Discover Thailand
The ancient allure of Thailand’s storied islands calls to mariners of every caliber. It captivates its admirers with iconic limestone cliffs, glistening temples, unspoiled beaches, and a vibrant culture that incites every sense. Fantasy landscapes allow Thailand’s seafaring visitors to glide between 130 tropical islands on an epic voyage across the Andaman Sea. You’ll drop anchor beside majestic rock formations and get side-tracked snorkeling with stunning sea life in dreamy emerald-green waters.
If the thought of a Thailand holiday has your wanderlust skyrocketing, don’t worry — you’re not alone. Thailand is a true seaman’s haven. For a snapshot into how to discover this iconic destination the way, it was meant to be seen, get your bearings with these 10 unmissable travel highlights catered to those chasing wind for true paradise.
1. World-class diving and snorkeling in Ko Racha Yai
Take a plunge at Ko Racha Yai’s submerged sculpture park to come face to face with giant stone elephants and incredible underwater art. The wrecks, reefs, and rays leave you beaming all while enjoying visibility up to 30 meters.
2. Explore Krabi Island
Tropical flowers and rich hanging jungle cover the spectacular limestone rock faces of the idyllic Krabi Island. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for the locals — white-faced gibbons, giant lizards, and majestic, exotic birdlife. Take a peaceful dinghy ride through the center of the island, or kick back and relax on one of the many pristine, surrounding beaches.
3. Visit ancient fishing villages of the Phi Phi Islands
Phi Phi Island didn’t earn its acclaim for anything! From incredible snorkeling, scenic hiking, thrilling watersports, and boundless opportunities to tap into the culture of shops and nightlife, these islands have an unlimited supply of must-do’s. Hike to the summit and take in the stunning vistas, then fill up with fresh seafood, tom yum, and pad thai before watching fire dancers frolic on the beach.
4. Romantic dinner at Paradise Beach Resort
Slow things down at Koh Yao Noi. This beautiful beach is serene and romantic, complete with a quiet beach restaurant, tree-hanging swings, and gorgeous flora. You can spend the day riding elephants on a guided tour of Koh Yao Noi Island before enjoying a cotton candy-colored sunset dinner on the beach at the Paradise Beach Resort.
5. Ko Naka Noi – Pearl Island
The tranquil and sheltered island of Naka Noi, or “Pearl Island,” satisfies the pristine conditions necessary for the cultivation of rare South Sea pearls. Get the inside scoop on these beautiful treasures at Naka Noi Pearl Farm, which offers up-close-and-personal demonstrations of the unique art of pearl farming. You’ll have the chance to hand-pick the perfect pearl accessory to commemorate your holiday at one of the charming neighboring shops.
6. Phang Nga Bay
Prepare to be astonished by this secluded bay, famous for its dreamy emerald-green waters, towering limestone pillars, and tangled mangrove forests. The bay’s waters are dotted with coral reefs and secluded inlets, and hidden lagoons are easily explored by dinghy or kayak. Having your own private yacht in this region makes for a true one-of-a-kind treat exploring areas that other travelers cannot access. Before heading off, do not miss the chance to check out the illustrious James Bond Island. You can’t say you’ve been to Thailand without seeing the main feature in the James Bond film The Man with the Golden Gun.
7. Full moon party in Tonsai Bay
Considered a rite of passage, Thailand’s full moon parties are a definite bucket list check-off when you’re in Tonsai Bay. With travelers flocking from all over the world, the glorified celebration doesn’t cease until the sun is up, and lively guests unite over a song, dance, and drink under the radiant moon. The parties are adjusted around Buddhist holidays, so remember that the festivities won’t always take place on the night of the full moon.
8. Eating in Ko Lanta
Make the short ocean voyage to food-infused Ko Lanta to enjoy some of Thailand’s best eats at the local restaurants. Ko Lanta’s relaxed atmosphere is guaranteed to help you unwind while devouring authentic, fragrant Thai delicacies. Notable favorites are beach-side ‘Shanti Shanti Beach House,’ the romantic ‘Fat Turtle Beach Bar & Restaurant’ and mega-relaxed ‘Drunken Sailors.’
9. Kayak in Emerald Cave in Ko Muk
Kayak into the breathtaking 80-meter-long Emerald Cave on Koh Muk island and emerge within a stunning lagoon complete with its own secret inland beach. Get lost in the picturesque backdrop of this unique hideaway surrounded by towering cliffs that are covered with tropical vegetation.
10. Regattas and races
Phuket King’s Cup Regatta, Asia’s largest and most prestigious sailing regatta attracts salty sailors and boisterous spectators alike to join in on friendly nautical competition. This year’s inaugural regatta takes place from 30 November to 7 December and combines exhilarating races with lively beach parties to create a world-renowned yachting event.
DO
- Opt for kayaks – They are a great way to explore caves and inlets you wouldn’t otherwise be able to reach.
- Sample Thai cuisine and fresh fruits – Thailand is the land of unabashed enthusiasm for food (especially if it is spicy!).
- Kayak around Phang Nga Bay – Lead your own excursion at your own pace.
- Snorkel at Phi Phi Island – You’ll be amazed by the incredibly clear water and beautiful tropical fish.
- Peruse the Thai markets – Browse a unique assortment of locally-grown and hand-made items.
- Indulge in a traditional Thai massage – Treat yourself to a healing massage.
- Consider a skipper – Leave the duty of navigation and helming to a licensed Sunsail Skipper to enjoy more relaxation time.
- Put safety first – Local laws differ from most visitors’ expectations, which can lead to risks inherent in the country’s many open-air activities. For instance, be mindful that pedestrians in Thailand do not have the right of way so it’s important to be especially alert and careful in bustling outdoor areas.
- Plan your trip between March and May – Weather can certainly have an impact on travel plans in paradise, so steer clear of hiccups by avoiding the wet season.
DON’T
- Assume Thailand is an overcrowded party destination – Thailand is full of an incredible amount of history and culture!
- Visit Thailand on a diet – Your willpower won’t last too long because Thai food is deliciously addictive!
- Sail during typhoon season – Severe storms are more likely to occur from November to February.
- Forget your camera – Stunning photo opportunities will leave you speechless.
- Arrive at low tide when sailing to Phang Nga Bay or around Krabi – You will get stuck!
- Forget to pay your mooring fee – It’s only 300TBh and it covers you for the whole sailing area.
- Rush! – Give yourself time to take in Thailand’s wonders and have your senses satiated.
When you and your crew are ready to experience this exotic South Pacific paradise for yourselves, our licensed Holiday Planners are standing by to help you plan an epic Phuket sailing adventure that you’ll not soon forget.
Author Name:
Ryan Smith
Contributor
Ian Pedersen
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