Thailand’s Beach Highlights

The beaches of Thailand can offer a refreshing stop-gap in a backpacking trail, and have reliable warm waters and scenic locations. There are a variety of beaches situated in the southern part of Thailand, close to the equator. The beaches tend to heat up considerably, so remember to keep out of the midday sun and stay cool in one of these three exotic beach escapes.

Samila Beach

Songkhla is a popular seaside resort and has a few large seaports. If you’re stopping here, try and make it to Samila Beach where you’ll be greeted by the famous bronze mermaid statue, perched on her rock. It’s an appropriate welcome to the beach, given the fairy tale behind it. Locals say that the sparkling white sand comes from a stolen crystal cat brought over by a cat, mouse and dog. The cat and mouse became the surrounding mountains on either side of the beach and the dog is the Khao Tang Kuan hill that you’ll see from the ocean. It’s a tranquil spot, and if you want to relax and unwind you’ll be pleased to see the shade of the many pine trees and lots of quiet cafes. Helpfully, a local minibus service can take you directly to the beach from the town.

Koh Pha-Ngan

This beach is host to the Full Moon Party, which happens once-a-month. Even if you aren’t that into the crowds, it’s hard to say no to this party, as it is a one-off experience. Hitting the beach at night, you’ll find it lined up with bars, clubs and places to eat as well as a circus of jugglers and fire-eaters. Various DJs treat the crowds to drum and bass, techno and reggae as soon as the moon appears over the crescent-shaped white beach. You can really let your hair down and get dancing with lots of like-minded travellers and it should provide one of the many highlights on your travels. Just remember to take care of your valuables and documents and take copies of passports or visas just in case things get lost or go missing when you’re having too good a time dancing in the sand.

Maya Bay in Koh Phi Phi Leh

Maya Bay is famous for being the setting for the film, The Beach. Beyond that, it is a picturesque area, with coconut palms, sand dunes and cliffs surrounding the white sand. You’ll see fishermen trawling their boats through the sea as well as the odd tourist snorkelling and tanning. Thanks to the popularity of the film, the bay has its fair share of visitors. It’s a recommended spot for diving, and is sure to make a welcome break from being on the road. The most pleasant way to get there is by boat, which you can get from Phuket City, just 48 km from Maya Bay. It can become a little crowded in the mid-afternoon, so if you want a spot it’s good to arrive bright and early. When the tourists get dropped off, you can always grab your siesta under the shade of one of the many cliffs and go back to sun-bathing when it’s cooler and less crowded.

If you’re planning your backpacking route, note that the best times to visit Thailand’s beaches are between the months of December and March. Check out Cheapflights.co.uk for help in finding cheap flights on the internet during these months.