Travellers’ Choice award-winning beaches were determined based on the quantity and quality of traveller reviews and ratings for beaches on TripAdvisor gathered over a 12-month period.
“Thailand’s southern beaches are world-renowned with many tourists from around the world visiting every year. We are delighted that they have been recognised by TripAdvisor as one of the best beaches in Asia. We hope to continue welcoming more visitors to our beautiful Thai beaches," said Pichaya Saisaengchan, director for Domestic Public Relations Division for Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT).
Also on Asia's top 10 list under the 2015 Travellers' Choice awards for Beaches are Railey Beach in Krabi (7), Kata beach in Phuket (8) and Phra Nang beach (9), according to a release by the travel web site.
“It’s that time of year when most people are dreaming of lying on a beach, so it’s the perfect time to unveil the world’s best beaches, based on feedback from the TripAdvisor community,” said Barbara Messing, chief marketing officer for TripAdvisor.
Top 10 Travellers’ Choice Beaches in Asia:
1. White Beach, Boracay, Philippines
2. Radhanagar Beach, Havelock Island, India
3. Nai Harn Beach, Phuket, Thailand
4. Ngapali Beach, Ngapali, Myanmar
5. Yapak Beach (Puka Shell Beach), Boracay, Philippines
6. Agonda Beach, Agonda, India
7. Railay Beach, Krabi, Thailand
8. Kata Noi Beach, Phuket, Thailand
9. Phra Nang Beach, Krabi, Thailand
10. Otres Beach, Sihanoukville, Cambodia
Nai Harn is ranked No 1 in the top 10 beaches in Thailand. Of total, eight are located in Phuket and Krabi.
1. Nai Harn Beach, Phuket
“It was one of the best beaches of Phuket. Small but superb and waves were smooth. Loved Nai Harn.,” commented a TripAdvisor reviewer.
2. Railay Beach, Krabi
“Blissful location reachable by Long Tail boat from Ao Nang for 150 baht each way. So much to explore, wildlife, walking, caves, climbing and lots of friendly monkeys.”
3. Kata Noi Beach, Phuket
“It was a stunning clean beach with turquoise sea and light golden sand. It is a public beach but it is one of the cleanest public beaches that I have been to,” added a TripAdvisor reviewer.
4. Phra Nang Beach, Krabi
A TripAdvisor reviewer said, “The sand is smooth and descends evenly and the waters are crystal blue. If you are feeling brave, swim over to the cave and climb around during low tide.”
5. Sunrise Beach, Satun
“I can see myself living here for the rest of my life - the beach is beautiful beyond words and locals are a laid back and fun-loving bunch. I'm definitely coming back here!” commented a TripAdvisor reviewer.
6. Thong Nai Pan Noi, Surat Thani
A TripAdvisor reviewer noted, “I'd go back to this beach any day- the best beach in Thailand in my opinion.”
7. Karon Beach, Phuket
“This beach is located a little uphill and hence is very scenic. You can actually see clouds on hill just in front of you,” said a TripAdvisor reviewer.
8. Freedom Beach, Phuket
“The place is gorgeous and an oasis of peace,” commented a TripAdvisor reviewer.
9. Long Beach, Krabi
“Very nice beach, we stayed here daytime and it was great. Nice sand, great water and easy-going atmosphere,” said a TripAdvisor reviewer.
10. Laem Tong Bay, Krabi
A TripAdvisor reviewer said, “Very beautiful sand beach with palm trees around and luxury hotels, also some nice quiet bars and restaurants along the beach.”