Thailand Beaches: Bangkok to Phuket

Intrepid Travel · 9 days
Thailand Beaches: Bangkok to Phuket
Thailand Beaches: Bangkok to Phuket
Thailand Beaches: Bangkok to Phuket
Thailand Beaches: Bangkok to Phuket
Thailand Beaches: Bangkok to Phuket
Thailand Beaches: Bangkok to Phuket
Thailand Beaches: Bangkok to Phuket
Thailand Beaches: Bangkok to Phuket
Thailand Beaches: Bangkok to Phuket
Thailand Beaches: Bangkok to Phuket
Thailand Beaches: Bangkok to Phuket
Thailand Beaches: Bangkok to Phuket
Thailand Beaches: Bangkok to Phuket
Thailand Beaches: Bangkok to Phuket
9 Days
From AUD $1545 Was AUD $2060
Trip Type
Small Group
Activity Level
Light

Rating


(20 reviews)

Thailand Beaches: Bangkok to Phuket

Thailand Beaches: Bangkok to Phuket

Intrepid Travel · 9 days
Duration

9 days

Tour Type

Small Group

Accommodations

Moderate

Physical Rating

Light

Guide Language

English

Experience Overview

Clear blue waters, white sands, swaying palm trees and a bungalow on the beach – this is what your next nine days through Thailand could look like.

Highlights

  • Ease into the beach-loving lifestyle of Thailand, with opportunities to go snorkelling, swimming and sailing to explore the amazing limestone cliff and caves, colorful coral reefs and mangrove forests.
  • Get to know the community of Baan Nai Nang village by spending time with the locals, enjoying a hearty home-cooked lunch and learning about their organic fruit orchids.
  • Discover a true slice of paradise on an included sea kayaking trip through the stunning inlets, caves and mangrove forests of Khao Lak.
  • Visit Wat Arun – the Temple of the Dawn. Named after the Indian God of Dawn, Aruna, this impressive landmark sits on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River. Then, enjoy a free afternoon to get to know Bangkok your own way (curry, anyone?).
  • Bliss out beach side on some of the most striking stretches in the world – Thailand's beaches boast white sands, sparkling sapphire waters and palm-fringed shores.

Trip Details

Duration

9 days

Transportation

Overnight sleeper train,Private minivan,Taxi,Speed boat,Songtheaw

Tour Type

Small Group

Guide Language

English

Starts

Bangkok, Thailand

Finishes

Phuket, Thailand

Accommodations

Moderate

Travel Style

Explorer

Physical Rating

Light

Itinerary

1
Day 1: Bangkok
Sa-wat dee! Welcome to Thailand. Your adventure begins in Bangkok, where world-class cuisine and lush landscapes only the beginning. You’ll have a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight to meet your local leader and fellow travellers. If you arrive early, why not explore this city of tuk tuks and street food at your own pace. Maybe watch the traditional khlong boats winding down the Chao Phraya River or walk around and get to know the local spots. After your meeting, you might want to walk down Khao San Road, grab dinner and get to know each other.

Optional Activities:

  • Bangkok - Temple & River of Kings Urban Adventure (2900 THB)
  • Bangkok - Chinatown Sights and Bites Urban Adventure (1960 THB)
  • Bangkok - Tuk Tuk Experience Urban Adventure (2500 THB)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
2
Day 2: Bangkok
You’ll start today with a visit to Wat Arun – the Temple of the Dawn. Named after the Indian God of Dawn, Aruna, this impressive landmark of Bangkok sits on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River. The rest of the afternoon is free for your own exploration. Perhaps head next door to the Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha or visit Wat Pho – home to the country's largest reclining Buddha and keeper of the magic behind Thai massage. Maybe take a riverboat to Chinatown and explore the crowded streets, or travel by longtail boat down the Chao Phraya River to explore the famous khlongs (canals) of Bangkok. Life along these canals seems a world away from the chaotic streets of the capital. Tonight, board an overnight train southbound for Surat Thani.

Included Activities:

  • Bangkok - Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)

Optional Activities:

  • Bangkok - National Museum (200 THB)
  • Bangkok - Thai Massage (300 THB)
  • Bangkok - Wat Pho (300 THB)
  • Bangkok - Grand Palace (500 THB)
  • Bangkok - Jim Thompson's House (200 THB)

Accommodation:

  • Overnight sleeper train (Number of Nights: 1)
3
Day 3: Ao Nang/Krabi
Arrive at Surat Thani this morning and continue by bus to the resort town of Ao Nang in the Krabi Province. Ao Nang has a main street with open-air restaurants, shops that light up the sidewalk and bars perfect for kicking back with a beer. You can also hop on a longtail boat to places like Railay Beach and the idyllic islands surrounding the bay. There's plenty of free time to relax on the beaches and get into the spirit of southern Thailand. You might like to take a cycling trip through back country tracks, getting to know local culture and taking an afternoon dip in a waterfall. Treat yourself to a relaxing massage on the beach or just sit back with a good book. In the late afternoon, visit Baan Na Teen village to take part in Batik Making. Learn about this ancient technique of dyeing, then join a local family for some home-cooking.

Included Activities:

  • Ao Nang – Baan Na Teen village community experience and home-cooked dinner

Optional Activities:

  • Ao Nang - Longtail Boat Taxi to Railay Beach (100 THB)
  • Ao Nang - Thai Massage (300 THB)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
4
Day 4: Ao Nang/Krabi
This morning, head out to Ao Nang beach and board a private longtail boat to start today’s exploration. As you sail, take in the beauty of the coastline, stopping at Phra Nang Cave, Railey Beach, Koh Tup and Koh Gai along the way. See the coral and tropical fish in the crystal clear waters below on snorkelling excursions and enjoy a half day of swimming and sailing. Tonight, why not grab some of your fellow travellers and stroll down the main drag to find a seafood restaurant.

Included Activities:

  • Ao Nang - Four Islands Snorkelling Tour

Optional Activities:

  • Ao Nang - Thai Cooking Class (1300 THB)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
5
Day 5: Khao Lak
Say goodbye to Ao Nang this morning and continue your journey to Khao Lak. On the way, stop at the community-based tourism initiative of Baan Nai Nang village (supported by Mangrove Action Project) where you’ll spend the better half of the day. Soak up the amazing nature and learning about local culture. Then, get active and venture out in a kayak to explore the water, limestone cliffs and mangrove forests at Khao Ka Rot. Return to the village and learn to prepare the organic local mulberry leaf tea, sitting down with your hosts for a home-cooked lunch. Head out for a walk through the village’s organic fruit orchards before hopping back on your bus to Khao Lak.

Included Activities:

  • Baan Nai Nang CBT village - village walk
  • Khao Ka Rot - sea kayaking
  • Ao Makham Beach - home cooked lunch & Mulberry leaf tea tasting

Accommodation:

  • Resort (Number of Nights: 1)
6
Day 6: Khao Lak
Enjoy a free day to explore Khao Lak at your own pace. Maybe visit Lam Ru National Park, known for its nature trails, secluded beaches and Ton Chong Fa Waterfall. Or take a daytrip to the Similan Islands or the Surin Islands, soaking up the gorgeous natural landscapes. Your local leader will be on hand with suggestions and to help you out with logistics.

Optional Activities:

  • Khao Lak - Lam Ru National Park & Ton Chong Fa WaterFall (200 THB)
  • Khao Lak - Pa-Kin-Na-Ka Thai Cooking Class (2000 THB)

Accommodation:

  • Resort (Number of Nights: 1)
7
Day 7: Phuket
This morning, you’ll leave the natural paradise for Phuket – Thailand’s largest and most visited island. When you arrive, you might like to stop at the Tsunami Memorial. Then, continue to the Royal Thai Navy Sea Turtle Conservation Center, which supports the protection of turtles, focusing on marine biodiversity. Learn about the important work that they do here and see the different type of turtles at the foundation. Later, continue to Patong Beach, where you’ll stay in the heart of it all near local shops, restaurants and nightclubs awaits.

Included Activities:

  • Khao Lak – Lampi Waterfalls
  • Khao Lak – Tsunami Memorial Park
  • Phang Nga - Royal Thai Navy Sea Turtle Conservation Center

Accommodation:

  • Resort (Number of Nights: 1)
8
Day 8: Phuket
Phuket is ringed with beaches and you can find everything from a party vibe to something a little quieter. If you can pull yourself away from the curving coasts, Phuket also has a range of activities to fill your day, from Thai boxing exhibitions to cabaret shows. If you love getting out on the water and exploring the islands, then perhaps use your last day to take a daytrip to the Phi Phi Islands and Khai Nok – a tiny island surrounded by white sandy beach, perfect for swimming and snorkelling. If you want to spend some time with Thailand’s elephants, maybe visit the Phuket Elephant Sanctuary. Here, you can see the elephants in the safety and security of their natural home and get an insight into the behaviour and personal history of each elephant. Tonight, maybe get together with your fellow travellers for dinner and toast to a trip well travelled.

Optional Activities:

  • Phuket - Phi Phi & Khai Nok Island Day Trip (3500 THB)
  • Phuket - Elephant Sanctuary (3500 THB)

Accommodation:

  • Resort (Number of Nights: 1)
9
Day 9: Phuket
There are no activities planned for the final day, and you can depart the accommodation at any time. That doesn’t mean your adventure has to end! If you’d like to continue to soak up the very best of Phuket, just get in touch with your booking agent ahead of time.
Exclusions
  • Flights to and from origin and destinations
  • Airport transfers (arrival and departure)
  • Anything else not explicitly listed in tour inclusions
  • Recommended gratuities/tipping
  • Optional activities/tours
  • Personal expenses
  • Travel insurance
  • Visas, meals and beverages not stated in the list of inclusions.
Important Information
Meals

When meals are not included, your tour leader (where available) will be happy to help with restaurant recommendations, bookings, and directions. Please let us know if you have any dietary needs or preferences. We willdo our best to accommodate these, though we cannot guarantee that every request can be met.

Luggage

You are responsible for your personal belongings throughout the tour. You will need to carry your own bags between the vehicle and your hotel room. Drivers will assist with loading and unloading luggage from the vehicle.

Mobility

Travellers requiring wheelchair access should contact our sales and service team, who can make enquiries on your behalf.

Fitness Level

This tour requires an Average level of fitness. Activities are paced gently and include leisure time. You may be expected to join guided walks of up to one hour, navigate short stairways and mild inclines, and manage your own luggage. You should also be able to board and exit all transport without assistance.

Travellers are expected to be self-sufficient and capable of handling all aspects of their journey. Please discuss your circumstances and support needs with your booking agent to confirm this trip is suitable.

If you are unsure, we recommend consulting your doctor before booking or travelling. (Note: I assume each tour has a different description depending on level of fitness required).

Sightseeing

If a planned site visit is unavailable due to changes in operating hours or holiday closures, the itinerary may be altered, or a comparable activity will be substituted where possible and subject to availability.

Visas

Visa conditions can change. Once you receive your travel documents, check with the relevant embassy, consulate, or immigration office of your destination for the latest information.

  • It is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct and valid travel documents and to comply with all entry requirements.
  • Non-Australian citizens must also confirm visa and identification requirements with the appropriate consulate or visa agency.
  • Certain occupations (for example, journalists, government officials, or those working in charities) may face additional restrictions when applying for visas, which could affect the type of application required.
Departure Dates & Surcharges: See checkout for live dates and availability.

From
AUD $2060

AUD $1,545
(Tour only)
Offer ends 18 Sep, 2025 Per Person Twin Share
25% Off

Duration: 9 days

Trip Type: Small Group

Activity Level: Light

Clear blue waters, white sands, swaying palm trees and a bungalow on the beach – this is what your next nine days through Thailand could look like.

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 05 Oct 2025

Customer Reviews

Overall Rating
Excellent
4.5
Guide
Excellent
4.5
Itinerary
Excellent
4.5
Accommodations
Excellent
4.5
Transportation
Excellent
4.5
Tour Operator
Excellent
4.5
Food
Excellent
4.5
5.0
Jody
Traveled, April 2024

04/19/2024

Just completed Thailand beech tour and what an experience. Our tour guide Benny went above and beyond what we asked of her and special mention to our group that made every day a party

4.5
Samantha
Traveled, March 2024

04/08/2024

Our trip to the beaches of Thailand was incredible! Such a beautiful country. The activities were enjoyable, the food was delicious, and the accommodations were very comfortable. Snorkeling in paradise and visiting the elephant sanctuary were some of the most amazing experiences of my life. And our trip leader, Cherry, was top-notch! She was fun and engaging and took excellent care of the group. I highly recommend this trip!

Tour Operator

Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.

In Business Since 1989