Thailand Well Represented In the Latest Best Beaches Poll

Thailand has claimed three positions in the latest poll of the World's 50 Best Beaches by Big 7 Travel. In another major win for the Thailand tourism industry, the sensational beaches of White Sand Beach, Phra Nang Cave Beach, and Karon Beach all gained a place on the exclusive list. While first position deservingly went to Whitehaven Beach in the Whitsunday Islands of Australia, we are quite proud of the placement of our three local beaches and will delve into the new unique features that makes these three beaches well worth a visit!

#8 White Sand Beach (Koh Chang)

Situated along Koh Chang's western coastline, White Sand Beach is the top Thai entry on the list coming in at number 8. Blessed with incredible soft, white sand along a 2.5km crescent, this beach is becoming increasingly popular each year despite its distant location compared to many of the other beach options in the region. The beach is full of coconut palm trees providing shade and comfort throughout the day, and generally has calm waters which are ideal for snorkeling in the shallows. The vibe of the beach is effectively split in two with the northern side more quiet and secluded, while the southern side has more of a livelier atmosphere with many restaurants, bars and beachside properties. .

Why It's Worth A Visit

• Glistening sandy white beaches that are silky smooth.

• A vastly different vibe from North to South - suitable for those seeking relaxation and those seeking party vibes.

• Part of Mu Koh Chang National Park, offering a blend of seaside activity and nature.

#32 Phra Nang Cave Beach (Railay, Krabi)

Ranked #32 in the world according to Big 7 Travel, the ultra unique Phra Nang Cave Beach resides on Railay Peninsula, and is only reachable by boat. The star of the show in Phra Nang is the impressive Princess Cave (Tham Phra Nang), and its fertility shrine where locals and visitors can leave offerings. However, it's a lot more than that, the limestone karsts provide a great backdrop to the golden sand which invites guests for the ultimate sunbathing experience. In addition to this, it is a great site for rock climbing, kayaking, and snorkeling.

Why it's worth a Visit

• Ultimate coastal setting, framed by limestone karsts, golden sands and calm, clear waters.

• Explore caves rich in history.

• Ideal for those seeking adventure with excellent options for rock climbing and kayaking.

#50 Karon Beach (Phuket)

Listed at #50 , Karon is one of Phuket’s most famous beach locations. It is Phuket's second‑longest and one of its most serene beaches. Stretching out in excess of 3 km in distance, its fine white sand and turquoise waters offer a family‑friendly environment that is a much calmer alternative to the high energy Patong beach. Despite a calmer environment there is still plenty of things to do in Karon Beach. 

Why It's Worth a Visit

• Wide, expansive shoreline offering plenty of space for those who like things less crowded.

• A more relaxed vibe with fewer crowds that other close by alternatives, making it highly desirable for couples and families.

• A healthy blend of resorts, restaurants and quiet shady areas.

Summarizing Why These Beaches Stand Out

• White Sand Beach provides the ultimate beach experience with unrivalled beach conditions, ultra white sand and a serene setting.

• Phra Nang Cave Beach offers a setting that is an Instagram favourite with its sharp limestone cliffs, hidden caves, and adventure options.

• Karon Beach gives you the best of both worlds depending on whether you venture Northside or Southside with a calm, serene North and a vibrant South.

Each of these beaches offer something completely different. Which ever one appeals to you the most, we are confident you'll have an experience that will make your Thailand visit that much more satisfying.

Can you Visit these Locations with Simba Sea Trips?

Phra Nang Cave Beach (Railay, Krabi)

Yes, Simba offers daily tours to this region dependent on weather conditions and popularity.

• Simba features this beach as part of their Krabi island tour and 4‑Island tours.

• You’ll drop anchor at the limestone‑framed cove with the Princess Cave (Tham Phra Nang Nok) for swimming, kayaking, photos, and exploring the famous cave shrine

White Sand Beach (Koh Chang)

Koh Chang is not a beach that is accessible with Simba Sea Trips due to its distant location.

Karon Beach (Phuket)

As Simba Sea Trips is located on the island of Phuket itself this does not require a boat tour for all guests staying on Phuket Island. We advise taking a day to explore Phuket and settling on a trip to Karon Beach. However, for a boat adventure Simba can assist in delivering you to highly popular regions like Phang Nga Bay and Phi Phi Islands. Bottom line: You can visibly enjoy Phra Nang Cave Beach as part of Simba’s boat tours to the Krabi region. Karon Beach, while not visited during the trip, is a convenient launch point if you’re staying there in Phuket.

Do any beaches in Thailand feature on the 2025 Top Beaches list?

Yes, there are three beaches in the Thailand region that have made it onto the top 50 beaches list. These beaches are White Sand Beach, Phra Nang Cave Beach and Karon Beach.

Are any of the beaches in the Top 2025 Beaches list located near Phuket?

Yes, two of the beaches in the 2025 Top Beaches list are located either on or near Phuket. These two beaches are Karon Beach (located on Phuket itself) and Phra Nang Cave Beach (which is in the Krabi/Railay region)

What positions were the Thai beaches positioned in the 2025 Top Beaches List?

White Sand Beach was the highest entry in position 8, Phra Nang Cave Beach was positioned 32nd, while Karon Beach rounded out the list in position 50.

What is the best way to travel to the Thailand entries in the World Top 50 Beaches?

The easiest way to travel to these beaches depends on your location within Thailand. Karon beach is located in Phuket itself so if you are on the island you can get a bus, or potentially even walk there. Phra Nang Cave Beach is only reachable via speeedboat so it is best to travel with a reputable boat company. White Sand Beach requires a boat tour operator from regions outside Phuket.