The Ultimate Thailand Honeymoon Guide

Let me take you on an unforgettable journey through the Land of Smiles, a place where every moment feels like a dream wrapped in silk. For the past ten years, I’ve been captivated by Thailand’s allure. From the bustling streets of Bangkok to the serene shores of its islands, I’ve spent a total of six months indulging in its beauty over the past decade of visits.

We recently returned from a trip that basically ticked all my honeymoon boxes (ours would’ve probably been in 2020 if we’d had one, so it was time to do it right – but with a toddler in tow).

From dreamy islands to an abundance of private pool villas and elephant encounters, here’s everything to think about adding to your Thailand honeymoon itinerary:

Phuket: A Tranquil Oasis at Six Senses Yao Noi

Our journey begins in Phuket, which has an international airport and is a great starting point.

Nestled amidst the lush foliage of Yao Noi island, one of the least developed islands in the area, Six Senses Yao Noi offers a sanctuary of luxury and tranquility that is one of my favorite luxury stays ever (second only to the Capella Ubud). Each villa has its own private pool, butler, full sitting area, huge bathtub, outdoor lounge area, and both indoor and outdoor showers. The best part is it’s totally private and secluded, and some have stunning views of the bay. There’s also a lot to do in the area:

• Indulge in a private sunset cruise around the islands, complete with champagne and fresh seafood.
• Embark on a snorkeling or scuba diving excursion to discover the vibrant marine life of the Andaman Sea.
• Take a cooking class and learn to prepare traditional Thai dishes using fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
• Hike to the viewpoint atop Koh Yao Noi for panoramic views of the surrounding islands and emerald waters.

Koh Yao Yai: Romance Reimagined at Santhiya

From Yao Noi, it’s a quick boat ride to the pristine shores of Koh Yao Yai, where Santhiya awaits with its rustic charm and breathtaking views. We opted to stay at the Anantara instead and I wished we had gone for the Santhiya. Just look at the amazing views from the private pool villas and the charming wood design!

Some favorite things to do:

• Rent kayaks and explore the mangrove forests that fringe the shores of Koh Yao Yai.
• Enjoy a romantic beach picnic, complete with gourmet snacks and champagne.
• Experience the traditional art of Thai massage with a couples’ spa treatment overlooking the ocean.
• Take a leisurely bike ride through the island’s lush countryside, stopping to admire the picturesque scenery, particularly the sand bar at the top of the island.
• Join a local fishing excursion and try your hand at catching your own dinner, which can be prepared by the resort’s chefs.

Krabi: Blissful Seclusion at Four Seasons

Next, we journey to the idyllic shores of Krabi, where the Four Seasons Resort offers a haven of luxury and seclusion.

Although the Koh Yao islands offer similar views, you’ll find a much different pace with Krabi offering more restaurants, shopping, and possible excursions. There’s an airport as well which makes it easy to fly to some of the neighboring islands or onwards to the northern part of Thailand. Before you go, here are my favorite things to do in the area:

• Explore the stunning limestone cliffs and hidden lagoons of Phang Nga Bay on a private long-tail boat tour.
• Embark on a rock-climbing adventure and conquer the iconic limestone cliffs of Railay Beach.
• Discover the tranquil beaches and crystal-clear waters of nearby islands like Koh Phi Phi and Koh Lanta.
• Visit the Tiger Cave Temple and climb the 1,237 steps to the summit for breathtaking views of Krabi Town and beyond.
• Relax and rejuvenate with a traditional Thai herbal compress massage at the resort’s spa.

Koh Samui: Luxury Redefined

For the ultimate indulgence, venture to Koh Samui, where luxury knows no bounds. Whether you choose to stay at the iconic Four Seasons or the opulent Banyan Tree, you’re in for a treat. For entertainment, I suggest:

• Learn the art of Thai cuisine with a private cooking class, followed by a romantic dinner overlooking the Gulf of Thailand.
• Visit the iconic Big Buddha Temple and marvel at the towering golden statue that overlooks the island.
• Take a day trip to the Ang Thong Marine Park and explore its pristine beaches, hidden lagoons, and vibrant coral reefs.
• Enjoy a sunset cocktail cruise around the island, complete with live music and panoramic views.
• Spend a day pampering yourselves at the resort’s spa, indulging in luxurious treatments like a coconut body scrub or a hot stone massage.

Bangkok: A Symphony of Senses

No trip to Thailand is complete without a visit to its pulsating capital, Bangkok. Stay at the luxurious Capella Bangkok Hotel, where contemporary elegance meets traditional Thai hospitality.

Treat yourselves to a couples massage at the hotel’s renowned spa, before embarking on a culinary journey through the city’s bustling streets. Don’t miss:

• Explore the bustling markets of Chatuchak Weekend Market or Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, where you can shop for souvenirs, clothing, and handicrafts.
• Take a romantic dinner cruise along the Chao Phraya River, passing by glittering temples and illuminated skyscrapers.
• Visit the Jim Thompson House Museum and learn about the life of the American entrepreneur who helped revive Thailand’s silk industry.
• Experience the vibrant nightlife of Bangkok with a visit to the city’s rooftop bars, where you can enjoy cocktails and panoramic views of the city skyline.
• Join a guided tour of Bangkok’s historic temples, including the Grand Palace, Wat Arun, and Wat Pho, home to the famous reclining Buddha statue.

Ayutthaya: A Journey Through Time

Heading north from Bangkok, step back in time as you explore the ancient city of Ayutthaya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Rent bicycles and meander through the crumbling ruins of temples and palaces, or take a leisurely boat ride along the tranquil riverside. Don’t forget to indulge in the local delicacies, from aromatic curries to sweet mango sticky rice.

• Visit Wat Mahathat and marvel at the famous Buddha head entwined in the roots of a Bodhi tree.
• Take a sunset boat cruise along the Chao Phraya River, passing by the illuminated temples and palaces of Ayutthaya.
• Explore the local markets and sample traditional Ayutthaya delicacies like boat noodles, crispy pork, and mango sticky rice.

Chiang Mai: Cultural Immersion at Melia

From Ayutthaya, we journey north to the cultural capital of Chiang Mai, where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with modern comforts. Stay at the luxurious Melia Chiang Mai, where panoramic views and unparalleled hospitality await. They have a gorgeous pool, delicious restaurant with European Thai fusion cuisine, and have the highest sky bar in the city. In Chiang Mai don’t miss:

• Exploring the vibrant night markets of Chiang Mai, where you can shop for local handicrafts, clothing, and souvenirs.
• Visit the Doi Suthep-Pui National Park and hike to the summit of Doi Suthep, where you’ll find the iconic golden pagoda of Wat Phra That Doi Suthep.
• Take a traditional Thai cooking class and learn to prepare classic Northern Thai dishes like khao soi and gaeng hang lay.
• Experience the tranquility of Chiang Mai’s temples with a visit to Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Phra Singh, and Wat Umong.

Pai: A Bohemian Escape

For a taste of laid-back charm, venture to the bohemian town of Pai, nestled in the picturesque mountains of northern Thailand. Stay in a cozy guesthouse or boutique resort, and spend your days exploring waterfalls, hot springs, and vibrant street markets. Don’t miss:

• Visit the Pai Canyon and hike along its narrow ridges for breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
• Relax and unwind at the Pai Hot Springs, where you can soak in natural mineral-rich waters surrounded by lush tropical vegetation.
• Explore the vibrant Pai Walking Street Market, where you can sample local street food, shop for handicrafts, and listen to live music.
• Visit the Land Split and learn about the unique geological phenomenon that created this natural wonder.
• Take a day trip around Mae Hong son, a gorgeous drive in the area. This is best attempted if you’re comfortable driving a motorbike.

Chiang Rai: Unforgettable Encounters at Anantara Golden Triangle

Our journey culminated in the enchanting province of Chiang Rai, which is one of my favorite parts of Thailand. Apart from the iconic white temple, even more northward, the Anantara Golden Triangle Resort offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience to spend the night in a jungle bubble with elephants! Almost all of the activities are also included, and I recommend doing as many of the elephant ones as you can. They also offer romantic dinners for couples, and an elephant picnic.

Things to Know About Thailand

Getting Around

Thailand boasts an extensive network of trains, buses, and domestic flights, making it easy to travel between cities and regions. Tuk-tuks and taxis are plentiful in urban areas, while motorbikes and bicycles offer a more adventurous way to explore.

Most of the hotels mentioned on this list can provide their own transport, whether it’s to an island or just an airport pickup. Many of them even include it in the room rate. When we were just trying to get around town, I prefer Grab taxi, which is basically Southeast Asia’s Uber.

Food

From spicy curries to savory street food, Thailand is a paradise for food lovers. Don’t miss the opportunity to sample local delicacies like pad thai, tom yum soup, and mango sticky rice. Some people are afraid of street food, but as long as the stand you pick is crowded, you can be sure they’re serving good food that goes quickly, and isn’t sitting around.

Safety

Thailand is generally a safe destination for travelers, but it’s important to exercise caution, especially in crowded tourist areas. Be mindful of your belongings, avoid walking alone at night in big cities, and keep in mind locals find it rude if you point your feet at them or at any temples. Thailand is generally conservative, and I’ve seen a few women sunning topless there over the years. That’s fine in Europe, but it’s not really fine in Thailand.

I hope this guide inspires you to embark on your own journey through the enchanting landscapes of Thailand. May your honeymoon be filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime – there’s a reason why I can’t stay away!