Satun in southern Thailand is home to 30 small islands that attract visitors looking for an exotic tropical getaway. Bobbing in the Andaman Sea, just north of neighbouring Malaysia’s Langkawi, these islands also make up Thailand’s first UNESCO Global Geopark, thanks to their immense natural beauty and colourful mix of cultures.
Satun’s more prominent islands, like Koh Lipe and Khao Yai, are where you can stroll along stunning and sometimes ‘secret’ beaches that are among the finest in Thailand, wade in crystal-clear waters, as well as enjoy grilled seafood fresh off the fishing boats. Beneath the surface, you can admire underwater wonders with pristine reefs, especially within Tarutao National Park, just a few steps from the sand.