Hello, my fellow travelers! Today, I want to take you to one of my favorite destinations for beachside dining – Thailand. The Land of Smiles is known for its stunning coastline stretching more than 3,000 kilometers, crystal-clear waters, and, of course, its exceptional cuisine.
When it comes to beachside dining, Thailand has much to offer. From candlelit dinners on the beach to fresh seafood BBQs enjoyed with your toes in the sand, the options are endless. But, not all beachside restaurants are created equal. In this article, I will introduce you to some of the most exquisite beachside dining experiences in Thailand.
Let's start with the island of Phuket, located in the southern part of Thailand. This tropical paradise boasts some of the most magnificent beaches in the country. One of my favorite spots is Black Ginger at The Slate Resort. This floating restaurant has a unique ambiance, surrounded by a lagoon and accessible only by a small boat. The menu features traditional Thai dishes with a modern twist, and the vibe is relaxed and romantic.
Overview of Thailand's Beachside Dining
Thailand is known worldwide for its stunning beaches, beautiful landscapes and delicious food. With its unique flavors, spices and ingredients, Thai cuisine is an integral part of Thailand's cultural experience.
One of the most popular ways to experience Thai cuisine is through beachside dining. Imagine dining on the soft sand with the sound of the waves crashing in the background, as you savor some of the most exquisite Thai cuisine.
Thailand offers a wide range of beachside dining options that cater to all tastes and budgets. Whether you are looking for a romantic dinner for two, a family-friendly restaurant, or a party atmosphere with friends, Thailand has it all.
In this article, I explore some of the best beachside dining options across Thailand. From Phuket to Koh Samui, Hua Hin to Krabi, and Pattaya, I will take you on a culinary journey across some of Thailand's best beach locations.
Best Restaurants in Phuket for a Beachside Dining Experience
Phuket is one of the most popular destinations in Thailand, known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife. When it comes to beachside dining, Phuket offers some of the best options in Thailand. Here are some of my top picks:
1. SALA Phuket Restaurant & Beach Bar
Located on Mai Khao Beach, SALA Phuket Restaurant & Beach Bar offers a beautiful and romantic dining experience. The restaurant is known for its seafood dishes, and guests can choose from a wide selection of fresh fish, crabs and lobsters. The restaurant is also known for its stunning sunsets, which makes it a popular spot for couples.
2. La Gritta Italian Restaurant
La Gritta Italian Restaurant is located on the beachfront of Patong Beach, one of the main tourist areas in Phuket. With its Italian cuisine and romantic atmosphere, it is an ideal spot for couples. The restaurant offers a wide selection of pasta, pizza and seafood dishes, and its wine selection is impressive.
3. The Beach Bar at Thavorn Beach Village Resort & Spa
Located on Kamala Beach, The Beach Bar at Thavorn Beach Village Resort & Spa is a great spot for families. With its relaxed atmosphere, children can play on the beach while parents enjoy a delicious meal. The restaurant has a wide range of Thai and international dishes, and its cocktails are a must-try.
Top Restaurants in Koh Samui Perfect for Any Occasion
Koh Samui is another popular destination in Thailand, known for its beautiful white sand beaches and calm waters. When it comes to beachside dining, there are several top restaurants that cater to all types of visitors. Here are some of my top picks:
1. The Beach Club at Banyan Tree Samui
The Beach Club at Banyan Tree Samui is a chic and stylish beach club located on the southeastern tip of Koh Samui. The restaurant offers a stunning view of the ocean, and guests can enjoy a variety of Thai and international dishes. The cocktails are a popular choice, and the ambiance is perfect for a romantic dinner for two.
2. Zazen Restaurant
Zazen Restaurant is a cozy and romantic restaurant located on the beachfront of Bophut Beach. With its Mediterranean and Thai cuisine, it is a must-try for food lovers. The restaurant is known for its extensive wine list and its live entertainment, which includes traditional Thai music and dance performances.
3. The Dining Room at The Library
The Dining Room at The Library is a beautiful restaurant located on Chaweng Beach. The restaurant has a contemporary design and offers a wide range of Thai, Asian and international dishes. Guests can enjoy the panoramic view of Chaweng Beach, while savoring some of the best dishes in Koh Samui.
The Best Place to Enjoy Seafood in Pattaya
Pattaya is a city on the east coast of Thailand, known for its sandy beaches, watersports and nightlife. When it comes to beachside dining, Pattaya is home to some of the best seafood restaurants in Thailand. Here are some of my top picks:
1. The Glass House
The Glass House is a stunning restaurant located on Na Jomtien Beach, a short drive from Pattaya. The restaurant's menu features a wide range of seafood dishes, including grilled prawns, baked mussels, and spicy crab curry. With its casual atmosphere and stunning views of the Gulf of Thailand, it is a popular spot for families and seafood lovers.
2. Rimpa Lapin
Rimpa Lapin is a traditional Thai seafood restaurant located on Jomtien Beach. The restaurant is known for its fresh seafood dishes and its unique cooking style. Guests can choose their seafood from the water tanks, and watch as it is prepared in front of them. The restaurant has a traditional Thai ambiance and is perfect for those seeking an authentic dining experience.
3. Surf & Turf Beach Club
Surf & Turf Beach Club is a modern and trendy restaurant located on Jomtien Beach. The restaurant offers a wide range of seafood dishes, as well as some delicious meat dishes. The cocktails are a popular choice, and the beach club atmosphere is perfect for those seeking a fun and lively dining experience.
Enjoy a Romantic Dinner on the Beach in Krabi
Krabi is one of the most beautiful provinces in Thailand, known for its stunning beaches and limestone cliffs. When it comes to beachside dining, Krabi is home to some of the most romantic and secluded restaurants in Thailand. Here are some of my top picks:
1. The Grotto at Rayavadee Resort
The Grotto at Rayavadee Resort is a unique restaurant located in a natural cave on Phranang Beach. The restaurant offers a stunning view of the beach and the limestone cliffs, and the ambiance is simply magical. The restaurant is known for its seafood dishes and its delicious cocktails.
2. Lae Lay Grill
Lae Lay Grill is a romantic restaurant located on the beachfront of Ao Nang Beach. The restaurant offers a panoramic view of the Andaman Sea, and the atmosphere is perfect for a romantic dinner for two. The restaurant's menu features a wide range of Thai and international dishes, and the wine selection is impressive.
3. On the Rocks at Krabi Resort
On the Rocks at Krabi Resort is a restaurant located on the beachfront of Ao Nang Beach. The restaurant offers a stunning view of the sunset, and guests can enjoy a romantic dinner on the beach. The restaurant's menu features a variety of Thai and international dishes, and the cocktails are a popular choice.
Unique Dining Experiences in Thailand: Floating Restaurants and More
In addition to beachside dining, Thailand offers several unique dining experiences that are a must-try. From floating restaurants to mountainside dining, here are some of my top picks:
1. Krua Lom View Restaurant
Krua Lom View Restaurant is a unique mountain-side restaurant located in Chiang Mai. The restaurant offers a stunning view of the city, and guests can enjoy a variety of traditional Thai dishes. The restaurant's ambiance is peaceful and relaxing, and it is a popular spot for visitors seeking a break from the hustle and bustle of the city.
2. Khao Yai Floating Market
Khao Yai Floating Market is a unique shopping and dining experience located in Khao Yai National Park. The market offers a wide range of Thai street food, as well as other souvenirs and handicrafts. The floating restaurant is a popular spot for visitors seeking a unique dining experience, and the view of the lake is breathtaking.
3. Baan Rim Pa Patong Restaurant
Baan Rim Pa Patong Restaurant is a unique restaurant located on a cliff overlooking Patong Beach. The restaurant offers a stunning view of the ocean, and guests can enjoy a wide range of Thai and international dishes. The restaurant is known for its romantic ambiance and live entertainment, which includes traditional Thai music and dance performances.
