Part of our Thailand guide.
Thailand’s beaches range from the accessible family-friendly sands of Koh Chang to the over-touristed but still stunning coves of Ko Phi Phi. This page gathers seven guides that cover kayaking routes, island-hopping, snorkeling spots, and honest takes on whether a famous beach still lives up to the hype.
Related travel guides: Hiking And The Outdoors In Thailand and Things to Do in Pattaya, Thailand.
Ao Nang To Railay Beach By Kayak: Complete Guide
Kayaking from Ao Nang to Railay Beach takes about 30–45 minutes depending on tide and wind. Launch from the main beach in Ao Nang, Krabi province, and paddle past limestone karsts and mangrove fringes. Railay is accessible only by boat; the kayak route lets you pull up directly onto the west-side sand. Bring a dry bag for valuables, rent a kayak from one of the Ao Nang operators for around 300–500 baht per hour, and aim for early morning to avoid afternoon chop. The return trip follows the same line, or you can leave the kayak at Railay and take a longtail back for 150 baht per person.
Koh Chang: The Perfect Thai Island For Solo Travelers
Koh Chang, in the Gulf of Thailand, offers pristine beaches, lush jungle hikes, and a nightlife scene concentrated around White Sand Beach and Lonely Beach. Ferries from Laem Ngop in Trat province run daily (about 300 baht one way, 45–60 minutes). Solo travelers can join group snorkeling trips to nearby islands like Koh Wai or Koh Mak, or rent a scooter to explore the island’s quieter eastern coast. Accommodation ranges from 400-baht bungalows to mid-range resorts with private pools.
Railay Revisited - Is It Still The World's Most Beautiful Beach?
Railay Beach, on the Andaman Sea in Krabi province, remains stunning despite crowds. The four main beaches—Railay West, Ton Sai, Phra Nang, and Hat Tham Phra—each offer something different. Railay West has the classic postcard view of white sand and limestone cliffs, but at peak season (November–March) it can be packed. Phra Nang Beach, a five-minute walk east, is quieter and has a cave shrine. Ton Sai attracts rock climbers with over 700 routes on the cliffs. Access is by longtail from Ao Nang (150 baht, 15 minutes) or from Krabi town (200 baht, 30 minutes). The beach itself is free; no entry fee applies.
Hidden Gems: Thailand's Most Beautiful Islands To Explore
From the crystal-clear waters of Koh Phi Phi to the serene beaches of Koh Lanta, these islands offer distinct experiences. Koh Samui has luxury resorts and vibrant nightlife, while Koh Tao is a diver's paradise with rich marine life. Koh Yao Noi provides a peaceful retreat from crowds. For a deeper dive into lesser-known spots, check out our guide to hidden gems in Thailand. Ready to discover the beauty of Thailand's islands?
How To Visit Railay - Island Life On The Peninsula
The peninsula has no roads; walking is the only way to get between beaches. Accommodation options include budget bungalows on Ton Sai (from 500 baht) and upscale resorts on Railay West (from 3,000 baht). The best time to visit is between November and April, when the sea is calm and the rain is minimal. Bring insect repellent for the jungle paths and cash, as ATMs are scarce. For day trips, consider hiring a kayak to explore the mangroves or joining a rock-climbing course (1,000–1,500 baht for a half-day session).
Visiting Ko Phi Phi: The Most Overrated Island In Thailand
Ko Phi Phi, in the Andaman Sea, draws huge crowds that can make the main beach at Ton Sai feel overcrowded. The island’s beauty—emerald water, dramatic cliffs—is real, but the noise from bars, the constant stream of day-trippers, and the high prices (meals cost 200–400 baht, accommodation from 1,500 baht) have led many to label it overrated. For a quieter experience, hike to the Phi Phi viewpoint at sunrise (free, 30-minute climb) or take a longtail to the less-visited Bamboo Island (300 baht round-trip). If you are on a short trip and want a more relaxed vibe, Koh Lanta or Koh Yao Noi are better alternatives.
Surin Islands Snorkeling
Surin Islands, located in the Andaman Sea about 60 kilometers from the mainland, offer some of the best snorkeling in Thailand. The marine park has two main islands—Koh Surin Nua and Koh Surin Tai—with coral reefs accessible directly from the beach. Snorkeling spots like Ao Mae Yai and Ao Pakka teem with clownfish, parrotfish, and sea turtles. The park is open only from November to April; entry costs 400 baht for adults (200 baht for children). Day trips from Khura Buri pier cost around 1,500–2,000 baht including lunch, snorkel gear, and guide. Overnight stays are possible in bungalows (1,000–2,000 baht per night) or by camping (300 baht per tent). For more ideas on where to go next, browse our travel tips and ideas in Thailand.
