8 pristine, little-known beaches in Thailand

Besides its scenic landscapes and ancient temples, the Land of Smiles is also famous for its beach tourism. With nearly 7,000 km of coastline stretching from the Andaman Sea to the Gulf Coast, Thailand boasts many famous beaches. In addition, the country is surrounded by 1,400 islands and islets of varying sizes, contributing to its diverse natural environment. According to Culture Trip, Thailand also has many beaches that are ranked among the most beautiful destinations in the world.

Railay Beach

Railay Beach is always a target for international rock climbing enthusiasts due to its unique terrain. Railay boasts numerous towering limestone cliffs and challenging, steep inclines. Despite its stunning long stretch of white sand, Railay Beach receives relatively few tourists compared to other crowded beaches in Krabi province. It's only about a 15-minute drive from Ao Nang to reach this beach.

Nai Harn Beach

Phuket city is a familiar destination for international tourists. However, nearby Nai Harn is a pristine beach untouched by human intervention. Located south of Phuket, it features a few small hotels nestled among shady trees that stretch all the way to the shore. This is one of the favorite destinations for locals. For those who enjoy snorkeling, simply follow the dirt road from the Royal Phuket Yacht Club parking lot to reach Ao Sane beach.

Ko Lao Liang

Located off the coast of Trang town in southern Thailand, Ko Lao Liang is a little-known beach. This is why it's a popular weekend getaway for many locals. The limestone cliffs surrounding the crescent-shaped beach offer a private setting for relaxing afternoons in the summer sun. Visitors can also rent boats and go snorkeling to admire the coral reefs at this beach.

Koh Ngai Beach

This is a pristine, idyllic, and relatively secluded beach in Krabi. The sandy shore juts out from the edge of the tropical forest, blending seamlessly into the crystal-clear waters of the sea. The water here is so clear and clean that visitors can see right through to the sand. Tourists can clearly see schools of fish swimming among the shimmering coral reefs.

Morakot Beach

Mokarot is a beach nestled between four sides of cliffs and forests. It's like a forgotten part of the ocean on land, left behind by geological activity that caused the sea to recede. The beach is separated from the outside world by a rocky mountain. A cave connecting the two ends serves as an entrance for seawater to flow in.

Maya Beach

Maya Beach is located on the uninhabited island of Phi Phi Leh. Here, you'll find only nature: blue sea, white sand, limestone cliffs, and lush tropical vegetation. The water here is even clearer than the infinity pools at 5-star resorts. Notably, Maya Bay was the setting for the film The Beach, starring Leonardo DiCaprio.

Donald Duck Bay

The name Donald Duck Bay originates from a large rock formation near the shore that resembles Donald Duck from Disney's world-famous cartoon series. The beach boasts a long stretch of fine white sand nestled in a bay surrounded by turquoise waters, limestone cliffs, and lush tropical vegetation.

Ao Manao Beach

Ao Manao Beach is located in Prachuap Khiri Khan province, Thailand. It's known as a deep, sheltered bay, curved like a seashell. The beach is clean and beautiful with sparkling golden sand. The water is clear and the waves are gentle, making it ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. Ao Manao is also home to a large number of seashells. Therefore, when the tide recedes, visitors can stroll along the beach and collect a diverse collection of shells.

Anh Thi