Cha-am

It may not be the cleanest or most picturesque seaside town, but Cha-am does offer an authentic Thai-style beach experience. The main pier is the center of this small, quiet town; its main street, full of restaurants, bars, guesthouses, and hotels, lies along a tree-lined strip of beach. You can often see Bangkok families here—gathered at large, umbrella-covered tables for all-day meals, stocking up on fresh seafood and beer from wandering vendors. Recent years have seen the steady creep of development, with the accommodation range expanding and also, thankfully, some additions to the town's restaurant scene. Cha-am still has its sleepy charm, and those searching for calm away from the frenetic advancements of some of Thailand's other beach-resort towns, will find their niche here.