The Gulf of Thailand is an inlet of the South China Sea, sharing land borders with Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam.  The ocean’s relatively shallow depth and the region’s warm weather makes it a popular tourist destination and a great diving location.  Whether you are looking to dive, snorkel, swim, trek or lounge by the beach with your family or loved one, there is certainly something in the Gulf of Thailand for you!

Many of Thailand’s, Cambodia’s and Vietnam’s beach destinations are on the Gulf of Thailand.  Listed are some of the most sought after places.

Thailand:

•    Hua Hin – A popular weekend getaway for Bangkok residents.  The town is quickly developing with much of the town’s charm is still intact.  Hua Hin is also a great family destination, with numerous outdoor activities on hand for children and parents to enjoy.

•    Sam Roi Yot National Park – A marine national park with numerous mountains, limestone cliffs and beaches.

•    Koh Samed – Another favorite weekend getaway for Bangkok residents.  It is a quieter island alternative, when compared Koh Samui and Koh Pang Ngan in the south.  Snorkeling and diving the island’s clear waters are options here.

•    Koh Chang – A part of Ko Chang Marine Park archipelago, the island is relatively quiet and is home to lush jungles, beautiful waterfalls, clear waters and an abundance of marine life.  The island is also home to several beaches, each with its own unique charm and characteristics.

•    Ko Tao – The quieter of the three southern islands.  A great base for diving in the area.

•    Koh Phang Ngan – Another good diving spot.  The island is also home to waterfalls, cliffs and dense jungles

•    Koh Samui – The busiest of the three southern islands, Koh Samui is home to dense jungles, waterfalls and cliffs.  There are numerous beaches here, and the waters are ideal for swimming and diving.

Cambodia:

•    Sihanoukville – Cambodia’s main beach destination.  The town is slowly being recognized as one of the region’s top seaside resort, with excellent spots for swimming, snorkeling, diving and island relaxation.

•    Kep – An up and coming beach destination near Sihanoukville.  There are numerous abandoned colonial villas one can visit.  There are also caves waiting to be explored.  The town is also renowned for its crab and one should definitely try the Kampot Pepper Crab.

•    Koh Tonsay – Also known as Rabbit Island and located just five kilometers away from Kep.  The island is home to white sandy beaches, shallow waters and corals.

Vietnam:

•    Ha Tien – A Vietnamese border town and gateway to the country for travelers coming from Cambodia.

•    Phu Quoc – Vietnam’s largest island, home to dense forests, lush mountains, clear waters and some of the country’s best beaches.  The island is renowned for its fish sauce and pepper cultivation.

•    Mekong Delta – The eastern end of Southern Vietnam borders the gulf.  Here the Mekong River and its distributaries empties out into the sea.  The Mekong Delta is home to colorful floating markets and beautiful rice paddies.

The Gulf of Thailand is one of the reasons why Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam are such wonderful countries to visit.  The beaches here are some of the best in the world and combine that with the region’s friendly people and warm weather it’s no wonder why many have fond memories of the area.  You can also have a memorable time by the Gulf, with Exotissimo’s Exploring the Thai Peninsula tour.  The aim of this program is to take you to the spots that are often overlooked by visitors to the area.  In the meantime, you can discover Cambodia and visit its infamous temples and ruins with Cambodia’s Shrines and Shores tour.  After your tours of the country’s temples, kick back and relax at Cambodia’s beach destinations.  Or you can choose to unwind at Vietnam’s premier island destination with our Phu Quoc Beach Break tour.