Hat Noppharat Thara-Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park

Two very different experiences share one name here. There's the mainland beach at Hat Noppharat Thara, a long quiet stretch near Ao Nang that most people drive straight past on their way to the pier. And there's the marine half, the Phi Phi islands and everything around them, limestone cliffs dropping into turquoise water, sea caves, coral reefs and the beach that got famous through the film. The islands get the crowds. The mainland beach doesn't, which is exactly why I'd give it an hour or two.

Snorkelling and diving are the main draw offshore, and kayaking along the cliff faces is the better option if you'd rather not be on a packed longtail. Almost everyone books a day trip out of Ao Nang, which is the simplest way to do it. If you want calm seas and clear water, come between November and April. In low season the swell picks up and some boat services get cut back or cancelled outright, so build in a spare day.