Thailand Family Holidays

Thailand Beaches and Water Sports

Phuket with Kids

Chill out on the islands and white-sand beaches of southern Thailand. Phuket with kids is a popular choice – the largest and perhaps best-known of Thailand’s islands, its resorts of Karon, Kata, Surin and Ao Bang Thao are among the best places to take a family in Thailand.

In Phuket, kayaking, rafting and snorkelling are all readily available, while boat trips to surrounding islands allow you to experience the Andamans' fantastic marine life.

Similan and Surin Islands

If travelling with older children and teens, head to the Similan and Surin Islands north of Phuket for some of the world’s best scuba-diving and the opportunity to spot the elusive whale shark. Day trips are available from Phuket but live-aboard cruises are the way to make the best of the islands.

Ko Phi-Phi and Krabi

For an ‘authentic’ island experience, head east of Phuket to Ko Phi-Phi off Krabi; its more secluded resorts have access to fantastic kayaking and snorkelling. Or stick to Krabi itself – its Railay Beach mixes spectacular scenery with luxurious hotels.

Ko Pha-Ngan and Ko Samui (Gulf of Thailand)

Alternatively, on the south-east Gulf of Thailand coast, try the islands of Ko Pha-Ngan and Ko Samui (Koh Samui), with plenty of family-friendly activities, including boat trips, trekking and scuba diving for different ages.

Thailand Adventure and Wildlife

Chiang Mai Jungle Adventures

Head north to Chiang Mai for a glimpse of the jungles of Thailand at their best. It's often reached by overnight sleeper train on Thailand family adventure trips (see our Best Organised Trips tab) but domestic flights take around an hour from Bangkok. Sample the food at Chiang Mai’s famous night market and marvel at fantastic temples before heading into the jungle to try your hand at bamboo-rafting. 

Ethical Elephant Experiences

Make a day trip from Chiang Mai to the ethical Elephant Nature Park, a unique conservation project and rescue centre where you can spend the day learning about elephants. See more on ethical elephant sanctuaries in Thailand.

Thailand Culture and History

Bangkok with Kids

Must-sees in Bangkok with kids include the spectacular Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha), Grand Palace and Temple of Wat Pho with its massive reclining Buddha. Stopping at one of the temples along the river to feed one of the vast number of huge fish is also great fun with kids.

Hill Tribe Stays in Northern Thailand

Stay with a local hill tribe (often part of a Thailand family adventure holiday (see Best Organised Trips tab), spending a night in basic accommodation in a local village for a unique glimpse into another way of life. Chiang Rai about five hours from Chiang Mai in the far north is a great place to experience Thai culture, perhaps meeting some of the indigenous Akha tribe.