Beaches - Fun, Sun, Surf and Serenity of Thai Beaches
Images of clear white, sandy beaches and sparkling blue seas are not just in dreams or fantasy worlds - they are real and can be found easily in Thailand. Whatever your preference - serene beaches with soothing, gentle breezes or fun beaches full of color and energy - you can have and enjoy them all.
BEACHES - SERENE AND PEACEFUL
There are countless fabulous beaches located on the Andaman Sea along the west coast of Thailand and on the east side on the Gulf of Thailand. Lavish villas and basic bungalows abound - you can be pampered in luxury in deluxe resorts, or seek out simple solace in down-to-earth dwellings, all blending in with the marvelous and distinctive surroundings of each individual beach.
In the province of Prachuap Khiri Khan, halfway down the narrow peninsula extending southwards, there is a peaceful environment at Pran Buri Beach that gives a sense of privacy and exclusivity. It is a place to get away from the hustle and bustle of life and just relax in style. There are a number of resorts but the beach still preserves its tranquility.
Further south, Ko Lanta Yai, on the Andaman Sea coast, is among the renowned destinations for tourists seeking a holiday away from home. It preserves its natural scenic beauty and its attraction for people from all over the world.
Another gem for those who adore tranquility is Ko Ngai in Trang province. In this ideal natural sanctuary, you can enjoy the panorama, listen to the rhythm of the ocean, and let your mind drift away with the tide. With magnificent and striking views, visitors can stroll along the beach forgetting all about time, and enjoy the spectacular sunrises and alluring sunsets of the island.
At Ao Nang, Krabi, let peace reign. Relax in a hammock under the coconut trees and listen to the gentle sounds of seabirds as they soar in the sky. Ao Nang is a large bay with scenic beaches, preserved mangrove forests, and semi-sub-merged caves. Many of the beaches here, such as East Rai Le, West Rai Le and Phra Nang Cave, have magnificent backdrops due to the lime-stone ranges.
You will be immersed in peace, tranquility and privacy at Phi Phi Islands in Krabi province. This area is renowned for its long, white, sandy beaches embraced by clear, blue seas and its dramatic limestone cliffs rising spectacularly out of the water. Two islands, Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Le, are natural reserves free of any construction.
At Khao Lak, Phang-nga province, visitors can experience cool tropical forests, picturesque beachfront lodgings, and expansive white, sandy beaches lined with dense coconut palms. You can laze and sunbathe comfortably at your leisure and think only of the movement of the trees in the breeze and the relentless sounds of the small waves on the sand.
In the east of the country in Trat province, Muko Chang, the second largest island in Thailand has over a dozen beach areas, most featuring beautiful sands, unspoiled coral reefs, stunning scenery, tropical landscapes, and tranquil hideouts for nature-lovers.
BEACHES - NEVER-ENDING FUN
If you're the sort of person who is full of energy and never shirks the challenges of excitement and life, then you may want more to challenge you than the paradise of shimmering turquoise seas, soft sea breezes, and dazzling beaches. There is a large variety of challenging activities available along the coastlines of Thailand.
To the east of Bangkok, there are a number of beaches that offer plenty to the visitors seeking lots of challenges. One of the most famous beaches within easy reach of the capital city is Pattaya. It is a paradise that is nestled along a scenic bay offering diving, swimming, para-sailing, and flying gliders and ultra-lights. Pattaya has all types of accommodation, from the most luxurious resorts to basic guesthouses. You can rent cars, jeeps, scooters, and the full range of motorcycles - whatever is your preference. After sunset, simply relax in a bar, watch a show, or dance the night away.
For those who love the nightlife, Ko Samet, further to the east, is a major attraction - you'll never feel lonely with the non-stop music and dancing as the island celebrates the Fire Show and Beach Party. In the daytime, you can hire a moto-cross bike and seek out the adventures and hidden beauty of the island.
Heading south from Bangkok, the famous resort towns of Cha-am and Hua Hin, on the Gulf of Thailand coast, provide a number of accommodation and recreation options. Their long beaches and promenades offer visitors choices of riding ponies and horses on the sand, bicycle riding, go-karting, and the thrills and adventures of banana boats, parasailing, waterskiing, and windsurfing.
Hat Chaweng, situated on the east coast of Ko Samui, never sleeps. It has a long, gorgeous beach with soft sands lapped by crystal clear waters. During the day, tourists have the options of sunbathing or participating in the range of beach and water activities on offer. At night, it's time to explore the bars and theme pubs and to show off your expertise on the dance floors to the latest rhythms and beats of the music.
Hat Rin on Ko Pha-ngan is well-known for its full moon parties. People come from around the world to enjoy the monthly celebrations involving superb light and sound shows, dancing, fireworks, and the endless choices of foods and drinks.
On Phuket, the largest island in Thailand, Hat Patong is one of the liveliest beaches along the Andaman coastline. A wide range of accommodation is available from inexpensive yet comfortable hotels and apartments to world class resorts. Visitors can enjoy browsing at modern shopping arcades and traditional street markets that display a variety of goods and services. After a long day, visitors can choose from a host of restaurants that are ready to serve from extensive menus offering local dishes, fresh seafood, and international cuisine. Just select one that fits your mood and budget!
What a dilemma! In Thailand, you can savor the serenity and peacefulness or you can sample the excitement and challenges of some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Don't take other people's word for it - decide what you want and find out for yourself. Soft breezes, tranquil relaxation, clear waters…spectacular diving, stunning cabaret shows, vibrant music…whatever it is, you will find it on or by the beaches of Thailand, and you'll be assured of a warm welcome, whatever you decide.
