Island & Beaches<\/p>","highlight_descriptions":["Koh Lan","Khao Kalok Beach","Tham Thong Beach","Tawan Chai Beach","Ko Man Nok"],"a_highlight_article":[{"id":"316","title":"KOH KUT : HIDEOUT HAVEN OF THE EAST","slug":"koh-kut-hideout-haven-of-the-east","type_id":"2","type":{"id":"2","display_name":"Province","color_code":"other","menu":null},"explore_category_id":"0","explore_category":[],"thumbnail_file_id":"2254","thumb_image":{"id":"2254","title":"KOH KUT : HIDEOUT HAVEN OF THE EAST","description":"","url":"https:\/\/api.tourismthailand.org\/upload\/live\/article\/4-2254.png","file_type":"image\/png","file_size":"435219","file_data":{"resolutions":{"width":546,"height":410}}},"viewer":"27100","is_pin":0,"datetime_updated":"2020-01-09 08:17:26","datetime_created":"2019-10-10 12:09:34"},{"id":"325","title":"THE GULF OF THAILAND. KOH MAK, TRAT","slug":"the-gulf-of-thailand-koh-mak-trat","type_id":"2","type":{"id":"2","display_name":"Province","color_code":"other","menu":null},"explore_category_id":"0","explore_category":[],"thumbnail_file_id":"2281","thumb_image":{"id":"2281","title":"KOH MAK, TRAT","description":"","url":"https:\/\/api.tourismthailand.org\/upload\/live\/article\/4-2281.png","file_type":"image\/png","file_size":"379286","file_data":{"resolutions":{"width":546,"height":410}}},"viewer":"25082","is_pin":0,"datetime_updated":"2020-01-09 07:44:02","datetime_created":"2019-10-10 12:20:02"},{"id":"328","title":"PHI PHI SUNRISE TOUR : AN ULTIMATE EXPERIENCE","slug":"phi-phi-sunrise-tour-an-ultimate-experience","type_id":"2","type":{"id":"2","display_name":"Province","color_code":"other","menu":null},"explore_category_id":"0","explore_category":[],"thumbnail_file_id":"2292","thumb_image":{"id":"2292","title":"PHI PHI SUNRISE TOUR","description":"","url":"https:\/\/api.tourismthailand.org\/upload\/live\/article\/4-2292.png","file_type":"image\/png","file_size":"383522","file_data":{"resolutions":{"width":546,"height":410}}},"viewer":"15686","is_pin":0,"datetime_updated":"2020-01-09 08:34:47","datetime_created":"2019-10-10 12:24:14"}],"a_activity":[{"icon":{"id":"2","title":"Diving","url":"https:\/\/api.tourismthailand.org\/asset\/experience\/icon\/Diving.svg"},"name":"Diving","url":""},{"icon":{"id":"1","title":"Activities","url":"https:\/\/api.tourismthailand.org\/asset\/experience\/icon\/Activities.svg"},"name":"Kayaking","url":""}],"mini_banner_section_name":"","a_mini_banner":[],"a_top_destination":[{"id":"344","name":"Krabi","description":"
Krabi is famous for its scenic view and breathtaking beaches and islands. Its coral reef vistas are also one of the world\u2019s most beautiful, which makes the city a great spot for coral diving.<\/p>
With attractions including hot springs, a wildlife sanctuary, sea caves, flourishing coral reefs and exotic marine life, limestone cliffs that draw rock climbing enthusiasts from around the world, and national parks that include the island paradises of Koh Phi Phi and Koh Lanta, one could easily spend weeks in Krabi and leave yearning for more.
If that wasn\u2019t enough, Krabi features some of the most photogenic sunsets in Thailand, often accompanied by spectacular displays of cloud to cloud lightning, that are best enjoyed from a beachside bar or restaurant.
\u201cTown\u201d to most visitors is Ao Nang, a seaside strip of guesthouses, hotels, bars, restaurants, and souvenir shops that continues to grow as tourist arrivals increase, now spreading north into Noppharat Thara, whose quiet, shady beach is part of the national park that includes the Phi Phi Islands. Ao Nang is the major launching point for boat trips to nearby islands and the isolated beaches of Phra Nang Cape, where the famous former hippie enclave of Railey Beach is located.<\/p>
Krabi also provides you with great shopping venues such as Maharaj Walking Street (Friday-Sunday market from 5.00 \u2013 10.00 pm) and Chao Fah Pier Night Market (daily market from 5.00 pm \u2013 12.30 am). <\/p>
Key Tips<\/p>
\uf0b7 Visitors are advised to make early reservations (up to a year in advance) for accommodation during the peak season from late December to early January because of the popularity of the Krabi and its attractions.<\/p>
\uf0b7 When travelling by ferry to islands around Krabi, it may be preferable to purchase only a one-way ticket so that your trip can be more easily altered and you can more easily arrange your departure.<\/p>","thumb_image":{"id":"7870","title":"264b04117f783b85262ba64eac24a799.png","description":"","url":"https:\/\/api.tourismthailand.org\/upload\/live\/destination\/1-7870.png","file_type":"image\/png","file_size":"336345","file_data":{"resolutions":{"width":542,"height":407}}}},{"id":"352","name":"Satun","description":"
Satun is a small province in Southern Thailand that is located along the coast of the Andaman Sea. It possesses almost 100 islands; some are considered as the most beautiful islands of the Andaman Sea. Besides its picturesque islands, Satun also features some attractions about culture and local way of lives.<\/p>
As Satun borders Malaysia, a majority of Satun\u2019s population is Muslim, many of whom are of Malaysian descent, adding a colourful character to the town, particularly in regard to food and clothing. Fortunately for the people of Satun and visitors to the area, Satun has been largely unaffected by the domestic unrest in the south and is a quiet and safe place to visit.
Satun town, the province\u2019s capital, is a sleepy town that typically only sees travellers who are en route to either the offshore islands or Malaysia. However, mainland Satun does feature the Thale Ban National Park, which contains a number of waterfalls and a large lagoon surrounded by towering mountains.<\/p>
From the port town at Pakbara, the top island destinations in Satun are Koh Tarutao and Koh Lipe, idyllic and generally undeveloped islands renowned for their spectacular natural beauty. Other islands include Koh Bulon Lae, Koh Adang and Koh Petra National Marine Park.<\/p>
Key Tips<\/p>
\uf0b7 The winds coming off the Indian Ocean pick up moisture and dump heavy rains on the west coast of peninsular Thailand from May through October. The other six months of the year receive little or no rain. <\/p>
\uf0b7 The monsoon winds make boat travel off coastal Satun dangerous from May through October.<\/p>
\uf0b7 Every year during the rainy season (16 May - 15 November) the island national parks, including Koh Tarutao (Adang - Rawi Islands) and Koh Phetra are closed for visitor safety.<\/p>","thumb_image":{"id":"9034","title":"009f172607364853b657586b495eda3e.png","description":"","url":"https:\/\/api.tourismthailand.org\/upload\/live\/destination\/4-9034.png","file_type":"image\/png","file_size":"308943","file_data":{"resolutions":{"width":542,"height":407}}}},{"id":"354","name":"Surat Thani","description":"
The name of Surat Thani may mean \"City of the Good People\" but Surat Thani is also known as \u201cthe province of a thousand islands\u201d -- many of which lay off the coast in the Gulf of Thailand, including the archipelago that contains Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, Koh Tao, and the Mu Koh Ang Thong Marine National Park.<\/p>
Most travellers are fascinated by Koh Samui's white beaches, emerald sea reflecting blue sky. Hat Chaweng and Hat Lamai are the beaches for sunbathing and swimming all day. There is natural beauty of Hin Ta and Hin Yai \u2013 a surprising-shaped rock in Hat Lamai.<\/p>
Not only beautiful beaches, travellers can also go snorkelling or diving to see beautiful coral reefs or go to Khao Tha Phet Wildlife and Nature Education Station which is at the 210-meter height above sea level to see the city\u2019s view. Visitors can enjoy seafood at the restaurants around Tapee river or having seafood with the sea view at Aow Ban Don Tai.<\/p>
There are many delicious food and sweet in Surat Thani including Khanom Jung, Phumriang shell, oyster, Khanom Chin (thin rice noodles) with spicy curry paste in southern style, Khanom Chindae, and bitter beans which has its unique smell.<\/p>
Key Tips<\/p>
\uf0b7 While the weather is generally good year-round, the best time to enjoy the islands of Surat Thani is between April and November.<\/p>","thumb_image":{"id":"9036","title":"37b0c6a62f6a07736b2076bced5eaeb5.png","description":"","url":"https:\/\/api.tourismthailand.org\/upload\/live\/destination\/4-9036.png","file_type":"image\/png","file_size":"449923","file_data":{"resolutions":{"width":542,"height":407}}}},{"id":"360","name":"Ko Samui","description":"
Samui is the third largest island in Thailand and the largest in an archipelago of more than 80 islands that includes the Ang Thong National Marine Park, a kayaking paradise and day trip from Ko Samui. While Samui is small enough to be circumnavigated in just a couple of hours by motorbike or car, the island features such a variety of beaches and activities that it would be impossible to experience everything in a single visit. There are so many beautiful beaches here like Chaweng, Lamai, Taling Ngam, and Natien. Besides plentiful nature, the island is also full of history and culture. <\/p>
Activities around Ko Samui include cooking courses, yoga instruction, Muay Thai training, scuba diving, and even golf. While there are a few quieter beaches that are ideal for relaxation, particularly those that feature some of the finest 5-star resorts in the world, and some that exude old-world charm, such as Bo Phut, which features converted, old Chinese shophouses, Samui is a lively, exciting place than it was a few decades ago. Ko Samui has developed into its own style of island paradise, retaining much of its natural beauty while offering nearly every imaginable activity or service for the ultimate beach holiday.<\/p>
Key Tips<\/p>
\uf0b7 While affordable and convenient, motorbikes are the cause of numerous accidents and fatalities; always wear a helmet, never drive drunk, and drive defensively at all times. <\/p>
\uf0b7 Negotiate all taxi and tuk-tuk fares prior to departing for your destination.<\/p>
\uf0b7 Be careful walking on the beach or swimming at night, particularly if alone.<\/p>
\uf0b7 Make sure your scuba diving instructor is fully certified.<\/p>
\uf0b7 Respect Thai values regarding dress: women should not go topless on the beach and men should not walk around shirtless other than at the beach.<\/p>","thumb_image":{"id":"9046","title":"4a486a9e43d7c62587cbc36f52ff64cd.png","description":"","url":"https:\/\/api.tourismthailand.org\/upload\/live\/destination\/4-9046.png","file_type":"image\/png","file_size":"441458","file_data":{"resolutions":{"width":542,"height":407}}}},{"id":"464","name":"Chon Buri","description":"
Chonburi, Bangkok\u2019s nearest seaside town, is located on the eastern coast of the Gulf of Thailand, only 80 kilometres from the capital. The area boasts abundant natural resources, which are highlighted by delightful beaches, local traditions, regional delicacies, and fresh seafood. This is a popular coastal province among Bangkokians who seek the nearest escape from hectic weekly schedules, escaping particularly frequently to the seaside resort of Pattaya, though Chonburi\u2019s smaller, quieter seaside towns are also quite popular with foreigners and Thais alike. In addition to tourism, Chonburi is the centre of the Eastern Seaboard Development Project, with its industrial parks and fishing villages.<\/p>
Tourist attractions in Chonburi, Thailand, can serve all types of visitors. The adventurous may choose to visit Khao Sam Muk, where there are a Chinese shrine and cactus gardens on the hilltop and many wild monkeys along the hillsides. Chonburi is also a heaven for beach lovers, with hotspots like Bang Saen, Pattaya, and Ko Lan. Nong Mon Market is where you can shop for local souvenirs such as handcrafted products and delicious foods like Ho Mok or Thai steamed fish curry, Khao Lam or sweet sticky rice in bamboo, sweet banana and taro chips, and candied fruits.<\/p>
Other suggested places in Chonburi travel guides include Jomtien Beach, Nong Nooch Tropical Garden, Sriracha Tiger Zoo, Prasat Sajja Tham (Sanctuary of Truth), Khao Kheow Open Zoo, Four Regions Floating Market, Ko Si Chang, Ko Samae San, and Mini Siam.<\/p>","thumb_image":{"id":"9071","title":"cdafaccf822b02a5ab42f2b91fa1743b.png","description":"","url":"https:\/\/api.tourismthailand.org\/upload\/live\/destination\/1124-9071.png","file_type":"image\/png","file_size":"492794","file_data":{"resolutions":{"width":542,"height":407}}}},{"id":"465","name":"Rayong","description":"
Rayong is a suitable city of visitors who love beaches, seas, wind, sunlight and islands. Koh Samet is the island for beach lovers. Hat Sai Kaew is a beach for having fun and parties, while Hat Praow gives you a peaceful beach. Visitors can also enjoy chilling view in on the beach in the mainland by going to Mae Pim cape for a stunning view. They can also go swimming with clear water and gentle waves.<\/p>
Once visiting Rayong, you cannot miss eating fresh seafood which is available along the beaches and in the restaurants. Shrimp paste, dried salted shrimp, dried squid and salted fish from Ban Phe market are popular products which are well-packed for convenient transport.<\/p>
Apart from tourist attractions, Rayong owns joyful festivals and traditional activities especially Rayong Fruit Festival occurring annually during May when fruit reaches its peak season. There are a lot of activities such as fruit parade, fruit competition, Miss Fruit Gardener Contest, and also selling fruits at a cheaper price. <\/p>
Travel Tips<\/p>
- The best months to visit Rayong are from November to February.<\/p>","thumb_image":{"id":"9050","title":"d396696f73a37e2e6395a7e993c2b040.png","description":"","url":"https:\/\/api.tourismthailand.org\/upload\/live\/destination\/4-9050.png","file_type":"image\/png","file_size":"450603","file_data":{"resolutions":{"width":542,"height":407}}}},{"id":"466","name":"Trat","description":"
With 52 large and small islands featuring long, white, sandy beaches and unspoiled coral reefs, Trat offers delightful scenery and a number of tranquil hideouts for beach and nature-lovers. The province also serves as a major fruit-growing, fishing, and gem mining region.<\/p>
The city of Trat is the primary launching point for trips to the popular Koh Chang island group as well as for forays to visit both gem markets and Cambodian border markets. Like Chanthaburi, Trat is a very important ruby-mining province, with the most famous gem market located in Bo Rai District, some 50 kilometres north of the Cambodian border. Those enthralled by shopping will be delighted as Trat has more markets for its size than almost any other town in Thailand due to bustling Cambodian and coastal trade.<\/p>
The weather in and around Trat is very comfortable, with warm temperatures throughout the year. The region is influenced by the northeastern and southwestern winds, which sometimes limit sea transport to only the most visited islands, particularly from May to October when the southwest monsoon blows. During this period the western coast can be wet and stormy and occasionally unsuitable for ferries and smaller boats to lift anchor. However, Koh Chang is popular year-round and visitors can still easily and safely visit the island via the normal ferry routes.<\/p>","thumb_image":{"id":"9051","title":"ca28444ca67e310419ce25195323521a.png","description":"","url":"https:\/\/api.tourismthailand.org\/upload\/live\/destination\/4-9051.png","file_type":"image\/png","file_size":"465407","file_data":{"resolutions":{"width":542,"height":407}}}},{"id":"467","name":"Ko Chang","description":"
Koh Chang (Elephant Island) is Thailand\u2019s second-largest island and the primary destination for those visiting Koh Chang Marine National Park, which includes dozens of unspoiled islands. Located in Trat Province, about 300 kilometres east of Bangkok and not far from the Cambodian border, Koh Chang is 70% covered by unspoiled rainforest and the island\u2019s permanent residents are only gradually becoming more involved in tourism as development has increased in the past decade. <\/p>
Now serviced by an airport just 15 minutes from the ferry terminal in Trat, Koh Chang is more easily accessible than ever before. Drawn to Koh Chang\u2019s pristine beaches and sparkling water, more well-to-do Thai and international travellers have been discovering Koh Chang and numerous luxury spas and resorts have sprung up to cater to them. Nonetheless, the island is still a dream destination for budget travellers and families, with a wide variety of affordable accommodation options and numerous gorgeous and tranquil beaches surrounded by crystal clear water. <\/p>
In addition to natural beauty, the island is also home to a wide range of wildlife, including native birds, snakes, deer, and even a number of elephants. As for activities, Koh Chang and the nearby islands that make up the national park are great for snorkelling, diving, camping, and jungle hiking. The majority of tourists stay at Hat Sai Khao, Hat Kai Muk, Hat Ta Nam, and Laem Bang Bao, all of which are linked by a single road running down the west coast. Access to the island is via Bangkok Airways service to Trat or buses that connect to shuttle service to the ferry docks at Laem Ngop near Trat.
<\/p>
Key Tips<\/p>
- Koh Chang is approximately 30 km long and 14 km wide: a total area of roughly 217 km\u00b2. The Koh Chang National Marine Park covers an area of 650 km\u00b2, of which 70 % is offshore.<\/p>","thumb_image":{"id":"9052","title":"ed42c5d6eac29be4dceeed5a174bb30d.png","description":"","url":"https:\/\/api.tourismthailand.org\/upload\/live\/destination\/4-9052.png","file_type":"image\/png","file_size":"443548","file_data":{"resolutions":{"width":542,"height":407}}}}],"a_highlight_explore":[{"id":"36430","name":"Hat Sai Kaeo","slug":"hat-sai-kaeo-2","type":"attraction","destination":{"id":"465","name":"Rayong"},"thumb_image":{"title":"Hat Sai Kaeo","description":"d1dd2874-98a6-4472-9e1c-6215da9a96b9.jpeg","url":"https:\/\/dmc.tatdataapi.io\/assets\/d1dd2874-98a6-4472-9e1c-6215da9a96b9.jpeg"},"is_pin":0,"status":"active","owner_id":null},{"id":"36670","name":"Laem Samila","slug":"laem-samila","type":"attraction","destination":{"id":"353","name":"Songkhla"},"thumb_image":{"title":"Laem Samila","description":"b360bc0a-bc34-40cf-a38b-68c1024bf0af.jpeg","url":"https:\/\/dmc.tatdataapi.io\/assets\/b360bc0a-bc34-40cf-a38b-68c1024bf0af.jpeg"},"is_pin":0,"status":"active","owner_id":null},{"id":"36872","name":"Ao Manao","slug":"ao-manao","type":"attraction","destination":{"id":"231","name":"Prachuap Khiri Khan"},"thumb_image":{"title":"Ao Manao","description":"7d98124d-39c3-4c2b-886a-2f1060e7dc40.jpeg","url":"https:\/\/dmc.tatdataapi.io\/assets\/7d98124d-39c3-4c2b-886a-2f1060e7dc40.jpeg"},"is_pin":0,"status":"active","owner_id":null},{"id":"37781","name":"Hat Naresuan (Hat Khao Kalok) ","slug":"hat-naresuan-hat-khao-kalok","type":"attraction","destination":{"id":"231","name":"Prachuap Khiri Khan"},"thumb_image":{"title":"Hat Naresuan (Hat Khao Kalok) ","description":"9d0cbf7f-dd81-40c8-8257-bd6196cded2f.jpeg","url":"https:\/\/dmc.tatdataapi.io\/assets\/9d0cbf7f-dd81-40c8-8257-bd6196cded2f.jpeg"},"is_pin":0,"status":"active","owner_id":null},{"id":"37836","name":"Laem Ta Chi (Laem Pho)","slug":"laem-ta-chi-laem-pho","type":"attraction","destination":{"id":"347","name":"Pattani"},"thumb_image":{"title":"Laem Ta Chi (Laem Pho)","description":"3d997aae-e691-4521-82f7-3eb349981862.jpeg","url":"https:\/\/dmc.tatdataapi.io\/assets\/3d997aae-e691-4521-82f7-3eb349981862.jpeg"},"is_pin":0,"status":"active","owner_id":null},{"id":"38013","name":"Hat Thang Sai ","slug":"hat-thang-sai","type":"attraction","destination":{"id":"231","name":"Prachuap Khiri Khan"},"thumb_image":{"title":"Hat Thang Sai ","description":"234a7f38-bdf5-4158-b541-5243af10c21f.jpeg","url":"https:\/\/dmc.tatdataapi.io\/assets\/234a7f38-bdf5-4158-b541-5243af10c21f.jpeg"},"is_pin":0,"status":"active","owner_id":null}],"a_hidden_fact":{"hidden_highlight_article":"0","hidden_activity":"0","hidden_mini_banner":"1","hidden_top_destination":"0","hidden_highlight_explore":"0"},"a_other_experience":[{"id":"26","explore_category_id":"12","explore_category":{"id":"12","name":"Nature & Wildlife","icon":{"id":"13","title":"NatureAndWildlife.svg","url":"https:\/\/api.tourismthailand.org\/asset\/explore\/icon\/general\/NatureAndWildlife.svg"}},"thumb_image":{"id":"3573","title":"Nature & Wildlife","description":"","url":"https:\/\/api.tourismthailand.org\/upload\/live\/experience_sub_category\/1-3573.png","file_type":"image\/png","file_size":"1163183","file_data":{"resolutions":{"width":1200,"height":630}}}},{"id":"27","explore_category_id":"20","explore_category":{"id":"20","name":"Outdoor activity and Adventure","icon":{"id":"2","title":"AdventureAndSport.svg","url":"https:\/\/api.tourismthailand.org\/asset\/explore\/icon\/general\/AdventureAndSport.svg"}},"thumb_image":{"id":"3577","title":"Outdoor activity and Adventure","description":"","url":"https:\/\/api.tourismthailand.org\/upload\/live\/experience_sub_category\/1-3577.png","file_type":"image\/png","file_size":"1396290","file_data":{"resolutions":{"width":1200,"height":630}}}}]}}