kata Beach boasts soft golden sands and crystal-clear waters.
This beach is an ideal spot for sunbathing, swimming, and various water activities. The beach is divided into two main parts: Kata Yai, the larger and more vibrant northern part, and Kata Noi, the smaller and quieter southern stretch. Kata Yai is known for its excellent surfing conditions during the monsoon season (May to October), attracting surfers from around the world. The beach is lined with palm trees, offering shade and creating a postcard-worthy tropical setting.
Kata Beach has a welcoming atmosphere you can’t help but love. Along the beachfront, you’ll find a mix of beach clubs, restaurants, and shops, creating a lively but laid-back atmosphere. The town behind the beach offers a variety of accommodations, from budget-friendly guest houses to upscale resorts.
3. Koh Phi Phi Leh
Koh Phi Phi Leh, a jewel in the Andaman Sea, is the smaller of the two main islands in the Phi Phi archipelago. Well known for its surreal beauty, this uninhabited island. The island is well known globally as the breakthrough movie for Leonardo DiCaprio ‘The Beach’ which is seen as the main attraction, Maya Bay. However, to preserve the delicate marine ecosystem, Maya Bay underwent a temporary closure for ecological recovery, allowing nature to replenish itself and maintain the island’s allure for future generations.
Beyond Maya Bay, Koh Phi Phi Leh offers additional stunning sites, such as Loh Samah Bay and Pileh Lagoon, each with their unique charm. These locations provide opportunities for snorkelling if that of interest to you along and swimming in turquoise waters surrounded by dramatic cliffs, contributing to the island’s reputation as a tropical paradise.
While accommodations are not available on Koh Phi Phi Leh itself, boat trips from the nearby Phi Phi Don offer visitors a chance to explore its captivating beauty and experience the allure of this enchanting island in the Andaman Sea.
4. Ao Nang
Ao Nang, located in the province of Krabi in Southern Thailand is a bustling beach resort town that serves as a gateway to some of the region’s most stunning islands and beaches.
Situated along the Andaman Sea, Ao Nang features a stunning coastline with towering limestone cliffs. The beach itself is a lively hub with a vibrant atmosphere, offering a mix of water activities for you to try along with shopping, dining, and nightlife.
Having a large range of accommodations for you to choose from, such as budget-friendly guesthouses to upscale resorts, Ao Nang caters to all travellers needs, making it a popular destination for both families and backpackers.
From Ao Nang, visitors can embark on boat trips to explore the nearby Four Islands, Hong Islands, and Phi Phi Islands, among others. So this is a great base to see some of the beaches we have already mentioned.
Whether you’re seeking relaxation on the sandy shores, craving adventure in the surrounding limestone landscapes, or looking to explore the nearby islands, Ao Nang offers a dynamic blend of natural beauty and vibrant tourism, making it a key destination in the stunning Krabi province.
5. Bang Tao Beach
Bang Tao Beach, located on the northwest coast of Phuket, is one of the island’s longest and most tranquil stretches of shoreline. Spanning over six kilometres, this pristine beach offers you a more relaxed and less crowded alternative compared to some of Phuket’s busier beaches.
Being surrounded by palm trees and featuring soft sand, Bang Tao is ideal if you are seeking a peaceful retreat and a chance to unwind in a serene tropical setting.
The beach is not only a haven for relaxation but with its expansive shoreline, Bang Tao offers ample space for beachgoers to engage in watersports such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and windsurfing. The southern end of the beach is home to the Laguna Phuket complex, where upscale resorts, restaurants, and shops provide luxury for those looking for a more refined beach experience.
Whether you’re walking along the water’s edge, enjoying water activities, or indulging in the offerings of the nearby resorts, Bang Tao Beach caters to a diverse range of preferences, making it a charming destination on the island of Phuket.
6. Tonsai Beach
Located on the Railay Peninsula in Krabi, Tonsai Beach is a hidden gem known for its rugged charm and vibrant rock-climbing scene. Accessible only by boat due to the towering limestone cliffs surrounding it, Tonsai has a distinctly laid-back and bohemian atmosphere.
The beach itself is characterised by its soft white sand, clear waters, and a backdrop of limestone karsts that create a dramatic and awe-inspiring setting.
While Tonsai Beach lacks the commercial development of nearby Railay, it compensates with a more rustic and authentic experience. The community here consists of beachside bungalows, budget accommodations, and lively bars, fostering a sense of camaraderie among travellers.
Beyond being a haven for rock climbers tackling the challenging limestone formations, Tonsai offers you the opportunities for snorkelling, kayaking, and simply soaking in the unspoiled beauty of its surroundings. The absence of roads and cars enhances the tranquil atmosphere, making Tonsai Beach an ideal escape for those seeking a more off-the-beaten-path experience in the stunning coastal landscapes of Southern Thailand.