Thailand

Top 10 Family-Friendly Beaches, Islands, And Cities In Thailand With Kids

Which Slice Of Paradise Suits Your Family + Itineraries

Thailand With Kids

With its endless beaches, ancient temples, fascinating culture, and year-round tropical climate, Thailand has long been on our list of holiday favorites. The other great thing about The Land of Smiles is that there’s always somewhere new to discover. So if you’re looking for inspiration on where to take the fam bam in Thailand, check out our list of the best family-friendly locations in Thailand!

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  • KRABI: Best For Nature Lover Families

    Best Child-Friendly Activities And Hotels In Krabi, Thailand

    Krabi is often described as the most visually impressive province, and many families enjoy the island's beauty by hopping on a longtail boat. Krabi has over a hundred offshore islands characterized by limestone massifs, mountains, waterfalls, and mangrove forests.

    FAMILY-FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES:

    • Go hiking with the family along the scenic Dragon Spine ridge known as Khao Ngon Nak
    • Make sure to check out the 11-tier Huai Toh waterfall for some water fun.
    • Hop in a longtail boat and climb into the caves at Khao Kanab Nam!

    FAMILY-FRIENDLY HOTELS:

    • Krabi SeaBass Hotel is located at the heart of Krabi town center with easy access to a wide variety of family-friendly tourist attractions. This 4-star hotel has a restaurant, bar, a shared lounge, a garden, and an outdoor pool.
    • Islanda Hideaway Resort offers beachfront accommodation on Klang Island, a 10-minute boat ride from Chaofa Pier. They have twenty-nine spacious bungalows with an outdoor infinity-edge pool and a restaurant.
    • Krabi Golden Hill Hotel is an affordable boutique hotel located in a prime location in Krabi town with two large swimming pools! The staff is warm and friendly and can help with any tours you might be interested in.
  • PATTAYA: Best For Unique Family-Friendly Activities

    Best Child-Friendly Activities And Hotels In Pattaya, Thailand

    Pattaya is best known as a party island for young couples and single people. However, this island is so much more than that and offers plenty of unique kid-friendly activities, such as visiting the Pattaya Sheep Farm, the Frost Magical Ice of Siam, and more!

    FAMILY-FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES:

    FAMILY-FRIENDLY HOTELS:

    • InterContinental Pattaya Resort provides its guests with a luxurious stay with 156 spacious guestrooms, suites, and villas. The resort also boasts a private white sand beach, and staff at the Activities Centre can arrange family-friendly excursions and fun activities.
    • Hotel Baraquda Pattaya offers world-class service! Families can enjoy the five in-house restaurants, a fitness room, a large outdoor pool, and a relaxing spa for mom and dad.
    • The 34-story Hilton Pattaya Hotel is adjacent to Central Festival Pattaya Beach and offers sweeping ocean views. Families will love their outdoor infinity pool, spa, three restaurants, and rooftop bar.
  • KOH CHANG: Best For Family Fun In The Ocean

    Best Child-Friendly Activities And Hotels In Ko Chang, Thailand

    Koh Chang (a.k.a. Elephant Island) is a picturesque island draped in jungle-covered peaks. It's an ideal spot for families who love to have fun in the ocean, from diving to snorkeling and more!

    FAMILY-FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES:

    • Diving is super popular in Koh Chang, and you will find my companies that offer diving lessons.
    • As you may have guessed, snorkeling is also very popular and an excellent activity for younger kids.
    • Along with epic sunsets, Koh Chang is known for its waterfalls, and Khlong Phlu Waterfall is one of the most popular falls on the island.
    • Rent a kayak and paddle to the small island Koh Man Nai.

    FAMILY-FRIENDLY HOTELS:

    • SYLVAN Koh Chang is situated on the beach with views of four islands! Boasting a beautiful outdoor pool and 159 Sea View rooms, suites, and pool villas.
    • Marina Sands Resort can be found at the Siam Royal Yacht Marina. It offers direct access to coral reef snorkeling, three different pool areas, restaurants, bars and lounges, a spa and wellness, and a fantastic kids club.
    • Soak up the sun before being lulled to sleep by the sound of gentle waves at the Centara Koh Chang Tropicana Resort. Its located on Klong Prao Beach and offers spacious rooms and plenty of activities for the kids, including in and outdoor play areas!
  • BANGKOK: Best For Energetic Families

    Best Child-Friendly Activities And Hotels In Bangkok, Thailand

    Busy, buzzy Bangkok will require you to be fully alert and ready for frolics! Alongside the megamalls, Bangkok still keeps its history with its majestic Grand Palace, serene reclining Buddha at Wat Pho, and the waterways of the Chao Praya.

    FAMILY-FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES:

    FAMILY-FRIENDLY HOTELS:

    • Little Steps Guide: Top 10 Family Friendly Hotels In Bangkok That Kids Love!
    • The Mandarin Oriental Bangkok is set on the banks of the river, and it's a magical place to have dinner with the family and watch the junk boats as they sail past. Close to the BTS, making it very accessible for getting around.
    • Eastin Grand Hotel Sathorn is situated in central Sathorn, and they have a dedicated family floor! The floor consists of connecting guest rooms. There is a special Kids Club on the floor with toys, games, Playstation 3 and Wii consoles, and activities focusing on younger children.
    • The Peninsula Bangkok is located on the Chao Phraya River, away from the hustle and bustle, and provides a glam sanctuary after a busy day. The facilities are impressive; the three-tiered pool, gym, and spa sit nicely alongside activities such as yoga, cookery classes, and Muay Thai lessons. The hotel's River Bar is one of the city's top people-watching spots.
  • KOH KOOD: Best For Endless Fun In The Sun

    Best Child-Friendly Activities And Hotels In Koh Kood, Thailand

    Koh Kood, also known as Koh Kut, is a fantastic family-friendly island to travel to and one of the best in Thailand for beach lovers and families who like to find beautiful waterfalls in the island's wild jungles.

    FAMILY-FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES:

    • Enjoy a day at the beach with the family at one of the dozen beaches on the island. If you want to snorkel, we suggest heading to Bangbao Beach.
    • Go island hopping with the whole gang with the handy ferries, and head to Ko Chang, Ko Mak, or the smaller island of Ko Wai.
    • Koh Kood has three wonderful waterfalls, all of which are free to visit.
    • Go for a fun hike with kids to find the 500-year-old Makka tree, also known as The Big Tree.

    FAMILY-FRIENDLY HOTELS:

    • High Season Pool Villa & Spa is located on Klong Chao Beach, and offers large villas (ranging from a  95sqm to 180sqm) with a private pool and terrace. This beautiful hotel comes with a huge pool, beach restaurant, and cocktail bar. It also has a welcoming indoor playroom for the kiddos.
    • Cham's House is a  luxurious beach retreat that offers its guests standalone thatched cottages with private terraces and features a private beachfront.
    • Your Soneva Kiri experience begins at Bangkok Airport, where you're met and escorted by private plane to the paradise island of Koh Kood. A five-minute trip on a speedboat, and you're delivered directly to your villa. Kids will love the giant bamboo kids' club is shaped like a manta ray, where tots can play, swim, join treasure hunts, hit the Chocolate Room, try meditation, or unleash their creative talents. As the day ends, the whole family can kick back at the outdoor Cinema Paradiso.
  • PHUKET: Best For An Easy Getaway

    Best Child-Friendly Activities And Hotels In Phuket, Thailand

    Thailand's largest island has long had its finger on the party pulse, but venture away from the crowds, and its pearly-white beaches, national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, and plentiful watersports provide a relaxing and luxurious getaway with plenty to do.

    FAMILY-FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES:

    FAMILY-FRIENDLY HOTELS:

    • Little Steps Guide: Best Hotels And Resorts For Families And Kids In Phuket
    • Little Steps Guide: Amazing Family-Friendly AirBNB and Villas In Phuket 
    • The Slate is a luxury five-star resort that will not only have parents coming back for more, but with its fab selection of experiences for young guests, children won't ever want to leave. The Slate's Tin Box Kids Club offers a variety of programs for children of all ages.
    • Stay at the Amanpuri offers toddlers to teens meaningful and memorable travel experiences throughout their stay, whether that be through nature, sports, or the local culture. Discover exploratory gardens, go on beach safaris, create videos, learn how to cook Thai cuisine, or join a Pilates class.
    • Trisara is an excellent hotel for parents to kick back and relax while the children fill their days with activities, from Trisara's Kids Club and non-motorized water sports to a large variety of daily activities. Kids stay free when sharing their parents' room.
  • CHIANG MAI: Best For Culture Lovers

    Best Child-Friendly Activities And Hotels In Chiang Mai, Thailand

    Before tourism cottoned on, Chiang Mai was the hub for Thailand's handicrafts. The city has since flourished outside of the moated walls of the Old City, but the ancient history, crafts and culture have remained. Pack sensible footwear and set out to uncover the cultural complex filled with boutique hotels, street stalls and temples that it is today.

    FAMILY-FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES:

    • Fantastic Thai cookery classes across the cities for kids of all ages!
    • Go see the elephants with the kids at the Elephant Nature Park. This elephant rescue and rehabilitation center leads the way in ethical elephant tourism!
    • See the  14th - 17th-century Lanna-style temples.
    • Head to the night markets for some delicious street food.

    FAMILY-FRIENDLY HOTELS:

    • For a luxurious stay, head to Shangri-La Chiang Mai, located a mere 10-minute drive from Chiang Mai International Airport. Kids will absolutely love the fantastic pool that comes with a cool slide. While mom and dad enjoy the private spa suites and relaxing beauty treatments.
    • For something more affordable but equally opulent, check out the Kireethara Boutique Resort. Its surrounded by Chiang Mai's and Doi Suthep's high green mountains and provides its guests with scenic mountain and forest views.
    • Stay at the Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai is a magical base for exploring the region and a sanctuary of well-being. Family Residences are available, and the kids' club offers a packed schedule of fun and games. Alongside the sumptuous spa, there's early morning yoga, rice planting, and a cooking academy to keep you occupied. Off-site, there are elephant camps and hill-tribe villages to visit.
  • KOH SAMUI: Best For Beach Life

    Best Child-Friendly Activities And Hotels In Koh Samui, Thailand

    Laidback and lovely Koh Samui is a popular destination for families thanks to its calm bays and soft sands. Spend your day kayaking, paddle boarding, snorkeling …or just napping under a coconut tree (we won't judge!).

    FAMILY-FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES:

    Also known as the jewel of the Indian Ocean, there are plenty of fun kid-friendly activities on this island!

    • Go chase waterfalls with the kiddos with a tour guide into the jungle.
    • Beach days galore on this island, make sure to pack fun beach toys and suncream!
    • Make sure to visit the Big Buddha on the island's north side.
    • Go see the animals at Samui Butterfly Garden and Samui Tiger Zoo.

    FAMILY-FRIENDLY HOTELS:

    • Conrad Koh Samui's private two- and three-bedroom villas overlook the Gulf of Thailand from a secluded hill on Koh Samui's southwestern tip. The hotel provides its guest with wonderful half- and full-day excursions, which include activities such as sunset yacht rides and Thai cooking classes. They also have an indoor play area for the children and babysitting/child services are provided at an additional charge.
    • The Four Seasons Koh Samui is located on the island's northwestern tip and is surrounded by gorgeous tropical gardens. This luxurious hotel offers rooms that each have a private infinity pool, private bar and iPod dock! Kids will love the outdoor play equipment and the awesome indoor play area with the latest board games and more! Babysitting/child services are provided at an additional charge.
    • Napasai - A Belmond Hotel offers private residences that are spacious, modern and come with large swimming pools. Ideal for larger groups and kids. The hotel also provides daily fun activities for children.
  • KANCHANABURI: Best For Sightseeing

    Best Child-Friendly Activities And Hotels In Kanchanaburi, Thailand

    Peppered with natural and historical attractions, Kanchanaburi offers endless sightseeing opportunities. World War II memories are prominent here with the Death Railway, Bridge over the River Kwae (Kwai), and the Allied War Cemetery, but there are also Khmer temple ruins, mysterious caves, bamboo rafting, and shopping to discover.

    FAMILY-FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES:

    • There are various gorgeous waterfalls to splash around, from the popular Erawan waterfall to the more remote Huai Mae Khamin waterfall.
    • Go on a history tour with the kids. There are various museums and sights, such as The Bridge on the River Kwai, where visitors can ride on some parts of the railway built atop trellises high above the river.
    • Take the children on a lazy afternoon stroll along the scenic riverside.

    FAMILY-FRIENDLY HOTELS:

    • Tubtim Siam River Kwai Resort offers beautiful private villas and suites (Junior and Family)  that come with their private pool. Children will be entertained in the Kids Club House or the outdoor playground.
    • The Modeva Hotel offers gorgeous accommodation that is family orientated. Guests can enjoy their free bikes, free private parking, an outdoor swimming pool, and a shared lounge. The hotel also features a fun kids' club and a children's playground.
    • Living up to its name, The Floathouse River Kwai is located right on the River Kwai and guests can jump from their villa into the water! Best accessed by boat, it's a unique stay with cozy rooms, inviting decks, homely food and all the main attractions nearby.
  • CHIANG RAI: Best For Peace & Quiet

    Best Child-Friendly Activities And Hotels In Chiang Rai, Thailand

    Chiang Rai, the northernmost province in Thailand, is the spiritual space you go to in your head when life gets hectic. This is a great family trip for older teens. The island is small, relaxed, and friendly; it’s the perfect place to trek to ancient settlements and visit the colorful hill tribes still inhabiting the lush green hills.

    FAMILY-FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES:

    • Check out the stunning architecture in Chiang Rai, created by two Thai artists: Wat Rong Khun (White Temple), Wat Rang Suea Ten (Blue Temple), and Baan Dum (Black House).
    • Go hiking in the mountains to explore the beautiful gardens and find the tea farms high up in Phu Chee Fah, Doi Tung, and Mae Salong.
    • Go on a guided tour into the jungle and meet the hill tribes like the Lahu that inhabit the villages deep in the tropical forest.

    FAMILY-FRIENDLY HOTELS:

    • Pa Sak Tong is a luxurious resort nestled amidst misty mountains for a peaceful experience. Children will love Kids Club inside the Baan Sak Tong Villa, and their experienced staff will have fun activities prepared with games, books, toys and no shortage of places to explore.
    • Mora Boutique Hotel offers a haven where you and your family can relax and have fun. With beautiful spacious rooms fitted with wooden furniture and a lovely outdoor swimming pool for the whole family to enjoy!
    • Stay at the Anantara Golden Triangle, a fantastic property offering guests the chance to interact with Asian elephants and learn about Mahout training. Away from the joy of the animals, we recommend chilling out by the pool, learning some Muay Thai, or just sipping local cocktails from your dreamy balcony daybed.

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