The Andaman Coast is more than just a destination—it’s a place where stories are made. It’s where a chance meeting turned into a lifelong adventure. My husband and I have been coming back to this coast for years—first as solo travelers, then as a couple, and now as a family.
Our travel style has evolved from spontaneous island-hopping to seeking out kid-friendly beaches, great access and quiet after 9pm. One thing that has not changed is the magnetic pull of the area, drawing us back again and again.
With each visit, our perspective of what to see and skip gets sharper. So here is a distilled guide to Thailand’s Andaman Coast for travellers with kids—the must-dos, the hidden gems, and the lessons learned from countless trips exploring these turquoise waters and stunning limestone cliffs.
Getting There: Choosing the Right Airport for Your Destination
Navigating the Andaman Coast starts with choosing the right airport. Here’s how to decide based on your destination:
Phuket International Airport (HKT)
Best for: Reaching Phuket, Koh Yao Noi, and the Phi Phi Islands.
Use This Airport If: You want a convenient base for exploring Phuket’s attractions or are planning day trips to surrounding islands.
Krabi International Airport (KBV)
Best for: Accessing Krabi, Railay Beach, Tonsai, and Koh Lanta.
Use This Airport If: You’re planning to explore Krabi’s iconic cliffs or want a more relaxed environment compared to Phuket.
Trang Airport (TST)
Best for: Exploring the quieter southern islands like Koh Mook, Koh Libong, and Koh Ngai.
Use This Airport If: You’re seeking a low-key escape and want to avoid the crowds.
Once you’ve landed, getting around is best done using a mix of taxis, speedboats, and ferries. For local transport within towns like Krabi and Phuket, the Grab app is your best option. Tuk-tuks can be fun for a short trip, but they tend to be more expensive and riskier with kids.
Top Destinations Along the Andaman Coast of Thailand
Each of Thailand's Andaman Coast Island destinations have their own unique appeal and charms.
Krabi: Where Adventure and Tranquility Collide
Krabi’s stunning limestone cliffs, dense mangrove forests, and clear blue waters make it a must-visit for nature lovers. Iconic spots like Railay Beach and Tonsai offer some of the best rock climbing and kayaking experiences in Thailand.
Best For: Families looking for a well connected transit point for island adventure.
Where to Stay:
Anana Ecological Resort– A tranquil, eco-friendly hideaway perfect for families. This hotel has wonderful views of the karst formations surrounding Ao Nang beach, a great atmosphere and a lovely pool.
Ao Nang Fiore Resort – A yurt style bungalow set amidst scenic lush gardens in a serene atmosphere with a really nice pool. Each room has a great view and there is golf-cart service throughout the resort. Includes a shuttle to central Ao Nang Beach strip.
Phuket: The All-in-One Destination for Family Fun
Phuket is the largest and most developed of the Andaman Coast destinations. With a mix of stunning beaches, cultural landmarks, and vibrant markets, it’s perfect for families who want variety and access to everything.
Best For: Families wanting a range of activities and easy access to day trips and luxury accommodations.
Where to Stay:
Katathani Phuket Beach Resort – Set on Kata Noi Beach, this resort combines luxury and family-friendly facilities.
SAii Laguna Phuket – A spacious resort offering family rooms, kids’ activities, and a lagoon setting.
Koh Lanta: Laid-Back Island Living for Families
Koh Lanta’s long, uncrowded beaches and laid-back atmosphere make it perfect for families seeking a more relaxed experience. Head to the southern tip for a slower pace and stunning sunset views.
Best For: Families looking for quiet beaches and authentic island charm.
Where to Stay:
- Sri Lanta Resort) – A nice hotel in a convenient location on a nice, quiet part of Klong Nin Beach. The hotel is set back from the main road, surrounded by lush jungle, and there is an underpass to get to the pool and beach bar surrounded by a sandbox and grassy area for kids to run. An ideal spot for families with younger kids.
Baan Tang See Villas – Spacious, stunning villas with world class views that can accommodate two families. Family owned by a charming and very accommodating pair and comes complete with a stunnning salt water pool.
Phi Phi Islands: Phenomenal Scenery and Underwater Adventures
The Phi Phi Islands are famous for their stunning scenery and vibrant underwater life, making them a top spot for snorkeling and diving. However, Phi Phi Don, the main island, has a lively nightlife scene that may not be ideal for young families.
Best For: Families with older kids looking for underwater adventures.
Where to Stay: Consider staying in quieter parts of the island or doing day trips from Krabi or Phuket.
Note: Koh Phi Phi is known for its party atmosphere, so families should avoid staying in the central strip area. The spirit of the island has also changed in recent years following COVID-19 and may not offer the chill, secluded island vibes your family is looking for.
Similan Islands: A Diver’s Paradise
The Similan Islands are a marine national park, famous for their coral reefs and diverse marine life. They’re best suited for families with older kids interested in snorkeling or diving.
Best For: Families with strong swimmers and underwater enthusiasts.
Where to Stay: As accommodations are limited, day trips from Phuket are recommended.
Koh Yao Noi: A Quiet Escape Close to Phuket
Koh Yao Noi offers a tranquil, local experience with traditional fishing villages and quiet beaches. It’s a hidden gem for families looking to escape the tourist crowds.
Best For: Families seeking a peaceful retreat.
Where to Stay:
Koyao Island Resort – Beachfront bungalows with stunning views of Phang Nga Bay.
Final Tips for Your Family Trip to Thailand’s Best Destinations
Planning a family trip to Thailand is all about choosing the right time, finding a family-friendly spot, and booking accommodations that suit everyone’s needs. Here’s what you need to know to make the most of your time in Krabi, Phuket, Koh Lanta, and more:
1. Plan Around the Best Season
The peak season from November to April is when Krabi’s beaches are at their best, and Phuket’s waters are calm and inviting. For a quieter experience with fewer crowds, consider traveling in the shoulder months of late October or early May. While there might be a few showers, you’ll enjoy a more peaceful atmosphere at popular spots like Railay Beach and Kata Noi in Phuket.
2. Choose Family-Friendly Locations
Avoid staying in loud party areas like the main strip of Phi Phi Don, where nightlife can get disruptive. Instead, opt for quieter parts of Koh Lanta, or serene beachfront properties in Krabi’s more secluded areas. Make sure your accommodation has walkable access to convenience stores and restaurants and is set on relatively flat terrain—hilly or steep areas with balconies overlooking sheer drops can be unsafe and stressful with small children.
3. Pack Smart and Stay Comfortable
Pack light, but bring essentials like high-SPF sunscreen, UV-protective swimwear, and infant or children’s pain reliever and anything specific that you have a prescription for. Despite the heft, we also bring an approved, high quality children’s PFD in a highly visible colour for anytime we are near water. A good sun hat and sun protective swim clothing is important for little ones, as the tropical sun can be intense. Other basics, you can pick up along the way. For a detailed list of what to bring, check out our Family Packing List for Thailand.
With these tips in mind, you’re set for a fun and relaxed family adventure in some of Thailand’s most stunning coastal destinations. Take the time to explore each location’s unique vibe, and enjoy the ride.
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