9 Best Bars in The Gulf Coast Beaches, Thailand

The place to be in Fisherman's Village, Coco Tam's is reliably packed on a nightly basis. The formula is simple, but effective with ample beach seating available in the shape of beanbags and giant cushions. Attentive staff roam the sand dishing out reasonably priced cocktails and decent bar fare including pizzas by Peppina: a big noise in Bangkok's pie game.

One of Samui's original nightlife venues on the beach, the Ark throws a free barbecue every Wednesday around sunset.

In a venue shaped like an amphitheater, performers clad in colorful, glittering feather costumes put on spectacular cabaret shows. A massive LED display with video and lighting effects makes this a unique nightlife establishment comparable to the world-renowned Tiffany's Show.

There's more to Pattaya's infamous Walking Street than go-go bars. This live music perennial serves to mix things up, courtesy of a well-drilled regular band that pumps out everything from rock classics to Thai hits.

Local bands energetically perform Thai and Western pop-rock music here nightly. Although this isn't a true brewpub (the beers are made in Bangkok), the selection is good, and you can try a sampler of three tasty beers. The outdoor patio offers a full multicultural dining menu and is a prime spot to people-watch.

The many large-screen TVs at this popular place broadcast Thai, Australian, and Malaysian programs—lots of sports—and there are pool competitions and quiz nights.

A must if you're a reggae fan, this longtime favorite with several bars and dance floors has a nonstop party atmosphere.

Seaboard's legendary Wednesday parties are something for those in the know. Expect cool vibes, fresh house beats, and people who all seem to know each other. There's a rigorously enforced "no cell phone, just dance" policy on the open-sided dance floor. You might want to shake a leg on the soft sands in front of Seaboard instead; you won't be alone.

This world-renowned, award-winning extravaganza has been entertaining curious locals and ecstatic travelers for more than 40 years. It's famous throughout Southeast Asia for being one of the first cabaret shows to feature transgender performers—setting the stage for similar performances throughout Thailand.