Best Summer Beach Destinations in Bangkok, Thailand

Bangkok, Thailand, Bangkok, Destination & Trip Type Pages, Best Summer Beach Destinations

Best Summer Beach Destinations in Bangkok, Thailand

Koh Samet

1. Koh Samet

Known for its vibrant nightlife and stunning beaches, Koh Samet offers a perfect escape from the bustling city of Bangkok. The island's clear waters are ideal for swimming and water sports, solving the challenge of finding a nearby beach paradise. A quick boat ride from Rayong, it’s an accessible weekend getaway.
  • Travel Time: Approximately 2–3 hours from Bangkok.
  • Accommodation: Range from luxury resorts to budget bungalows.
  • Activities: Snorkeling, jet skiing, and beach parties.
Hua Hin

2. Hua Hin

A favorite among both locals and visitors, Hua Hin combines beautiful beaches with a touch of royal charm and historical sites. It provides a more laid-back alternative to Pattaya's lively energy, addressing the need for a slower pace. The night market and seafood are also top attractions here.
  • Travel Time: Around 3 hours by car from Bangkok.
  • Cultural Sites: Visit the nearby palaces.
  • Dining: Known for its fresh seafood restaurants.
Pattaya Beach

3. Pattaya Beach

Famous for its bustling scene and nightlife, Pattaya offers a diverse array of activities from lively parties to calmer beach moments. It addresses the need for both entertainment and relaxation. Pattaya also hosts several family-friendly attractions, including water parks.
  • Travel Time: Approximately 2 hours from Bangkok.
  • Variety: Balances vibrant nightlife and calm beaches.
  • Attractions: Water parks and cultural shows.
Koh Larn

4. Koh Larn

Just off the coast of Pattaya, Koh Larn is known for its clear waters and white sandy beaches. It provides a peaceful escape from the more crowded Pattaya beaches, solving the challenge of finding tranquility. Day-trippers and overnight visitors both enjoy its scenic views.
  • Travel Time: Short ferry ride from Pattaya.
  • Facilities: Beach chairs and watersports equipment rentals available.
  • Crowds: Quieter than Pattaya's main beach.
Cha-Am

5. Cha-Am

Close to Hua Hin, Cha-Am offers wide-stretching beaches and a relaxed atmosphere without the tourist crowds. This destination solves the challenge of enjoying a traditional Thai beach experience. It is popular with local families, offering an authentic touch to beachside relaxation.
  • Travel Time: About 2.5 hours from Bangkok.
  • Authenticity: Retains a local vibe.
  • Facilities: Plenty of beachside dining options.
Bang Saen

6. Bang Saen

A popular beach destination with local Thais, Bang Saen offers a more authentic experience with fewer international tourists. It solves the challenge of staying closer to Bangkok while enjoying coastal relaxation. The proximity to the city makes it ideal for day trips.
  • Travel Time: Around 1.5 hours from Bangkok.
  • Atmosphere: Local vibe and less commercialized.
  • Facilities: Good range of street food vendors.
Pranburi

7. Pranburi

Just south of Hua Hin, Pranburi is known for serene beaches and nature-focused activities. It provides a retreat for those seeking peace and natural beauty, addressing the need to escape city stress. The area is perfect for cycling and visiting natural parks.
  • Travel Time: About 3.5 hours from Bangkok.
  • Nature: Surrounded by national parks.
  • Activities: Ideal for biking and hiking.
Rayong

8. Rayong

Rayong offers both bustling beaches and the opportunity to escape to nearby islands like Koh Samet. It solves the challenge of balancing beach activities with quiet island retreats. The local seafood markets are a culinary highlight.
  • Travel Time: Approximately 2.5 hours from Bangkok.
  • Diversity: Mix of lively beaches and quiet islands.
  • Cuisine: Famous for seafood, especially shrimp and crab.
Koh Chang

9. Koh Chang

Noted for its diverse landscapes featuring mountains, jungles, and beaches, Koh Chang is ideal for adventure seekers. It addresses the need for both active exploration and beach relaxation. The island has luxury resorts and backpacker hostels alike.
  • Travel Time: Around 5 hours from Bangkok, plus ferry.
  • Terrain: Offers both mountain and beach activities.
  • Accommodation: Wide range of options from budget to luxury.
Koh Si Chang

10. Koh Si Chang

A lesser-known gem, Koh Si Chang offers a quieter alternative to the more crowded islands near Bangkok. It solves the challenge of finding similar beauty with fewer tourists. The island has historical interest due to its connections with Thai royalty.
  • Travel Time: Only a ferry ride from Si Racha.
  • Ambiance: Quiet and less commercialized.
  • History: Former royal retreat.
Ao Manao

11. Ao Manao

Located near Prachuap Khiri Khan, Ao Manao is famous for its beautiful crescent-shaped beach and historical sites. This solves the challenge of mixing history with modern beach relaxation. Visitors can also explore the nearby air force base and monkey mountain.
  • Travel Time: Approximately 4.5 hours from Bangkok.
  • History: Close to World War II sites.
  • Wildlife: Watch out for the friendly dusky langurs.
Ban Krut

12. Ban Krut

Nestled in a quaint seaside village, Ban Krut is perfect for experiencing authentic Thai coastal life. It solves the challenge of wanting a true local experience with serene beach settings. The serene temples and hills nearby make for pleasant exploring.
  • Travel Time: About 4.5 hours from Bangkok.
  • Vibe: Devoid of large-scale tourism.
  • Nearby Sites: Explore Wat Tang Sai, a hilltop temple.
Laem Mae Phim

13. Laem Mae Phim

Known for its calm waters, Laem Mae Phim offers one of the best beaches in Rayong province. It provides a family-friendly atmosphere, solving the challenge of needing a safe spot for young swimmers. The local seafood is fresh and affordable.
  • Travel Time: Around 2.5 hours from Bangkok.
  • Atmosphere: Peaceful, clean beaches.
  • Dining: Affordable and fresh seafood options.
Koh Kood

14. Koh Kood

Southeast of Koh Chang, Koh Kood is known for its untouched beaches and crystal-clear waters. It offers an off-the-beaten-path experience, addressing the need for isolation and natural beauty. The island is one of the least developed, preserving its natural allure.
  • Travel Time: About 5 hours from Bangkok, including a ferry.
  • Natural Beauty: Renowned for unspoiled beaches.
  • Development: Limited with focus on eco-tourism.
Khao Lak

15. Khao Lak

While further out, Khao Lak offers pristine beaches without the crowds of Phuket. It solves the challenge of experiencing beautiful beaches with a relaxed vibe. The nearby Similan Islands are a must-visit for divers.
  • Travel Time: A flight or lengthy drive from Bangkok.
  • Ambiance: Relaxed and often less crowded.
  • Diving: Excellent dive sites at Similan Islands.
Koh Phangan

16. Koh Phangan

Famous for Full Moon Parties, Koh Phangan also features stunning beaches and tranquil spots when the parties aren’t happening. It addresses the desire for both festive environments and quiet relaxation. Beyond parties, the island's yoga retreats attract a different crowd.
  • Travel Time: Flight to Koh Samui, then a ferry.
  • Events: Known for Full Moon Parties.
  • Wellness: Popular for yoga and retreats.
Koh Tao

17. Koh Tao

Famed for its diving spots, Koh Tao offers beautiful coves and a laid-back vibe. It solves the challenge of combining sports with relaxation. Diving courses are a favorite here for both beginners and advanced divers.
  • Travel Time: Around 6 hours from Bangkok via train and ferry.
  • Diving: Popular for affordable dive certifications.
  • Atmosphere: Chill and focused on marine activities.
Samed Nangshe

18. Samed Nangshe

A bit different, offering stunning views of Phang Nga Bay rather than typical beach settings. It solves the need to experience breathtaking vistas with fewer tourists. Also, it’s a photographer's paradise, especially at sunrise.
  • Travel Time: A short trip from Phuket, often combined.
  • Views: Offers panoramic bay scenes.
  • Photography: Best at sunrise.
Koh Mak

19. Koh Mak

Smaller than its neighbors, Koh Mak is known for its eco-friendly approaches and tranquil beaches. It addresses the desire for sustainable tourism and low-key beach life. The island promotes bicycle travel and environmental preservation.
  • Travel Time: Approximately 5 hours from Bangkok, including a boat.
  • Sustainability: Focus on eco-friendly tourism.
  • Transport: Best explored by bicycle.
Koh Phra Thong

20. Koh Phra Thong

Offers limitless stretches of golden beaches and diverse ecosystems. It solves the challenge of finding truly off-the-beaten-path destinations. The island is also a prime location for spotting unique wildlife, including turtles and various bird species.
  • Travel Time: Requires several hours from Bangkok, including land and sea.
  • Nature: Home to unique wildlife and ecosystems.
  • Development: Very underdeveloped, preserving its wilderness.