Family holiday ideas & recommendations

One of the world’s favourite family destinations, Thailand has a little bit of everything when it comes to travelling with children. Great food, great weather (most of the time!), great wildlife, great beaches and a local population who have helped Thailand become known as the “land of smiles”.

There are so many things you can experience here and every family has its own preferences and interests, so we’ve put together this guide to give you a little planning inspiration.

And of course, you’re always welcome to get in touch and chat to one of our Thailand specialists for some extra help.

Thailand’s cities are an intoxicating mix of modern and ancient cultures where daily life buzzes around historic temples, contemporary tower blocks and busy local markets. It’s a real eye-opener for kids to see a different culture close up. Even if you don’t stay long, a few nights in the cities is a great addition to you holiday.

Bangkok – Usually the starting point for your Thailand holiday, Bangkok is one of Asia’s great cities – filled with sights, sounds and amazing food. Kids will be fascinated by the things they see here, and we’ll show you the less touristy side of the city on our tuk tuk and longtail boat tour.

Chiang Mai – Up in the north of Thailand, Chiang Mai is a more serene and peaceful city to explore than the capital, with its own distinctive character, culture and cuisine. It can be lovely place to base yourselves for a few days with plenty nearby to keep the kids entertained, from exploring temples to wildlife day trips and even extreme sports.

Thailand’s wildlife is always a big hit with children and adults alike… who wouldn’t want the chance to meet an elephant? There are plenty more creatures to see too, as well as some truly wonderful places to see them.

Khao Sok National Park – One of our favourite wildlife spots in southern Thailand, this stunning national park is home to gibbons, hornbills and much more, as well as the Elephant Hills Camp – a conservation project where your family can stay in safari tents and get involved in feeding these mighty animals.

Khao Sam Roi National Park – Just a few hours from Bangkok, this beautiful park can be visited during your beach stay in Hua Hin, giving you the best of both worlds! Elephants and buffalo are among the wild animals you can see here, and we’ll arrange a visit to the Wildlife Friends Foundation who help sick and injured animals get back into the wild. It’s an inspiring project for your family to see first-hand.

Khao Yai National Park – This slice of idyllic nature in central Thailand is home to elephants, wildcats and more, but perhaps the most famous sight is the ‘bat cave’. Every sunset, thousands of bats emerge creating a spectacular aerial show. Spend a couple of nights in a comfy resort and set off non various jungle treks and safaris.

Spending a little time with the local people can be a great education for kids and a lot of fun too – experiencing a different way of life, home-cooked food, and the warmth of a community. We think it’s well worth adding a night or two into your family itinerary.

Northern hill tribes – Out in the beautiful countryside not too far from Chaing Mai, the Karen people have managed to maintain much of the same lifestyle and traditions of their ancestors. They love welcoming visitors and it’s a unique insight into life in a remote part of the world. Hike the hills, learn local sculpting techniques, and enjoy home-cooked food around the village campfire. Unforgettable!

Anurak Community Lodge – Located deep in the rainforests of Khao Sok National Park, surrounded by beautiful lakes and jungle, this lodge is run by an incredibly welcoming local community. They’ve created their own little paradise and love to host families, running their own guided tours and cooking delicious communal meals for their guests.

Beaches, oh so many wonderful beaches! It can be tough to pick the right one for a family holiday, with each destination holding its own charms. Here are a few of our favourite family beach spots for families.

(P.S. weather might also be a factor, so check out our handy school holiday guide.)

Ko Yao Yai – Located in beautiful Phang Na Bay between Phukat and Krabi, and surrounded by limestone cliffs and crystal clear waters, this is one of Thailand’s less-developed islands and also one of our favourites for families. Stay in a family-run bungalow, laze on quiet beaches and explore the coast by kayak and longtail boat – bliss!

Ko Samui – OK, so Koh Samui is hardly a secret these days but it’s popular for very good reasons, and especially so for families with kids prone to boredom! Aside from stunning beaches, great restaurants and comfortable accommodation, you’ll have options for snorkelling, kayaking, visiting the famous night market or booking one of many adventure sports locally.

Ko Tao – For something a little quieter off the east coast, Koh Samui’s little neighbour Koh Tao is a great option. Famed for its turtles and other marine life, this is one of Thailand’s best spots for snorkelling and diving. Elsewhere, it has everything you need in terms of restaurants, activities, and tranquil spots where you can relax and enjoy your book.

Now for something completely different…

Ko Hai – Uninhabited and affectionately known as Robinson Crusoe Island, this unique experience takes your family away from civilisation for a day and night of playing on empty beaches, fishing and sharing campfire stories. Camping on the beach is sure to be a favourite holiday memory for your kids!