ANDAMAN COAST
This glorious stretch of southern Thailand is defined by its tropical islands, dramatic limestone karsts, and turquoise waters.
From the bustling energy of Phuket to the tranquil beauty of Koh Lanta, this guide is your key to unlocking the perfect blend of beaches, diving, and authentic Thai culture along the stunning coastline.
Why Visit Andaman Coast?
World-Class Beaches: Discover iconic white-sand shores and postcard-perfect coves, ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxation.
Spectacular Diving & Snorkeling: Explore vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life in world-renowned spots like the Similan and Surin Islands.
Iconic Limestone Karsts: Marvel at the dramatic, towering cliffs that emerge from the sea, especially around Krabi and Phang Nga Bay.
Smart Travel
Shoulder Season (April-May, September-October): You’ll find great deals on accommodation and fewer crowds. The seas can be choppy, but there are still many beautiful, sunny days.
Deep Off-Season (June-August): This is the heart of the “Green Season” with frequent, heavy rainfall. It offers the lowest prices, but many smaller islands and tour operators close down.
Peak Season (November-March): This is the dry season with perfect weather, calm seas, and guaranteed sunshine. Expect the highest prices and the largest crowds, especially around Christmas and New Year.
Main Areas & Places to Explore
Phuket
As the largest and most developed island, Phuket offers a vibrant mix of stunning beaches (like Kata and Karon), bustling nightlife, high-end resorts, and a charming Old Town. It serves as a major hub for onward travel.
Your Smart Tip: To escape the tourist crowds, explore the quieter northern beaches or take a day trip to the less-developed islands nearby, like Koh Yao Noi.
Krabi Province
Krabi Province is home to dramatic limestone peaks, mangrove forests, and the famous Railay Peninsula, accessible only by boat. It’s the region’s hub for rock climbing, island hopping, and exploring natural beauty.
Your Smart Tip: Stay in Krabi Town for a more local, authentic Thai experience and better value on food and accommodation than the beach resort areas.
Similan & Surin Islands
These marine national parks are consistently ranked among the world’s best dive sites, boasting crystal-clear water and exceptional underwater visibility. They are only open to visitors for part of the year.
Your Smart Tip: The parks are closed from mid-May to mid-October to protect the ecosystem, so plan your trip for the dry season (November-April) for access.
Handy Tips
Weather & Climate
The climate is tropical monsoon. The dry season (November to April) is hot and sunny. The wet season (May to October) brings high humidity and heavy, though often short-lived, rain showers.
Local Customs And Etiquette
Respect the Monarchy: Always show high respect for the King and the Thai Royal Family. Never criticize or make light of them.
Head and Feet: The head is considered the most sacred part of the body; do not touch a Thai person’s head. The feet are the lowest; avoid pointing your feet at people or sacred objects.
Wai: A prayer-like hand gesture with a slight bow (Wai) is the traditional Thai greeting. Generally, a younger person Wais an elder, who returns the gesture.
Budgeting For Your Trip
Accommodation: Hostels ($10–$20), mid-range hotels ($40–$70), luxury ($100+). Prices double during Peak Season.
Food: Street food/local restaurant meal ($3–$6), dinner at a mid-range restaurant ($15–$25 per person), fine dining ($40+).
Transport: Scooter rental ($7/day), longtail boat ride (negotiable), ferry ticket (regional).
Activities: Scuba dive ($70+), day tour to Phi Phi/James Bond Island ($35–$60).
Daily Budget:
- Budget: $40–$60 (hostels, street food, public transport).
- Mid-range: $70–$120 (hotels, local restaurants, tours).
- Luxury: $150+ (boutique resorts, private transfers, premium excursions).
Getting Around
By Ferry & Speedboat: This is the primary way to travel between islands and coastal towns. Services are reliable and frequent in the dry season.
By Car/Scooter: Renting a scooter is the most popular way to explore individual islands, but drive cautiously as road conditions and traffic can be challenging.
By Taxi/Tuk-Tuk: Tuk-tuks and local taxis are the main short-distance transport in towns and on the mainland. Always negotiate the price before you get in.
Must-Try Food
Massaman Curry: A rich, mild, and slightly sweet Thai-Muslim curry with potatoes, peanuts, and often beef or chicken.
Pad See Ew: Wide rice noodles stir-fried with soy sauce, Chinese broccoli, egg, and a choice of meat, known for its smoky flavor.
Tom Yum Goong: Thailand’s famous hot and sour soup, seasoned with lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, and fresh prawns.
Gai Yang (Grilled Chicken): Often marinated in turmeric and spices, grilled to perfection, and served with a spicy dipping sauce.
Som Tam (Green Papaya Salad): A spicy, tangy, and crunchy salad, typically made with shredded unripe papaya, chili, tomatoes, and peanuts.
Hoi Tod (Oyster Omelet): A crispy, starchy pancake filled with oysters or mussels and served with a chili sauce.
Khao Pad Subparod (Pineapple Fried Rice): Fried rice with curry powder, cashews, raisins, and often seafood, served inside a hollowed-out pineapple.
Roti with Banana and Egg: A sweet, thin, fried flatbread drizzled with condensed milk, a popular street food dessert.
Khao Niao Mamuang (Mango Sticky Rice): Sweet sticky rice served with ripe mango slices and a drizzle of thick coconut cream.
Khanom Krok (Coconut Pancakes): Small, sweet, warm, and creamy coconut milk custard cups, cooked on a griddle.
Must-Try Drinks
Thai Iced Tea (Cha Yen): Strong black tea, sweetened with sugar and condensed milk, poured over ice to create a distinctive orange color.
Singha / Leo / Chang: The three major and most popular brands of local Thai beer, all light and refreshing.
Fresh Coconut Water: Sold everywhere, chilled and often served straight from the husk—the ultimate tropical thirst quencher.
Mekhong / SangSom: Local Thai “whiskies” (actually rums/sugarcane spirits) often consumed in small buckets mixed with soda and energy drinks.
Fresh Fruit Smoothies/Shakes: Made to order from local fruits like mango, pineapple, watermelon, and passion fruit.
Ovaltine/Milo: Popular chocolate malt drinks, often served iced (known as Oliang or Cocoa Yen).