Best beaches in Thailand with emerald blue waters

Where is it: Koh Phi Phi Le

What is it: It’s known for its stunning location and being featured in Hollywood’s The Beach, an adventure drama starring heartthrob Leonardo DiCaprio.

Why go: Maya Bay Beach tops this list and for obvious reasons. Besides the beautiful backdrop, it features unique and picturesque limestone cliffs and marine life that grabs the attention of tourists yearly. Maya Bay has a seasonal closure for two months yearly from August to September to give a mini “holiday” to its wildlife inhabitants.

Where is it: Krabi

What is it: One of the most stunning beaches in Thailand, located between the city of Krabi and Ao Nang.

 Why go: Hemmed in by craggy limestone cliffs and surrounded by dense rainforest, Railay Beach is accessible only by longtail boat. While many visit for a day trip to snorkel its crystal-clear waters, jump from its cliffs or explore the peninsula’s hidden coves, many stay overnight. The beach offers accommodation ranging from basic bungalows to sprawling luxury resorts.

Where is it: Koh Kood

What is it: An ethereal oasis on one of Thailand’s most remote resort islands.

Why go: The white-sand stretch maintains a sense of isolation with only a smattering of homestays, budget hotels and luxury resorts. As the sixth largest island in Thailand, Koh Kood clings to its slow-paced, dreamy vibe, a world away from the noisy resorts of the country’s more renowned beach destinations. But while the shores of Tha Pho Beach are quiet, its tranquil turquoise waters are home to a thriving underwater ecosystem where sea turtles, stingrays, barracudas and reef inhabitants co-exist.

Where is it: Phuket

What is it: Nestled on Phuket Island’s west coast, roughly half-way between the southern and northern tips.

Why go: Whether you’re looking for a calmer relaxation spot or need to escape the busy and overcrowded Patong Beach, Kamala Beach is a quieter alternative and one of the major tourist attractions on the island. Don’t be deceived by its serenity, this 3-kilometre-long beach has a surfing season between May and October, where you can learn to surf your first wave. Check out Café Del Mar Phuket, known for its Ibiza-inspired and chill-out vibes with electrifying live DJ performances.

Where is it: Koh Lipe

What is it: A quiet beach known for its bohemian atmosphereand spectacular sunsets on a small island near the Thai-Malaysian border.

Why go: Surrounded by large boulders that jut out of the sand and water, Sunset Beach, or Hat Pramong as known by locals, is still relatively secluded. This hidden gem, with its soft-as-sifted-flour sand, cyan skies and emerald-blue waters, will appeal to those who want to let the silence in and experience a sense of timelessness. Except for a few bungalows and driftwood-built restaurants, beach-side development is limited to scattered sun loungers and vendors selling cold drinks.

Where is it: Phuket

What is it: Nestled on Phuket Island’s west coast, roughly half-way between the southern and northern tips.

Why go: Whether you’re looking for a calmer relaxation spot or need to escape the busy and overcrowded Patong Beach, Kamala Beach is a quieter alternative and one of the major tourist attractions on the island. Don’t be deceived by its serenity, this 3-kilometre-long beach has a surfing season between May and October, where you can learn to surf your first wave. Check out Café Del Mar Phuket, known for its Ibiza-inspired and chill-out vibes with electrifying live DJ performances.

Where is it: Koh Samui

What is it: The ideal spot to engage in watersports and then relax.

Why go: Tourists have long cottoned on to this spectacular stretch in Koh Samui, but we couldn’t discuss Thailand beaches without mentioning it. The high-end resorts at the north end of Chaweng offer idyllic spots to take a breather and enjoy a spa holiday. As the sun sets, the southern part of the beach comes alive with a vibrant nightlife scene. Check out ARKbar Beach Club, known for its amazing barbecue, fresh seafood dishes and pumping music.

Where is it: Similan Islands

What is it: It’s nestled in Koh Miang in front of picturesque Honeymoon Bay.

Why go: If you are looking for an exclusive honeymoon or island getaway this beach is perfect.. Here’s a fun fact: a Thai princess spent her honeymoon here and that’s how it got its name. For singles, worry not, you’ll be tempted to immerse yourselves in the clear waters since it is one of the most ideal snorkelling and diving spots around the Similan Islands.

Where is it: Koh Yao Yai

What is it: The beach is part of ‘Unseen Thailand’ earning the nickname as the Maldives of Thailand.

Why go: If you are exploring Phuket, Krabi or Phang Nga, Laem Haad Beach should be added to your island hopping bucket list. Tucked away between the tip of the Koh Yao Noi and Koh Yao Yai islands, you can witness the beauty of its white sandy beach only during low tides. Here's a tip for your Instagram feed, bring your drone for some epic aerial shots! To get to this breathtaking spot you’ve got to ride a long-tailed boat, or speedboat, from Krabi or Phuket Island.