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You Never Knew Nude Beaches Exist In Thailand Until You Read This

Published:

Modified: December 27, 2023

by Sarah Foley

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Photo by saiko3p on Adobe Stock

Thailand is home to some of the most beautiful tropical beaches in Asia. The palm trees, crystal waters, and warm temperatures all make for one amazing beach getaway. However, the Thais have been known to be a little more conservative when it comes to proper beach attire. This means if you’re looking for a nude beach in Thailand, you might want to keep your towel on first. Nude beaches in Thailand are not exactly legal, though in more touristy areas the rules can be slightly more relaxed. And with over 3000 kilometers of sandy coast stretching the entire country, it is not impossible to find a secret beach where you can strip down to nothing. Just like with anything, if there’s a will, there’s always a way!

 

If you’re keen to bare it all in Thailand, here are Thai nude beaches you never knew existed: 

 

1.

Mai Khao Beach, Phuket

Plane flying over Mai Khao Beach

Photo by panya99 on Adobe Stock

Mai Khao is said to be among the best Phuket nude beaches worth a visit. Located in the northwest region of the island, Mai Khao is more than a nude beach paradise. Aside from its beauty, it is also one of the longest nude beaches in Thailand at 11 kilometers long. With so much to see and explore, this has to be on top of your nude beach Thailand list. What makes Mai Khao special is how it is very peaceful and quiet. This beach is almost never crowded, making it the best nude beach destination. Aside from that, there are only a few villages and restaurants in Mai Khao, which helps in keeping the beach unspoiled. 

 

Best Things To Do In Mai Khao Beach

Mai Khao may not be packed with people but this doesn’t mean there’s nothing to do here. This nude beach offers some interesting activities that suit couples and families. The southern end of the beach is near the Phuket International airport, making it a great place for plane spotting. Splash Jungle Waterpark is located in Mai Khao, which is an excellent destination for families. If you visit during the Songkran Festival in April, you might even be lucky enough to witness a sea turtle hatchling release!

 

Dining

Mai Khao beach is home to some spectacular restaurants. Aside from the delicious meals, the dining experience is always unforgettable. How could it not be when the restaurants have stunning views to offer? 

JJ’s Bar and Food: This rustic restaurant serves up authentic Thai food that all spicy food lovers will love at a reasonable price. 

Sea. Fire. Salt at Anantara Mai Khao Villa: Dine in style at Sea. Fire. Salt. Boasting fresh and sizzling barbecued seafood dishes, this restaurant is known for its cooking method on Himalayan salt bricks. 

Sunset Restaurant: True to its name, you will be able to admire the glorious sunset at this quaint al fresco restaurant specializing in authentic Thai cuisine. There are even vegetarian options available on its menu.

 

Accommodations

Aerial view of Renaissance Phuket Resort & Spa along the beach

Photo from Renaissance Phuket Resort & Spa official website

 

Make your nude beach Thailand getaway comfortable and convenient by choosing a great place to stay. Mai Khao is not as populated and loud as other beaches in Phuket. However, it is home to some luxurious resorts that make up for what the beach lacks.

Renaissance Phuket Resort & Spa: Sitting right on Mai Khao Beach, Renaissance Phuket Resort sets the bar high among luxurious hotels for its guests with its serene spa and a staggering range of dining options.

Anantara Mai Khao Phuket Villas: Anantara Villas transports guests to a private paradise with its cluster of Thai-style pool villas surrounding a lagoon. From world-class cuisine to chartered sea voyages, it is truly an ideal haven.

Splash Beach Resort: This fun family-friendly resort is home to Phuket’s largest water park, Splash Jungle Water Park. From deluxe rooms and suites to spacious penthouses and villas, Splash Beach Resort accommodates the needs of every traveler. 

 

Getting To Mai Khao Beach

Mai Khao Beach is very close to the airport, making it very convenient. However, there are only a few means of public transportation from the airport. You can either book a taxi or a private car. Meanwhile, going around Mai Khao is easy. You can explore the area on foot or on a bike. 

 

2.

Leela Beach, Koh Phangan Island

Leela Beach at Koh Phangan island, a beautiful nude beach in Thailand

Photo by Sergii Figurnyi on Adobe Stock

 

Another unofficial nude beach in Thailand is Leela Beach. Nestled in the beautiful Koh Phangan Island, Leela lets you live out your nude beach Thailand dreams. Considered among the top nudist beaches in Asia, Leela boasts velvety white sand and crystalline blue waters, complete with hammocks and sea swings hanging from swaying palm trees. On a lucky day, you can enjoy full-on nudity when there are fewer locals on the beach.

 

Best Things To Do In Leela Beach

Leela Beach is a paradise for swimming, sunbathing, and other watersports. From snorkeling, kayaking, canoeing, to sandcastle making and sunset watching, Leela is full of exciting activities. For party lovers, make sure to join the Full Moon Party held every month at Sunrise Beach in the nearby town of Haad Rin. 

 

Dining

More of a day trip destination, Leela Beach itself may not have any restaurants. But Haad Rin, which is just a stone’s throw away, is filled with many great food places.

Tukta Thai Food: A simple no-frills establishment delivering one of the best authentic Thai food at an affordable rate. Amo curry is highly raved by customers.

Mr. K. Haad Rin Seafood: This lively restaurant with a marvelous view of the sea serves both local and Western dishes along with a great selection of beers and cocktails.

 

Accommodation

A woman lounging in the outdoor swimming pool The Cabin Beach Resort on Leela Beach.

Photo from The Cabin Beach Resort Booking.com Page

 

It is not surprising to find many resorts at Koh Phangan Island. After all, it is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Thailand, like Leela.

Cabin Beach Resort: Located right at Leela Beach, this beachfront resort has a modern industrial chic theme that stands out from the usual tropical-themed resorts along the beaches. 

Phangan Bayshore Resort: This luxurious resort sits right on Haad Rin Nok Beach with stylish wooden-accented rooms that evoke a sense of tranquility. Fun activities abound within, from Thai cooking classes to batik painting programs.

Aquavana Haad Rin Resort: Just a minute walk from Haad Rin Beach, the resort features simple and clean rooms with connecting terraces opening out to a large tropical garden.

 

Getting To Leela Beach

From Koh Samui airport, you can reach Leela Beach via a bus or ferry boat. You can explore the place by riding on tuk-tuks, taxis, or bikes. 

 

3.

Big Buddha Beach, Koh Samui

Big Buddha Beach or Bang Rak Beach, a stunning nude beach in Thailand

Photo from So Kohkoon Beach Resort official website

 

Big Buddha or Bang Rak Beach is another great nude beach in Thailand. Located northwest off Koh Samui, Big Buddha is an intimate bay stretching just 4 kilometers. Despite being so near a famous tourist landmark, Big Buddha Beach is isolated, making it a perfect nude beach Thailand destination. Most tourists actually prefer swimming in the resorts nearby, rather than the beach.

 

Best Things To Do In Big Buddha Beach

Aside from swimming and sunbathing, Big Buddha Beach is home to many watersports. From snorkeling, kayaking, to game fishing tours, this nude beach has you covered. The 12-meter-tall golden Buddha statue near the beach is also a must-see when in the area. Just remember to cover up when visiting the temple though! 

 

Dining

With such a prominent tourist attraction nearby, Big Buddha Beach is lined with plenty of resorts and restaurants. Its dining options range from chic bars to fancy restaurants. 

Shambala Restaurant: The laidback casual restaurant offering authentic Thai dishes features a boat right in the middle for a fun meal. 

Supattra Thai Dining: For an upscale Thai dining experience, look no further than Supattra. You’ll be blown away by its elevated modern spin to local favorites, paired with an extensive wine list.

Salefino Koh Samui: With its splendid ocean views, this Italian restaurant is the best place for couples looking for a romantic dinner set against a backdrop of a beautiful sunset. 

 

Accommodations

A pool facing a row of white washed buildings with a backdrop of the sea at So Kohkoon Beach Resort

Photo from So Kohkoon Beach Resort official website

 

The hotels in Big Buddha Beach are serious about giving guests the best of what Koh Samui has to offer. From comfortable rooms, excellent dining to shopping and leisure, accommodation on this nude beach is a vacation in itself. 

So KohKoon Beach Resort: This gorgeous boutique hotel sits right on Big Buddha Beach. Dive into a tropical oasis with its sea-themed interior decor and white-washed buildings bringing about a lovely contrast to the brilliant blue sea.

Tango Luxe Beach Villa: Home to 14 luxe villas, Tango weaves in the traditional into contemporary designs through the clever use of wood. Tango Luxe has a beach bar, spa, and restaurant to give guests the best experience. 

Sasitara Thai Villas: Sasitara promises guests a unique stay with its Thai Ayudhya-style villas made out of Thai teak wood. Just minutes away from Big Buddha Beach, the hotel also has an outdoor swimming pool and bar overlooking the beach.

 

Getting To The Big Buddha

Six kilometers away from Koh Samui, Big Buddha Beach is easily reached via taxis, minibusses, or private cars. Exploring and going around the area is enjoyed via bikes or tuk-tuk rides. 

 

4.

Nui Beach, Phuket

Emerald waters at Nui Beach, Phuket, Thailand

Photo by evgenii on Adobe Stock

 

At the southernmost tip of Phuket sits Nui Beach, one of the most secluded nude beaches for carefree beachgoers. Not to be confused with the family-friendly Ya Nui Beach, Nui Beach is considered among the top nudist beaches in Thailand with its enchanting cove. Here, you can enjoy its 120-meter of fine sand shore and clear waters, whether in your clothes or not. Nui Beach is never too crowded, which is perfect for some nude beach Asia experience. 

 

Best Things To Do In Nui Beach

This nude beach isn’t just perfect for sunbathing and swimming. Grab your snorkels and enjoy the underwater paradise at Nui Beach. There is a thatched roof restaurant offering Thai food and cold drinks, great for a short respite after an afternoon of fun under the sun. Looking for a challenge after a nude swim? Head down further south of Phuket for an adventurous hike up to the Black Rock Viewpoint. 

 

Dining

Nude beaches don’t just call for showing your belly (and more) but also filling your belly with delicious food. Nui Beach may just be home to only one restaurant, but there are many more restaurants around the area serving up great local and international dishes.  

Siam Beach Restaurant: This family-run restaurant offers amazing ocean views and delicious Thai-style seafood dishes. From the restaurant, you can enjoy the gorgeous views of Kata Noi Beach. 

Heaven Rooftop Restaurant: Perched atop a hill near Karon Viewpoint, Heaven Rooftop Restaurant lives up true to its name. Offering some of the most breathtaking views from its terrace, the restaurant also serves amazing local and western dishes.  

 

Accommodations

Sun bed on the balcony facing the ocean at The Nai Harn

Photo from The Nai Harn Booking.com Page

 

Being in the middle of two famous beaches means you get more choices on where to stay. There may not be a resort at Nui Beach, but you can find the very best accommodation at Nai Harn and Kata Noi.

The Nai Harn: Enjoy panoramic views of the Nai Harn Beach at this hillside resort, in which each room comes with a balcony for sweeping views of the sea. Some rooms even offer private barbeques on the balcony.

The Shore At Katathani: A luxurious adults-only resort along Kata Noi Beach, The Shore is a collection of private villas opening up to a private infinity pool facing the sea. Expect top-notch service such as relaxing spas and massages, alongside fun lessons like Thai cooking and fruit carving.

 

Getting To Nui Beach

Located between Kata Noi Beach and Nai Harn Beach, Nui is quite easy to spot when you’re on the road. There’s a road sign pointing to its entrance from the main road. You can ride a tuk-tuk going to Nui Beach from the main road. Going around Nui is convenient and easy via a 4-wheel drive. Another fun way to explore the place is by riding a quad bike. 

 

5.

Cosy Island Beach, Phuket

Fishermen by the boat during sunset at Phuket, Thailand.

Photo by Phuket@photographer.net on Flickr

 

Cosy Island is another name to add to your nude beach Thailand getaway list. This remote island is home to crystal blue waters and a peaceful vibe. Located just 15 minutes from Rawai Beach in Phuket, this private island makes skinny dipping and nude sunbathing all the more enjoyable with its incredible remoteness. So how exactly can you reach this secluded island? If you stay at the Lemon Tree Naturist Resort you can simply get the hotel reception to make arrangements for you!

 

Best Things To Do In Cosy Island Beach

Being a little-known island, there are almost no tourists in Cosy Island Beach. You will practically have the entire island to yourself when you reach, so you can have swim and snorkel all day long without any disturbances. A beautiful island rich in nature, you will get to truly relax as you watch tiny crabs crawl around the white sands and spot colorful fishes in your swim.

 

Dining

Nikitas Beach Restaurant: This ocean-facing restaurant shows off stunning views of the Rawai Pier. The menu boasts exquisitely presented Thai and international food alongside a wide selection of wine. 

Costa Grill Restaurant Rawai Beach: A French steakhouse serving an excellent selection of wooden-fired pizzas and grilled steaks.

 

Accommodation

Private bungalow next to a swimming pool at the Lemon Tree Naturist Resort, Phuket, Thailand

Photo from Lemon Tree Naturist Resort Page on Booking.com

 

You won’t just find usual beach resorts near the Cosy Island Beach. You’ll be delighted to know that many naturist resorts are based around the area, making it a perfect place for nude beach lovers to head to.

Lemon Tree Naturist Resort: Just a 10 minutes drive from Nai Harn Beach and Rawai Beach lies the stylish Lemon Tree Naturist Resort. A perfect place for all nudists and naturists to interact, there is plenty of entertainment to choose from every night, from cocktail parties to dance evenings.

Peace Blue Naiharn Naturist Resort: Situated right smack at Rawai Beach, enjoy facilities like the sauna, fitness center, and pool bar, and indulge in all-day dining the way you like it, sans clothing.

 

Getting To The Cosy Island Beach 

From Phuket, you can hire a taxi for a 20-minute ride to Rawai Beach. Then from the pier, take a 15-minute long-tail boat ride to reach the island.

Find Your Favorite Nude Beach in Thailand

Thailand is home to many beautiful tropical beaches, and it’s not hard to imagine why. Lined with palm trees and surrounded by blue waters, can you blame someone for swimming nude? While nude beach Thailand getaways are not very welcome in general, these secluded beaches offer all nudists and naturists a covert sandy paradise. Each of these beaches also has its own unique characteristic, so explore every one of them to find your personal favorite!