Thailand’s Donald Duck Bay in the Similan Islands has been ranked 10th in the World’s 50 Best Beaches 2026, with two beaches in Trang and Phuket provinces placing 23rd and 27th.
Described in the ranking as "one of Thailand’s most distinctive shores", Donald Duck Bay, also known as Ao Kueak, lies at the northern end of Similan Island No. 8, the main island of Mu Koh Similan National Park in the Andaman Sea, off the coast of Phangnga province.
Though relatively small, the bay is famous for its iconic granite boulders, which resemble the head of the classic Disney character, Donald Duck.
Top of the granite boulders at Donald Duck Bay in Phangnga resembling the head of the Disney character is frequently referred to as the "postcard spot" of the Similan Islands.
The beach is popular among tourists for snorkelling during the park’s open season, typically from November to May, while seasonal monsoon closures help preserve its natural condition.
The southern provinces of Trang and Phuket are also home to two other ranked beaches.
Paradise Beach on Koh Kradan in Trang, in 23rd place, is described as “Thailand’s most peaceful island shore”, while Freedom Beach on Phuket’s west coast ranks 27th and is noted as a “quiet and secluded beach haven”.
In the World’s 50 Best Beaches 2025 rankings, Bang Bao Beach in the southern province of Trat secured third place, while Freedom Beach in Phuket came in 28th.
Paradise Beach on Koh Kradan, Trang, ranks 23rd and is described as “Thailand’s most peaceful island shore.” (Photo: World’s 50 Best Beaches website)
Freedom Beach, on Phuket’s west coast, ranks 27th and is noted as a “quiet and secluded beach haven.” (Photo: Tourism Authority of Thailand)
According to the website, the ranking is conducted annually by thousands of experienced travel professionals, with votes reviewed by the World’s 50 Beaches team and its panel of Beach Ambassadors.
The final list is determined using several criteria, including uniqueness, wildlife, untouched surroundings, natural soundscape, ease of access, calm waters, low crowd levels and overall idyllic conditions.
This year, the Philippines’ Entalula Beach ranked first, followed by Fteri Beach in Greece and Wharton Beach in Australia.
See the full list here.