Best beaches in Bangkok? Okay, listen — I get asked this all the time. “Hey, isn’t Bangkok like… landlocked?” Yeah, it is, technically. But don’t pack away your flip-flops just yet, because there are actually a ton of beaches near Bangkok that are straight-up dreamy. I’m talking warm water, seafood by the bucket, and sunsets that’ll slap the melancholy outta you.
So if you’re wondering things like are there beaches in Bangkok or even nude beaches in Bangkok (you wild), this guide’s for you. Whether you’ve only got a weekend or just need a break from BKK’s traffic madness, these beaches near the city are clutch. I’ve beach-hopped them all — sometimes with a hangover, sometimes with a coconut in hand, always with sandy toes — and I’ve lived to tell the tale.
Let’s go find the best beaches in Bangkok Thailand, yeah?
1. Pattaya Beach: The Closest Beach to Bangkok
Pattaya is basically the beach in BKK everyone talks about — mostly ‘cause it’s only two hours away. If you leave early, you can literally be sipping a Chang on the sand by lunch. Pattaya’s wild, loud, a lil’ messy, but she’s got character. I once got swindled into a beachside foot massage that somehow turned into a full-body coconut oil rub-down… awkward, but hey, my skin’s never been softer.
Local tip: Hit up Pattaya Viewpoint at sunset for that ‘Gram-worthy skyline shot. But avoid Walking Street unless you’re down for… a very adult version of beach nightlife. Not judging. Just warning.
Whether you’re into beach resort in Bangkok Thailand vibes or just wanna cannonball into jet skis, Pattaya delivers. And yes, it’s technically the closest beach to Bangkok — woo!
2. Hua Hin: For Chill Royal Vibes
Alright, so if Pattaya’s the party cousin, Hua Hin is the bougie aunt who does yoga, drinks green tea, and owns 30 silk robes. It’s about 3 hours southwest of Bangkok and sooo worth it. I stayed at this low-key resort once and got caught trying to sneak leftover pad Thai into the mini-bar fridge… classy.
Anyway, Hua Hin’s got long beaches, horses you can ride (yes, literally ride on the sand like some beach cowboy), and the Hua Hin Night Market where I once ate grilled squid that made me cry tears of joy and fear.
Pro tip: Rent a scooter and cruise the coast. Or go full fancy and tee off at one of the golf courses if you’re into that whole retired expat in paradise energy.
3. Bang Saen: The Beach Thais Actually Go To
So here’s the thing — if you’re wondering are there any beaches in Bangkok that locals love, this is it. Bang Saen is a sleeper hit. Just 90 minutes from the city, and honestly, the best beaches in Bangkok if you’re after no-fuss, real-deal Thai vibes.
I showed up one Saturday with a half-eaten bag of shrimp chips and left 6 hours later with sunburn, a new friend named “Beer” (I swear), and like 3 different seafood stains on my tank top.
This is where Thai families go. Expect plastic chairs, spicy grilled prawns, and folks blasting karaoke at 3 PM. It’s not glamorous, but it’s alive.
Hot tip: Head to the beachfront seafood market in the morning before the crowds roll in. You’ll score massive grilled squid skewers for like 50 baht. Oh, and bring your own beach mat — unless you like renting neon plastic chairs from some auntie named Lek for 20 baht an hour.
4. Koh Samet: The Island That Feels Like a Secret
This one’s a bit further — about 3 hours out plus a short ferry ride — but Koh Samet is pure magic. I’ve had everything from romantic escapes to post-breakup cry sessions on this island (both involved a LOT of mango sticky rice). The beaches are like powder, the water’s so clear you can see your toenails, and the parties? Beach bonfires with fire dancers and cheap rum buckets. Say less.
Personal disaster: Tried to open a beer bottle with my flip-flop once. Lost the flip-flop. Drank the beer anyway.
If you’re into secluded coves, hit up Ao Wai or Ao Prao. For parties, Sai Kaew Beach is your scene. Just don’t forget mosquito spray or those little demons will turn you into a buffet.
Oh, and it’s part of a national park, so there’s a tiny entrance fee. Bring cash, and maybe a portable charger — WiFi’s a joke here (but in a good way).
5. Koh Larn: Quickie Island Vibes
You’re hungover in Bangkok, it’s Sunday, and you need to see the ocean immediately. Enter: Koh Larn, aka Coral Island, aka best beaches near Bangkok when you’re strapped for time and mental clarity. Just hop on a ferry from Pattaya and boom — turquoise waters and white sand in under an hour.
I once lost my wallet in the water while trying to get a drone shot. Big oops. But a kind vendor gave me free grilled corn because, in her words, “you look very hot and poor.” Iconic.
Tawaen Beach is the busiest (tourist central), but Samae and Tien are way quieter and cleaner. Bring snacks, rent a scooter, and bounce between beaches like it’s a game.
One more thing: Watch for jellyfish during the rainy season (May–Oct). They sneak up on you like unpaid bills.
So… Is There Beaches in Bangkok or What?
Technically, no. There aren’t beaches in Bangkok city itself — unless you count riverbanks and fake rooftop sandbars (don’t). But hop in a van, grab a coconut, and in 2–3 hours you’ll find the best beaches in Bangkok Thailand — and probably a monkey trying to steal your lunch.
Whether you want a quiet patch of sand, a rowdy party strip, or even dream of stumbling into nude beaches in Bangkok (spoiler: not really a thing here, sorry), there’s something that’ll scratch that salty, beachy itch.
So next time someone hits you with “are there beaches in Bangkok Thailand?” — just smile, hand them this list, and whisper: “Oh, honey, you have no idea.”
Final Thoughts: Bangkok and Beach? Hell Yes.
You came for temples, tuk-tuks, and spicy noodles. But now? You’re gonna leave with tan lines and beach memories. Whether it’s the messy charm of Pattaya, the peaceful stretches of Hua Hin, or the island magic of Koh Samet and Koh Larn, the best beaches in Bangkok (okay fine — near Bangkok) are just waiting for you to hop on a bus and say “let’s go.”
So yeah. Don’t ask if there’s any beaches in Bangkok. Ask which one you’re hitting first.
Now grab your sunnies. Let’s beach.
