Our Guide to Family Vacations in Thailand

From pristine beaches and vibrant jungles to exhilarating cityscapes, Thailand is a destination for travelers of all ages.

Thailand for Families

Thailand is a complex and alluring country packed with fascinating culture, warm people, white sandy beaches, and legendary landscapes. Families will never be bored here. Every region offers something unique and exciting, no matter how your family likes to travel. Expect an overload to the senses, in the best way possible, with an eclectic mix of glistening temples, buzzing cities, and delicious fresh Thai food. Here is everything you need to know about a family trip to Thailand.

 

Is Thailand good for a family trip?

Thailand with kids is an exhilarating and relaxing family getaway, offering an ideal mix of adventure and serenity. The child-friendly beaches along the East Coast and the comprehensive amenities at Thailand family resorts cater to all ages, ensuring a comfortable stay. Whether it's thrilling jungle treks, memorable elephant encounters for teens, or exploring the vibrant culture and markets, a family trip to Thailand is packed with diverse experiences. For the active family, the adventures in Northern Thailand, from trekking to rafting, are not to be missed. All in all, choosing Thailand for family vacations means embarking on an unforgettable journey that delights every family member.

 

Which is the best place for kids in Thailand?

If you're planning a family vacation in Thailand, we've got some fantastic recommendations of places to visit tailored to different types of families.

 

Bangkok

Bangkok skyline 

Bangkok is particularly well-suited for families with children aged 6 and above. At this age, children are typically more engaged and can appreciate the vibrant markets, traditional klong tours, and rich cultural experiences the city has to offer. These activities provide a perfect blend of education and excitement, allowing families to explore the heart of Thai life.

 

Chiang Mai

Temple in Chiang Mai 

For active families, especially those with teenagers, Chiang Mai is the adventure capital of Thailand. Activities like bamboo rafting, elephant treks, and cycling through historical sites provide an exhilarating and culturally rich experience. It's ideal for families seeking adventure and an authentic taste of Thai culture.

 

Koh Lanta and Koh Samui

Shoreline on Koh Samui 

Beach-loving families will find their paradise in Koh Lanta and Koh Samui. Koh Lanta is perfect for relaxation and pool time at Thailand family resorts for those with younger kids. Meanwhile, if you’re traveling with different age groups, Koh Samui offers a mix of leisure and adventure with activities like kayaking, zip-lining, and cultural visits to the Grand Palace and Wat Pho.

 

Khao Sok National Park and Elephant Hills

Elephants in Khao Sok National Park 

For nature and animal-loving families, Khao Sok National Park and Elephant Hills Tented Camp offer unforgettable experiences. Canoeing, jungle trekking, and ethical elephant encounters are just some of the highlights here, making it a top choice for families who cherish wildlife and outdoor adventures.

 

Is Bangkok or Phuket better for kids?

Trisara beach in Phuket, Thailand 

When planning family vacations in Thailand and choosing between Bangkok and Phuket, it's essential to consider the unique experiences each destination offers. Bangkok is a city brimming with cultural richness, ideal for families eager to dive into a vibrant urban environment. The city's famous tuk-tuk rides are an exhilarating way to explore, and the lively markets offer a unique opportunity for kids to engage with local culture, making every moment of your getaway memorable.

Alternatively, Phuket provides a more tranquil setting. It's a paradise for families seeking a beach-centric vacation. The island's beautiful beaches with their calm, shallow waters are perfect for younger children. Additionally, the opportunity to visit elephant sanctuaries in Phuket adds an educational and ethical wildlife experience to your Thailand family vacation, emphasizing the importance of conservation.

Each destination offers its own unique charm and activities, ensuring that whether you're exploring the colorful streets of Bangkok or lounging on the serene beaches of Phuket, your family vacation in Thailand will be an unforgettable adventure.

 

Things to do in Thailand with Kids

If you're planning a trip to Thailand with kids, you're in for a treat! There are so many kid-friendly spots across the country. First off, the Thailand family resorts are fantastic for kids. They come with awesome kids' clubs, child-friendly pools, and menus that even the pickiest eaters will love.

When it comes to exploring, a family trip to Thailand is filled with exciting and educational experiences. Here are our top things to do in Thailand with kids.

 

Visit Temples

Exploring temples in Thailand is a captivating activity for families, especially those with children aged 5-10 and preteens. Specific temples like the iconic Wat Pho in Bangkok, famous for its giant reclining Buddha, and Wat Phra That Doi Suthep in Chiang Mai, known for its stunning hilltop views, offer a blend of cultural and visual experiences. Younger children will be fascinated by the colorful architecture and the playful monkeys at temples like Wat Phra Kaew, which houses the revered Emerald Buddha. Preteens can engage in more immersive experiences, such as learning about Buddhist rituals and trying fortune-telling at Wat Arun, known for its impressive spires.

 

Bathe an Elephant

The elephant sanctuaries are a must-visit for kids and adults. These sanctuaries, like Elephant Hills Tented Camp, offer a hands-on experience with these gentle giants, where kids (ages 7 and above) can learn about animal conservation through feeding and bathing activities. It's a heartwarming and educational opportunity, perfect for families who value wildlife and want to teach their children about the importance of caring for animals and the environment.

 

Explore Bangkok

Bangkok is a vibrant city that caters to families with children of varying ages. For the younger ones, say 4-8 years old, tuk-tuk rides offer an exciting way to see the city, while teenagers will find the vast array of stores in the shopping malls thrilling. Bangkok’s bustling markets provide a sensory feast suitable for all ages, making it an ideal destination for families who enjoy the excitement of urban exploration and wish to experience both the traditional and modern aspects of Thai culture.

 

Play at the Beach

And don’t forget the beaches in spots like Phuket and Krabi – perfect for families with toddlers and young children. The calm waters and soft sands make for a safe and enjoyable playground, where toddlers can splash around and older kids can engage in activities like beach-combing and discovering the natural wonders of the shoreline. These spots are also home to many of our favorite Thailand family resorts with kids' clubs to help with the entertainment.

Best Family Resorts in Thailand

Thailand is brimming with family-friendly resorts that cater to kids of all ages. These Thailand family resorts are more than just places to stay; they're havens of fun and relaxation for the whole family. Imagine pools that are just right for your little ones, exciting cultural activities for curious minds, and adventures that teens will love. These resorts have thought of everything, ensuring that parents can unwind while their kids have the time of their lives. Ready to make some unforgettable family memories? Let's explore the best family resorts in Thailand.

For Younger kids

Thailand's resorts are ideal for families with young kids, offering amenities like kids clubs, specialized menus, and child-friendly spas, along with pools and gentle beaches perfect for young swimmers. Here are our top Thailand family resorts for families traveling with young kids.

Anantara Mai Khao. Phuket

The Anantara Mai Kaho Phuket Villas is one of the top Thailand family resorts and boasts a tranquil location, away from the crowds. The décor is inspired by Thai architecture, with spacious indoor/outdoor areas, and facilities include an excellent spa, bicycles, tennis courts, and gym with Muay Thai, yoga, and aerobics classes. Families are well catered for here, with tailored activities and a great kids club. The Turtle Club will get your children involved with arts and crafts, nature activities, and games. Babysitting is also available upon request. And while your little ones are being thoroughly entertained, you can participate in sailing, windsurfing, kayaking, Thai cooking classes, and mountain biking trips ranging from short routes to full-day tours with a picnic.

Beach Villa, Four Seasons Samui
Four Seasons Koh Samui, Koh Samui

The villas at the Four Seasons are cleverly built into the hillside and offer unparalleled views of the oceans and secluded beach below. Each villa has chic alfresco living spaces and is accompanied by its own private infinity pool. There are tons of activities for both adults and children here, with swimming, tennis, watersports, and boat trips, as well as a fantastic children’s club with a range of fun activities that would make any adult jealous. While your young ones are playing away at the children’s club, visit Cocorum, a tropical and laid-back rum bar, then hit the pool. With inviting lounge beds and idyllic views, the 164-foot-long pool makes for the perfect place to unwind with a cocktail or even a shoulder massage in the shade of the palms. No wonder it’s a great choice when visiting Thailand with kids.

Rosewood Phuket
Rosewood Phuket

The Rosewood in Phuket is a real gem for a family vacation in Thailand, perfectly perched on Emerald Bay with stunning sea views. It's peaceful and private, with villas nestled among the trees and along the beach, all oozing luxury without being over the top. Kids will love it here – there’s an awesome Kids Club, a pool just for them, and even little bathrobes! Dining is a treat, from beachside seafood at Ta Khai to Italian delights at Red Sauce, and the laid-back Shack. Oh, and don’t miss out on cocktails at Mai by the pool. The main pool is a cool, free-form design, great for a family swim. Plus, the Asaya spa customizes treatments just for you. It’s the perfect mix of fun and relaxation for everyone.

For Older kids

Thailand captivates older kids with activities like jungle exploration, kayaking, elephant encounters, and shopping in Bangkok, offering an inspiring mix of culture, cuisine, wildlife, and ecozystems for the whole family. And the hotels are equally as exciting. Here are our top Thailand family resorts for families traveling with older kids.

Swimming pool at Rayavadee resort, Krabi
Rayavadee, Krabi

Heading on a family trip to Thailand with older kids? Rayavadee is luxurious and elegantly furnished in a Thai style with polished woods, richly colored fabrics, and hand-crafted details. Each of the 98 pavilions even has its own little garden. For active members of your family, the resort offers excellent snorkeling, rock climbing, exploring the uninhabited islands in the marine reserve, and treks in the lush forested interior. For those looking to relax, the luxurious Rayavadee spa has an extensive range of holistic therapies and there is also a lovely swimming pool. We seriously recommend dining at the Grotto, a restaurant that is nestled under an ancient limestone cliff, where you can enjoy a lazy lunch or a magical sunset cocktail.

Pool Villa, The Pimalai
Pimalai Resort and Spa, Koh Lanta

The Pimalai prides itself on being in a natural environment and peaceful setting while maintaining high standards of luxury and friendly service. This Thailand family resort is perfect for on-the-go crews with older kids. It has an activity center that offers mountain bikes, trekking, tennis, canoes, kayaks, sailing, windsurfing, boat cruises, and snorkeling. The surrounding waters of the Lanta Marine National Park are pristine for diving, and the Pimalai has its own PADI dive center. After a day packed with adventurous activities, pop into the relaxing spa for aromatherapy massages, scrubs, and wraps.

For Multigenerational Families

On a multi-gen family trip to Thailand, families can enjoy everything from serene beaches and golf courses to vibrant rainforests and cultural experiences like temple tours, snorkeling, and authentic cuisine, all complemented by luxurious, exclusive villas with private butler services for a worry-free, bonding experience. These are our favorites.

Soneva Kiri, South Beach
Soneva Kiri, Koh Kood

Your family will have an unforgettable stay at Soneva Kiri. This Thailand family resort feels like a tropical, hidden retreat, blending beautifully into its surroundings. Each villa comes with a personal butler and the dining here is spectacular. The property includes menus created by a three Michelin-star chef and offers unique tree pod dining with service on a zip wire and an ice cream parlor. Allowing the older family members to relax and enjoy their stay, Soneva offers the Eco Den, a revolutionary kids' area that appears to hang over the forest canopy, as well as a magical giant bamboo playground in the shape of a manta. The exciting and innovative children’s program here includes fishing, land and water excursions, cookery and chocolate making, science experiments, and crafts.

Pool at the Four Seasons Bangkok
Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok, Bangkok

The Four Seasons in Bangkok, right by the Chao Phraya River, is fantastic for families of all ages. It’s like an urban retreat with a cool mix of indoor and outdoor vibes. The rooms? They're super spacious and stylish, with awesome city or river views – some even have private terraces. And the food scene here is amazing – whether you’re craving Cantonese, Italian, or just a great cocktail, they’ve got you covered. For relaxation, there’s a sleek outdoor pool, a gym, and a spa that’s pure bliss. Plus, there’s something for the little ones too, with a fun Kids' Club. It's the perfect spot for everyone in the family to unwind and enjoy Bangkok while on a family vacation in Thailand.

For Active Families

Thailand is perfect for active families, offering diverse activities from trekking and elephant encounters in the northern mountains to rock climbing, kayaking, zip-lining, and surfing, ensuring an adventure-filled experience with no dull moments. And these Thailand family resorts will be the perfect home base for all those adventures.

Elephants at sunset at Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp and Resort
Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp and Resort, Chiang Rai

This camp is a stunning place to stay while exploring this fascinating historical, cultural, and adventurous region. Perfect for older kids, the Thailand family resort prides itself on its private elephant camp. This is a wonderful place to experience these great animals first-hand by walking with them through the bamboo jungle and helping bathe them, or your family can even spend a full day learning how to master the art of being a mahout. There is also an abundance of other family-friendly activities on offer during your stay here, including visits to Chiang Rai and the neighboring countries by longtail boat, mountain biking, tree planting, yoga, trekking, and a wonderful Thai cookery school where the chef will personally take you to visit the local market. After a day full of exciting experiences, your family can cool off in the free-form infinity-edged swimming pool, which looks down over the tree canopy towards the Mekong River.

Rainforest Camp, Elephant Hills
Elephant Hills Tented Camp, Khao Sok National Park

Elephant Hills Tented Camp is comprised of two separate camps and is perfect for social families. The main camp has 30 rustic tents surrounding a communal dining area where guests can mingle after their adventures. The second camp has 10 en-suite tents floating on the Cheow-Lan Lake, powered by solar and wind energy. The second camp is the more adventurous option and better suited to families with older children. Elephant Hills offers a light wildlife experience and has expert guides who are extremely knowledgeable about the flora and fauna. While here, you might spot lizards, frogs, exotic birds, or even the odd Gibbon monkey. During your family vacation in Thailand, you must try the elephant interaction experience. All activities are conducted as part of a small group, which is fun because you’ll get to know the other families staying at the camp.

For Relaxation

Thailand boasts over 3000 miles of idyllic tropical coastline, offering the ideal setting for relaxation on its untouched beaches. Luxurious Thailand family resorts with stunning pool views and comprehensive spas provide the ultimate pampering while indulging in Thailand's renowned cuisine and beverages beautifully rounds off a tranquil family getaway.

Pool Villa, Six Senses Yao Noi
Six Senses Yao Noi, Phang Nga

The 56 spacious villas at Six Senses Yao Noi have been designed with a modern, elegant style and have their own private infinity pool with a large sundeck, open-air bathrooms, and a personal villa team trained to anticipate your every whim. You can guarantee that your family’s stay here will be a relaxing one. The Six Senses Spa has been designed in the style of a Thai longhouse with separate treatment salas and a gym. Other facilities include a library, a main pool with stunning views, a wine cellar, and a tennis court. Your butler can arrange a multitude of exceptional dining choices including private picnics, champagne breakfasts, and beach barbecues. It’s the ultimate spot for a relaxing family vacation in Thailand.

Infinity pool at Six Senses Samui
Six Senses

The Six Senses Samui, at the tip of Koh Samui, is a dream spot for a family getaway. Picture this: 66 villas nestled in 20 acres of lush greenery, each with split levels, open-style bathrooms, and most boasting infinity pools that seem to merge with the ocean. It's all about privacy and stunning views here. Their food is top-notch, fresh from their gardens, with Dining on the Rocks and Dining on the Hill offering breathtaking views while you eat. But it's not just about relaxing in your villa; there are loads to do, from watersports to spa treatments under the sky, cookery classes, and even outdoor movies. Plus, you get your own Guest Experience Maker to ensure your vacation is exactly how you want it. It's the ultimate chill-out spot during your family vacation in Thailand.

Our Thailand Itinerary Ideas

All our vacations are customized for you and your family. We will select the best experiences, hotels, and destinations to suit you, but to get started, take a look at some example itineraries that are geared toward family travel.

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11 nights
Epic Thailand

Epic Thailand

Bangkok, Chiang Mai & Koh Yao Noi

Famous for its zingy flavors, colorful floating markets and golden temples, Thailand has got it all in one easy-to-explore package. Blend this with unusual experiences and palm-studded beaches and you’ve got a perfect Thailand tour that will make you the envy of your friends back home. Cool and stylish hotels provide comfort throughout too.

Beach Adventure Fishing

$3,400 pp

CHOICE
10 nights
Thailand with Kids

Thailand with Kids

Bangkok, Koh Samui

This is the perfect two-center Thailand family tour for those seeking a sunny getaway with young children. Complete the experience with gorgeous palm-fringed beaches, chance encounters with exotic wildlife and a gentle dose of culture mixed in for good measure. For the best weather, we recommend the school vacations between February and September.

Beach

$7,600 pp

11 nights
Exceptional East Coast Thailand

Exceptional East Coast Thailand

Bangkok, Koh Phangan & Koh Samui

Indulge in a relaxing two-center vacation combining the tropical islands of Koh Phangan and Koh Samui. Recharge in luxurious villas with pools and white-sand beaches within arm's reach. This Thailand tour is the epitome of luxury. To experience these two unique islands at their finest, visit from February to September when the weather is idyllic.

Beach Couples

$7,800 pp

12 nights
Family Fun in Laos and Thailand

Family Fun in Laos and Thailand

Luang Prabang, Bangkok, Khao Sok, Koh Lanta

This is a wonderfully varied trip through Laos and Thailand. Take in the sleepy streets of Luang Prabang, relax at a family-friendly resort in Bangkok and discover the beach in Koh Lanta – not forgetting the all-important elephant trekking in Khao Sok National Park. This Thailand family tour is ideal for the December and March school vacations.

Adventure Eco/ethical tourism Culture Off the beaten track

$6,500 pp

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Corey Weiss

Asia Specialist

I was born and raised in Tulsa, Oklahoma and have always had a desire to see the world, so entering the hospitality industry was my ticket to do so. My career in this industry has taken me all over the globe and helped me to foster a deep passion for helping other people do the same.

Call us on 858 523 9000 to start planning your holiday

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