The beaches of Thailand are a major draw for visitors, with everything from secluded bays and diving hotspots to long expanses of pristine sand that seem to go on forever. Koh Chang, Surin National Park, Khao Lak, Phuket, Phang Nga Bay, and Krabi are located along the Andaman Sea’s western coast. Continuing south, you’ll reach Koh Lanta, Koh Lipe, Trang, and Taratao National Marine Park.

The islands of Koh Samet, Pattaya, Hua Hin, Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, and Khanom are all roiled by the waters of the eastern Gulf of Thailand. The sheer number of options may leave you feeling paralyzed, so we’ve put together this handy checklist to assist you in narrowing down your options.

Locale: Chaweng Noi on Koh Samui

Chaweng, at little over four miles long, is Koh Samui’s longest and most popular beach, and is known for its pristine white sand and rows of coconut palms. Chaweng consists of four distinct areas, the most tranquil of which is Chaweng Noi (the “Noi” in Chaweng Noi means “little”), which boasts calm, turquoise waters and average daily highs of 25 to 28 degrees Celsius. Because there are fewer large resorts and more locally owned eateries, there is more space for families to spread out and enjoy the outdoors. You can get to the more lively resorts in about 15 minutes by strolling along the beach.

Koh Lipe, in the province of Satun, at sunset

Sunset Beach is a small bay on the northwest side of Koh Lipe that overlooks the Butang Islands and is one of the best places on the island to get away from it all. The beach’s name comes from the spectacular sight of the sun rising over the horizon and lighting up the seaside in a brilliant way. Beach huts and bungalows replace massive resorts here, yet you’ll still be just ten minutes away from Walking Street, the island’s primary shopping district. Koh Lipe sits amid the stunning Tarutao National Marine Park, earning it the nickname “secret island” of Thailand. Amazing vegetation and animals, such as wild boars and hornbills, thrive in the island’s steep evergreen forest.

On Ko Pha Ngan’s Haad Rin

Haad Rin is a beach of extremes, most well-known for its Full Moon parties, which draw music lovers from all over the world. Sunbathers go there throughout the day to take in the relaxed atmosphere and breathtaking volcanic landscape, but come nightfall, the sunloungers are tucked away in favor of the area’s many beach bars, fire shows, and high concentration of nightclubs. The renowned Snoop Dogg longtail boat departs from the shore and takes pleased tourists to the best snorkeling and swimming places in the area.

Specifically, Ko Yao Noi in Phang Nga

This stretch of coast is one of the least frequented in the country, making it ideal for a romantic getaway. Watching the traditional fishermen paint their boats in the hot sun is a sight to behold, and it’s hard not to fall in love with them. Spend the afternoon reading a book on a double-sized hammock, or, if you’re feeling more active, exploring the area’s caverns in search of artwork that dates back at least two millennia.