Thailand, often called the “Land of Smiles,” is one of the most exciting Southeast Asia countries. A Thailand honeymoon takes you to lush jungles, beaches with crystal clear waters, sacred temples, and bustling cities. Historically known as Siam, this gem of a nation has something for every type of honeymooner.
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Is Thailand a Good Place for a Honeymoon?
Bordered by Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia, and Malaysia, Thailand is easily one of the best honeymoon destinations for newlyweds to enjoy diverse experiences. It’s gifted with stunning beaches and picturesque landscapes.
It also has a myriad of dining options and nightlife hubs. Moreover, it boasts a fascinating history and traditions, highly evident in the charming streets and touristy locations you’ll explore.
The country has places with laid-back vibes and pulsating energy. So no matter what kind of post-wedding holiday you like, you can experience that all in one nation.
What Activities Can You Do on a Honeymoon in Thailand?
- Go to where the three countries meet. The Golden Triangle Park in Chiang Rai is where the borders of Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet. You can hike, cross the borders, or cruise along the Mekong River.
- Shop at the floating markets. When talking about the Mekong River, it’s impossible not to bring up the iconic marketplace of Thailand. It’s a one-of-a-kind way to sample local offerings while immersing in the country’s culture. On land, Thai people also have various marketplaces to offer, including the Chang Chui Bangkok Plane Night Market.
- Hit the beautiful beaches. On the east coast, you have the Gulf of Thailand; on the west, there’s the Andaman Sea. It’s safe to say that this Southeast Asian nation is a fantastic place to be in if you want to soak up the sun, explore coral reefs, do some water sports, and go island hopping.
- Head to a national park. Thailand has a wealth of national parks. Whether you want to hike and revel in the beauty of majestic waterfalls or get up close with wildlife or marine life, they got you covered. One of the best parks to visit is the Similan Islands (a popular diving site) and Khao Yai National Park (a world heritage site).
- Interact with elephants. The country has a project-called Elephant Jungle Sanctuary, which allows people to mingle with elephants ethically. You can do this in Phuket, Pattaya, Chiang Mai, and Samui.
What Is the Best Month to Visit Thailand?
Before you visit Thailand, remember that it has a rather long rainy season. And it runs from May to November, with August to October as the peak rainy months. To enjoy the great outdoors, spend your honeymoon there between December and April.
Is a Honeymoon in Thailand Expensive?
You and your significant other could shell out anywhere from $2,000 to nearly $5,000 for a Thai honeymoon that lasts one week. For around $8,000, you can already experience a luxurious getaway.
How To Plan a Budget Honeymoon in Thailand
- Visiting from May to July is considered the country’s low season. Just brace for some rain showers.
- Enjoy eating street food to experience Thai cuisine at lower costs. When dining out, opt for local beer instead of wine.
- Take advantage of free activities like hitting the beach and visiting the temples.
- Be street smart, and don’t let tuk-tuk drivers overcharge you.
- Research tour packages and get one only from reputable companies.
10 Best Places to Visit In Thailand
Bangkok
The capital of Thailand is a bustling cosmopolitan paradise where history, culture, and modern attractions converge.
There are places where you can shop high-end brands and discover unique local finds—and there are places where you can bask in spirituality and serenity. The Grand Palace will take you back in time with its beautiful Asian architecture and temples.
And if you want to experience vibrant nightlife, head to the Old Town. Simply wandering around the streets of this city will let you stumble upon gems and delectable street eats.
Where to stay: Siam Square or Old Town
Phuket
This is Thailand’s biggest island and most famous honeymoon spot—thanks to its stunning beaches and relaxing landscapes. The popular Patong Beach is a wonderful place to lounge by Azure waters or try snorkeling and kayaking. You can party hard at night and have a rejuvenating couple’s massage the following day.
While in Phuket, take a day trip to Phang Nga Bay, about 45 minutes away, by speedboat. In this area, you can explore the best-kept secret of the Thai: the Koh Yao islands and their dramatic limestone cliffs.
Where to stay: Patong Beach or Old Town
Chiang Mai
Be surrounded by calm and peace when you head to the north and stay at Chiang Mai. One of the most notable attractions here is Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, a sacred and stunning temple perched on the Doi Suthep mountain.
Head to the Night Bazaar if you want to sample local cuisine and experience Thailand at its liveliest. Take snaps with elephants in a nearby elephant sanctuary for an authentic Thai souvenir.
Where to stay: Old City or Night Bazaar Area
Chiang Rai
Further to the north, you’ll find Chiang Rai, home to the above-stated Golden Triangle. Enjoy a different kind of surrealness and tranquility as you sojourn into the very place where Thailand meets its neighboring countries, Myanmar and Laos.
You can also marvel at the mesmerizing architecture of two of its most popular temples: the White and Blue Temples.
Where to stay: Riverside Area
Khao Lak
If Phuket is a vibrant beach destination, Khao Lak is its more serene counterpart. It’s a charming coastal town endowed with pristine beaches.
This is the place to call home if you want to explore the nearby Similan Islands. These islands offer plenty of opportunities for water adventures—from diving to snorkeling.
If you want to take a break from the beach, head to the Khao Lak-Lam Ru National Park and explore its trails and waterfalls.
Where to stay: Khao Lak Center
Hua Hin
Hua Hin is another popular seaside resort destination. The beachfront amenities here don’t just give you easy access to gorgeous beaches; many also have golf courses that attract honeymooners who want a more sophisticated experience.
Beyond the waters, you will be mesmerized by wandering around the lively Hua Hin Night Market, Hua Hin Railway Station (one of the country’s oldest stations), and the Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park (which boasts fascinating sandstone caves).
Where to stay: Clock Tower Area
Kanchanaburi
Kanchanaburi is a slice of paradise for couples who are nature lovers. If Chiang Rai has the place where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet, this place has the spot where the rivers Kwai Noi and Kwai Yai converge. Try bamboo rafting or enjoy a romantic sunset date as you cruise along the waters.
You can also explore waterfalls, streams, and lush forests in this town. If you’re looking for something steeped in history, head to the Death Railway Bridge, which prisoners built during the Second World War.
Where to stay: Near River Kwai
Koh Samui
The Gulf of Thailand is home to some of the best islands in the country. If you’re looking for a romantic honeymoon spot that also hosts the biggest beach parties, Koh Samui is the place to be. Kick off your married life on a vibrant note when you attend and let loose at the island’s unforgettable full-moon parties (Koh Pangan, a nearby island, is also a great party-loving island to visit).
For a more tranquil setting, visit the Big Buddha shrine. For an adrenaline-pumping experience, head to the majestic Namuang Waterfalls. If you want to be surrounded by wildlife and explore the underwater world, add Ang Thong National Marine Park to your itinerary.
Where to stay: Chaweng
Koh Tao
Koh Tao is the island if you want world-class diving and snorkeling. Its crystal-clear waters are ideal for meeting Thailand’s abundant marine life. To admire the island’s beauty from a different perspective, you can hike to any of the viewpoints here, like John-Suwan Viewpoint, Mango Viewpoint, etc.
Take note that this island has a lively atmosphere. If you’re seeking someplace quieter to better relax at the beach, opt for Koh Lanta. This island also has a well-preserved old town you can stroll around.
Where to stay: Mae Haad Pier
Phi Phi Islands
Among the many islands of Thailand in the Krabi region, Koh Phi Phi is one of the most popular. After all, it’s a stunning tropical paradise, made even more famous by the movie “The Beach.”
Maya Bay boasts pristine sands and turquoise waters. Explore Phi Phi Viewpoint for a rewarding panoramic view of the surroundings. In its Ton Sai Village, you can dine at restaurants and explore various charming shops.
Where to stay: Ton Sai Village
What Is the Best Way to Travel to Thailand?
From the US, you have three airports to reach Thailand: Suvarnabhumi International Airport and Don Mueang International Airport (both in Bangkok), and Chiang Mai International Airport in northern Thailand. Though you will be in the air for nearly 20 hours, a Thailand honeymoon is well worth the long travel.
Traveling Within Thailand
The quickest way to get to farther places in Thailand is by flying, but the country also has a decent bus system, if you’re not pressed for time. If the destination you’re going to is covered by their rail system, you can also consider hopping aboard a train.
While renting a car isn’t recommended (Thailand traffic can be notorious), you can rent a motorcycle, granted that you have a license. You can ride tuk-tuks (motorized, roofed tricycles) within city centers to save money.
What Types of Honeymoon Accommodations Are Available in Thailand?
There are different types of lodging available for honeymooners in Thailand.
You can choose from any luxury resort if you’re seeking indulgence and opulence. You can also opt for a beach resort with rooms, suites, and even private villages with a private pool. Some of the most renowned names are Four Seasons, Anantara, and Rayavadee.
For cheaper stays, you can book a room at hostels, bed and breakfasts, and guesthouses. If you want to maximize your experience, consider renting a Thai-style teakwood house.
What Type of Food Should You Try in Thailand?
- Pad Thai. This stir-fried noodle dish is a common street food in Thailand. Though it has several iterations, the general recipe includes noodles, shrimp or chicken, bean sprouts, tofu, egg, and peanuts.
- Tom Yum Soup. Thailand’s most famous soup dish boasts a great aroma and bursts with flavor, courtesy of the herbs it contains — including lemongrass, galangal, lime leaves, shallots, and chilis.
- Panag Curry. It’s a rich and creamy dish with coconut milk as the curry’s base. It usually features beef meat flavored with a medley of seasonings, such as lemon grass, coriander, chili, and cumin.
- Mango Sticky Rice. It’s a popular dessert that combines mango slices with sticky glutinous rice cooked in and drizzled with coconut milk.
Are There Any Cultural Experiences to Include in a Thailand Honeymoon?
Thailand is a country that’s deeply rooted in culture. It has many great historical landmarks and Buddhist temples you can visit.
Be sure to visit The Grand Palace. Located at the heart of Bangkok, this 18th-century landmark offers plenty of cultural experiences. Visit Wat Phra Kaew (the Temple of the Emerald Buddha), marvel at a model replica of Cambodia’s Angkor Wat, and learn more about textiles at the Queen Sirikit Museum of Textiles. You can also book a guided tour with a Thai massage.
Moreover, you can head to the Historic City of Ayutthaya in the Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Center, this old city, founded in the 1300s, once served as the capital of the Siamese Kingdom. It’s where you can find enigmatic and beautiful Siamese ruins.
If you want to revisit your Thai experience, why not enroll in a cooking class and learn how to prepare authentic Thai cuisine? This way, you can always cook your favorite delicacy and be reminded of your honeymoon in this Asian country.
What to Pack For a Honeymoon in Thailand
Factor in the type of adventures you’ll have while packing for your honeymoon in Thailand. Bring hiking gear and decent pair of hiking shoes for trekking. Pack stylish beachwear for beach days.
Opt for something light and breathable for your everyday clothes, but don’t forget to pack dressier ones for more formal experiences. Also, bring a lightweight raincoat just in case it rains. Sunscreen and bug sprays are also a must.
Is Thailand Safe to Visit?
A country that welcomes millions of tourists year after year, Thailand is one of the best and safest destinations for your romantic holiday. To stay safe, here are some tips to follow:
- Keep a close eye on your belongings, especially when riding public transportation or exploring crowded areas.
- Don’t flash your cash and keep it in a secure place (e.g., money belt, hidden pocket) to avoid being a victim of pickpocketing.
- Be cautious of scams and trust your instincts. Some scams to avoid include overcharging and counterfeit goods.
- Only book tours from established businesses. And once on an excursion, don’t stray away from your guide and always follow instructions.
- When out for the beach, only swim in designated areas. Avoid exploring deserted beach areas.
Do You Need a Visa to Visit Thailand?
The US is included in Thailand’s list of visa-exempted countries. This means that you can enter Thailand for tourism purposes for up to 30 days without a pre-approved visa.
Bonus Tips For a Thailand Honeymoon
- Though tap water is safe to drink in Thailand, at least in theory, it’s safer to drink bottled or purified water.
- Thailand has a tipping culture. While it’s not mandatory, giving 10% of the bill is appropriate as a gesture of appreciation.
- Businesses and service providers use the Thai Baht, the country’s official currency. As of writing, $1 is equivalent to about ฿34.
- Many Thai people can communicate in English, even though their official language is Thai.
- Always respect religious sites. Wear long pants or skirts and tops that cover arms when heading to temples and other sacred areas.