Nopparat Thara Beach, Krabi

Hat Noppharat Thara runs north-west from Ao Nang and is a different proposition entirely: two kilometres of sand backed by casuarina trees, part of the national park that shares its name with the Phi Phi islands, and far quieter than its neighbour.

At low tide a sandbar emerges at the western end and can be walked out to the small island offshore - one of the more memorable things to do in Krabi, and free. Check the tide before setting out, and start back well before it turns.

The park visitor centre and the pier for the Phi Phi ferries sit at the eastern end. There is shade under the trees, a scattering of local food stalls, and very little development.