One of the most iconic places is Shark Bay, named for the harmless blacktip reef sharks that glide gracefully through the turquoise shallows. It’s also home to green sea turtles, making it a dream location for underwater photography. Aow Leuk Bay offers gentle conditions, vibrant corals, and plenty of parrotfish, while Mango Bay is perfect for beginners thanks to its calm waters and easy beach access. For something truly special, take a short boat ride to Koh Nang Yuan, a small cluster of islands connected by a sandbar, where the coral reef begins just steps from the beach.

One gem is Ao Sane Beach in Phuket, a rocky but stunning escape just around the corner from Nai Harn. In Krabi, Tubkaek Beach boasts panoramic views of the Hong Islands yet remains surprisingly peaceful. On Koh Lanta, Bamboo Bay is a crescent of soft white sand backed by jungle, where the only sound is the gentle crash of waves. For something even more remote, the tiny Freedom Beach on Koh Tao offers powdery sand and crystal-clear waters, accessible only by boat or steep jungle path. Each of these beaches delivers the turquoise waters Thailand is famous for — without the crowds.

Start your culinary journey with Som Tam (green papaya salad), a zesty blend of shredded papaya, lime, chili, and fish sauce pounded together in a mortar for the perfect punch of flavor. Pair it with Pla Pao — whole fish stuffed with lemongrass, coated in salt, and grilled over charcoal until smoky and tender. Don’t miss the rich comfort of Massaman Curry, with its slow-cooked meat, coconut milk, and warming spices, or Pad Krapow, a fiery stir-fry of basil, garlic, and chili that locals often eat daily. And if you’re feeling adventurous, dive into Goong Ob Woon Sen, a clay pot of glass noodles and prawns infused with ginger and peppercorn.