7 best places to visit in Thailand beyond Phuket

It’s been used as a celebrity hideaway but Aussie travellers have largely overlooked this patch of paradise. Now it’s emerging as a new must-see.

Beautiful beaches, palatial resorts, direct flights and plenty of night-life options – satisfying most holiday tick-lists, it’s unsurprising that Aussies are in love with Phuket. Visitor numbers are increasing annually, but there are plenty of other resort destinations in the Land of Smiles. In fact, the popular holiday isle is just the tip of the iceberg.

“If you’ve been to Thailand and only checked out Phuket, then you only know half the story,” says Flight Centre general manager of product and customer experience Darren Wright. “There are so many other great destinations that are well within easy reach for Australian travellers – they’re just not as well known.”

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As we’re waking up to the travel possibilities that await us in Thailand, more and more holiday-makers, particularly those in search of a more tranquil and less commercial break, are looking elsewhere.

“Phuket’s popularity isn’t in doubt,” says Expedia Australia and New Zealand managing director Michael Pearson. “But Aussies are becoming more adventurous in their choice of Thai destination and they’re showing us that they’re keen to explore beyond the usual options.”

And why not? When it comes to paradise islands in Thailand there are literally hundreds upon hundreds to choose from, each the stuff of Castaway fantasies, and each offering everything that you’d expect from a resort destination. It’s a similar story on the mainland.

So whether thrillseeker, chill-seeker, dive hound, culture vulture or beach bum, if you’re stuck in a Phuket rut, read on for amazing alternatives that might see you break new travel ground on your next trip.

Treepod dining at Soneva Kiri, Koh Kood. Picture: Cat Vinton

KOH KOOD

Thailand’s fourth largest, but least populated island, Koh Kood is bordered by pristine white-sand beaches. Inland there’s lush rainforest, hiking trails and a cooling freshwater lagoon. So pretty is this tropical paradise that you could easily blink and think you’re in the Maldives.

Private and very secluded, this is the kind of place that appeals to travellers whose idea of a good time is spending the day lazing in a hammock sheltered underneath palm trees. It’s also located near the maritime border with Cambodia, meaning a visit to Cambodia’s Siem Reap (and its World Heritage-listed Angkor Wat) is possible in a day.

BEST FOR

Celebrity-spotters – Gwyneth Paltrow, Brad Pitt, Angelina Jolie and Cara Delevingne have holidayed here.

STAYING THERE

There are homestays and budget hotels, plus a few luxury resorts. If you want to make like an A-lister, head to Soneva Kiri. The plush pad is home to the famed Treetop Dining (suspended in a private pod in the tree canopy while your food is delivered via a pulley system). But luxury doesn’t come cheap – nightly rates start at about $1400. For a mid-range hotel try the High Season Pool Villa and Spa and for budget digs check out Koh Kood Paradise Beach.

GETTING THERE

Private transfer or bus from Bangkok to Laem Sok pier or Trat (4½ hours) and from there an hour-long boat or fast ferry ride to the island. Or, if you’re feeling flush, it’s just one hour by private plane.

Koh Phi Phi’s Maya Bay was made famous by the film The Beach.

KOH PHI PHI

Hardened Phuket fans may find bypassing their favourite getaway tough, so for a baby step migration, Koh Phi Phi, a 45-minute speedboat ride from Phuket, is a great option.

“Phuket is still drawing significant numbers of Australian travellers,” commented a spokesman for Thai Airways. “But feedback from tour operators is that it is increasingly being used as a gateway to nearby island resorts, such as Phi Phi.”

A longtime pit stop on the backpacker trail, the picture-postcard islands became a must-visit after being used as a location for blockbuster movie The Beach.

Though there are six islands, (collectively known as Koh Phi Phi) the largest, Phi Phi Don, and the smaller unpopulated Phi Phi Leh, are the main stars. The former attracts a younger, good time-loving crowd; the latter travellers seeking undeveloped beautiful bays and beaches.

BEST FOR

Hedonists and beach lovers.

STAYING THERE

There’s everything from affordable guesthouses for the budget-conscious to pricey resorts for luxe-lovers. A nice all-rounder for both families and couples is the 4½-star Phi Phi Island Village Beach Resort (Phi Phi Don) with rates starting at $400 a night. Too dear? Check out Bay View Resort Phi Phi Island

GETTING THERE

An easy 45-minute to hour-long boat trip from Phuket or 90-minute ferry from Krabi.

Khao Lak is known for its peaceful beaches.

KHAO LAK

Stunning resorts. Tick. White sandy beaches. Tick. No crowds. Tick.

One of 200-plus islands off Phuket’s coastline, Khao Lak could possibly lay claim to being one of the most relaxing resort destinations in the country.

“Though only a short drive north of Phuket, it’s definitely one of Thailand’s most peaceful resort areas,” says Qantas Holidays product development manager Krystle Tena. “As such, we’re seeing more and more Aussies head here as an alternative to more traditional Thai beach breaks.”

Expedia figures agree.

“Searches for Khao Lak were up more than 60 per cent year-on-year,” says Expedia’s Pearson.

Resorts aside, there’s ample here to keep visitors entertained, including several beautiful national parks on hand, plus Khao Lak is the jump-off point for day trips and live-aboards to the nearby Similan Islands.

Housing the greatest diversity of Thailand’s marine life, here divers can swim over untouched coral and share swimming space with everything from whale sharks and turtles, to guitar and manta rays. Khao Lak is consistently ranked as one of the top 10 diving locations on Earth.

BEST FOR

Divers and chill-seekers.

STAYING THERE

Accommodation options abound and the 4½-star beachfront hotels are pretty affordable here. The 4-star Khao Lak Merlin Resort comes in at about $200 a night, while the JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort and Spa on the island’s northern beaches starts from $500-plus a night for two adults. We also rate the Grand Mercure Khao Lak as an affordable option.

GETTING THERE

A 1½-hour drive from Phuket, travellers can easily book resort transfers ahead of their arrival.

Taking a taxi boat in Krabi.

KRABI

Krabi’s unique geography sets it apart from other resort destinations on the peninsula. Surrounded by sheer limestone cliffs and sugar-white beaches, its jungle-covered interior has caverns, caves and waterfalls. It’s surprising then that, until recently, Krabi, or Krabi Province, has managed to fly under the radar.

Skyscanner found flight searches for Krabi are up more than 40 per cent year-on-year, while Expedia has seen a rise of 35 per cent of Aussies eyeing a break to the resort destination.

“Krabi is a great alternative to Phuket,” says Skyscanner senior growth manager Robyn Lee.

“Not only is it quieter, more beautiful, but accommodation here is also cheaper.” Add to this stunning natural attractions, such as wildlife preserve Khao Sok National Park, James Bond Island off Krabi’s coast and Railay Beach, the rock climbing epicentre of Thailand.

BEST FOR

Adventurers, nature-lovers and climbers.

STAYING THERE

Most travellers choose to stay in Ao Nang, which offers a wide variety of affordable accommodation.

For something special, splurge on a villa in Rayavadee which comes with an outdoor pool or jacuzzi. Rates start at $1000 a night. Bit too much? The Beyond Resort Krabi has rooms for a smidge over $200.

GETTING THERE

It’s accessible from Phuket via a two-hour drive or short boat ride, or an 80-minute flight from Bangkok.

Koh Samui is a popular jumping-off spot for boat tours.

KOH SAMUI

Once a remote haven for fishermen and sailors sheltering from storms in the late 1800s, the “coconut island” has evolved from seafarers’ backwater, to backpacker haven, to slick resort destination. Now housing some of the best luxury beach properties in Thailand, it attracts every kind of traveller, from beach hut-dwelling backpackers to cashed-up families.

“Koh Samui is probably the second most popular beach destination after Phuket,” says Qantas Holidays’ Krystle Tena. “Just an hour’s flight from Bangkok, the island is packed full of restaurants, bars, entertainment and shopping.”

Six Senses Samui general manager Gary Henden says a recent influx of competitive airfares is making Koh Samui even more of a popular travel destination for Australians. “It’s great for those looking for an authentic Thai beach experience, or those who want to party the night away.”

BEST FOR

Honeymooners, first-timers and luxury-lovers.

STAYING THERE

Chaweng Beach is a go-to for travellers keen on lively night-life – a room here can range from as little as $90 a night. For a haute hotel, head to Six Senses Samui where rack rates start from roughly $500-plus a night. For something different, give glamping a go at the adults-only Khwan Beach Resort with tents starting at a $220 a night. After something in between? Try the InterContinental Koh Samui Resort.

GETTING THERE

Fly direct from Phuket in under an hour, or in just over an hour on one of the 20 daily flights from Bangkok.

The Four Seasons at Chiang Mai.

CHIANG MAI

While Thailand is a mainstay with holiday-makers thanks to its tropical beaches, the northern city of Chiang Mai attracts a different kind of traveller. Here ancient temples, culture and rolling green hills take the place of the surf and sand.

“Chiang Mai is increasingly popular for Aussies who want a different kind of Thai holiday,” says Escape Travel’s Vicki Fletcher.

“Its location makes it ideal for nature-lovers looking for hikes and there’s ample in terms of culture here. The region’s resorts are also an increasing drawcard.”

While it’s the second largest city after Bangkok, it has none of the capital’s frenzy. Instead, there’s a laid-back, small-town vibe here. Indeed, with more than 300 temples, the highest concentration in the country, it’s clear why there’s zen in the air.

It’s this spirituality and tradition that Trafalgar managing director Matthew Cameron Smith believes is part of the reason he’s seeing an increase in Chiang Mai bookings: “Our guests want to go beyond the beaten track and see the real Thailand by immersing themselves in its rich culture and connecting with its locals,” he says. “And Chiang Mai – with its hill tribes, temples and history – is the perfect place to do so.”

BEST FOR

Culture vultures.

STAYING THERE

In town there’s plenty of accommodation that’s easy on the bank balance, but for a property that rules the area’s luxury resort roost, you can’t beat the Four Seasons Chiang Mai.  Set in 8ha of rice terraces, lily ponds and small lakes away from the town centre, it’s luxury writ large. Villas start at $700 a night.

The budget Movenpick Suriwongse Hotel delivers real value and The Chiang Mai Residence is a step up to mid-tier accomm.

GETTING THERE

More than 50 flights (70-minutes duration) leave from Bangkok daily.

The former fishing village of Hua Hin is growing in popularity.

HUA HIN

Wedged between mountains and a hop and a skip away from Bangkok, the former fishing village of Hua Hin is the original Thai beach resort.

A summer getaway for members of the Thai royal family since the 1890s who built palaces along its shores, these days it’s home to a different kind of royalty, namely one of the Aussie rock star variety. Jimmy Barnes splits his time between Sydney and his “second home” in this coastal retreat. And he’s not alone.

As an add-on destination for a Bangkok break, Hua Hin is becoming popular – very popular. Skyscanner reported an 89 per cent increase year-on-year, making it one of the destinations with the highest increases in searches.

“Hua Hin is perfect for travellers who look for a more laid-back break but don’t have time to travel far from Bangkok,” says Tourism Authority of Thailand marketing officer Maevadi Rosenfeldt. “It’s home to world-class resorts and various other sites.”

These attractions include the old Summer Palace (the longest teak building on the planet), vibrant night markets and a stall selling what is reputed to be the best sticky rice and mango in the country.

“This town is particularly well suited to families and couples too,” says Helloworld Travel’s Leanne Chard. “As well as keen golfers, given that it’s home to at least seven world-class golf courses.”

BEST FOR

Foodies and city slickers who want a side of sun and sand.

STAYING THERE

Its coastline is flanked by 4- and 5-star resorts, most of which are family friendly. Expedia’s average daily hotel rates average $145 a night.

“A room in a resort at Hua Hin can range between $35 for a three-star hotel, to $530 for a 5-star,” says Skyscanner’s Robyn Lee. “Sofitel Hua Hin is a stylish beachfront property that’s a great option.” For a dead-set bargain, check out the Royal Pavilion Hua Hin at under $60 a night and The Standard Hua Hin is always fun as a mid-range option.

What is the best time to visit Thailand?

To avoid the rainy season, time your trip between November and early April.

Can I take medication to Thailand?

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor. If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Thailand. Take enough legal medicine for your trip and ask your doctor for a note detailing what medications you are travelling with and your dosage. Travellers have been arrested for carrying medicine they bought at a Thai pharmacy without a prescription. One thing you should invest in is insect repellent as insect-borne diseases include malaria, Zika virus, dengue, chikungunya, Japanese encephalitis and filariasis have all been recorded in Thailand.

Can I vape in Thailand?

E-cigarettes, e-baraku, vaporisers and refills are illegal. As is smoking (anything) on certain beaches.

Do I need travel insurance in Thailand?

Play it safe in line with the advice on the Australian government's Smart Travller website: “A valid health insurance policy for medical expenses, including treatment relating to COVID-19, with minimum cover of $US 10,000 is required throughout the period of stay in Thailand. Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.” Hospitals and doctors often need to confirm your insurance before they'll treat you, even in an emergency. Otherwise you may need to pay cash up-front. Costs can be very high. Also check exactly what activities your insurance does - more importantly - and doesn't cover. You’ve been told.

Do I need a visa for Thailand?

 Australian tourists can get a visa exemption for up to 45 days, if you arrive through one of the international airports.

How long is the flight from Australia to Thailand?

Travelling from Melbourne to Bangkok, for example, takes just under 10 hours.