Thailand's two coasts run on opposite seasons: the Andaman side is wettest from mid-May to mid-October, and the Gulf coast takes its rain from mid-October into December. Five stretches of coast, the airport for each, the park closures on each, and what the beach flags mean.
Several of Thailand's national parks close for months at a time, and those on the Andaman side shut in different months from the marine park off Koh Samui. Published closure dates for Mu Ko Similan, Mu Ko Surin, Mu Ko Ang Thong, Mu Ko Lanta and Phu Kradueng, plus the park rules.
Phuket's beaches from Mai Khao in the north to Rawai in the south, and what each one is like. Monsoon swimming safety comes first: the red-flag system, which beaches are patrolled, what to do in a rip current, and three drownings at Karon in 18 days in June 2025.
