Thailand is firmly entrenched in the list of the most visited countries in the world: some are attracted by the snow-white sand,
Let's find out what waters wash the Kingdom, what are the differences between its coasts, what resorts to choose from
and what to look for to make your vacation perfect.
Geography: where the two oceans meet
Thailand is located on two peninsulas at once - Indochina and Malaya. The eastern coast
is washed by the Gulf of Thailand, which is part of the South China Sea (Pacific Ocean basin). The western
The western shores of the Malacca Peninsula are in the embrace of the Andaman Sea, which is already part of the Indian Ocean basin.
of the Indian Ocean. Such a unique geography gives the traveler two completely different coasts at once
with different climatic and natural conditions.
Gulf of Thailand: calm waters and year-round beaches
The water temperature here rarely drops below +29 °C and the average depth is only 60 meters. The shallow bay
is actively fed by freshwater rivers, so the salinity is low (about 30 ‰ compared to 35-36 ‰ in the open ocean).
ocean). Storms are rare and waves are predominantly low, making it an excellent choice for families and those just learning to swim or SUP.
learning to swim or SUP surfing.
Best months
Due to its "closed" position, the Bay Area resorts can be enjoyed almost year-round. The rainiest
rainy weeks are from September through October, and clear skies are most common from January through the end of April.
the end of April.
Key Locations
- Pattaya has a vibrant nightlife, convenient logistics from Bangkok and over 10 public beaches.
- Hua Hin is a royal residence, quiet rhythm, wide beaches of Khao Takiab and Sai Noi.
- Samui is the largest island in the Gulf with dozens of bays and snorkeling opportunities.
Andaman Sea: turquoise, reefs and open ocean
Thailand's west coast impresses with dramatic limestone cliffs, emerald waters and a
the richest underwater world. The average temperature is +28 - 30 °C. The high season lasts from December to
May: cloudless skies, calm seas and excellent visibility for diving.
What to try
- Diving off the Similan Islands National Park.
- Kayaking among the caves of Phan Nga Bay.
- Trek to Nai Harn Lookout in Phuket at sunset.
Popular resorts: comparing vacation options
Pattaya
The closest mass resort to the capital. Infrastructure is developed to the limit: shopping centers,
water parks, night markets and dozens of shows. To find clearer water, tourists usually go to the nearby islands of Ko Lan
to the nearby islands of Ko Lan and Ko Sichang. If you don't have time to choose your own tour, it's better to take advantage of the all-inclusive service.
If you don't have time to choose a tour on your own, it's better to take advantage of an all-inclusive service in advance - it's easier to control your budget.
Hua Hin
Combines the spirit of old colonial Thailand with a modern golf paradise. The hotels here
The hotels here are more secluded and the evening promenades along the pier are reminiscent of Mediterranean resorts. Excursions
A trip to Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park and a morning visit to the floating market are particularly popular.
Samui
Chameleon Island: Chaweng is bustling, Taling Ngam is quiet, and the fishing village of Bophut is home to craft gastronomy.
craft gastronomy. For lovers of waterfalls, we recommend the Nam Tok Na Muang-1 route - an excellent alternative to sea bathing in Chaweng.
A great alternative to sea bathing during the rainy season.
Krabi
The province produces a "wow" effect with its limestone cliffs, especially on the peninsula of the
Reilly Peninsula. The main beach of Ao Nang is perfect for those who want modern service, but for privacy.
to Poda or Koh Hong. Many digital nomads choose Krabi for wintering - the internet is fast,
accommodation is cheaper than Phuket and the views are just as good.
Phuket
Thailand's largest island can be biked around in a day, but a week isn't enough to see everything.
is not enough. Patong is the epicenter of nightlife, Karon is the balance of partying and family recreation, Bang Tao - luxury hotels with golf courses.
luxury hotels with golf courses. This is where most tours to Phi Phi and the Similans start.
Similans. We advise you to book tickets for popular excursions in advance: the flow of tourists is high,
especially in December and January.
How to plan a trip: tips and tricks
Flight
The "high season" usually has high prices. To find really
cheap airfare, start monitoring at least three to four months in advance and
and include price trend alerts.
Visa
Russian citizens do not need a visa for tourist trips of up to 30 days, but if you plan to spend the winter.
or want to visit the country several times, you will have to apply for a visa in advance.
Please note that border immigration points can only stamp a visa for 15 days.
Accommodation
In the high season, inexpensive guesthouses are sold out instantly. To simplify
searching and booking hotels can be simplified if you filter the options in advance by
rating, distance from the sea and availability of children's infrastructure.
Tours and excursions
For those who don't want to build their own itinerary, there are a number of package programs to help
package programs: dive safaris in the Similans, cruises in the Andaman Islands or
author's excursions to the temples of Bangkok. For corporate clients there is a demand for
organization of corporate trips - Thai venues are actively developing
MICE-infrastructure, offering halls, catering and team-building right on the beach.
All-inclusive format
Despite stereotypes, you can find all inclusive hotels in Thailand - most often these are
Maldivian-style boutique hotels in Samui or Panwa Bay in Phuket. Such packages
it is more profitable to book as the best tours with flights, transfers and insurance.
insurance.
Results
Thailand generously gives the traveler two very different seas, dozens of resorts and hundreds of visits,
from complete relaxation to active adventure. The choice is yours:
The calm Gulf of Thailand with an almost guaranteed doldrums or the dramatic Andaman Sea with its rich
underwater life. And a properly selected package of services - from airfare to hotel - will get rid of unnecessary
and allow you to focus on what matters most: enjoying the Land of Smiles.
