Best island for tight schedules

When time is precious and Bangkok's your stop, no need to go far. Ko Samet is just three hours' journey from the capital and a national park to boot.

Hat Sai Kaew and Ao Hin Khock beaches are lively affairs but life gets calmer as you move south towards Ao Phai and Ao Phutsa. For secluded shores, head beyond Ao Phutsa to Hat Saeng Thian or the ultra-tranquil Candlelight Beach.

Best for nature-lovers

Further east towards Cambodia is Ko Chang (Elephant Island), Thailand's second largest island after Phuket. Part of Mu Ko Chang National Park, its beaches, waterfalls, mangrove forests and coral reefs are big draws - 75% of Ko Chang is tropical rain forest.

Life is relaxed here, even on the main beach of Hat Sai Khao (White Sand Beach) and others like Bang Bao, Klong Prao, Laem Chaiyachet and Kai Bae. 52 islands form part of the marine national park including Ko Kood (Thailand's fourth largest island) and its stunning Nam Tok Khlong Chao or Than-Sanuk Waterfall.

Best for big resorts

Thailand's west coast is, for many, the pièce de résistance with its limestone cliffs and sparkling Andaman Sea waters. Post-tsunami efforts to restore this coastline have been successful and tourism is highly encouraged.

Thailand's largest island, Phuket, is a favourite with families for its hotels and international facilities. The main resort of Patong Beach is by no means your only option - quieter spots include Kamala, Ao Sehn and Kata beaches.

Phuket makes a perfect base for trips to the outlying islands off its east and southeast coast such as the Phi Phi islands (film location for 'The Beach'), Coral Island and Racha Island. Not to mention the world-class diving around the Similan Islands, rated as one of the world's top 10 dive sites for its 30-metres-plus visibility. Underwater treats include soft corals, fish sharks, groupers and rays.

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