There are hundreds of thousands of things to do and places to see in the “City of Angels”. With as many attractions as there are in one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, sometimes a sandy getaway is needed. So, where do you go to find the perfect beaches to escape to in Bangkok? We’ve made a list of the best.
1. Hua Hin
Situated on the Gulf of Thailand is Hua Hin, the country’s original beach resort. Since King Prajadhipok made the city his number one vacation spot in the early 1920s, locals and tourists alike have flooded the island to see if it lives up to the hype; and of course, it does.
There is a range of beach activities and water sports to do in Hua Hin, like windsurfing, parasailing, kayaking, snorkelling and kite-boarding. The city also has a great nightlife, with bars situated within walking distance of some of its nicest beach fronts. There are also colourful and lively markets in Hua Hin, all walking distance from its beach.
Must-Visit Beaches In Hua Hin
- Hua Hin Beach
- Cha-Am Beach
- Pranburi Beach
Time Taken from Bangkok: 3-5 hours
How To Get There: Trains are an easy way to get to Hua Hin, as the train station is right in the centre of the island. They, however, go very slowly so the journey by train can stretch up to 4 or 5 hours. From Bangkok, buses to Hua Hin leave from the Sai Tai Mai terminal every 20 minutes and take around 3.5 hours. You can also catch a non-stop VIP coach bus direct from Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport to Hua Hin. Other travel options are by taxi or minivan.
2. Pattaya
The multicultural city of Pattaya is one of the most popular areas in Thailand, but its beaches are surprisingly peaceful. The city has a much-deserved reputation as being one of the sex capitals of Thailand- hundreds of beer bars, go-go clubs and massage parlours line the streets. But don’t let this keep you from going.
Easily accessible beaches, amazing restaurants and family-friendly resorts are located in Pattaya. You also have the option of escaping the busy city centre and exploring one of its nearby islands.
Must-Visit Beaches In Pattaya
- Pattaya Beach
- Jomtien Beach
- Phrachan Beach
Time Taken from Bangkok: 2-3 hours
How To Get There: Since Suvarnabhumi Airport is on the Pattaya side of Bangkok, it is easier and relatively cheap to get a taxi from the airport to Pattaya. The standard rate is roughly 1,500 baht (US$ $45) and the journey takes around 80-90 minutes. Another option when travelling from Bangkok airport to Pattaya is the public bus. Buses depart from Suvarnabhumi Airport about 5 times per day and cost approximately 100 baht. Minivans and trains are also good options, especially on weekdays.
3. Ko Samet
Ko Samet is that quintessential beach getaway in Thailand. The water is clear, the beaches are peaceful and quiet, the sand is white and silky and the seafood is abundant and delicious. On an average day, Ko Samet isn’t overrun by tourists, so it’s perfect for a family trip or just to escape the hustle and bustle of central Thailand by yourself.
The island is surrounded by beautiful coral reefs, perfect for snorkelling and scuba diving. There’s also a range of restaurants and bars on the island that contributes to the fine nightlife on the island. In the evenings, you can buy alcoholic buckets at reasonable prices and catch local dancers that put on a fire show at one of the best bars on the island- Ploy Bar.
Must-Visit Beaches In Ko Samet
- Ao Phrao
- Ao Kiu Na Nok
- Sai Kaew Beach
Time Taken from Bangkok: 3-5 hours
How To Get There: Getting a bus in Bangkok to Rayong or Ban Phe is the first thing. Once you arrive in Rayong or Ban Phe, it’s about an hour’s ferry ride to the island of Ko Samet. You can also get a speedboat to Ko Samet, although this option is much pricier. Taxi services that travel to the ferry piers are also available from Bangkok. The standard fare is about 1,600 baht (US$ $49).
4. Koh Lan (Koh Larn)
Koh Lan is one of the small islands that can be seen off the coast of Pattaya Beach. The island is known for its six beautiful beaches set against the backdrop of the island’s mountains. Although the island is popular for being a day trip destination, there are several accommodation options for those that want to spend the night.
During the day, you can rent a moped at an extremely reasonable price to travel the entire island, go parasailing or enjoy a range of underwater activities. During the evening, once the day trippers start to leave, you can relax and enjoy the tranquillity of the island.
Must-Visit Beaches In Koh Lan
- Tien Beach
- Samae Beach
- Tawaen Beach
Time Taken From Bangkok: 2-4 hours
How To Get There: Buses are the cheapest way to get to Koh Lan from Bangkok. The public buses along with minivans (both costing about 150 baht, or US$ $5) leave from Bangkok’s ‘Eastern’ Ekamai Bus Station (found next to Ekamai BTS Skytrain) to reach the pier in Pattaya in under 2 hours. From the Bali Hai Pier, you can catch the ferry (or a more expensive option – a speedboat) to Koh Larn in an hour. Note that the last ferry leaves Pattaya at 6.30pm.
