Aching for a gorgeous beach getaway to the Maldives, but looking for something closer to home (and more affordable too!)? Why not head over to the home of yummy tom yum goong and mango sticky rice just a couple of hours away?
Thailand isn’t just known to be the Land of Smiles… It’s also the land of incredible beaches with soft, powdery white sand perfect for sunbathing, and sparkling turquoise waters that are so inviting that you won’t be able to resist jumping in - whether you're going in for a dip, to go snorkelling, or scuba-diving!
From the pristine shores of Koh Lipe to tranquil hidden gems like Sivalai Beach in Koh Kood, here are 8 incredible beaches that look like Maldives in Thailand with crystal clear waters you should definitely check out!
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1. Koh Lipe
If you’ve never heard of Koh Lipe, you’re definitely missing out. This hidden gem is known to be the Maldives of Thailand amongst those familiar with the gorgeous island. It’s a small island with three main beaches - Sunrise Beach, Sunset Beach, and Pattaya Beach.
The waters are crystal clear and you can snorkel directly from the beach where you can start to see small fishes, sea urchins and corals. Alternatively, you can also choose to go on an island-hopping and snorkelling tour to neighbouring islands such as Koh Adang, Koh Rawi, Koh Hin-Ngam and more (all featuring the same crystal clear, turquoise waters!).
We also highly recommend a stay here with affordable luxury beachfront stays from SG$50 (the beach is literally at your doorstep!). For food, head over to Koh Lipe Walking Street where you can shop and eat street food, or indulge in affordable seafood feasts.
PS: If you head to the darkest parts of the beaches at night, you might also be able to spot glowing plankton here!
- Address: Ko Lipe, Satun, Thailand (Map)
- Getting there: There are two ways to get to Koh Lipe from Singapore. The recommended (and fastest) way would be to take a 1h flight from Singapore to Langkawi (from SG$95), then take a 1h ferry ride from Langkawi to Koh Lipe (from SG$46). The other way is to take a flight from Singapore to Hat Yai, then take a 2h van or minibus ride to Pakbara Pier, followed by a 2h ferry ride to Koh Lipe.
2. Krabi
Here's a place with something for everybody, welcome to the charming coastal town of Krabi! Set in the southern part of Thailand, there's an abundance of activities here whether you’re feeling adventurous, in need of some serious relaxation, or a foodie looking to indulge in all the yummiest Thai cuisine.
You’ll also find some amazing white sandy beaches with sparkling turquoise waters like Railay Beach, Phra Nang Beach and Tubkaek Beach. Whether you decide to kick back and soak in the sun or go on some rock-climbing tours at the surrounding limestone cliffs, you’re never going to have a dull moment here.
For those who want to island-hop, you can also visit neighbouring islands like Koh Kai and Koh Tup, where you'll find the stunning Thale Waek Beach in between. During low tide, a beach appears that will connect the two islands - thanks to the formation of a natural sandbar (now that’s a unique beach experience!).
- Address: Krabi, Thailand (Map)
- Getting there: The best way to get to Krabi from Singapore (from SG$244) would be to take a 1h 30min flight.
3. Phi Phi Islands
In need of a tropical getaway soon? Plan a trip to Phi Phi Islands! A stunning archipelago made up of six different islands, it’s a dream come true for beach lovers on the lookout for crystal clear waters and white sand beaches.
Snorkel in the sparkling waters of Maya Bay Beach (where Leonardo DiCaprio’s The Beach was filmed!), party it up at the lively Loh Dalum Beach, or interact with the friendly and furry inhabitants of Monkey Beach. All of these beaches feature glimmering azure waters and soft stretches of sand perfect for sunbathing - making them a great destination for those in need of some fun in the sun.
If you’re down to get your adrenaline pumping, you can also hop on a longtail boat or rent a kayak to explore the lovely waters around the island - who knows, maybe you’ll even catch some marine animals in action!
PS: You can even swim with glowing plankton too, if that's your thing!
- Address: Phi Phi Islands, Mueang Krabi District, Thailand (Map)
- Getting there: To get to Phi Phi Islands, you’ll first need to take a 1h 35min flight from Singapore to Phuket (from SG$196). From Phuket, take a 2h ferry ride (SG$17.59, with hotel pick-up and drop-offs available too!) to the Phi Phi Islands.
4. Koh Lanta
Koh Lanta might just be the epitome of relaxation with its serene beaches with breathtaking turquoise waters like Koh Bon Beach and Ao Niang Beach. The island also exudes a super chill and laid-back vibe - perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
Take a day off and go on an island-hopping and snorkelling tour and channel your inner explorer as you swim through the iconic Emerald Cave, or treat yourself to a nice massage at some of the popular spa experience spots. You can also impress your friends with your cooking skills by signing up for some of the cooking classes available on the island!
- Address: Koh Lanta, Krabi, Thailand (Map)
- Getting there: To get to Koh Lanta from Singapore, you’ll first have to take a 1h 30min flight to Krabi (from SG$244). From Krabi, you’ll have to take a 1h 30min ferry to Koh Lanta! (Alternatively, you can also choose to take a ferry from Koh Phangan to Koh Lanta too.)
5. Phuket
Other than being home to popular local markets, a vibrant nightlife scene, IG-worthy cafes, and more - Phuket also has some pretty splendid beaches like Hua Beach, Siray Beach, Kata Beach and Freedom Beach - as well as great dive spots to marvel at marine life.
Whether you want to spend your day lounging in the sun, going on a scuba diving course, enjoying a zipline adventure, visiting an elephant sanctuary, or splashing around at a waterpark - you’ll be able to do it all here in Phuket.
There is also an array of opulent beachfront resorts around the island, making it perfect for those who want to wake up to the lovely sea breeze and catch magical sunsets over the sea.
- Address: Phuket, Thailand (Map)
- Getting There: The best way to get to Phuket from Singapore is to take a 1h 35min flight (from SG$196)!
6. Koh Samui
When it comes to idyllic beach destinations, Koh Samui is known for its pristine beaches such as Lamai Beach with its beautiful sparkling waters - making it a must-visit locale when you're thinking of treating yourself to a holiday by the beach.
Of course, when in Koh Samui, you definitely have to island-hop and snorkel! This is where you can explore the fascinating marine life and coral reefs, and visit a beach full of pigs at the neighbouring Pigs Island.
For animal lovers, you can also visit the Samui Elephant Kingdom Experience where you’ll be able to interact with the gentle giants, and even learn how to whip up a yummy treat for them!
- Address: Koh Samui, Surat Thani, Thailand (Map)
- Getting There: The most popular way to get to Koh Samui from Singapore is by a 2h5min flight (from SG$503). Alternatively, you can also take a bus from Singapore to Surat Thani, and then take a ferry to Koh Samui. This method will take approximately 14h and is recommended for those who are on a budget.
7. Koh Tao
Did you know that Koh Tao means ‘Turtle Island’? Not only is the island home to some of the most charming beaches known for their epic cliff jumping experiences like Tanote Bay Beach - you can also find different species of sea turtles in the waters there!
Take a snorkelling or scuba diving tour and acquaint yourself with the majestic reefs and creatures, or if you’re looking for a more laid-back experience, just kick back and get sun-kissed on the soft sandy beaches!
- Address: Koh Tao, Surat Thani, Thailand (Map)
- Getting There: While there are no direct flights to Koh Tao from Singapore, getting there by flight isn’t difficult at all! Simply take a 2h5min flight to Koh Samui, then transfer to a ferry to get to Koh Tao. Another option is to take a 15h train ride from Singapore to Hat Yai, then transfer to a bus to Chumphon or Surat Thani. From there, you’ll be able to take a ferry to Koh Tao.
8. Koh Kood
Koh Kood might not be as popular as other destinations in Thailand, but trust us, it’s definitely a hidden gem that you’d want to visit if you love secluded beach getaways.
The island is perfect for a tranquil holiday, with breathtaking beaches offering some of the most turquoise waters, like Sivalai Beach - and lush tropical trails with beautiful waterfalls, secluded bays, stunning dive spots and more.
For the utmost relaxation, stay at one of the luxury resorts on the island and experience the warm hospitality of the locals and treat yourself to a spa session or two!
- Address: Koh Kood, Trat, Thailand (Map)
- Getting There: One way to get to Koh Kood is to fly from Singapore to Bangkok, then take a 4.5h drive to Laem Sok Pier before getting on a ferry to reach Koh Kood. Another option is to take a domestic flight from Bangkok to Trat Airport, then make your way to Laem Sok Pier you’ll transfer to a ferry to Koh Kood.
Ready to take a dip in the sparkling turquoise waters of these incredible beaches? Add them to your Thailand itinerary now!
