The south-west coast of the Kingdom of Thailand is abundant with exquisite holiday destinations. The breathtaking beauty of the area's limestone islands and azure waters of the Andaman Sea combined with the renowned Thai hospitality make Thailand one of the best places in the world to get away from it all.

As Thailand's largest island, Phuket is one of the world’s premier tropical resorts. With its palm-fringed beaches and island-studded sea, it is no wonder that the tourism industry has dubbed it the 'Pearl of the South'.

However, Phuket is not the only must-see destination with the equally stunning surrounding provinces of Krabi and Phang-nga just moments away.

Phuket

Spectacular natural scenery, stunning tropical sunsets and warm, clear turquoise sea awaits visitors to Asia’s most popular beach destination. Situated off the west coast of Southern Thailand in the Andaman Sea and connected to the mainland via a causeway, Phuket is internationally known for its unbeatable combination of white sandy beaches, smiling Thai hospitality and a seemingly endless range of holiday activities.

Families will particularly enjoy Phuket, with lots of attractions for children of all ages. Try elephant trekking over the island’s lush green hills, snorkelling or scuba diving through the pristine waters teeming with marine life, or get active with a game of tennis, golf or various exciting water sports. Take a ride on a traditional Thai long-tail boat to the surrounding islands, enjoy Phuket’s vibrant night-life on Patong Beach, or book into one of the island’s luxurious spas to pamper away your troubles. One thing is certain, with this many choices, you won’t know where to begin your holiday.

Khao Lak

If the activity of Phuket has left you in need of a calmer, quieter retreat, then look no further than Khao Lak beach. Located just north of Phuket, in the Phang-nga province, Khao Lak can be easily reached by car or bus in one hour, driving along part of Thailand’s most beautiful coastlines.

The idyllic beach has been developed into a refuge for nature lovers and tourists seeking peace and quiet. Rising up behind the beach are the forested mountains of Khao Lak-Lam Ru National Park, with many waterfalls, caves and trails to explore. Climb Khao Lak Mountain and visit the famous shrine of Chao Pho Khao Lak and the five-tier waterfall of Lam Ru. You can raft through the mountain rivers, or just cool off in waterfall plunge pools.

If the ocean is your domain, the Similan and Surin Island Marine Parks just off the coast offer some of the most spectacular dive sites in the world; or if you prefer to be on the water rather than under it, try a serene cruise or sea kayak around the mystical Phang-nga Bay.

Krabi

Completing the third point of our Golden Triangle is the coastal province of Krabi, whose stunning scenery has been host to many a Hollywood movie. Krabi town is located on the coast of the mainland, about 50 kilometres east of Phuket, and next to Krabi Resort which is the ideal spot to base your holiday. From here you can take advantage of the mainland beaches or jump on a ferry or long-tail boat to explore the natural beauty of nearby locations such as the world-famous twin islands Ko Phi Phi Don and Ko Phi Phi Le.

If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, head down to Hat Rai Le and get hands-on with the region’s famed limestone cliffs (or karsts) with a bit of rock climbing. Equipment rental and instruction is readily available to help you navigate more than 150 bolted routes. Whether you're a beginner or an expert, you'll be able to experience the thrill of climbing.