Ko Samet

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Located on the southern tip of Koh Samet, this beach is known for its quiet, upscale vibe and crystal-clear water. It is one of the few spots on the island that maintains a serene, natural feel with a beautiful shoreline perfect for swimming.

Access. Accessible by local songthaew or motorbike taxi from the main pier.

Surat Thani Province

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A postcard-perfect southeast cove with fine white sand and shallow, sheltered turquoise water. Reef sharks sometimes cruise the sandy shallows, and coral starts close to shore on both headlands. Widely regarded as Koh Tao's best family-friendly swimming beach.

Access. Concrete road from the east-coast loop; scooter or taxi from Sairee (~15–20 min). Small beach restaurants; 100 THB entry fee. Quieter than Sairee but increasingly popular.

Notes. Small entry fee; avoid stepping on coral at the bay edges.

Krabi Province

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Krabi's bustling mainland hub featuring a long golden-sand shoreline backed by dramatic limestone karsts and cliffs. It serves as a lively coastal strip for sunset watching, casual strolls, and dipping into the warm Andaman Sea.

Access. Directly accessible by road from Krabi Town and the international airport, acting as the primary jump-off point for regional boat trips.

Ko Samet

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An exclusive, peaceful west-facing cove on Koh Samet characterized by soft golden sand and calm, clear water ideal for swimming and sunset watching. It maintains a serene resort atmosphere distinct from the busier eastern shores.

Access. Accessible via local taxi trucks from the main pier across the island spine.

Surat Thani Province

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A calmer north-coast bay fronting Fisherman's Village, with a mix of sand and gentle shingle and warm, shallow water. Wooden shop-houses and seafood restaurants give it a more village-like beach atmosphere than Chaweng. A favorite for families and sunset dinners on the sand.

Access. Easy taxi from airport or ferry pier (~15 min). Walkable Fisherman's Village strip; moderate crowds, busiest at sunset.

Notes. Some sections are pebbly at low tide; less powdery sand than Chaweng.

Surat Thani Province

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Renowned for its isolated beauty and powdery sand, Bottle Beach is one of the most picturesque coves on Koh Phangan. The water is exceptionally clear, making it a favorite for those seeking a peaceful escape from the island's party scene.

Access. Accessible primarily by boat from Chaloklum or via a challenging jungle trek.

Notes. The hike is not recommended for inexperienced trekkers; boat is the standard mode of transport.

Surat Thani Province

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The main beach of Koh Tao's relaxed southern village sits in a wide, palm-fringed bay with calm water and a gentler pace than Sairee. Soft sand and shallow swimming make it popular with families and long-stay travelers. The social heart of the island's south coast.

Access. Easy scooter ride from Mae Haad (~10 min); walkable from nearby guesthouses. Dive shops, cafes, and resorts line the bay; moderate crowds.

Surat Thani Province

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Koh Samui's longest and busiest beach runs 7 km along the east coast with fine white sand and shallow, warm turquoise water. The island's main resort and dining strip sits directly behind the shore. The benchmark Gulf-island swim beach for the Samui–Tao ferry hub.

Access. Airport taxi or shared minibus; easy walk along much of the strip. Dense hotels, malls, and beach clubs; very busy year-round.

Notes. Jet-skis and speedboats near shore; occasional algae blooms reduce clarity.

Trang Province

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A hidden sand beach inside Tham Morakot — swim through an 80-metre dark sea cave to emerge in a sunlit lagoon enclosed by cliffs. The inner shore is small but the experience is unforgettable, with emerald water and jungle walls. One of Thailand's most unique swim spots.

Access. Long-tail from Koh Mook pier or day trip from Trang/Koh Lanta (~30–90 min). Guide-led cave swim required; life jackets recommended.

Notes. Tide-dependent — cave passage is tight; not suitable for weak swimmers or during rough seas.

Surat Thani Province

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A secluded crescent at Koh Tao's southern tip with some of the island's whitest, softest sand and emerald water. Granite boulders frame a small bay that rarely fills with people. A reward for travelers who want a quiet swim away from the main strips.

Access. Steep final footpath from the south-coast road near Chalok, or shared longtail taxi (~4 passengers). One small resort restaurant; low facilities and low crowds.

Notes. No shade at midday; path is steep — bring water and secure footwear.

Surat Thani Province

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A twin-bay peninsula famous for its Full Moon parties but also offering two usable white-sand swim shores — Sunrise Beach to the east and Sunset Beach to the west. Shallow, warm water and a lively backpacker strip make it Koh Phangan's best-known named beach. Worth visiting for the sand even outside party nights.

Access. Ferry to Haad Rin pier from Koh Samui or boat from Ban Rak; scooters and taxis on the peninsula. Dense bars and guesthouses; very busy around full moon.

Notes. Extremely crowded during Full Moon week; noise and litter peak on party nights.

Surat Thani Province

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A gentle west-coast bay with a wide sandy arc, calm swimming water, and a relaxed bungalow-beach vibe. One of Koh Phangan's most popular sunset beaches for travelers who want sand without the party scene. Clear shallows and a sheltered setting.

Access. Scooter from Thong Sala (~20 min) on a paved coastal road. Beach restaurants and mid-range resorts; moderate crowds in peak season.

Notes. West coast can get wind and chop during Gulf monsoon months.

Surat Thani Province

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A picturesque, relatively secluded cove on Koh Phangan's southeastern coast framed by granite boulders and lush jungle hills. It features soft white sand and clear, inviting water that creates a tropical paradise feel.

Access. Reached primarily by water taxi from Haad Rin or via a moderately adventurous jungle hiking trail.

Surat Thani Province

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A remote northeast cove reachable only by boat or a jungle trail, with soft sand and clear water in a undeveloped setting. Backed by hills and a handful of rustic bungalows, it feels like Koh Phangan's hidden swim shore. Popular with travelers seeking a quieter alternative to Haad Rin.

Access. Longtail boat from Haad Rin or Ban Tai (~20 min), or hike from Haad Rin over the peninsula (~45 min). Minimal facilities; low to moderate crowds.

Notes. Boat-only in wet season when the trail is slippery; limited shade and supplies.

Phuket Province

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Phuket's prettiest small bay — a tight crescent of golden sand with clear water and a relaxed resort vibe at the southern end of Kata headland. Less hectic than Patong or Karon, with enough space to spread out. A top Phuket swim beach.

Access. Taxi or scooter from Phuket Town or airport (~1 hour); public songthaew to Kata then short walk. Beachfront hotels and restaurants.

Notes. Rip currents possible during monsoon swell (May–Oct); lifeguards on duty in peak season.

Krabi Province

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A family-friendly curving bay with fine, packed golden sand and exceptionally shallow, calm water that makes for safe and enjoyable swimming. The wide shoreline hosts numerous relaxed beachfront restaurants and sunset lounges.

Access. Located just north of Saladan Pier on Koh Lanta, making it the most convenient beach to reach upon arriving by ferry.

Trat Province

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A wide west-coast bay on Koh Kood where a freshwater waterfall meets the sea — soft sand, clear water, and a quieter alternative to Koh Chang. The beach stretches long enough for unhurried swimming and kayaking. One of Thailand's best low-key island shores.

Access. Ferry from Laem Sok pier (Trat) to Koh Kood (~1 hour), then taxi or resort pickup to the west coast (~20 min). Limited public transport.

Notes. Koh Kood is less developed — ATMs and shops are sparse; book accommodation ahead in peak season.

Surat Thani Province

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Three tiny islets linked by a brilliant white sandbar and surrounded by electric-turquoise water — one of Thailand's most photographed shores. Shallow bays on either side of the bar offer calm swimming and easy snorkeling. The iconic viewpoint hike looks straight down the connecting strip.

Access. Longtail boat from Koh Tao (~15–20 min) or organized tours from Koh Samui/Koh Phangan. National park entry fee (~250 THB); open roughly 10:00–17:00 as a day-trip island.

Notes. Sandbar narrows or submerges at high tide — check tide charts; day-visitor hours and park fee apply.

Krabi Province

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A small island beach in Krabi's Four Islands group — soft sand, warm clear water, and a distinctive offshore limestone stack. Day-trippers anchor here for swimming and snorkeling, but the cove stays shallow and friendly. A classic Andaman island-hopping stop.

Access. Long-tail or speedboat from Ao Nang or Railay (~30 min); usually bundled with Chicken Island and Tup Island tours. National park fee applies.

Notes. Very busy 10:00–15:00; no overnight accommodation on the island.

Phang-nga Province

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Kueak Beach features a quiet, untouched stretch of coastline with soft sand and clear tropical waters, offering a peaceful escape from busier tourist hubs. Its natural backdrop and tranquil atmosphere make it ideal for relaxing beach days.

Access. Accessible via local transport or coastal roads, with minimal commercial development on-site.

Surat Thani Province

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Koh Samui's second-largest resort beach curves along the southeast coast with golden-white sand and calm, swim-friendly water. Granitic sea stacks at the southern end — Hin Ta and Hin Yai — add a landmark backdrop. A slightly quieter alternative to Chaweng with its own dining strip.

Access. Scooter or taxi from Chaweng (~15 min) or airport (~20 min). Resort row behind the sand; moderate to busy crowds.

Notes. Southern rocky section has stronger currents; swim in the central bay.

Surat Thani Province

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A broad west-coast sunset beach with fine sand, shallow water, and views across to the mainland mountains. Popular with families for its gentle slope and uncrowded feel compared with the east coast. One of Koh Samui's best golden-hour swim shores.

Access. Scooter from Nathon or ferry pier (~15 min). Low-rise resorts and a few beach restaurants; generally quiet.

Notes. West coast gets rougher during Gulf monsoon; best swimming Dec–Apr.

Krabi Province

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A pristine four-kilometer sweep of soft, golden sand and gentle waves on Koh Lanta Yai, flanked by shady pine trees and casual beach bars. It offers plenty of room for long seaside walks and relaxed swimming without feeling overcrowded.

Access. Easily reached by tuk-tuk, scooter, or car from the island's ferry piers and main resort zones.

Surat Thani Province

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A long, breezy north-coast beach with pale sand, views toward Koh Phangan, and a quieter resort scene than Chaweng. Water is warm and generally calm, with plenty of room to spread out along the shore. Koh Samui's relaxed northern swim strip.

Access. Scooter or taxi along the ring road; spread-out resorts and beach cafes. Easy access; lower crowds than Chaweng.

Notes. North coast can be windier; some offshore seaweed after storms.

Phuket Province

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A broad southern-Phuket bay backed by Nai Harn Lake and headlands, with soft sand and swimmable water in a more local-feeling setting. The beach is long enough to escape crowds at either end. Among Phuket's best all-round family beaches.

Access. Scooter or taxi from Rawai or Phuket Town (~20–40 min). Parking, restaurants, and a few resorts behind the sand.

Notes. Monsoon season brings surf and rips — swim between flagged zones when lifeguards are present.

Satun Province

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Koh Lipe's main west-coast bay — powder sand, bathtub-warm water, and long-tail boats anchored in turquoise shallows. The island's walking street runs behind the sand, so restaurants and bars are steps away. The social heart of Lipe, separate from quieter Sunrise Beach.

Access. Speedboat from Pak Bara pier, Satun (~1.5 hours) Nov–Apr; slower ferries in shoulder season. Walk everywhere on the small island.

Notes. Sunrise Beach is already pinned — Pattaya is the busier west-coast counterpart; monsoon limits boats May–Oct.

Krabi Province

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A short sandy cove at Railay's south tip beneath a sacred cave shrine, with calm water and dramatic karst backdrops. The beach is compact but swimmable, and long-tail boats arrive directly on the sand. Krabi's most photographed pocket beach.

Access. Boat from Ao Nang (~20 min) or walk from West Railay along a jungle path (~15 min). No vehicles; food vendors in high season.

Notes. Can fill with day-trippers 10:00–15:00 — arrive early or late for quieter swimming.

Ko Samet

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Often called Diamond Beach, this is Koh Samet's crown jewel featuring powdery white sand and crystal-clear turquoise shallows. It offers a vibrant atmosphere with beachfront dining, fire shows, and excellent swimming conditions.

Access. Short songthaew or taxi ride from the island's main ferry pier upon arriving from Ban Phe.

Surat Thani Province

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Koh Tao's longest beach stretches nearly 2 km along the west coast with soft pale sand and calm turquoise shallows. It is the island's main social hub, lined with bars and restaurants behind a swim-friendly shore. The classic sunset-facing strip most visitors see on arrival.

Access. Walkable from Mae Haad pier area; scooter taxis along the full length. Very easy access with dense resort and dining strip; busiest beach on the island.

Notes. Longtail boat traffic near shore in high season; Gulf monsoon (roughly Nov–Feb) can bring wind and chop on the west coast.

Surat Thani Province

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Also known locally as Haad Tien, this small south-coast bay is famous for blacktip reef sharks in knee-deep water over pale sand. Shallow, warm, and sheltered, it is one of Koh Tao's signature shore-swim experiences. A compact cove rather than a long strip.

Access. Scooter or taxi to the south-coast road; short walk down to the sand. Small cafes nearby; moderate crowds when tour groups arrive.

Notes. Sharks are wild marine life — do not chase or touch them; avoid fins that stir sand.

Surat Thani Province

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Also called Crystal Beach, this small east-coast cove near Lamai packs white sand, boulder-framed turquoise water, and a boutique-resort feel into a compact bay. One of Koh Samui's prettiest little swim coves. Shallow and sheltered — ideal for a half-day beach stop.

Access. Short scooter ride from Lamai; steep lane down to the sand. A few upscale restaurants; limited parking; can feel crowded on weekends.

Notes. Small bay fills quickly; rocky edges — stay in the sandy centre.

Satun Province

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A wonderfully laid-back, rustic cove on Koh Lipe oriented westward for spectacular evening displays over the Andaman Sea. Its soft sand and clear shallows provide a quiet retreat away from the busier central beaches.

Access. Reached via a short walk or taxi boat from Pattaya Beach or Sunrise Beach on Koh Lipe.

Surat Thani Province

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A sheltered east-coast bay with a broad sandy shore, jungle-backed hills, and glassy morning water. The iconic central boulder is a local cliff-jump spot, while the sandy centre makes for easy swimming. One of Koh Tao's best all-round swim-and-snorkel beaches.

Access. Paved road from Mae Haad or Sairee by scooter or taxi (~15–20 min). Beach restaurants and snorkel rental; moderate crowds compared with Sairee.

Notes. East coast is calmer in windy season; check depth before cliff jumping.

Surat Thani Province

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A smaller, more intimate bay just north of Thong Nai Pan Yai, with fine sand and exceptionally calm, clear water. Boutique resorts tuck into the headlands above a compact swim-perfect cove. Feels quieter and more exclusive than its larger neighbor.

Access. Same hilly road as Thong Nai Pan Yai; short walk between the two bays. Limited parking; upscale dining on the sand.

Notes. Shared access road is steep; boat trips sometimes skip the smaller bay.

Surat Thani Province

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The larger of two east-coast sister bays, with a long arc of pale sand and calm, bathtub-warm water. Luxury resorts and palm groves frame a classic tropical swim setting away from the party beaches. One of Koh Phangan's prettiest resort-backed shores.

Access. Scooter or taxi over the island's hilly interior from Thong Sala (~45 min). Resort restaurants and beach clubs; moderate to busy in high season.

Notes. Rough inland road with steep grades; jellyfish possible in Gulf waters after rains.

Krabi Province

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A tranquil, secluded stretch of fine sand tucked away in northern Krabi, offering uninterrupted views of offshore limestone islands across calm, shallow water. It provides an upscale, peaceful environment ideal for quiet beach days and dramatic sunsets.

Access. Accessible via a scenic 30-minute drive north from Ao Nang or Krabi Town; mostly fronted by luxury resorts but with public access points.

Krabi Province

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Krabi's most scenic mainland-facing cove — soft sand, calm emerald water, and sheer limestone walls on three sides. Only reachable by boat, which keeps the bay feeling like a hidden lagoon despite resort development. The definitive Railay swim beach.

Access. Long-tail boat from Ao Nang or Krabi Town (~15–20 min) or walk from East Railay at low tide. Resorts, restaurants, and kayak rental on the sand.

Notes. Boats stop running in rough seas; East Railay is muddier — West is the swim shore.

Trat Province

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Koh Chang's busiest west-coast strip — a long arc of pale sand with calm, shallow water ideal for swimming and sunset walks. Resorts and restaurants line the road behind the beach, but the water stays clear in dry season. The island's main tourist swim shore.

Access. Bus or minivan from Bangkok to Trat (~5 hours), then ferry to Koh Chang and songthaew north (~15 min). Easy resort access.

Notes. Rainy season (May–Oct) reduces visibility and can bring jellyfish — best swimming Nov–Apr.