Beach
ome of the greatest natural attractions are the myriad of Thai beaches and islands. With dual coasts, one facing East towards the Gulf of Thailand and one facing west to the Andaman Sea, Thailand is blessed with not only two different coasts, but also with unique geological conditions and marine life. Furthermore, Thailand's more than 1,000 miles of coastline includes lively beach towns, such as Pattaya and Patong Beach (Phuket) and unspoiled national parks, including Koh Similan and Koh Tarutao Marine National Parks.
Some Thai beaches, such as Pattaya and Hua Hin are several hours drive from Bangkok and offer distinctly unique attractions. Pattaya is livelier, featuring an exciting nightlife, while Hua Hin is popular with families. Both offer visitors a wealth of activities from jet skiing to horse riding.
A short flight from Bangkok, the Thai islands of Koh Samui and Koh Phuket are top destinations, each including a variety of beaches. Accommodation includes world class, five star destination spas and more rustic, beachfront bungalows; Thai beach activities range from golf to sea kayaking. Both Samui and Phuket feature nearby islands that make outstanding day trips. The exotic islands of Koh Tao and Koh Phi Phi are ideal for snorkeling and scuba excursions from the more popular neighboring islands of Samui and Phuket, and also feature a range of accommodation and activities.
Up and coming Thailand beach destinations include Khao Lak and Krabi, which have spectacular attractions including eco-tourism and rock climbing. Farther from these more popular destinations are hundreds of less explored Thai islands and beaches where visitors can enjoy relative seclusion, reclining on hammocks, eating fresh sea food, getting beach-side massages and beach hopping aboard long-tail boats.
