4 Best Sights in Ao Nang, Phuket and the Andaman Coast

Fringed by palm trees, this long stretch of soft white sand is the main beach in town. There's a long, winding promenade stretching from one end of the beach to the other. Ao Nang Beach is the jumping-off point for longtail boats to Railay and Tonsai beaches, and to the limestone islands of Ko Hong, Ko Poda, and Ko Gai. Amenities: food and drink; parking (fee); toilets. Best for: solitude; sunset; surfing; swimming; walking.

West of Ao Nang on the mainland, the beaches of Klong Muang and Tubkaak are beautiful stretches of sand with amazing views of the limestone karst islands on the horizon. These beaches are largely occupied by upmarket resorts such as the Sheraton and The Tubkaak, though, and none of the amenities come free. Amenities: food and drink; toilet; water sports. Best for: solitude; sunset; walking.

On the western edge of Noppharat Thara National Park, Laem Son Beach is a long stretch of sand with a few vendors selling Thai specialities. There are a few inexpensive beachside bungalows to stay at, too. Amenities: food and drink; parking (free). Best for: solitude; sunset; swimming.

Noppharat Thara Beach, part of Noppharat Thara National Park, is a 15-minute walk from central Ao Nang. After the renovated walking path was extended from Ao Nang in 2004, a mishmash of development followed (even though it's supposedly part of the national park). The beach is still pleasant but many of the trees have been uprooted to make way for resorts. Amenities: food and drink. Best for: swimming; walking.