In addition to its food, Thailand is perhaps most well known for having some of the prettiest beaches in the world. When we aren’t busy eating, we love nothing better than heading out of Bangkok and hitting the beach to relax. But with so many to choose from, where are the best beaches and islands in Thailand? Here are some of our favourites:

1. Maya Bay, Koh Phi Phi Ley

Possibly one of Thailand’s most well known beaches thanks to it being featured in hit movie staring Leonardo DiCaprio The Beach. To make the most of this beautiful place, you do need to head here early morning to beat the crowds, but the clear waters, white sand and breath taking limestone rock formations make that alarm call first thing more than worth it.

2. White Sand Beach, Koh Chang

White sand? Tick. Palm trees? Tick. Coconut trees? Tick. This spot really does have it all so its no wonder that it is the most popular beach on Koh Chang. Although possibly not the most luxurious of the Thai beach resorts, this charming gem of a place is the perfect place to relax without breaking the bank.

3. Koh Larn, Pattaya

Easily doable as a day trip from Bangkok (it’s about a two hour drive), this small island, also known as Coral Island, is accessible via ferry from Pattaya. Don’t stay too long on the main pier – head out and explore the island instead either by bike or songtaew and you will find six beautiful deserted beaches where you can sit back and chill.

4. Bophut, Koh Samui

Found on the north of Koh Samui, Bophut beach stretches for several kilometres between Big Buddha and Maenam beaches. Located in the middle section of the beach is the quaint Fisherman’s Village, and is one of the few places on Samui that retains in rustic charms as along with the beautiful beach, it is mainly still authentic Chinese shop houses and relatively few modern buildings.

5. Koh Lipe

Often named the Maldives of Thailand, Koh Lipe is just stunning. Located in the Andaman Sea, we think this is perhaps our favourite of all of the Thai islands. There are three main beaches, Pattaya, Sunrise and Sunset. they are easily accessible by long tail boat. On a clear day, you can see Langkawi in Malaysia, which is only 30km away.

Looking at these photos is making us reminisce about white sand, clear waters and relaxing under a palm tree with a book, sipping on some coconut water.

Have you visited any of these places? We would love to hear where your favourite beach in Thailand is – we are always planning our next adventure!