With beautiful scenery and great beaches, Phuket draws tourists from around the world with some of the best beaches in Thailand. Bustling Karon and Patong offer excellent shopping and vibrant nightlife, while to the north and south, the beaches become quieter and the hotels more secluded. North of Phuket lies ancient Khao Sok National Park, a great accompaniment to a Thailand Beach Holiday. 

TF’s top hotel pick: Keemala

A magical tropical wonderland of innovative and inspiring design, Keemala features a remarkable variety of thatched pool villas, enchanting treehouses, canvas-covered hideaways and stunning treetop villas, some resembling birds’ nests. Each villa features a private pool, many seemingly suspended amongst the trees, a spacious bathroom with stand-alone bathtub and forest views. A stay at this spellbinding property presents an unforgettably unique and invigorating experience just a short drive from Kamala or Patong.

Just over an hour’s drive north of Phuket, Khao Lak enjoys miles of beautiful white sand beaches. Although its popularity is growing quickly, it still remains a quieter, slower pace of life than its southern neighbour. Stunning Khao Sok National Park with its ancient rainforest lies close by and the pristine beaches and coral reefs of the Similan Islands can be accessed easily by boat. 

TF’s top hotel pick: The Sarojin

This luxurious resort evokes the feeling of a private estate and sits in lush, tropical gardens on a secluded stretch of white sand beach. The Sarojin prides itself on providing the highest standards of service and the staff will endeavour to personalise every aspect of your stay. Breakfast is served until 6pm including sparkling wine plus there are plenty of romantic private dining options available. Other facilities include a tranquil infinity pool and secluded spa so guests can be sure of a peaceful getaway at this beautiful property.

Krabi is becoming increasingly popular as more people discover its breathtaking, unspoilt landscape of dramatic limestone cliffs, crystal clear waters and some of the best beaches in Thailand. Ao Nang offers plenty of shopping and dining options and is only a short ride on a traditional longtail boat from stunning beaches. Klong Muang and Railay offers more secluded location and scenic beaches. 

TF’s top hotel pick: Shellsea Krabi

The stunning Shellsea Krabi boasts a secluded setting on picturesque Fossil Shell beach and offers an impressive range of facilities. Take a rejuvenating yoga class, kayak on the crystal clear Andaman Sea or enjoy a refreshing drink in the beachfront Fin Bar. The resort also offers a free daily shuttle for those looking to explore the local bars and restaurants of Ao Nang. With elegantly appointed rooms and villas and a beautiful blend of contemporary design with touches of classic Thai style this resort offers the ideal place for a relaxing Krabi escape.

The coconut palm fringed island of Koh Samui is blessed with wonderful beaches and clear waters. Enjoy lively nightlife and shopping in bustling Chaweng, or the many dining options in charming Bo Phut. Those looking for a quieter, slower pace of life can head for the stunning beaches of Mae Nam and Choeng Mon, still within easy reach of Chaweng. 

TF’s top hotel pick:  Garrya Tongsai Bay Samui

The beautiful family owned and eco-friendly Garrya Tongsai Bay Samui overlooks its own secluded bay and golden sand beach in the northeast of the island, near Choeng Mon. Offering spacious suites as well as gorgeous cottages and villas, this welcoming resort is the perfect spot to simply lay back and relax, although it also makes a great base from which to explore the natural beauty of Koh Samui. This exceptionally high standard of personalised yet unassuming service ensure this wonderful property remains a consistent Trailfinders favourite.

Just a short boat ride from Koh Samui, Koh Phangan is a world away from its better known neighbour to the south. Although renowned for its full moon party in the south east, the rest of the island is quiet and scenic with soft sand beaches and a lush interior. Further north lies the scuba diving paradise of Koh Tao. With its secluded bays and amazing beaches it is considered one of Thailand’s true tropical island escapes. 

TF’s top hotel pick: Santhiya Koh Phangan Resort & Spa

Santhiya Koh Phangan Resort & Spa is a charming Thai style resort that sits perched on a hillside amongst lush tropical landscape looking down over a clear bay and a stunning stretch of beach. The hotel’s traditional ornate wood carvings and teak décor blend perfectly with the striking natural surroundings. Relax by the large freeform pool and waterfall or enjoy idyllic sea views at the blissful spa. This natural hideaway is a great choice for an authentic Thai experience on Koh Phangan.

Rising from the crystal clear waters of the Andaman Sea and reached easily by boat by either Phuket or Krabi, Koh Phi Phi is simply a destination you cannot afford to miss. The island is home to some of Thailand's most spectacular beaches, jaw dropping rock formations and lush rainforest. Visitors can enjoy a host of activities including day trips to the surrounding islands, snorkelling, scuba diving and vibrant nightlife around Tonsai Bay. 

TF’s top hotel pick: Zeavola Resort

The intimate Zeavola Resort boasts 53 traditionally decorated suites and enjoys a fantastic location on the beautiful white sands of Ooh Phi Phi’s north coast. Blending authentic Thai influences with contemporary touches, Zeavola creates an alluring atmosphere of barefoot luxury.

Just a short boat ride from Phuket or Krabi, the sister islands of Koh Yao Noi and Koh Yao Yai are perfect for those looking for rest and relaxation in alluring, unspoilt surroundings. There are no big resort areas here, just a handful of hotels and local restaurants serving southern Thai specialities. The islands are perfect to explore by day with secluded coves and deserted beaches offering breathtaking views across Phang Nga Bay. 

TF’s top hotel pick: Paradise Koh Yao Noi

Paradie Koh Yao is a charming boutique resort boasting a remote location on a long stretch of white sand beach on the idyllic island of Koh Yao Noi. Nestled within a beautiful nature reserve and overlooking stunning Phang Nga Bay, this romantic property provides a comfortable and peaceful ambience. The facilities include a beachfront infinity pool and small spa, as well as a dedicated yoga pavilion. Rooms have a cosy feel and a chic pastel décor with an array of choices including options with spectacular sea views and others with private pools. Enjoy the picturesque and private setting of paradise just a short boat ride away from Phuket.

For more inspiration, take a look at our Thailand Holidays pages and our Thailand Beaches pages.