Thailand beaches are famous: anticipate sun-drenched sweet white sands and waters in a thousand shades of blue.

Saying that water lovers are spoiled for choice when it comes to Thailand beaches is an understatement. Beaches of every meaning are found in this tropical country (visiting them all is a can't- miss thing to do here), from secluded stretches with only the most basic features to bar-lined celebration locations crowded with spirited revellers. Anywhere you lay your towel, anticipate sun-drenched sugary white sands and waters in a thousand shades of blue-- and a bottle of cold low-cost beer.

After a day spent under the sun, you'll wish to welcome the regional nightlife scene ... or lose consciousness in a comfy bed at one of the best hotels in town.

1. Railay Beach

Where is it? Krabi

What is it? Among the most sensational beaches in Thailand, situated in between the city of Krabi and Ao Nang.

Railay Beach tops every list and there's an apparent reason for it: it's beautiful, plain and easy. The beach uses a handful of lodging ranging from standard bungalows to sprawling luxury resorts.

2. Tha Pho Beach

Where is it? Koh Kood

What is it? A heavenly oasis on one of Thailand's most remote resort islands.

As one of the smaller islands in Thailand, Koh Kood clings to its slow-paced, dreamy vibe, a world away from the loud resorts of the nation's more prominent beach destinations. While the coasts of Tha Pho Beach are quiet, its relaxing turquoise waters are house to a growing underwater ecosystem where sea turtles, stingrays, barracudas and reef residents co-exist.

3. Chaweng Beach

Where is it? Koh Samui

What is it? The ideal area to pitch up and celebration.

Lots of tourists have actually cottoned on to this magnificent stretch in Koh Samui, however we could not go over Thailand beaches without mentioning it. The high-end resorts in the northern part of Chaweng Beach deal idyllic areas to take a breather and take pleasure in a medical spa holiday, but if you 'd rather invest your time at the beach soaking up the sun with a mixed drink and then partying 'til dawn, there's also plenty of chances to do simply that.

4. Kata Noi

Where is it? Phuket

What is it? An oasis of calm compared to the dynamic neighbouring Kata Beach

Kata Noi uses silky soft sand backed beach vacation by a hillside roadway lined with sunset bars and little shacks offering cold Singha and excellent food. Riders will find a good spot for browsing in the northern end of the beach, while snorkelers will do well to make for the rocky headlands at either end of the bay.

5. White Sand Beach.

Where is it? Koh Chang

What is it? A deliciously picturesque beach with a vibrant nightlife scene.

Why go? The sand is soft, the palm trees sway and the water is warm. Sundown sees beach bums and backpackers settling into delighted hour with dreadlocked rasta artists and party individuals. As the night deepens, the beach comes alive with candle-lit tables, fire dancers and thumping noises from clubs that stay open till the last stragglers stumble out. Tourist and advancement have long crept up on this part of Koh Chang (the third largest island in Thailand) however due to the island's national forest status, there are no tall structures that hinder the island's scenic views.

6. Laem Thong Beach

Where is it? Koh Phi Phi

What is it? The island's most secluded and exclusive beach.

Whether bathed in the pastel shades of the sunrise, the fantastic light of daytime or the silver of moonlight, this flour-white-sand-blessed stretch in Koh Phi Phi is spectacular 24 hours a day. The growing reefs just off the beach and in the neighbouring islands are home to abundant marine life, and makes an ideal snorkelling or diving getaway for newbies and the more knowledgeable.

7. Sai Kaew Beach

Where is it? Koh Samet

What is it? A jaw-dropping combo of soft white sands of and up-tempo nightlife, just a few hours from Bangkok.

Why go? Sai Kaew Beach is the ideal location for a quick weekend getaway. Effortlessly fusing the lazy (morning strolls, afternoon naps, massages on the sand) with the lively (every sort of water activity imaginable, all-night parties on the beach), Sai Kaew lures beachgoers whose sole vacation goal is to indulge, whether on almost year-round sun, relatively excellent food or cheap alcohol. And relax.

8. Sunset Beach

Where is it? Koh Lipe

What is it? A peaceful beach understood for its bohemian environment and, as its name suggests, spectacular sundowns.

Why go? Surrounded by big boulders that jut out of the sand and water, Sundown Beach in Koh Lipe (a little island near the Thailand/Malaysia border) is still fairly remote. This 'secret' spot, with its soft-as-sifted-flour sand, cyan skies and Tiffany-blue waters will interest those who wish to let the silence in and experience a sense of timelessness. Other than for a couple of bungalows and driftwood-built dining establishments, advancement is limited to sun loungers scattered on the beach and suppliers offering cold drinks.

9. Thong Nai Pan Noi Beach

Where is it? Koh Phangan

What is it? A sandy cove in the northernmost part of the island.

This beach invites New Age hippie types, laidback bodyboarders, honeymooners and tourists looking for a slower speed of life (although those who prefer activity will discover a diving school and jet-skis for hire). There are no off-shore reefs in its gin-clear waters, but velvet-like sand runs continuously into deep water at all tides, making the location terrific for swimming or simply sprinkling around.