{"id":3687,"date":"2026-05-05T08:26:58","date_gmt":"2026-05-05T08:26:58","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/honeykidsasia.com\/thailand\/?p=3687"},"modified":"2026-05-05T08:26:58","modified_gmt":"2026-05-05T08:26:58","slug":"thai-beaches-worlds-50-best-beaches-2026","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/honeykidsasia.com\/thailand\/thai-beaches-worlds-50-best-beaches-2026\/","title":{"rendered":"The World\u2019s 50 Best Beaches 2026: 3 Thai beaches made the list"},"content":{"rendered":"

The World\u2019s 50 Best Beaches for 2026 list is officially out and 3 Thai beaches have made the global cut including <\/span>Donald Duck Bay (#10), Paradise Beach (#23) and Freedom Beach (#27).\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

In a country where it feels like summer all year round, a trip to the beach is always a good call. Whether you’re chasing a <\/span>quick weekend escape<\/span><\/a> or planning a proper seaside holiday with your family, Thailand is never short on options.<\/span><\/p>\n

And if you\u2019re wondering where to head for your next family beach day, this newly released list might just help you pick your next spot.<\/span><\/p>\n

This year\u2019s number 1 spot goes to Entalula Beach in Palawan, Philippines which is often described as an untouched slice of paradise, with dramatic limestone cliffs, powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters. You can view the full list <\/span>here<\/span><\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\n

What is the World\u2019s 50 Best Beaches?<\/span><\/h2>\n
\"\"
Photography: worlds50beaches\/Website<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Unlike The World’s 50 Best Restaurants (which is owned by William Reed), this list is organised by an independent media group of the same name.<\/span><\/p>\n

It\u2019s put together using insights from over 1,000 travel experts, including journalists, influencers, bloggers and dedicated \u201cBeach Ambassadors\u201d from around the world.<\/span><\/p>\n

For the 2026 edition, the team took things a step further by carrying out year-round, on-the-ground scouting to verify nominations and make sure each beach really lives up to its spot on the list.<\/span><\/p>\n

How are the World\u2019s 50 Best Beaches selected?<\/span>
\n<\/span><\/h2>\n

The ranking is created through a detailed selection process, where travel experts nominate their favourite beaches, which are then reviewed and verified by the World\u2019s 50 Best Beaches team alongside their global network of Beach Ambassadors. <\/span>
\n<\/span>
\n<\/span>Each beach is assessed across eight criteria, including uniqueness, wildlife, untouched nature, natural soundscape, ease of entering the water, calm conditions, lack of crowds and the chances of perfect beach weather.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a><\/p>\n

Sweeten up your inbox!\u00a0Subscribe to HoneyKids Asia Thailand<\/a><\/h3>\n

3 Thai beaches on the World\u2019s 50 Best Beaches 2026 list\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n

1. Donald Duck Bay (#10)<\/b><\/h3>\n
\"\"
Photography: worlds50beaches\/Website<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Even though it\u2019s called Donald Duck Bay, it has nothing to do with The Walt Disney Company. The name comes from a big rock that looks like Donald Duck\u2019s head. The beach is known for its clear water and soft white sand, so it\u2019s an easy spot for families with kids to swim and snorkel. You might spot colourful fish or even sea turtles. There\u2019s also a short hike up to Sail Rock for a great view, though it can be a bit steep. Most visitors arrive by boat from Khao Lak or Phuket and it\u2019s usually open from mid-October to mid-May.<\/span><\/p>\n

Where<\/b>: <\/span>Similan Island No 8, Phang Nga<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

2. Paradise Beach (#23)<\/h3>\n
\"\"
Photography: worlds50beaches\/Website<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Unlike busier beach spots, this one is known for its peace and quiet, with no roads or cars and plenty of untouched nature. Expect clear, shallow turquoise water that stays calm for most of the year. One of the highlights is snorkelling straight from the shore, where coral and small marine life can be seen just offshore. The sand is soft and bright white, with greenery along the beach. It\u2019s best visited between December and April.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Where<\/b>: <\/span>Koh Kradan, Trang<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

3. Freedom Beach (#27)<\/h3>\n
\"\"
Photography: worlds50beaches\/Website<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Accessible only by long-tail boat or a 25\u201330 minute jungle walk, Freedom Beach feels like a little hidden escape for families who don\u2019t mind a bit of adventure. Located between green hills and the bright blue Andaman Sea, the beach has soft white sand that\u2019s great for kids to play on. The water near the shore is clear, shallow and usually calm. Because it\u2019s harder to reach, it\u2019s one of the few places in Phuket where you can still enjoy a crowd-free beach day.<\/span><\/p>\n

Where<\/b>: <\/span>Pa Tong, Phuket\u00a0<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

Frequently Asked Questions<\/h2>

Where is Donald Duck Bay located?<\/h3>
Donald Duck Bay is located on Similan Island No. 8 in Phang Nga and is known for its clear waters and unique rock formation.<\/div>

Which Thai beach is best for families with kids?<\/h3>
All three beaches are family-friendly, but Donald Duck Bay and Paradise Beach are especially suitable thanks to their calm, shallow waters and easy snorkelling spots.<\/div>

Is Freedom Beach suitable for kids?<\/h3>
Freedom Beach can be great for families, but getting there requires either a boat ride or a 25\u201330 minute jungle walk, so it\u2019s better suited for slightly older kids.<\/div>

What makes Paradise Beach special?<\/h3>
Paradise Beach on Koh Kradan is known for its peaceful atmosphere, clear shallow water and the ability to snorkel directly from the shore.<\/div>

When is the best time to visit these Thai beaches?<\/h3>
Most of these beaches are best visited between December and April, when the weather is dry and the sea is calm.<\/div><\/div>