Best 7 Beaches & Islands Near Bangkok (Plus Beaches to Avoid)

If you're spending your holiday in Bangkok and craving a quick beach escape without heading all the way to southern Thailand, you're in luck. We've carefully curated a list of the best 7 beaches near Bangkok that are not only clean and beautiful but also easy to reach. Whether you're looking for serene sands or vibrant seaside spots, these beaches offer a refreshing break from the city's hustle.

We've also included a few beaches to avoid, so you can make the most of your getaway.

1. Hua Hin - Family-Friendly & Royal Retreat

As a favorite retreat for the Thai royal family, Hua Hin is perfect for a quick family beach getaway. It's easily accessible from Bangkok by car or train.

The well-developed destination offers plenty of family-friendly resorts and restaurants. The 4-kilometer sandy beach is ideal for children to play, with shallow waters that are safer for kids, though swimming can be tricky due to sharp stones and exposed rocks in some areas.

Families can enjoy activities like horseback riding, boat rides, parasailing, and windsurfing. For a quieter spot, head south toward the Takiap area, which remains peaceful even during peak season.

Early mornings are particularly special, with golden sunrises, fishermen heading out to sea, and monks on their alms rounds. Hua Hin also provides easy access to water parks, Tamarind Market, and night markets for local food and culture.

If you have extra time, the nearby Phraya Nakhon Cave (about one hour's drive) is a hidden gem worth exploring, featuring a natural skylight that adds a magical touch.

Distance from Bangkok: Approximately 144 kilometers (a 2½ hour drive) from Bangkok City Centre

2. Pranburi Beach - Quiet & Undisturbed

Pranburi is the go-to destination for those seeking tranquility and a close connection with nature. Located just south of Hua Hin, Pranburi is far less crowded and offers a serene atmosphere perfect for relaxation.

The area is known for its unspoiled beaches, lush mangrove forests, and proximity to Sam Roi Yot National Park, where you can hike among limestone karsts, caves, and diverse wildlife.

To extend your trip, try to rent a bicycle and explore the picturesque coastline of Pranburi, cycling along quiet roads and through quaint fishing villages.

Pranburi's peaceful environment makes it an excellent choice for couples, nature lovers, and anyone looking to escape city life.

Distance from Bangkok: 277 kilometers (about 4 hours' drive) from center of Bangkok.

3. Koh Samet - Lively & Accessible Island Getaway

Koh Samet is an island blending scenic beauty, water sports, and vibrant nightlife. Just a short boat ride from the mainland, about a 15-20 minute speedboat ride or a 30-45 minute ferry ride, departing from Ban Phe Pier in Rayong.

On Koh Samet, you can unwind on stunning beaches like Sai Kaew or Ao Phrao, perfect for sunbathing and swimming. Dive into the crystal-clear waters for snorkeling or enjoy thrilling water activities like jet skiing and kayaking.

As the sun sets, the island comes alive with vibrant nightlife—beach bars, live music, and fire shows create a lively atmosphere.

Don't miss the mesmerizing sunsets from panoramic viewpoints at sunset viewpoint on the south of the island.

You can also take boat tours to explore nearby islands, adding even more adventure to your tropical escape.

Recommended Beaches in Koh Samet:

Sai Kaew (Diamond Beach)-Lively Bach Parties: A lively and vibrant atmosphere with beach clubs, bars, and restaurants lining the shore, offering a range of entertainment options, live music, and beach parties.

Ao Phai Beach-Peaceful and Quieter: For more peaceful and quieter atmosphere, consider Ao Phai Beach, a serene counterpart to Sai Kaew. Enjoy gentle waves ideal for swimming and unwind beneath the swaying palm trees.

Ao Prao Beach-Luxury Resorts: Escape to luxury at Ao Prao Beach, home to upscale resorts and a serene atmosphere.

Distance from Bangkok: 220 kilometers (about 3 hours' drive) from center of Bangkok.

4. Koh Larn (Coral Island) - Easy Island Escape & Diving

Koh Larn, also known as Coral Island nestled in the Gulf of Thailand, just a short boat ride away from Pattaya.

Koh Larn is famous for its clear waters, coral reefs, and colorful marine life, making it a great spot for snorkeling and diving.

Besides, you can experience many other activities such as parasailing, jet skiing, and banana boat rides. If you are looking for the best views on the island, we suggest visiting the Big Buddha Viewpoint.

With beachfront eateries offering fresh seafood delights and the island's peaceful ambiance, Koh Larn guarantees an unforgettable tropical getaway if you are seeking a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.

Recommended Beaches in Koh Larn:

Samae Beach-Good for photography: Surrounded by lush greenery and rocky cliffs, Samae Beach offers picturesque views of the coastline, creating a stunning backdrop for sunset watching.

Tawaen Beach- A family-friendly destination: with shallow waters, gentle waves, and a range of activities suitable for children, making it an ideal spot for families to enjoy quality time together and create lasting memories.

Distance from Bangkok: 97 kilometers (about 1½ hour drive) from center of Bangkok.

5. Cha-Am Beach- Budget-Friendly & Local Vibe

Cha-Am Beach is an excellent option for travelers seeking a budget-friendly beach destination without sacrificing comfort. Located just north of Hua Hin, Cha-Am is popular among locals and Thai families, offering a more authentic and laid-back vibe.

The beach is lined with simple seafood restaurants and affordable accommodations, making it ideal for budget-conscious travelers.

The relaxed atmosphere and lack of large crowds offer a peaceful beach experience. Families with children will especially appreciate the safety and calm waters, free from strong waves and busy beaches.

One of the must-see activities is taking a bike ride to the Fish Bridge, which extends into the sea. This spot is particularly stunning in the morning, offering a beautiful location to catch the sunrise.

Distance from Bangkok: 173 kilometers (about 2½ hour drive) from center of Bangkok.

6. Koh Sichang - Off-the-Beaten-Path & Historic

Once serving as a royal summer retreat during the reign of King Rama V, Koh Sichang is blend of history, natural beauty, cultural heritage, and idyllic beaches, located Just a quick ferry ride from the lively city of Si Racha.

Beside enjoying your beach time, try to spend a half day to visit the quaint fishing villages and cultural landmarks such as the Chao Pho Khao Yai Shrine, Chinese temples, and the former royal palace on Koh Sichang. Consider staying overnight on Koh Sichang to experience the island's peaceful evenings, and spectacular sunsets.

It is recommended to rent a scooter or bicycle to explore the island at your own leisure, allowing you to discover hidden gems, quaint streets, and scenic viewpoints that may not be accessible by car.

Recommended Beaches in Koh Sichang:

Tham Phang Beach: This is the most popular beach on Koh Sichang. It's a small, sandy beach with clear waters, perfect for a relaxing swim.  Chong Khao Khad Beach: A less-known spot, this beach offers stunning views and a more secluded atmosphere.

Distance from Bangkok: 160 kilometers (about 2½ hour drive) from center of Bangkok.

7. Pattaya (Some Parts)-- Bustling & Entertainment Hub

Pattaya is famous for its lively atmosphere and diverse entertainment options, but not all of its beaches are ideal for a relaxing getaway. Pattaya Beach is not recommended due to its crowded nature, noise, and water quality, which can be less than pristine.

Instead, we recommend Navy Beach (also referred to as Hat Nang Ram). Located in a more secluded area, it offers cleaner waters, a serene environment, and beautiful white sand, making it perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle while still being close to Pattaya's amenities.

Another great option is Koh Pai (Bamboo Island). This small, uninhabited island is a short boat ride from Pattaya and boasts crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and a tranquil atmosphere, making it ideal for snorkeling, swimming, and unwinding in a more natural setting.

Distance from Bangkok: 145 kilometers (about 2 hours' drive) from center of Bangkok.

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Beaches Near Bangkok We Don't Recommend

Considering crowded tourist conditions, limited activities, and water quality issues, here are some beaches near Bangkok that we do not recommend.

1. Bang Saen Beach

Bang Saen Beach tends to be crowded, especially during weekends and holidays. It could be overwhelming if you are looking for a more peaceful beach experience.

Some visitors have reported issues with cleanliness and maintenance on the beach, including litter and waste disposal problems.

And the beach area is known for being quite noisy, with bars and clubs nearby that can be disruptive if you are seeking a serene beach experience.

2. Pattaya Beach

During the weekends and holidays, Pattaya Beach becomes quite crowded, lacking the peaceful setting necessary for children to play and explore safely.

Moreover, the area's bustling nightlife predominantly caters to adult entertainment preferences.

Water conditions at Pattaya Beach may not consistently meet cleanliness standards for child-friendly water activities, potentially posing risks for families seeking a safe and enjoyable beach experience.

3. Jomtien Beach

This coastal spot has witnessed increased commercialization over the years, with the beachfront now brimming with hotels, restaurants, and shops, potentially compromising its natural beauty and serenity.

During peak tourist seasons, Jomtien Beach tends to become quite crowded, making it challenging to find a tranquil spot for unwinding. And the beach offers limited water sports and activities.

4. Rayong Beaches (some parts)

Rayong is an industrial area in Thailand, and some of the beaches in the region may be affected by nearby industrial activities and pollution. This can impact the water quality and overall beach experience.

Compared to more popular tourist destinations in Thailand, the infrastructure and amenities at Rayong Beaches may be less developed. There are limited options in accommodations, restaurants, and activities here.