Exploring Thailand’s Andaman Coast

By MiNDFOOD

Railay beach, Krabi. Thailand.
Railay beach, Krabi. Thailand.

If you’re looking for a culturally-rich and naturally splendid holiday destination that is wholly unique, then add Thailand’s Andaman Coast to the top of your travel list.

Nestled in Southeast Asia between the neighbouring nations of Myanmar, Cambodia, Laos and Malaysia, Thailand is a vibrant destination that is rapidly defining its place on the international travel scene. Best known for its capital city of Bangkok, the “Land of Smiles” is also a land of stark contrasts, with ultra-modern city views jutted up against traditional Buddhist temples and ancient ruins. It’s also a place to discover the ocean’s true beauty.

Famous for locations like Ko Phi Phi, Phang Nga Bay, James Bond Island and Ko Phi Phi Leh (the location where The Beach was filmed), the Andaman Sea is exactly as you would imagine based on what you’ve seen and read about Thailand in travel books. Jagged cliffs and imposing islands rise directly out of the sea in all directions, providing one of the most beautiful and unique backgrounds for an unforgettable vacation, but the real beauty of this place is discovered only once you look closer.

With the help of the folks at Moorings luxury yachting holidays, we have put together an adventure-packed trip around the Andaman Sea that may just require a little paddle-power, but is certainly worth it.

Kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding in Thailand are an absolute must. Otherwise, you are left observing the natural wonder of these spectacular islands from afar, when the most spectacular views lie within the islands. You can even do all of this from your own private yacht – chartered of course.

Head into the Hongs

Thailand is home to geological formations called Hongs (Thai for “room”), which can best be described as skylights in the hollowed-out center of the islands you encounter throughout the cruising grounds. From afar, what looks like an imposing, solid island is actually a hollow shell. Drop anchor, grab your kayak and paddle closer. You can even enter these Hongs through small caverns and caves in the rock wall which then open up into beautiful, hidden lagoons featuring all manner of wildlife, from tropical birds to monkeys and even bats. This is a must-see for any nature-lover, and they can only be viewed by kayak or paddleboard.

Ko Hong Krabi

A solitary island on the eastern side of the Andaman Sea, Ko Hong Krabi is a perfect spot for charterers to avoid the crowds typical of Phang Nga. Ko Hong Krabi boasts a large, deep bay, and a wide crescent-shaped beach. Once on shore, visitors will find a low arch carved out of the rock wall. Pass underneath and you will find yourself in an enormous Hong that you can easily walk around in low tide.

With an oar in your hands and a smooth-cruising kayak as your transportation platform, you’re free to explore the real hidden treasures of the emerald-green Andaman Sea. It’s something that every visitor truly must experience for themselves and a Phuket yacht charter vacation is the best way to do so.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE

Print Recipe

BECOME A MiNDFOOD SUBSCRIBER TODAY

Let us keep you up to date with our weekly MiNDFOOD e-newsletters which include the weekly menu plan, health and news updates or tempt your taste buds with the MiNDFOOD Daily Recipe. 

Member Login