Haad Rin (Sunrise Beach)
The site of the world-famous Full Moon Party — a long, lively beach at the southern tip of the island. Good swimming outside party periods.
Come for a Full Moon Party if it appeals — but don't judge the beach by that experience. On non-party nights it is pleasant and relatively quiet.
Bottle Beach (Haad Khuat)
One of Thailand's most beautiful beaches — a secluded northern cove accessible only by boat or a challenging jungle hike. Crystal water, white sand.
Longtail boats depart from Thong Nai Pan and Chalok Lam (around 100–150 THB). Basic beach restaurants serve food and drinks all day.
Thong Nai Pan Noi & Yai
Two adjacent bays on the east coast with excellent sand, calm water, and a relaxed resort atmosphere — a much quieter alternative to the south coast.
Thong Nai Pan Noi is slightly smaller and calmer. Road access has improved but a 4WD is still helpful after heavy rain.
Haad Salad
A quiet north-west beach with good snorkelling off the rocks at either end. Popular with divers and those seeking a calm, resort-free atmosphere.
Best snorkelling is to the right side of the beach at high tide. The beach restaurants are good value.
Haad Yao (Long Beach)
A gently curving beach on the west coast with calm swimming water and good sunset views. Popular with families and yoga retreats.
The sunsets from Haad Yao looking across to Koh Samui are spectacular. Beach bars set up chairs facing west.
Haad Son (Secret Beach)
A tiny, hard-to-reach cove at the island's north-west tip — dramatically beautiful and often deserted.
Access by motorbike and then a steep 15-minute walk. Take water — there are no facilities on the beach itself.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Senior Travel Writer · Bangkok · 12+ years in Thailand
James has lived in Bangkok since 2014 and has visited all 77 Thai provinces. He specialises in destination guides, itinerary planning, and transport logistics. Before moving to Thailand, he worked as a travel journalist in Hong Kong and Singapore. He speaks conversational Thai and is a certified PADI divemaster.
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