Mention Thailand and images of gorgeous white beaches, bustling night markets and tantalising Thai cuisine comes to mind. This amazing country seems to have it all and it’s no secret that Thailand is a hot favourite when it comes to a relaxing getaway, especially if you’re looking for a beach vacation. So here are 4 Muslim-friendly beach spots in Thailand that’ll suit every type of traveller – Krabi, Hua Hin, Pattaya and Phuket! What’s more, with direct flights from Kuala Lumpur to these 4 beach spots, your ideal beach vacation is just 2 hours away.
For couples and honeymooners:
1. Krabi
Looking for a couple’s retreat, away from the bustling city life? Then Krabi’s the ideal place. With secluded beaches which are spotlessly clean, you can lounge for hours at the beach enjoying that private moment with your other half. Not to mention the stunning Muslim-friendly villas and delicious halal food that await you.
a) Romantic beaches
A visit to Krabi wouldn’t be complete without heading to its well-known icon, Railay Beach. Although this beach is widely visited, the beauty of its glittering white sand and rock landscapes is still too hard to resist.
But if you’re looking for something a little less mainstream, take your partner to Tub Kaek Beach located north of Krabi. Seclusion is key here and you can experience how it feels to have a private beach, with less crowds due to only a small number of luxury resorts dotting the area.
And if you don’t mind travelling a little further, head out to Koh Lanta, an island off Krabi. This peaceful sanctuary has white sandy beaches with more than 60 smaller islands and coral reefs. The best part is you have 12 lovely beaches to choose from!
b) Stunning accommodations
One of the key aspects to having the perfect couple’s retreat is a good accommodation and while Krabi has thousands of resorts and villas, finding the ideal one can be difficult so here are our top picks.
Phu Phi Maan Resort
This Muslim-owned resort is tucked away in Krabi’s tropical forests so that means staying here offers you an unobstructed view of its stunning rock formations and the sea from above. And since its run by Muslims, you don’t have to worry about getting halal food!
It offers a range of villas and some even with premium pool access so that’s definitely a plus point for your couple time! But if you’d like to go out and have some sun, their pool area itself is spacious and beautifully designed too.
Address: Ao Nang Phu Pi Maan Resort and Spa 86/8 Moo 2, Ao Nang, Muang, Krabi 81180 Thailand
Contact No: +66 (0) 75 637 111, +66 (0) 75 637 123
Rate: From 1925 THB per night
Pimalai Resort and Spa Located in Koh Lanta island off Krabi, this luxury resort is perched on a hill and faces the blue waters of the Andaman Sea. If you’re thinking of the word exclusive for your alone couple time, then nothing compares to this.
Their Hillside Ocean View Pool Villa lets you experience having your own sundeck or taking a dip in an infinity-edge pool. All these while having an impressive view of the sea from up to 80 meters high!
#HHWT Tip: The hotel can make special arrangements for halal food. All you have to do is inform them in advance.
Address: 99 Moo 5, Ba Kan Tiang Beach Koh Lanta, Krabi 81150, Thailand
Contact No: +66 (0) 2320 5500, +66 (0) 75 607 999
Rate: From 9983 THB
Website | Facebook | Instagram
Layana Resort & Spa Another resort on Koh Lanta, Layana guarantees total peace and relaxation as it’s an adult-only resort. With an infinity pool looking out into the sea and direct access to the beach, nothing comes closer to paradise on Earth than this.
The resort also has chairs at the beach, so you can chill all day by the Andaman Sea and catch spectacular sunsets – such a dream for your couple’s vacay.
Address: 272 Moo 3 Saladan, Phra-Ae Beach, Koh Lanta, Krabi 81150, Thailand
Contact No: +66 (0) 7560 7100
Rate: From 4973 THB
Website | Facebook | Instagram
c) Halal food
With Muslims making up to 40% of Krabi’s population, halal food in Krabi is not difficult to find. Here are some recommendations: Pak Nam Krabi Seafood Restaurant Pak Nam is one of the well-known halal restaurants in Krabi serving local seafood. The eatery gives a very laidback vibe as it’s located along the Krabi River, so diners can enjoy fresh air and sea breeze while indulging in scrumptious seafood.
Most of their dishes are prepared in Southern Thai-style and their seafood is freshly caught from the ocean. Try their Tom Yum Goong which is hot and spicy, and their delicious Horseshoe Crab Salad.
Halal status: Muslim-owned
Address: 140 Moo 7 Tambon Sai Thai, Krabi 81000
Opening hours: 11am – 8pm
Contact No: +66 81-8949454, +66 94-9649293
May & Zin Restaurant If you’re near the main tourist area of Ao Nang, head over to May & Zin Restaurant at the food court overlooking the beach, with affordable food too. So, you can dine with a view without burning a hole in your wallet!
Some of their highly recommended dishes are pad thai, soft-shell crab in yellow curry and green curry! Complete your meal with the pandan chicken and you’ll have yourself a meal to remember.
Halal status: Muslim-owned
Address: Ao Nang Beach | Nopparat Thara Beach, Ao Nang, Krabi Town 81000, Thailand
Contact No: +66 85 473 5185
Opening hours: 11AM – 9PM
De’Fish Seafood Restaurant
If you’re looking for a fancy meal to celebrate the milestones of your relationship, head over to De’Fish Seafood Restaurant at the Aonang Fiore Resort. With a romantic ambience, this restaurant will blow your other half away!
The best part is you can pick the seafood yourself and have them whip it up for you in whatever style you prefer. Their seafood selection like Red Curry Tiger Prawns and Curry Crab are highly recommended. Plus, their Pineapple Fried Rice, Pad Thai and Basil Chicken are worth a mention too. 
Plus, with an alfresco dining area, customers would be able to indulge in fresh seafood while admiring the gorgeous view of Krabi’s incredible limestone formations.
Halal status: Halal ingredients used
Address: 764 Moo 2 Aonang, Muang Krabi, Krabi, Thailand
Opening hours: 10AM – 10PM
Contact No: +66 75 695 522
For the hipsters and photography enthusiasts:
2. Hua Hin
Often overshadowed by other beach cities in Thailand, Hua Hin is a gem waiting to be discovered. This city is more than just a beach spot – there are plenty of picturesque sights to explore. Plus, with a mere 2-hour flight from Kuala Lumpur, it’s never been easier to head to Hua Hin.
a) Insta-worthy spots
Perhaps what sets Hua Hin apart from other beach cities is the many Instagram-worthy spots. From nostalgic buildings to nature spots, Hua Hin is bursting with life!
Hua Hin Railway Station
The most iconic landmark of Hua Hin, stepping into Hua Hin Railway Station transports you back in time. The station was built in the 1920s and is one of Thailand’s oldest, complete with a unique architecture which has been preserved through the years.
The fact that the station is still a functioning railway and a photo spot makes it even more fascinating. But don’t worry, you can still get on the tracks and it’ll be a waste not to strike a pose here!
#HHWT Tip: Visit Hua Hin Railway Station at night to see the station lit up in fairy lights. It’s definitely a sight to behold
Santorini Park
You might probably have seen breathtaking photos of the Greek islands and wishing you could transport yourself there right away! Well, to save you all that hassle of planning that dream Greek Islands trip, head over to Santorini Park in Hua Hin instead.
Modelled after the Greek Island which every beach vacationer aspires to go, Santorini Park has whitewashed walls with a dash of colourful windows. Trust us, your friends will be convinced that you’re really in Greece.
Address: Petchakasem Road, Amphoe Cha-Am, Phetchaburi, Thailand 76120
Opening hours: Mon – Fri, 9.30am – 6.30pm, Sat – Sun, 9am – 6.30pm
Contact No: +66 81 930 8967
Pranburi Forest Park
Take a break from your beach vacay and be one with nature at Pranburi Forest Park. Built to protect the area’s mangroves, this park with lush greenery offers a scenic respite and is refreshing to say the least!
A lot of locals come here on the weekends to take a break from their hectic schedules, so be sure to say hi. A trail on the boardwalk will bring you through mangroves, pine forests and a river, plus a stunning view of the hills surrounding the park.
BONUS: Hin Lek Fai Hill
Here’s where you can get an unobstructed view of Hua Hin from above. The combination of the town, the sea and the greenery creates an impressive view you won’t want to miss. There are 6 viewpoints at Hin Lek Fai Hill so you can choose where to snap the perfect picture. But we hear the fifth viewpoint is the best!
#HHWT Tip: If you want a more spectacular view of Hua Hin, visit the viewpoint during sunrise or sunset.
Address: 527/3 ตำบล หัวหิน หัวเหล็กไฟ Tambon Hua Hin, Amphoe Hua Hin, Chang Wat Prachuap Khiri Khan 77110, Thailand
Opening hours: 6am – 8pm
b) Beaches
The best part about not being the go-to place for beach vacationers is that you most likely won’t find yourself stuck in between crowds. Although the beaches in Hua Hin might not be as impressive as those in Krabi, it has its own charm – a world away from what you’ll find in other places.
Head over to Cha-Am Beach for a taste of life in a local village, with friendly vendors along the beach. If you want to escape the crowds, we recommend visiting Suan Son Pradipat Beach and you’d have (almost!) the whole beach to yourself except for some locals.
c) Halal food
Although not commonly associated with halal food, Hua Hin has some hidden halal eateries which only the locals would know.
Mooz Hua Hin
A Muslim-friendly hotel which has a halal restaurant on its premises, Mooz Hua Hin is one of the must-try halal eateries when you’re in Hua Hin. The small and cozy restaurant serves palatable halal Thai cuisine in a homely setting.
Be sure to try their Stir-Fried Crab Meat with Curry, Papaya Salad and fried rice varieties. Plus, there’s also a selection of Western food here like seafood spaghetti for those days you don’t feel like having Thai food!
Halal status: Muslim-owned
Address: 29/5 , Naeb K Haad Rd., A. Hua Hin, 77110 Hua Hin, Thailand
Opening hours: 9AM – 8.30PM, daily
Contact No: +66 95 524 1339
Than Roti Mataba
Known for their crispy and buttery roti, Than Roti Mataba is one of the favourites in Hua Hin when it comes to this Thai street snack. Not only do they sell the classic roti with sugar and a drizzle of condensed milk, their savoury items are also a hit. Try their Mataba Roti – crunchy and flaky on the outside filled with tasty curry potato.
But if you want something more filling, the eatery also serves yummy Thai Muslim cuisine like Khao Mok Gai (Thai Chicken Biryani) and refreshing Beef Soup Noodles.
Halal status: Muslim-owned
Address: 41/16 Hua Hin Soi 70
Opening hours: 9AM – 8.30PM (roti is only sold from 2pm)
Contact No: +66 081-116-8006
d) Exciting night markets
Hua Hin Night Market
Situated in the heart of Hua Hin, this night market comes to life from 6 in the evening. And it sells all sorts of things you can think of – fashion items, art and crafts, CDs and DVDs and of course, food!
Whether you’re here before or after dinner, there’ll be something for you. If you’re feeling peckish, there are many stalls selling solely fresh grilled seafood such as scallops and lobsters.
But do note that the seafood stalls are not halal-certified so do check with the vendors for the ingredients used.
Address: Petchkasem Road
Opening hours: 6PM – 12AM
Plearnwan Shopping Village
If you’re a lover of all things vintage, Plearnwan will be suitable for you. With a 1950s vibe, stepping into this place makes you feel like you’ve gone into a time machine! Not to mention that this place would spice up your Instagram feed too.
Here, you can get unique souvenirs, trendy clothes and fashion accessories. Or even if you don’t feel like shopping, just walking around to soak up the atmosphere will be a very enjoyable experience! You can also savour some Muslim-friendly local snacks here like Thai toasted bread, Thai crispy pancakes and mango sticky rice.
Address: Phetkasem Road, between Hua Hin Soi 38 and 40, close to Klai Kang Won Palace
Opening hours: Mon – Thur: 10am – 10pm Fri: 10am – 12am Sat: 9am – 12am Sun: 9am – 10pm
Contact No: +66 32 520 311-2
Cicada Market
Art lovers, rejoice! Cicada Market is the hotbed for independent craft makers so this means you can get really cool souvenirs or trinkets which you can only find here. Walking around the market, you can see artists drawing or designing t-shirts.
Although Cicada has a super laidback vibe, you can still feel the vibrance and energy of the locals. Plus, with live music performances, this is the place to unwind and chill out
Address: 83/159 Soi Hua Tanon 21 (หัวถนน 21, Nong Kae-Takiap, Tambon Nong Kae, Amphoe Hua Hin, Chang Wat Prachuap Khiri Khan 77110, Thailand
Opening hours: Fri – Sun, 4 – 11pm
Contact No: +66 99 669 7161
For families:
3. Pattaya
Usually associated with night life, Pattaya is surprisingly filled with many family-friendly activities. If you can’t decide where to go for your family vacation this year-end, add Pattaya to your list!
a) Family-friendly things to doCartoon Network Amazone Waterpark
Nothing spells out family fun like a day at the theme park, what more a water theme park?! Cartoon Network Amazone Waterpark is the first of its kind and one of the largest water theme parks in Thailand. If you’re a fan of Cartoon Network, you’re in for a treat!
Take on exhilarating water slides with your favourite characters like Powerpuff Girls, Ben 10, Johnny Bravo and We Bare Bears. Thrill seekers, prepare for the ride of your life with the XLR8-TOR – one of the tallest and steepest water rides in Asia which will send you down an 18-metre drop!
Address: 888 Moo 8 Najomtien, Chonburi, Thailand 20250
Opening Hours: Mon-Sun, 10.00am – 6.00pm
Pattaya Sheep Farm
Here’s the perfect opportunity for your children (or yourself!) to learn more about farm animals and get a chance to pet or feed them. With a variety of animals including sheep, rabbits, alpacas, deers, horses and more, think of Pattaya Sheep Farm as a mini zoo where you have more freedom to get close to the animals.
What’s more, you can also choose to ride ponies or horses, take memorable photos at the entrance or simply just soak in the breath-taking landscape.
Address: Nong Pla Lai, Pattaya City, Amphoe Bang Lamung, Chang Wat Chon Buri 20150, Thailand
Opening hours: 9am – 7pm daily
Admission fee: 60 THB
Contact No: +66 92 321 6718
FROST Magical Ice of Siam
Not planning to go on a vacation to a winter destination for your year-end holidays? Head over to FROST Magical Ice of Siam instead to experience winter in Thailand. With temperatures as low as -10 degree Celsius in the ice dome, you’d be kept cool from the heat outside.
Take photos with a giant snowman or slide down ice sculptures for a fun-filled time with your family. Each entry ticket includes an overcoat (and drinks!) so you don’t have to worry about being underdressed.
If you think being in an ice dome is impressive, wait till you see the giant white sand sculptures outside. Blending both Thai and Western architectures, the sculptures are truly a sight to behold and definitely a picture-perfect spot
Address: 75/6 Moo 3 Pattaya-Chonburi Rd, Pattaya
Opening hours: 9am – 9pm daily
Admission Fee: 600 THB
Contact No: +66 63 669 4559 Facebook [inlinewidget id=52435]
b) Beaches
If you’re looking for a nice beach in Pattaya to spend time with your family, head over to
Wong Amat Beach.
It’s clean, relaxing and not too crowded so you and your family can have some quality time!
But if you want to be with the crowd and head to where all the action is at, Pattaya Beach would be perfect for that. With a coastline 4km long, it’s more than just the sand and sea but also home to speedboats, parasails and jet skis – activities which you can do together as a family.
For a more local atmosphere, head over to Bang Saray Beach – a calmer alternative to Pattaya. You’ll see a lot of families and fishermen here rather than tourists and you can enjoy a peaceful and quiet time over here.
c) Halal food
Finding halal food in Pattaya isn’t a difficult task but as many of the halal restaurants offer Indian or Middle Eastern cuisine, we’ve picked some halal Thai favourites so you don’t have to go through the hassle of finding them.
Amir Halal Food
If you’re looking for a big meal complete with a mix of Thai and seafood dishes, Amir Halal Food is the place to go! Located off one of Pattaya’s main roads, this humble eatery is well-known for its tom yum and fresh seafood like crabs, mussels, prawns prepared in local flavours.
And the best part is that, the portions here are huge so you can have a Thai seafood feast with your buddies!
Halal status: Muslim-owned
Address: Pattaya City, Bang Lamung District, Chon Buri 20150, Thailand
Opening Hours: Mon-Sun, 8.00am – 10.00pm
Contact No: +66 38 373 992
Muslim Seafood Restaurant
This humble eatery is a little off the beaten track, but it offers a great variety of halal authentic Thai and seafood dishes. Being away from the main tourist area in Pattaya, you have to go through the local villages to get here, which is perhaps an interesting draw for some travellers.
But despite all of that, their portions are generous and one of their must-try dishes is their Sweet and Sour Garoupa. Top that with some Tom Yum Goong and fried prawns and you’ll be thoroughly satisfied.
Halal status: Muslim-owned
Address: 8/12 Moo 6, Tambon Nong Prue, Amphoe Laemchabang, Chon Buri
Opening Hours: Mon-Sun, 10.00am – 8.00pm
Contact No: +66819531678
Harbour Halal Restaurant
If you’re looking for somewhere fancy to celebrate your last night in Pattaya or even the birthday of your family members, Harbour Halal Restaurant would be a great fit. Located at the A-One New Wing Hotel, it’s the first hotel restaurant in Pattaya to have halal authentic Thai food.
They have an all-you-can-eat affordable dinner buffet with a range of spread from fresh seafood to barbecued items and even sushi! But if you prefer a la carte dishes, you can still order your authentic Thai favourites.
#HHWT Tip: If you need to do your prayers after having that scrumptious meal, head over to the second floor of the hotel where there’s a prayer room complete with prayer garments and mats.
Halal status: Halal-certified
Address: 499 North Pattaya Beach Road, Pattaya City, Chon Buri 20150, Thailand
Contact No: +66 38 259 555 Website P.S. Want to read about what else you can do in Pattaya? Check out our Muslim-friendly guide on conquering the beach spot like a pro.
For the all-rounded traveller:
4. Phuket
Always the first destination that comes to mind, Phuket is a well-rounded beach destination which has a good balance of beach, outdoor activities and relaxation spots. Whether you want an activity-filled beach holiday or just want to take it slow, Phuket’s got you covered.
a) Recommended beaches
With over 30 beaches in Phuket, it’s hard to know which ones are worth going to. The last thing you want is to spend a day at a beach battling the crowds and discovering that the beach you’re at is filled with trash or rowdy tourists!
For stunning clear views of the sea and soft white sand, Kata Noi Beach is your best bet. The waters here are azure blue and here’s where you can catch beautiful sunsets. If you feel like heading to a more well-enclosed bay surrounded by forested hills, Kamala Beach would be perfect. It has a very relaxed vibe and it doesn’t attract too many tourists!
Looking for somewhere more secluded? Head over to Ao Sane Beach – easily one of the island’s best-kept secret. Although it’s not a big space, its tranquil vibe will win you over. Plus, it’s a good location for photo-taking too!
P.S. You don’t have to break the bank for the best beach vacay in Phuket. Direct flights from Kuala Lumpur to Phuket cost from just RM84 (RM79 for members)!
b) Must-do activities
To soak up the sun and sea, there are some activities which every beach vacationer should do in Phuket and here are our top picks! Island hopping With many gorgeous islands surrounding Phuket, it’ll be a waste not go on an island-hopping adventure as some of them are really the best in Thailand. Snorkel or dive in the clear waters of Coral Island which is littered with colourful coral reefs.
Alternatively, you can also head over to the much-raved Koh Phi Phi and kayak through its wondrous sea caves and limestone cliffs. The crystal-clear turquoise waters at Koh Phi Phi will surely take your breath away!
Paragliding at Promthep Cape
We’re pretty sure you’ve seen videos or images of travellers paragliding and wishing it was you instead. The good news is, you can do this sport in Phuket!
Head over to Promthep Cape and go for the ride of your lifetime. Your journey will take you off Promthep Cape down to the coast of Nai Harn. With beautiful cliffs in a protected national parkland, the scenic ocean view and the sea breeze, your paragliding experience will literally be a breeze
#HHWT Tip: If it’s your first time and you’re not confident of leaping off alone, you can opt for a tandem flight.
Go for a spa
This is technically not an outdoor activity but definitely a must-do to soothe all your muscles after those days at the beach! One of the best places for a spa is at the So Thai Spa in Patong.
Tucked in a beautiful hillside resort villa, this amazing place will surely make you feel at home and help you unwind. Choose your choice of spa from foot to a full body massage. Plus, you can also do a couple’s massage with your partner!
Address: 36 Baan Suan Kamnan, Muean Ngen Road, Thawewong Road, Patong, Phuket
Contact No: +66 098 074 1774
c) Halal food
With a large Muslim community, Phuket has no shortage of halal food, so you can rest assured your meals will be settled.
Kusuma Halal Thai Seafood
Located in Patong where all the action is, Kusuma is the go-to place for halal food in Phuket. With authentic Thai, Malaysian, and a variety of other seafood dishes, a scrumptious meal here would not burn a hole in your wallet.
The best part is personally choosing your own fresh fish, mussels, crabs and lobsters. As with any Thai eatery, don’t forget to try their tom yum!
Halal status: Muslim-owned
Address: 104 Rat-Uthit 200 Pee Road, Patong, Kathu, Phuket, Thailand
Contact: +66 (0)83 596 0885, +66 (0)81 078 8160
Opening Hours: Mon-Sun (2PM - 11.30PM)
Marina Kitchen Phuket
Located on the eastern side of Phuket island, Marina Kitchen has some of the tastiest authentic Thai cuisine the island has to offer! With palatable and homely dishes, Marina Kitchen would totally win you over.
Try their seafood red tom yum, pad thai and kang kong belacan, and finish off your meal with a coconut shake. Plus, the eatery is also perfect for large groups. Not to mention that the service is impeccable too!
Halal status: Halal-certified
Address: 5/3, Moo 4, Koh Keaw, Phuket Town, Phuket 83000, Thailand
Opening hours: Mon, Tues, Thurs-Sun (7AM – 4PM)
Contact No: +66 87 280 9343
Saveena Muslim Food
Located just opposite the Nurul Islam mosque in Patong, Saveena serves some delectable local food which is cheap as well. Their tom yum is highly recommended and whether you’re sharing dishes or having ala carte, they’ve got you covered!
Finish off your meal with their tantalising sweet roti which is a perfect treat for every sweet tooth out there!
Halal status: Muslim-owned
Address: 220/3 Phrabarami Rd, Tambon Patong, Amphoe Kathu, Chang Wat Phuket 83150, Thailand
Opening hours: Mon-Thurs, Sat-Sun (2PM – 12AM)
So, with all the 4 beach spots summed up for you, planning for your beach vacay just got easier! Plus with activities for every type of traveller, we’re pretty sure there’s something for you – whether you’re looking for a couple’s retreat or hipster spot.
With direct flights to Krabi, Hua Hin, Pattaya and Phuket from Kuala Lumpur, there’s absolutely no hassle. Time to plan your beach vacation of a lifetime now! This article is brought to you by AirAsia.