Experiencing the Unspoiled Islands and Beaches of Thailand

Explore the unspoiled islands of Thailand:

While the mainland of Thailand has plenty of incredible things to offer travellers, for those looking to experience Thailand unspoiled and at its most naturally spectacular, a trip to one of its many islands is a fine choice.

Thailand is home to quite literally hundreds of islands of all sizes and shapes, and with so many to choose from, it can be tricky to know where to begin. There are, however, a few islands that should appeal specifically to the discerning luxury traveler. For some of the most authentic sights and experiences Thailand has to offer, look no further than Koh Phra Thong.

Koh Phra Thong

A true paradise, Koh Phra Thong lies just South of the Myanmar border, and sits a short boat ride off the Western coast. Its name means 'Golden Buddha Island', and refers to the legend of a golden statue of Buddha allegedly buried on the island by pirates.

The island features 15 km of untouched, picturesque beaches; tropical savannahs; mangroves; and some of the most authentic traditional Thai culture that can be experienced anywhere.

For those who have an interest in wildlife, there is also plenty to see on Ko Phra Thong. The island is one of the preferred nesting spots of the leatherback turtle (the largest turtle in the world), and is the closest landmass to the Surin islands - which offer some of the very best scuba diving in Thailand.

A night safari through the savannah with a local guide is an unmissable opportunity for any travellers who want to experience the natural beauty of this wonderful country.

Discover Thailand's National Parks:

Possible the best way to experience Thailand at its most unspoiled is to visit one of its national parks. These protected areas of conserved land are completely untainted, and give travellers the chance to experience some of the most breathtaking vistas in the world.

There are several national parks throughout the country, all of which feature a diverse range of things to see and experience: from elephants, tigers, and other exotic wildlife, to some of the most incredible landscapes and views imaginable. If you're looking to experience Thailand at its most magnificent, a visit to one of its national parks is a must.

Khao Sok National Park

One of Thailand's most popular parks, Khao Sok (part of the Khlong Saeng - Khao Sok Forest Complex) includes the country's largest virgin forests, which are said by some to be the oldest evergreen rainforests in the world.

Home to a menagerie of unusual wildlife such as elephants and black bears, the park is most well-known for Chew Lan Lake. The raft houses on this reservoir are a popular destination for travellers from all around the world.

Ao Phang Nga National Park

If you're staying in Phuket, in The Banyan Tree's exceptional villa, the closest national park is Ao Phang Nga. The Phang Nga Bay is known the world over as one of the most beautiful locations anywhere on the planet; images of this area of natural beauty frequently appear on travel websites and postcards.

It's not surprising that Ko Khao Phing Kan (an island off the bay) was chosen as the feature location in the James Bond film 'The Man With The Golden Gun'.

Ao Phang Nga national park is home to some of the most incredible vistas and natural landforms that can be seen anywhere; particularly recognisable are its green-topped, gravity-defying limestone formations. The park is best experienced from the water, and many of its tours are conducted from boats - and even kayaks if you're feeling adventurous.

Experience Thailand's unspoiled beaches:

The rapid development of much of Thailand has spread to many of its beaches, but for those looking to experience the unblemished side of Thailand's coast, there are still plenty of luxurious shores to visit, and the allure of some of these is simply arresting.

Some of these are found on Thailand's many islands, and government initiatives to preserve the natural beauty of the country have rendered many of them inaccessible. There are still several that can be visited, however - and there are also plenty of untouched beaches to be seen on the mainland, if you know where to look.

Koh Mak

The island of Koh Mak (just West of the Cambodian border) has one of the ten best beaches in the world, according to The Times. The lengthy shores of this idyllic island are almost totally untouched, and feature some of the most appealing white sands imaginable.

The kilometres of beach on Koh Mak also mean that you won't be plagued with hordes of tourists, or struggle to find a quiet spot to settle down for an afternoon with a good book. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the company of loved ones in picture-perfect luxury.

Koh Lao Liang

Koh Lao Liang could very well be the most tranquil and peaceful place in the entire world. Its waters are a crystal clear teal, and are teeming with life; its towering limestone cliffs loom over the beach, with an awe-inspiring romanticism; and the island is inarguably a true paradise.

The only caveat is that to maintain Koh Lao Liang's uncrowded and peaceful aesthetic, it's only open for a few months of the year - and not to day trippers. The island can only house a maximum of 50 visitors at any one time, but it's well worth booking a night or two in advance. Plan ahead and you can take a few days out to experience this utterly exclusive gem of unspoiled Thailand.