The physical compsosition of the coastline varies from sandy beaches fringed with palm or casuarine trees to ruggedly beautiful limestone cliffs and outcrops covered with vegetation. The two main resort regions are the east and west coasts of the Gulf of Thailand and the deep south along both shores of the Kra isthmus.

Just a two-hour drive southeast of Bangkok is Pattaya on the easteern shore of the gulf of Thailand. It is a colourful and vibrant place where a complete spectrum of watersport amenities is combined with a wealth of on-land entertainment to ensure there is never a dull moment, night or day. For a different mood, the resorts of Hua Hin and Cha-am, on the opposite site of the Gulf, present a quieter scene for a more restful enjoyment of sun, sea and sand.

Even more spectacular are the beaches of the far south. Here, off the southwest coast, an hour's flight from Bangkok, is the island of Phuket, characterized by truly breathtaking tropical coastal scenery, unspoilt beaches fo powdery white sand and clear blue waters of the Andaman Sea, set against a backdrop of rolling hills and lush green vegetation. Matching the natural beauty are some of the finest beach resorts in the whole of Asia. Nearby, on the mainland, Krabi offers more pristine beachees backed by palm groves and surrounded by towering cliffs, while off the opposite shores of the peninsula is Ko Samui. A smaller island than Phuket, Samui nonetheless presents a whole spectrum of resort styles, from popular beaches to quiet coves.

All the top resorts offer a wide choice of watersports. Scuba diving enthusiasts, in particular, will appreciate the rich marine life and colourful coral formations found in Thailand's coastal waters.