A Halong Bay in the tropics, this sheltered sweep of coast between Phuket and the Krabi mainland boasts an unearthly collection of sculptured karstic islands. Used as a location for scenes in The Man with the Golden Gun (one outcrop is even named "James Bond Island"), this is about as beautiful as it gets. The views are phenomenal but the beaches are not outstanding. Occasionally between the limestone fingers there is a tiny sliver of sand (but no facilities).

The Six Senses Hideaway on the peaceful island of Yao Noi has some of the best views anywhere in Thailand, especially from the blow-the-budget "hill reserve" villa. There is no communal pool, so many choose to hang out at the beach (which is average but offers glorious views) or hide away in their private villas (request sea-facing).

Who'd love it here?

Early risers; the sunrises are spectacular.

Paradise? Found. It feels positively pioneering to paddle around this seascape. In Phang Nga Bay, near Phuket and off the mainland peninsula of southern Thailand.