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.