Sun’s out, and beaches are in! Thailand has some of the best beaches in the world, and it’s no surprise that their golden sunsets and crystal clear waters attract millions of travellers each year. It’s time for a much-needed family getaway, so we’re here to recommend the very best beaches for little ones because safety always comes first.
Read also: 16 tips for how not to travel abroad with a baby
#1 Lipa Noi Beach, Koh Samui
Quiet, fewer crowds and shallow waters (up to 100-metres out at low tide) means children can paddle near the shoreline. And because this beach isn’t rocky, nor will you find washed-up corals, sunbathing comfortably is extremely inviting. The beach is a little remote, so get your villa to pack you a picnic, a cooler, blankets and towels and go equipped with enough playthings to keep the kids occupied for a few hours
#2 Nai Harn Beach, Phuket
Nai Harn Beach lies in the Southwest part of Phuket. With only a few resorts in town, it’s quiet location, allowing you to explore the beach’s gorgeous cove — perfect for a morning snorkel. The sand is soft and clean, and the cove is protected from stronger currents, meaning a safer swim.
#3 Chaweng Noi, Koh Samui
This luxury resort-dotted beach is ideal for young explorers looking to watch small schools of fish chase each other or feel tiny crabs running underfoot. Be warned though, the combination of fine sand, crystalline waters and calm wind have kickstarted many a seashell, sea glass, and coral collection to the ire of parents worldwide.
#4 Hua Hin Beach, Prachuap Khiri Khan
What was once a fishing village, Hua Hin has evolved to becoming Thailand’s original beach resort town. It’s a short distance from Bangkok and was the it destination for the royals and noblemen back in the day. Walk up to the North part of the beach where you will find most families and entertaining activities. Plenty of tasty restaurants and lively markets make the location very accessible (and favourable too!).
#5 Kamala Beach, Phuket
This hidden gem is regarded as one of the best beaches in Thailand. Quiet, serene and private, the popular family destination proves to be worlds away even though it’s just a 10 to 15-minute drive from party-favourite Patong. Shallow waters again make a perfect place for the toddlers to play in, and the 2-kilometre stretch has a great selection of dine-ins and quick bites that serve a diverse range of cuisines.
#6 Klong Prao Beach, Koh Chang
If you’re coming to Koh Chang, include Klong Prao Beach in your itinerary. The largest beach on the island has a family-friendly atmosphere owing to the warm waters and soft sand. It stretches up to four kilometres and is much quieter than its neighbour, White Sand Beach. Plus, it’s not too far along to the Klong Plu waterfalls. Care for a trek?
#7 Koh Fan Noi and Koh Fan Yai
Just a few hundred metres off the coast of Choeng Mon Beach, are twin islets, Koh Fan Noi and the slightly bigger Koh Fan Yai. Swim, kayak, or even walk over during low-tide and you’ll find some of the best snorkelling around Samui.