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Beaches and Thailand go together like mango and sticky rice.
Come evening, its beachside restaurants are a great place to post up for sunset coconut in hand.
But once you see its silky shores, youll be glad you made the trek.
Golden Buddha Beach on Koh Phra Thong, Thailand.Credit:satit/Adobe Stock
Sunrise Beach has crystal-clear waters with picturesque long-tail boats dotting the coast.
And as its name suggests, you might catch an excellent sunrise here, followed by a morning snorkel.
Warm, clear water and gentle surf make this quiet beach a dreamy honeymoon destination.
Ao Prao Beach on Koh Samet, Thailand.Peera/Adobe Stock
Its extremely popular, but for good reason.
At night, it comes alive with fire dancers, bars, and plenty of local restaurants.
Clear waters epitomize the islands namesake beach.
Sunrise Beach on Koh Lipe, Thailand.Markus Matzel/ullstein bild via Getty Images
A popular destination for digital nomads, Long Beach is made for long walks on the beach.
Theres plenty to see along its shores, from easygoing bars to wooden bungalows and seafood shacks.
Just remember to bring a hat and take frequent dips; theres very little shade here.
Kradan Beach on Koh Kradan, Thailand.Twenty47studio/Getty Images
On its western coast is this more secluded section of sand.
Head here in the peak season, when beach businesses come alive.
One of the most beautiful places for a dip is Khao Takiab Beach.
Railay Beach on Krabi, Thailand.Lauren DeCicca/Travel + Leisure
On the Andaman Sea, quiet beach eco-resorts and local restaurants line the golden sand.
Climb to Turtle Viewpoint for a sweeping vista over the beach and the emerald ocean below.
If thats not your style, there are kayaks for rent and a few worthwhile hiking trails nearby.
White Sand Beach on Koh Chang, Thailand.AzByCx/Getty Images
Koh Ngai Beach on Koh Ngai, Thailand.CHRIS TAYLOR/500px/Getty Images
Thong Nai Pan beach on Koh Phangan, Thailand.Pierrick Lemaret/Getty Images
Maya Beach oh Koh Phi Phi, Thailand.Monica Farber/Travel + Leisure
Long Beach on Koh Lanta, Thailand.sitriel/Getty Images
Taling Ngam on Koh Samui, Thailand.Lauren DeCicca/Travel + Leisure
Charlie Beach on Koh Muk, Thailand.sitriel/Getty Images
Wat Khao Takiab beach in Hua Hin, Thailand.pierrick/Adobe Stock
Wide view of Bottle Beach on Koh Pha Ngan, Thailand.4FR/Getty Images