Thailand family holidays

Planning a family holiday to Thailand

There are a few things to consider when planning a family holiday to Thailand. 

• Budget – will this be a luxury trip or a shoestring adventure? Thailand’s low cost of living means it’s affordable on a budget, but you’ll also find plenty of luxury family resorts if you want to treat yourselves. 
• Flights – getting to Thailand requires a long-haul flight which can be costly and potentially challenging with young children.
• Food – Thai cuisine is delicious, but for younger or more picky eaters you may struggle. Older children are more likely to embrace the varied flavours on offer. 
• Culture – Thai culture is very different from what your children might be used to, which can be exciting and educational in equal measure. The culture shock can be a great learning experience for them. 
• Climate – Thailand is a tropical paradise, but this does mean hot and humid weather that can change rapidly.

Best places to visit in Thailand with kids

Thailand is often called the ‘Land of Smiles’ thanks to the friendly and welcoming local people. If you’re visiting Thailand with family, you’ll find most tourist destinations have plenty to offer for kids of all ages. Below are some of the top destinations to consider for Thailand family holidays. 
 

Bangkok 

Thailand's bustling capital is a fantastic destination for families with children, offering a perfect blend of culture and entertainment. Start your adventure by exploring the iconic Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew, where you can visit the shimmering temples. 

Dive into the vibrant atmosphere of Chatuchak Weekend Market, a treasure trove of souvenir shops and delicious street food. KidZania Bangkok gives children the chance to role-play in various professions, learning through interactive activities. Don't miss a boat ride along the Chao Phraya River, offering scenic views of the skyline and passing by historic landmarks.
 

Phuket 

Thailand's largest island is a great choice for families seeking a blend of adventure and relaxation. With its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and wealth of family-friendly activities, Phuket promises an unforgettable holiday. Spend days splashing in the waves at Patong Beach or exploring the marine life while snorkelling at Kata Beach. 

If you’re looking for culture, visit the Phuket Old Town, where vibrant Sino-Portuguese architecture and bustling markets await. From Phuket, families can also visit Phang Nga Bay, home to towering limestone cliffs and hidden lagoons – perfect for kayaking or long-tail boat rides. 
 

Koh Samui 

Home to pristine beaches, lush landscapes, and family-friendly attractions, Koh Samui offers an idyllic setting. Families can spend leisurely days on Chaweng beach or exploring the vibrant marine life while snorkelling at Coral Cove. 

Adventure-seeking families can embark on an exciting jungle trek to Na Muang Waterfall, where kids can splash in the refreshing pools and take in the natural beauty of the surroundings. For a cultural day out, visit the Big Buddha Temple, where children can learn about Thai traditions and witness breathtaking views of the island. With its array of activities catering to all ages, Koh Samui ensures an unforgettable family holiday filled with fun and adventure.

Things to do in Thailand with kids

Head to the beach

Thailand has over 1,500 miles of coastline and 1,430 islands, so there’s certainly no shortage of beaches. There’s so many to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect beach for your family. Here are some suggestions for visiting:

• Kata Beach, Phuket: Known for its soft golden sands and gentle waves, Kata Beach can be ideal for families with young children. The water here is relatively calm, making it a prime spot for swimming and snorkelling. The beach is also lined with restaurants and shops, so you can easily grab a bite to eat or find a toilet.
• Maenam Beach, Koh Samui: Maenam Beach offers a tranquil and family-friendly atmosphere away from the crowds. The shallow waters and soft sand make it safe and enjoyable for children to play. Families can also enjoy picnics under the shade of coconut trees or take leisurely walks along the shore.
• Pattaya Beach, Koh Lipe: This beach is known for its clear turquoise waters and powdery white sand, creating a picturesque setting for families. Despite its popularity, the beach maintains a chilled out vibe which is fun and relaxed for children. Try water activities like kayaking or simply kick back and soak up the sun together.

Explore the jungle

There are plenty of ways to explore the tropical jungles of Thailand with children in tow. Whether that’s on an organised day trip with a guide, by visiting the many nature reserves and wildlife parks geared towards families, or simply by exploring off the beaten track near your hotel or resort. Children love to interact with nature, so letting them see Thailand’s incredible wildlife will amaze them. 

Take a boat trip

The crystal-clear waters and calm seas surrounding Thailand’s islands are perfect for a boat trip, so hop aboard with the kids and enjoy a day at sea. Whether you choose a small private tour, a longboat or even a glass bottomed boat, you’ll get to see Thailand’s gorgeous coastline from a different perspective. Snorkel and explore at your leisure or take a hop-on-hop-off boat tour around some of the most famously beautiful islands. 

The best time to visit Thailand with the family

Thailand’s tropical climate means the best time to visit with children is in the cooler drier months – between November and April. If you’re limited by school holidays, Christmas time or the easter break are good times to visit. Outside of these months temperatures can soar, and during the wet season weather can be unpredictable. 

Currency for visiting Thailand

The currency used in Thailand is the Thai baht. It’s a good idea to take a combination of cash and cards with you when you visit Thailand. Lots of places accept card payments, but cash is always handy. 

You can buy Thai baht with Sainsbury’s Bank – pop to one of our travel money bureaux, or order online or by phone. Use our currency converter to find out what exchange rate you could get. 

Banks may charge you for using your debit or credit card abroad, so it can be handy to take an alternative card. The Sainsbury’s Bank Travel Money Card makes it simple. Simply load it up with money which you can spend in the currency of your choice, without being charged any currency conversion fees. Top up and manage your spending through the app. Pay by card, withdraw from ATMs and transfer between currencies easily. Plus, you can freeze and unfreeze your travel money card through the app if it gets lost or stolen.

Travel insurance for your trip to Thailand 

Travel insurance can help protect you and your family from holiday mishaps while in Thailand, covering some of the cost of medical expenses or lost or damaged items, and much more. Take out travel insurance with Sainsbury’s Bank so you can focus on enjoying your holiday.