Thailand’s Two Coasts
Andaman Sea (west coast): Phuket, Krabi, Khao Lak, Koh Lanta. Dramatic limestone karsts, crystal-clear water, top-tier diving. Best November to April. Editor shortlists: luxury hotels in Phuket and luxury resorts in Khao Lak.
Gulf of Thailand (east coast): Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, Koh Tao, Hua Hin. Calmer waters, coconut palms, year-round warmth. Best January to September. Editor shortlist: luxury hotels on Koh Samui.
What Sets Thai Beach Resorts Apart
International-standard facilities at half the price of the Caribbean or Mediterranean. A 5-star beachfront resort in Thailand runs $150-400/night. The same property in the Maldives costs $800-2,000. And the food is incomparably better.