3 Hidden Thai Getaways Only Locals Know About

Peaceful Escapes Away from the Crowd

Tired of the same old places in Thailand? Phuket’s packed, Chiang Mai’s getting overrun, and even Krabi feels a little too familiar these days. If you're craving something slower, quieter, and more authentic — you’re not alone.

Locals in Thailand have their own secret spots. Places with no loud bars, no filtered Instagram mobs. Just nature, good food, and a deep breath of real Thailand. Here are three underrated destinations that Thai locals love but few travelers know about.

1. Samuy – The Other Side of Koh Samui

Forget the full-moon parties and tourist-packed beaches. Locals just call it Samuy, and they head south — way south — to quiet fishing villages like Taling Ngam and Bang Kao.

No massive resorts, no noise. Just long, empty beaches, little temples, palm trees for days, and roadside seafood grilled while you wait. Rent a scooter and you’ll find hidden waterfalls, jungle roads, and cafés run by people who actually live here. Samuy is Koh Samui with the volume turned down — and that’s a good thing.

* Best for: Solo travelers, couples, peace-seekers
* Keywords: quiet beaches in Koh Samui, local side of Samui, Thailand off the beaten path.

2. Ranong – Hot Springs, Empty Islands & Zero Crowds

Ever heard of Ranong? Probably not. And that’s exactly why it’s perfect.

Tucked away on Thailand’s west coast near the Myanmar border, Ranong is full of hot springs, misty mountains, and islands with barely any people. Take a soak at Raksawarin Hot Springs, explore waterfalls deep in the rainforest, or catch a boat to Koh Phayam — an island where time moves slow and shoes are optional.

This is the kind of place where you eat barefoot on the beach and sleep in a hammock. No big chain hotels, just small bungalows and locals who welcome you like an old friend.

* Best for: Nature lovers, digital detox, island-hoppers
* Keywords: Ranong Thailand travel guide, Koh Phayam island, Thailand hidden gems

3. Jaiyen – Thailand’s Secret Wellness Hideaway

“Jai yen” in Thai means “cool-hearted” — basically the opposite of stressed. There’s a little-known area near Chiang Dao, north of Chiang Mai, where some Thai locals and expats have quietly built retreats focused on just that: slowing down.

Locals call it Jaiyen, and it’s not really a town — more like a vibe. Picture bamboo cabins in the hills, yoga at sunrise, organic food from the garden, and nights with herbal tea and stars instead of screens. Most people have no idea this place exists. And that’s exactly the point.

* Best for: Burned-out city folks, creatives, quiet seekers
* Keywords: wellness retreats Thailand, Chiang Dao slow travel, Jaiyen retreat Thailand