Thailand has always been a favourite with Aussie travellers, but after experiencing it as a family, I have a whole new appreciation for why people return again and again.
From the moment we landed, it just felt easy. The food was incredible (unless you asked our youngest, who managed to find chicken nuggets and chips on just about every menu!), the people were so welcoming, the beaches were beautiful, and there always seemed to be another adventure waiting around the corner.
What I loved most was how easy it was to create a holiday that worked for everyone. The kids had unforgettable experiences and plenty of fun, while we still had time to relax, enjoy the culture and soak up everything Thailand has to offer.
Our trip took us through three very different destinations, each with its own highlights. Our trip took us through three completely different parts of Thailand and I honestly loved that every stop felt like a different holiday. Here’s where we stayed, what we loved and why I’d happily go back again.
Our first stop was The Sands by Katathani in Khao Lak, and it was the perfect place to ease into our Thailand holiday. After travelling with three kids, I can tell you that having a resort that keeps everyone happy makes such a difference – and this one definitely delivered.
The family rooms were fantastic. They were really spacious and thoughtfully designed, with a separate area for the kids featuring two single beds, which meant they had their own space while we still had a little privacy (a win for everyone!).
The younger two disappeared to the kids’ club most afternoons (always a good sign!) which gave us a chance to actually sit by the pool for more than five minutes. Between the pools, playground, water play areas and restaurants there was always something happening. We did visit after some heavy rain, so the ocean wasn’t ideal for swimming during our stay, but the resort had so much happening that it really didn’t impact our holiday. It was one of those places where the kids were happy, we could actually relax, and everyone came away feeling like they’d had a great time.
My top pick for: Families looking for an easy, relaxing resort where there’s plenty to do without needing to leave the property.
After relaxing by the beach, we headed inland to Elephant Hills in Khao Sok National Park, and this was easily one of the highlights of our entire trip.
I honestly wasn’t sure what to expect from a tented camp with three kids, but from the moment we arrived, we were blown away. The setting was incredible, surrounded by towering limestone mountains, rainforest and misty jungle, it genuinely felt like we had stepped into another world.
Our four nights here were packed with adventure, but without ever feeling rushed. Some of our favourite experiences were:
It still had all the comforts you want after a big day of exploring. The tents were comfortable, there were hot showers, great food and everything was very well organised – so you get the adventure without feeling like you’re roughing it.
Even now, it’s the part of the trip the kids still talk about the most. If you’re looking for something that’s a little different from the usual beach holiday, I’d put Elephant Hills at the top of your list.
My top pick for: Families or couples who want a unique Thailand experience combining adventure, nature and comfort.
For our final stop, we headed back to the beach and checked into Pamookkoo Resort in Kata Beach, Phuket and after all the adventure of Khao Sok, this was exactly the kind of place the kids were hoping for.
If you’re travelling with water-loving kids, this resort is a winner. The whole resort is built around a huge lagoon-style pool, complete with two of the fastest water slides we have ever experienced. I’m pretty sure the kids would have spent every waking hour going up and down those slides if we had let them! (A bit too fast for me, once was enough!)
The location was fantastic. It was an easy walk to Kata Beach, with plenty of restaurants, shops and the night markets nearby, making it really convenient for families who like having options without needing to be in taxis all day.
One of our favourite little rituals was stopping at the local fruit stalls each morning. We’d choose whatever looked good, they’d cut it up fresh or blend it into smoothies, and the kids couldn’t get enough. Best of all, it cost next to nothing!
After the excitement of the jungle, Pamookkoo was the perfect way to finish our trip – lots of fun, easy family time and a great taste of the classic Thailand holiday experience.
My top pick for: Families with kids who love pools, slides and a bit of adventure, while still wanting an easy location close to the beach, food and local experiences.
Every family holiday teaches you something, and this one reminded me that you really can have both adventure and relaxation in the same trip. We came home with thousands of photos and so many memories.
What I loved most was that every stop offered something different – from relaxing by the pool in Khao Lak, to exploring the jungle at Elephant Hills, to finishing with waterslides, night markets and beach time in Phuket. It never felt rushed, and there was something that made each of us happy.
If Thailand has been sitting on your travel wish list, I’d love to help you plan it. Having experienced it myself, I can help you choose the destinations, resorts and experiences that will suit your family, your budget and the type of holiday you’re dreaming about.
Ready to plan your own Thailand adventure? Let’s chat!
Kelly Jenkins | TravelManagers Australia
✉️ [email protected]
