Thailand Beaches and Islands (81)

Relax on the beach beside the warm, turquoise waters of the Gulf of Thailand, or enjoy some of the world's most fantastic scuba adventures among the islands of the Andaman Sea. Thailand is one of the best, most reasonably priced places for a seaside vacation. There are hundreds of beaches to choose from. From the tropical paradise of a bungalow on Ko Samet off the coast of Rayong province, only a few hours from Bangkok by comfortable air conditioned bus, to the luxurious resort developments on Phuket Island, just a short flight from Bangkok, you can have the best vacation of your life. More remote venues, such as the lovely and unspoiled Ko Ngai in the Andaman off the coast of Trang, make it possible to escape the hustle and bustle of modern life without spending a fortune.

Islands in the Gulf, like Ko Chang, are great for a family excursion. Backpackers will love the wild parties on Phangan Island off the coast of Surat Thani. For scuba enthusiasts, exotic Ko Tao is not to be missed. Single travelers may prefer the uninhibited nightlife of Pattaya Beach. Whatever your holiday preference, Thailand's beaches and islands can provide the precise combination of excitement, exotic locales, recreation, entertainment and leisure that you desire.

Go Island Hopping on your own by following the information provided on these pages, rent a romantic yacht and make up your own island-hopping programme or book one of the package programmes, that provide you with boat tickets, accommodation vouchers and the necessary description.

Access to this wonder world is easy with 5 airports, Phuket (HKT), Krabi (KBV), Trang (TST), Hatyai (HDY) and Langkawi (LGK) in close proximity and an extensive network of local busses, ferries and private transportation services available throughout the region. Start Island Hopping through the Andaman Sea with a look to our maps or go directly to the island, that you are interested in.

The islands around the coast of Thailand have few rivals in terms of natural beauty and picturesque scenery. If you're chasing peace and tranquility or looking to party for a while then whatever you need, you can find it here on the islands around the "Land of Smiles". Full on tourist havens, such as Koh Samui and Phuket, are full of the traditional Thai excesses for the party animal and, of course, Koh Pha-Ngan has the now legendary monthly Full Moon Party. For those who just want to relax and get away from it all there are the unspoilt bays of Koh Lanta or Koh Jum and the diver's paradise of Koh Tao. Each island has it's own charm and appeal.

Thailand can also boast some of the best diving in Asia. Adventure seekers should spend some time on either Koh Tao or the Similans for some of the regions premium sites.

Seascape Photos