Enjoy the Beautiful Beaches of Ao Nang, Thailand

Right in the centre of town, you’ll find a paradise you’ve probably stared enviously at on Instagram many times before. Ao Nang Beach is a 1km(0.6mi)-long stretch of soft sand lined with colourful longtail boats and overlooked by those famous limestone cliffs. The huge, jagged rocks with their luscious greenery protrude from the sea, and this landscape makes Ao Nang Beach the perfect spot to catch the sunset. Grab yourself a Chang (refreshing local beer) from a nearby shop and watch the sky flush with colour as the sun dips behind the sea. For some true Thailand magic, perch on one of the rope swings to the left of the main sitting area. They’re fit for two and, as the stars come out, you really can’t beat it.

What better way to spend a day than enjoying a picnic on the beach? At Nopparat Thara, you’ll find locals doing just that. Visit nearby food markets for the best street food, then join Thai families and friends on the sands to the west side of Ao Nang. Nopparat Thara Beach is less busy than the main stretch and thus much more peaceful. There are lots of tall trees providing shade, which makes it a good sitting spot for lunch or dinner. There are nice restaurants there if you fancy a cocktail or two after sunset, and the port is nearby, where you can see traditional wooden boats nestled amongst palm trees. Perhaps best of all, when the tide is low, enjoy a walk through the shallow sea to explore the tiny island of Koh Khao Pak Khlong. It’s the perfect day out.

Awaken your explorer’s spirit by navigating the mysterious Monkey Trail, starting at the east side of Ao Nang Beach. Cross the wooden bridge, then climb the rickety steps up into the hillside. They’re pretty steep, and you’ll have to rely on bamboo rails for support, but the views of the bay are breathtaking. As the name suggests, you might just come across a few furry friends. After your ten-minute mini-adventure, the towering trees part to reveal one of the most beautiful beaches in Thailand. Pai Plong Beach’s white sands and turquoise sea boast the colours of a tropical paradise. It’s lined with perfect palms and a pretty, unobtrusive resort. Take your towel for an idyllic day of swimming and sunbathing on this quiet hidden gem.

Once you’re at Railay, walk over to PhraNang Cave Beach. The huge rock formations are otherworldly. Inject some excitement into your break by climbing inside the cave mouth and exploring. If the tide is right, you can even swim in; floating underneath the gigantic stalactites is truly awesome. For a bit of the unusual, visit the smaller cave next door, called Princess Cave. Locals have created a shrine to the gods of fertility where, in difficult times, they leave wooden penises. Marvel at the hundreds lined up inside the rocky walls and bask in the power of the hopes and prayers left here over the years.

This tiny paradise, accessible by a short boat ride from mainland Ao Nang, is unique in its set-up. Two lovely beaches are connected by a sandbank, so explorers can hop between them via a refreshing walk through the shallow part of the sea. If visitors are sparse, sit on the bank and spot tropical fish as the gentle waves lap over you. Make sure you’re back at the beach where your boat landed before the tide engulfs the walkway, or be prepared to wade through the water.