Thailand’s beautiful and idyllic islands and soft sandy sun-kissed beaches, gently caressed by the ebb and flow of the warm turquoise sea, are a must-see for most visitors.
Whether you’re visiting the beaches of islands like Phuket in the Andaman Sea, Koh Samui in the Gulf, or the islands near Pattaya, here is a list of Thai beach essentials you should take along with you.
First of all, be aware of the risks posed by rip currents in Thailand. To stay safe during times of potential risk, such as bad weather, get familiar with the hazard flag system used on many popular beaches in Thailand.
What to Take to the Beach in Thailand
Sunglasses: For the obvious reason that they protect your eyes from the sun, and because on a bright sunny day on a white sandy beach, like many in Thailand, the glare reflected off the water and sand can be almost blinding. They’re also handy for avoiding the gaze of some persistent hawkers.
Sandals or Crocs: Not just to protect your feet from sharp rocks or dangerous marine life, but also things such as glass, and because the sand and footpaths can get scorching hot.
Sunscreen: Even on a cloudy day and under a shady parasol, whether it’s rainy season or dry season, you can still get sunburnt in Thailand. Sunscreen is a must, and preferably a good waterproof one if your kids are playing in the sea.
Five & Ten Baht Coins: If you need to use a nearby toilet, spend a penny as they say in the UK, it typically costs five or ten baht in Thailand. Having the right change is handy, especially as entry to some toilets is via coin-operated turnstiles.
Toilet Paper: Most public toilets in Thailand, and those in bars and restaurants, are modern, western-style, but there’s always a chance the nearest toilet might be a squat toilet, especially when you need one in a hurry. There will likely be no paper, only a bucket of water and a scoop.
Mosquito repellent: Although you might not expect to find mosquitoes on the beach, many of the beaches in Thailand are fringed by lush vegetation, have nearby resorts with water features, or places where stagnant water collects during the rainy season, so it’s always a good idea to take mosquito repellent with you.
Protective clothing: Wearing a hat, and clothing such as full-body swimsuits that protect your skin from the sun is recommended if you’re spending a day at the beach in Thailand. Full-body swimsuits also offer you and your kids some protection against jellyfish stings while playing in the sea.
Tin opener: On a lighter note, as chair vendors on some popular beaches like Pattaya Beach like to pack you in like sardines, a tin opener might come in useful when it’s time to squeeze your way out.