Are you an adrenaline junkie or a beach bum? From sea kayaking to sunbathing, Thailand has outdoor activities for every travel style. We asked Expedia.com.au to break down Thailand’s best outdoor adventures.
Thailand for adventurers
Thailand is famous for its active adventures, both on water and on land. Here are a couple of ideas to get you started.
Sea Kayaking in Ang Thong National Marine Park
Located on the island of Koh Mae Koh, west of Koh Samui, Ang Thong National Marine Park is filled with towering rock formations and hidden coves. Sea kayaking is one of the best ways to experience this beautiful, secluded landscape.
Rock Climbing on Railay Beach
The limestone cliffs at Railay Beach in Krabi draw rock climbers from around the world. With hundreds of routes, rock climbing on Railay can cater to any skill level, but even beginners should prepare to get a great workout.
Jungle Trekking in Northern Thailand
Chiang Mai is Thailand’s best home base for those who want to experience jungle trekking. From there, you can choose from unforgettable treks like remote trade routes in Mae Hong Son or the waterfalls of Doi Inthanon National Park.
Thailand for photographers
You’re not leaving until you get the perfect shot. Head to one of these spots for the ultimate Instagram post.
Catch a Sunset at Promthep Cape
Snap some sunset pics at Promthep Cape on Phuket’s southern tip, a popular spot thanks to its picture-perfect views of the Andaman Sea. Bonus: On a clear night, it’s a great place for stargazing, too.
Stand Above the Clouds at Phu Chi Fa
Watch the sunrise above the clouds at 1,628 metres above sea level. It’s just a moderate 800-metre hike to the summit of Phu Chi Fa, in northern Thailand’s Chiang Rai province, to discover Thailand’s “Sea of Mist”.
Capture the Details at Wat Rong Khun
Guarded by dragons and a moat of outstretched arms, the all-white Wat Rong Khun, or White Temple in Chiang Rai is part temple, part art exhibit. Look closer, and you’ll see intricate details that are a photographer’s dream. There’s nothing else like it in Thailand.
Thailand for the relaxation
Just because you don’t want to break a sweat doesn’t mean you can’t do adventurous things—check these out.
Chill Out at Hua Hin
Located about 200 kilometres southwest of Bangkok, Hua Hin was the country’s first beach resort town. With a more laid-back vibe—and fewer crowds—than the Thai islands and scenery just as gorgeous, Hua Hin is perfect for the relaxed beachgoer.
Swing from a Palm Tree at Koh Chang
If you need an island on your itinerary, but want an easy-going atmosphere, head to Koh Chang on the northeast side of the Gulf of Thailand. The beaches are roomy, the drinks are cheap, and there’s even a picturesque palm tree swing.
Escape the City to Bang Kachao
Known as Bangkok’s “Green Lung”, this artificial island is a jungle of palm trees and papaya groves just ten miles southeast of the city centre. While away the day in a coffee shop or have a leisurely bike ride. Better yet, check out Expedia.com.au to book a Bangkok apartment hotel with a lush courtyard or rooftop garden. It’s an escape without even leaving your hotel.