Any good suggestions for beaches? This is my first time in Thailand, and although I'm not a beach bum, I would like to visit at least one good beach before I go home. Names and places have been mentioned on the way, however unfortunately I wasn't wise enough to write them down. Not looking for a party scene, yet something social and perhaps vaguely remote. Bay area? Appreciate your advice! Cheers, SC
1
ashelteredtown
Your question is very vague as we have no idea how long you are in Thailand or what area you are staying in.
Koh Phangan, but if you don't want a party, try not to go during Full Moon and might want to avoid Haad Rin. Choloklum Bay is my favourite. Ban Tai was dirty. Haad Rin is beautiful but very busy. In all honesty, I went at Full Moon and if you stay on the opposite side of the island, it is lovely. Full Moon is an experience you shouldn't miss, and you don't need to stay in the party zone. Samui has some beautiful beaches but the island is very touristy.
There are tons of amazing beaches in Thailand but these are two islands that are quite accessible and have other things to do on them.
3
Satan_Claus
Thank you both. I'm in Thailand until February. I'm currently staying in an area where there are no beaches, heading south tomorrow. As long as I can avoid crowds I'm comfortable most anywhere. I'm recuperating after an operation yet some easy swimming opportunities would be welcome. Oh, and where can I get the t-shirt? http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ibJxmy3I4cU
6
Satan_Claus
It's off to Kho Pha Ngan we go! I've just talked to an operator here in BK who offers a complete transport package, i.e. train (sleeper) BK - Surat Thani (898 B), bus ST - Don Sak (55 B) and ferry DS - Ko Pha Ngan (490 B) = 1443 Baht in total. Do you reckon this is fair or would I be better off doing it step by step?
Cheers, SC.
7
ashelteredtown
I'm sure you can find cheaper but at that price, you'd only be haggling over a few dollars.
Just be warned, the transfers at the bus station and ferry station can be very hectic and confusing (feels a bit like you're cattle being herded) but somehow you manage to get where you're going :)
Enjoy that beautiful island!! Jealous over here!
8
Satan_Claus
Thanks, ST. As for haggling, that's precisely what I was thinking, too. Also, having everything set up and not having to worry about fully booked trains, buses and ferries is a big relief. Comfort before cheapness, the more as I get older! Apparently one can rent scooters and bicycles on the island - groovy. Do you have any advice as to what I should bring along from the mainland? Finally, I have been recommended the northern / northwestern parts of the island, as they're more laid back and not as heavy on the party scene. I was told they cannot book a bungalow from BK as the owners aren't online. Can any one of you recommend a specific bungalow owner and / or area? You lot may wonder why the H I don't do more research, well one reason is I'm an old fart without any mobile gadgets (even left my phone at home), so there! Hence, once again, thanks to all you vultures out there for making my day easier!
9
ashelteredtown
I stayed at Ban Tai (which I didn't like at all!!) Then we rented a scooter one day and were blown away when we found Chaloklum Bay. Stayed at North Beach Bungalows - VERY basic bungalows so not for someone wanting any luxury but they are cheap and right on the beach.. go to bed to the sound of the ocean. You can't book with them online either so what I did was ask someone at my ban tai hotel to call them and book for me... you may be able to do that from your current hotel?? http://www.travelfish.org/accommodation_profile/thailand/southern_thailand/surat_thani/ko_pha_ngan_north_coast/all/783</a>
There are much nicer places for more money though. Look into these beaches for other options!
http://www.tripadvisor.com/Travel-g303907-c66427/Koh-Phangan:Thailand:Best.Beaches.On.The.Island.html</a>
Pro tip
Lonely Planet
trusted partner
trusted partner