Parents! Thailand has all the right ingredients for a family holiday – ethical animal encounters, friendly locals, cultural experiences, exhilarating sea sports – and not to mention gorgeous beaches where little ones can splash in translucent waters and play on powdery-soft sand. In fact, we think Thailand is one of the best places in Southeast Asia for families!
We’ve put together a selection of days out that combine culture, learning and activity with plenty of fun. They are guaranteed to entertain the kids and bring out everyone’s inner child.
The islands that make up the Phi Phi National Park are the ideal place for all ages to enjoy outdoor activities in warm, crystal clear, shallow waters. There are opportunities to swim and snorkel among tropical fish and above beautiful coral gardens. Families can reconnect with nature by observing wild macaques on Monkey Beach. At Viking Cave, find out how swifts create edible birds’ nests and view age-old cave drawings. And no visit to Phi Phi would be complete without visiting beautiful Maya Bay, made famous by the Hollywood film, The Beach.
This eco-friendly cycling tour offers healthy fun for all the family amid the beautiful scenery of Samui island. On a bicycle suited to your size, set off on a leisurely ride that is easy for all abilities and ages. The route takes you along a sandy beach, through quaint local villages and past exquisite temples. Explore an ancient house and find out about ‘folk wisdom’. After refueling with drinks and sweet snacks, visit a coconut factory to sample fresh coconut water. End the tour with a hearty lunch in a local restaurant.
In Krabi, adventurous families can bond on the ultimate sea kayaking adventure! Leisurely paddle a kayak among mangrove forests, offshore islands, coastal canyons and along narrow channels through towering cliffs. Observe wildlife in its natural habitat and keep an eye open for the local inhabitants – kingfishers, herons and crab eating macaques! Cool down after all the paddling with a swim or snorkel in the crystal-clear water to learn about the underwater world. There is also time to feed the fish!
Known as one of the best spots to view herds of wild elephants in Thailand, Kui Buri National Park is also home to a large population of gaurs, deer and hornbills. On this ethical tour, you will get to view these beautiful birds and animals from an open-air pick-up truck. See them in their natural habitat, foraging and playing – an unforgettable experience for all ages. At the same time, the knowledgeable guide will explain the behaviors, life cycle, and habits of the elephants and other animals you encounter.
On this evening tour whizz around Bangkok in an iconic tuk tuk – a fun and fast way for both children and adults to marvel at Bangkok’s glittering temples and gleaming skyscrapers. Weave through the bustling streets of Chinatown and pass by famous sights such as the Giant Swing and Ratchadamnoen Road. There’s plenty of stops for hungry kids (and adults) to sample local snacks from street-food stalls, slurp delicious noodle soup and satisfy sweet cravings with traditional desserts.
Immerse the entire family in spirituality, culture and local life in Chiang Mai. Start the day with a new experience – an early morning alms-giving ceremony with local Buddhist monks. A thrilling long-tail boat trip down the river takes you to a local farmhouse to meet the friendly farmer and explore the fruit garden. Stroll through one of the city’s oldest markets to see a myriad of exotic flowers and unusual fruits and vegetables. Then it’s time to hop onto a foot-pedalled trishaw for a ride – and a step back in time – at the Chiang Mai City Arts & Cultural Centre.
Enhance your stay in Thailand with the diverse range of excursions, tours and experiences on offer with Honeymoon Islands. Whether the agenda includes touring sacred temples; sitting ringside at a Muay Thai fight; volunteering at an elephant sanctuary; exploring pristine rainforests; or sailing to hidden lagoons, we’ll create an unforgettable handcrafted journey in Thailand just for you. Email: hello@honeymoonislands.com