Ranking: the 10 highest-rated beaches in Thailand

Ranking: the 10 highest-rated beaches in Thailand

April 11, 2025

Thailand, dubbed the 'Land of Smiles,' is not only home to a fascinating culture and delicious cuisine, but most importantly a beach lover's paradise. The country boasts some of the most beautiful coastlines in the world, attracting tourists from all over the globe. From the crowded, bustling beaches of Phuket to the hidden, unspoiled bays of Krabi, there is something for everyone. In this article, we will present a ranking of the 10 top-rated beaches in Thailand that will delight both families looking for a safe getaway and adventurers eager to discover a tropical paradise. Get ready for a fascinating journey through crystal clear waters, soft white sand and breathtaking landscapes that will make your vacation an unforgettable experience.

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Top 3 Thailand beaches - gems, that you can't miss

  1. Railay Beach (rated 4.5/5) Railay Beach is a true gem among Thai beaches, located on a peninsula in Krabi province. What sets this beach apart is its unique location - surrounded on all sides by majestic limestone cliffs, it is accessible only by water. This isolation allows Railay to retain its unspoiled character while offering a range of amenities for tourists.

The beach is famous for its soft white sand and crystal clear water, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. For families with children, it's a great place to build sandcastles and swim safely. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the opportunity to climb the surrounding cliffs, which are considered one of the best climbing spots in Thailand.

It is worth remembering that at low tide the water can recede significantly, making swimming difficult. The best time to visit is early morning, when the beach is least crowded and you can enjoy spectacular sunrises.

  1. Phra Nang Beach (rating 4.7/5) Phra Nang Beach, often referred to as 'Princess Beach,' is another gem of the Krabi region, located near Railay Beach. This picturesque beach impresses not only with its natural beauty, but also with its rich legend - according to local beliefs, it is inhabited by the spirit of a princess who died here.

What distinguishes Phra Nang Beach is not only the soft white sand and turquoise water, but above all the spectacular rock formations rising straight out of the sea. The beach offers ideal conditions for snorkeling - you can admire colorful fish and corals. An attraction for families with children will be the numerous caves to explore, including the famous Princess Cave with its distinctive phallus-shaped offerings.

It's worth noting that Phra Nang Beach can be quite crowded during peak season. It's best to visit in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds and enjoy the spectacular sunsets.

  1. Nui Beach (rating 4.7/5) Nui Beach, located on the island of Koh Phi Phi, is a true hidden gem for those seeking tranquility and unspoiled nature. This small, intimate beach offers an intimate atmosphere that is often missing from Thailand's more popular beaches.

Characteristic of Nui Beach are the crystal clear waters and the lush tropical forests that surround it. It's an ideal spot for snorkeling enthusiasts - the waters around the beach abound with colorful fish and coral. For families with children, it's a great opportunity to learn to swim in the calm, shallow waters.

However, it's worth remembering that access to Nui Beach can be a bit difficult - it's best reached by boat or kayak. This makes the beach less crowded, but also requires some preparation. It's a good idea to bring your own snacks and drinks, as there is limited food and beverage infrastructure on site.

Comparing the three beaches, each offers something unique. Railay Beach impresses with its dramatic landscape and opportunities for active recreation. Phra Nang Beach captivates with its legends and beautiful rock formations. Nui Beach, on the other hand, is a paradise for those who value tranquility and intimacy. All three places have one thing in common - the undeniable beauty of Thai nature, which makes a vacation in Thailand an unforgettable experience.

Top 3 gems of the Thai coast

  1. Tien Beach (rating 4.5/5) Tien Beach, located on the island of Koh Larn near Pattaya, is a great place for families looking for a combination of relaxation and entertainment. The beach is famous for its soft white sand and calm waters, perfect for swimming. Unlike Pattaya's crowded beaches, Tien Beach offers a more intimate atmosphere while maintaining access to amenities.

Sun loungers and umbrellas are available for rent on the beach, and there are several restaurants serving fresh seafood. Water sports are available for the active, including kayaking and paddle boarding. Note the beautiful vantage point at the end of the beach, offering spectacular views of the bay.

  1. Coconut Beach (rating 4.6/5) Coconut Beach in Khao Lak is a true paradise for lovers of quiet relaxation. This long, sandy beach surrounded by coconut palms offers a relaxing atmosphere away from the hustle and bustle of tourist resorts. It's the perfect place for families with children to play safely in the shallow, warm waters.

There are beach bars where you can enjoy local delicacies and refreshing drinks. Note the opportunity to watch beautiful sunsets. Coconut Beach is also a good starting point for exploring the surrounding national parks.

6 Ta Yai Beach (rating 4.5/5). Ta Yai Beach, also known as 'Grandparents' Beach, is a hidden gem on Koh Lan Island. This small, quiet beach offers an intimate atmosphere and beautiful views of the Gulf of Thailand. Unlike the more popular beaches on the island, Ta Yai Beach retains its unspoiled character.

The beach is ideal for snorkeling due to its clear water and abundance of underwater life. It's worth remembering that the infrastructure on the beach is limited, which can be an advantage for those looking for a truly peaceful vacation. The best way to get here is by scooter or motorcycle cab.

  1. Tanote Bay (rating 4.7/5) Tanote Bay on Koh Tao Island is a paradise for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. The beach is surrounded by beautiful rock formations, and the waters of the bay abound with colorful fish and coral. A distinctive feature of the landscape is a large rock in the middle of the bay, from which the brave can jump into the water.

There are several restaurants and bars on the beach, where you can enjoy fresh seafood. For families with children, this is a great place to learn to snorkel in safe, shallow waters. Note that getting to Tanote Bay can be a bit challenging due to the steep roads.

Comparing these four beaches, each offers unique character and attractions. Tien Beach is ideal for families looking for a compromise between tranquility and access to amenities. Coconut Beach is a paradise for nature lovers and quiet relaxation. Ta Yai Beach impresses with its unspoiled character and is ideal for those who want to escape the crowds. Tanote Bay, on the other hand, is a mecca for water sports and underwater exploration enthusiasts.

It is worth noting that all of these beaches offer a variety of experiences, from active recreation to complete relaxation. Prices around the beaches can vary - in general, the more isolated the beach, the lower the prices, but also the smaller the selection of amenities. Regardless of your choice, each of these beaches guarantees an unforgettable experience and contact with the beauty of Thai nature.

The last pearls of the Thai coast

  1. Kata Noi (rated 4.7/5) Kata Noi, located on Phuket's southwestern coast, is an intimate and charming beach that revels in its natural beauty. Unlike Phuket's more crowded beaches, Kata Noi offers a quieter atmosphere, ideal for families and couples seeking relaxation.

The beach is famous for its soft white sand and crystal clear water, making it a great place for swimming and snorkeling. During the season from November to April, conditions are ideal for surfing, which attracts enthusiasts of the sport. Sun loungers and umbrellas are available on the beach, and there are several restaurants in the area serving fresh seafood and Thai delicacies.

Look out for beautiful sunsets, which can be enjoyed from the beach or from nearby vantage points. Kata Noi is also a good starting point for exploring other Phuket attractions.

9th Thong Nai Pan Beach (rated 4.6/5). Thong Nai Pan Beach on Koh Phangan Island is a true paradise for those looking for a combination of luxury and wildlife. This beach consists of two coves - Thong Nai Pan Noi and Thong Nai Pan Yai, both offering beautiful white sand and turquoise water.

The beach is surrounded by lush tropical forests and mountains, creating a picturesque landscape. There are both luxury resorts and cozy bungalows in the area, ensuring that there is something for everyone. The water is calm and shallow, ideal for swimming for families with children.

On the beach and in the surrounding area you can find many restaurants serving both local and international cuisine. You should also take advantage of the traditional Thai massages offered right on the beach.

  1. Railay West Beach (rating 4.5/5) Railay West Beach, often confused with the main Railay Beach, is one of the most beautiful beaches in Thailand. Located on the Railay peninsula in Krabi province, it is accessible only by water, which adds to its exclusivity and preserves its natural character.

The beach impresses with its long stretch of soft white sand and crystal clear waters. The majestic limestone cliffs surrounding it make for spectacular scenery, especially during sunset. It's a popular destination for climbers, who come here to tackle the challenges offered by the surrounding rocks.

Railay West Beach offers more amenities than neighboring Railay Beach, including restaurants, bars and stores. It is also a good place for water sports such as kayaking and paddle boarding.

Comparing the three beaches, each offers a unique experience. Kata Noi is ideal for those looking for peace and quiet, but don't want to sacrifice amenities. Thong Nai Pan Beach is a luxury paradise, combining wildlife with comfort. Railay West Beach, on the other hand, impresses with its dramatic landscape and is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.

Prices at these locations can vary widely. Kata Noi, as part of the popular island of Phuket, can be more expensive, especially during peak season. Thong Nai Pan Beach offers both luxury and budget accommodation options. Railay West Beach, due to its unique location, can be a bit more expensive, but offers an unforgettable experience.

Regardless of your choice, each of these beaches guarantees an unforgettable experience and contact with the beauty of Thai nature. It is worth remembering to respect the local environment and culture when visiting these paradisiacal corners of Thailand.

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