25 Best Things to do in Thailand with Kids – 2024

Bangkok with a toddler temple kids the backpacking family

Table of Contents

In this article we are going to share THE BEST things to do in Thailand with kids 2024.  Thailand is a beautiful country packed with stunning scenery, amazing food, rich culture and epic wildlife. Thailand is genuinely one of our top pick destinations for adventurous tropical family holidays. But with such an epic country – where do you start?

We have lived in Thailand with our kids and traveled the country extensively looking for the very best activities to share with you. Our kids have tried and tested all of the activities that we share in this article. We have tried to pick activities which are fun, varied and suitable for a wide range of ages. 

Whether you are looking for meaningful animal encounters, learning experiences, cultural opportunities or wild adventures there is something for everyone in Thailand. We are super excited to share our experience and top tips with you. We have also tried to include locations, prices and other things you need to know to plan your own amazing trip to Thailand with kids.

The activities and things to do that we share in this guide are spread around Thailand. so we’ve also included a map to help you plan your trip and we have tried to recommend some of the best places to do each of the activities that we recommend.

WHICH COUNTRY IS BEST? What is the best country for family travel in Southeast Asia?

CAMBODIA OR THAILAND? Cambodia vs Thailand with kids? Which country is better for family travel?

Summary of the best things to do in Thailand with kids

Things to doSummaryApproximate price
Stay at an Elephant Hotel Chai Lai Orchid – Nature lodges with elephants. Elephants wake up, breakfast, elephant trekking and swimming.£50 – £100
Explore the Temples of Bangkok Explore beautiful Thai temples in Bangkok – artwork, Pagodas and statues.FREE
Learn Thai cookingVisit a market, learn about local ingredients and learn to cook Thai dishes. Check out Mama Noi Cookery School and the Coconut Shell cookery School in Chiang Mai.500 – 1,000 baht
Visit the sticky waterfall in Chiang MaiFascinating, exciting and unique waterfall located a few hours north of Chiang Mai. Walk up steep high friction rock faces. FREE
Bathe in geothermal hot springs Plenty of hot springs in the north of Thailand. Don’t miss the beautiful Sai Ngam hot river near Pai.FREE or 100 baht – 500 baht
Enjoy an ocean sunset Find a nice west facing beach, grab a refreshing drink and enjoy the tropical sunsets in Thailand.All the best things in life are FREE
Snorkel in crystal clear watersExplore beautiful coral and see colourful fish. Great snorkelling in Koh Lipe, Phang Nga, Koh Phi Phi, Ao Nang, Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, and Koh Tao.If you take a trip 2,500 – 5,000 baht. Or just rent some kit and go. 
Trek to a jungle Hill temple Take a jungle trek to see an intrepid hill temple. In Phuket visit the Big Buddha, in Chiang Mai trek up the monks trail to Wat Pha Lat. FREE
Visit a waterparkThere are lots of fun water parks around Thailand. In Phuket check out Blue Tree. In Bangkok there is a rooftop water park (Pororo waterpark). Don’t miss the epic Grand Canyon Chiang Mai. Most water parks in Thailand range between 300 – 1,200 baht
Do a jungle ziplineThere are plenty of zipline courses around Chiang Mai. We love the Pong Yang adventure park. There is also Eagle track zipline, Flight of the Gibbon and Dragon Flight Zipline park.Zipline courses range between 1,000 – 4,000baht 
Ride a night train Ride a first class sleeper train. Popular night train routes in Thailand: Bangkok to Chiang Mai. And Bangkok to Surat Thani (near the islands in the south)1,500 – 2,000 baht
Find an epic view pointPlenty of breathtaking viewpoints around Thailand. Black Rock in Phuket, John Suwan in Koh Tao and Nang Yuan island in Koh Tao are our favorites. FREE
Explore a local marketFind a buzzing morning market or a fun night market packed with local food.FREE
Take an island hopping tripYou can take island hopping trips in Phuket, Koh Phi Phi, Ao Nang, Koh Lipe, Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Koh TaoRange in price from 2,000 – 5,000 baht (for a shared trip). 
Stay in a jungle tree houseStay in a luxurious jungle tree house at the Our Jungle Camp eco-resort in the Khao Sok national parkTree houses range in price from £60 – £120 per night
Visit the hill tribes of the North Take a guided hill trek from Chiang Mai or Pai including homestays. Alternatively visit a tribal village (e.g. the Karen long neck village Pai)There is normally a small entrance fee for tribal villages around 100 baht
Have a chat with a monkVisit a temple in Chiang Mai and ask about arranging a monk chat. Learn about their culture, religion and values. FREE
Learn to surfTake surf lessons or just rent a board and give it a try. One of our favorite places to learn to surf in Thailand is Kata beach in Phuket (June – December is the best time to surf). Don’t miss Jimmy’s surf school on Kata beach.Lessons normally cost around 800 baht per hour. Surf board rental starts at around 150 baht per hour.
Play on the beachLoads of epic beach destinations around Thailand – especially on the islands and in the south.FREE
Stay in a hotel with a private swimming poolThere are plenty of epic resorts with private swimming pool villas. One of our TOP PICKS in Keemala in Phuket. Prices normally range between £400 – £1,000
Try sea kayaking Most beach destinations in Thailand have watersport shops or resorts that can rent kayaks. Kayak rental normally costs around 250 baht per hour
Visit a trampoline park Visit an indoor play centre or a trampoline park. You can find Kidzoona play places around (not trampolines). There is an epic trampoline park in Phuket called Adventure Village. Trampoline parks normally cost 400 – 700 baht 
Visit an aquariumWhy not visit an aquarium? See the weird and wonderful world of the deep oceans and learn about ocean ecosystems and conservation.Entrance to aquarium in Thailand generally costs 250 – 700 baht
Visit a museumMost towns and cities have museums. If you’re in bangkok don’t miss the epic kids discovery museum (FREE)Prices vary. Museums normally cost around 250 baht.
Have a go at white water rafting North Thailand is the best place for white water rafting. If you are in Chiang Mai check out Siam River Adventures White Water Rafting & White Water KayakingTrips start around 1,800 baht

Map of the best things to do in Thailand with kids

What are the best destinations in Thailand for kids?

Here are some of the most family friendly destinations in Thailand: Phuket is beautiful and packed with family friendly activities. We loved staying in Koh Phangan and Koh Tao with kids. If you love cities there are some great things to do in Bangkok with a toddler. And last but not least – Chiang Mai is an amazing family friendly destination in Thailand.

Don’t miss our FULL GUIDE: Is Thailand safe for family travel?

1 Stay at an Elephant Hotel 

chai lai orchid hotel with elephants breakfast

One of the absolute best things to do in Thailand with kids is visit an elephant hotel. This was genuinely one of our favorite experiences of our time in Thailand. We visited Chai Lai Orchid elephant Hotel which is located around 1-2 hours drive from Chiang Mai. Chai Lai Orchid is an ethical elephant Hotel which offers a range of nature lodges and unique and exhilarating elephant encounters.

Chai Lai Orchid hotel with elephants breakfast

We were very impressed with the ethical standards at this hotel and they offer a wide range of opportunities to interact with these beautiful creatures. For example, you can have a wake up call from an elephant, you can have breakfast with an elephant and you can even have high tea with elephants. Elephants love to eat! They also offer elephant trekking and elephant bathing experiences where you can visit a waterfall and swim with elephants. The beautiful natural surroundings of this area make for amazing memories and excellent photography. If you are visiting the Chai Lai Orchid elephant hotel, you may also be interested in visiting the Doi Inthanon national park with the iconic Royal Pagodas. Alternatively, check out the Antara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort. 

How do you get to Chai Lai elephant hotel?

Chai Lai is around 1-2 hours drive south of Chiang Mai. It is located in a very beautiful hilly area. You can rent a car and drive to Chai Lai (there are plenty of rental shops in Chiang Mai and prices normally start around 700 – 1,000 baht per day). Alternatively you can get a taxi to Chai Lai. It is likely to cost around 1,000 baht each way in a taxi. Try to make a deal with the same driver if possible. 

How much does it cost to stay at Chai Lai?

Lodges range between £50 – £100 (amazing value for money)

2 Explore the Temples of Bangkok 

Bangkok with a toddler temple

Another awesome thing to do in Thailand with kids is explore the stunning Temples of Bangkok. Theravada Buddhism is the official religion of Thailand. Bangkok is packed with an array of amazing temples which are free to visit and explore. You can witness monastery life, see beautiful Buddhist artwork, bells, statues and locals visiting to light incense and make offerings.

Bangkok with a toddler temple tour

If you are visiting the temples in Thailand it is important to dress respectfully. It is generally required that knees and shoulders are covered when you are exploring a Thai temple.

What are the best temples to visit in Bangkok?

Here are some awesome Bangkok temples that you can visit: 

  • Golden Mount temple (Wat Saket)
  • Wat Rajapradit Sathitmahasimarama
  • Wat Suthat Thepwararam Ratchaworahawihan
  • Temple of the Emerald Buddha – Wat Phra Kaew
  • Wat Chana Songkhram Ratchaworamahawihan
  • Wat Bowonniwetwiharn Ratchaworawiharn
  • Wat Benchamabophit Dusitwanaram

How much does it cost to see the temples in Bangkok? 

FREE – there are normally no charges to explore the temples in Bangkok. In a few rare cases you may need to pay a small entrance fee (normally less than 150 baht).

3 Learn Thai cooking

Phuket holiday itinerary cooking school

Another great thing to do in Thailand with kids is take a Thai cooking class. This is an awesome way to help your child connect with the beautiful Thai culture and also learn about local ingredients and culture. You can take a Thai cooking class in many popular destinations around Thailand. We really enjoyed the cooking class in Chiang Mai – this is one of the most popular places in Thailand to take a cooking class. Chiang Mai offers a delicious range of unique North Thailand dishes and affordable cooking classes.

Itinerary in Chiang Mai coconut cafe

In general, cooking classes allow you to choose several dishes that you will make with the help and support of a local chef. You learn about the recipes, the ingredients and the techniques used in Thai cooking. Many cooking courses also include a trip to the local market, a free recipe book and best of all – you get to eat the dishes that you make at the end of the course. The cheapest and most convenient way to book a cooking class is to book it directly with a school on arrival. As always, negotiate for the best price. 

Where is the best place to take a cooking class in Thailand?

You can take cooking classes in most of the main tourist destinations in Thailand. If you’re in Chiang Mai you can take cooking classes at Mama Noi Cookery School and the Coconut Shell cookery School

How much does a cooking class cost in Thailand?

Most cooking classes range in price between 500 – 1,500 baht 

4 Visit the sticky waterfall in Chiang Mai

sticky waterfall chiang mai the backpacking family adventure

Another great thing to do in Thailand with kids is to visit Sticky waterfall. Sticky waterfall is located around 2 hours north of Chiang Mai. This is one of the most unique and interesting waterfalls we have ever seen. You and your kids can feel like a real life Spider-Man scaling up the steep waterfall. As the water flows over the rock minerals crystallize forming a very unique surface texture with remarkably high friction.

sticky waterfall chiang Mai

Even with water flowing over the rock, it is possible to walk up very steep sections of the waterfall. You may expect the surface to be rough and painful to walk on. It is not actually painful. This is genuinely a very strange and interesting place. The Sticky waterfall is ideal for families with older kids who are more physically competent and can connect with the bizarre and fascinating nature of this place. 

How do you get to Sticky waterfall? 

You can either rent a car and drive to Sticky waterfall or take a taxi. This is likely to cost around 1,000 – 1,500 baht two ways. 

How much does it cost to visit Sticky waterfall?

FREE

5 Bathe in geothermal hot springs 

Things to do in Pai Sai Ngam

If you’re looking for fun things to do in Thailand with kids, why not bathe in a geothermal hot spring? The north of Thailand has plenty of geothermal hot springs. It is possible to visit geothermal hot springs and bathe in the warm mineral water. If you are looking for some beautiful and unique hot springs we recommend that you explore the area around Pai.

Pai hot springs Sai Ngam

There are many beautiful hot springs in this area, including a natural hot spring in a river (Sai Ngam hot spring). It is a very strange feeling stepping into a river and finding the water is pleasantly warm like a bath. Always be careful with young children near geothermal hot springs. It is very important to supervise children very carefully, especially close to hot geothermal water. 

What is the best hot spring in Thailand

Our favourite hotspring in Thailand is the Sai Ngam hot river near Pai. This is a very unique and beautiful place to visit. If you’re in Chiang Mai check out San Kamphaeng Hot Spring.

How much does it cost to visit hot springs in Thailand? 

Some hot springs are FREE. 100 baht – 500 baht

6 Enjoy an ocean sunset 

Phuket holiday sunset

One of our favorite things to do in Thailand with our kids is enjoy the beautiful tropical sunsets. If you are staying close to the west coast (either mainland or an island) – make sure that you take some time to enjoy the stunning colorful Thai sunsets.

Best beach in Koh Phangan sunset

Here are some of our favorite places to enjoy the sunsets in Thailand. If you are staying in Phuket, we recommend going to Kata beach to enjoy the sunset. If you are staying in Koh Phangan, check out the sunset at Mae Haad Beach. Sairee beach on Koh Tao has lovely vibes and offers a great place to enjoy the sunset. 

Where is the best place to enjoy an ocean sunset?

Any west facing coastline.

How much does it cost to enjoy an ocean sunset?

FREE like all the best things in life

7 Snorkel in crystal clear waters

things to do in Tioman snorkeling the backpacking family

A must-do activity in Thailand with kids is snorkeling in crystal clear waters. Thailand offers stunning small clear spots with crystal Clear waters and colorful coral reefs. If you are able to take your kids snorkeling in Thailand, you can introduce them to a new world of beautiful color and life. The great news is you don’t need to travel with snorkeling equipment. In most tourist destinations and snorkeling spots you can rent snorkeling masks, snorkels and fins, for very reasonable prices.

Things to do in sabah coral reef starfish

If your kids are not strong swimmers you can normally find kids size life jackets and also borrow these. there are three main ways to get to good snorkeling spots. You can either visit a nice beach and snorkel from the beach. you can also rent a kayak and use the kayak to get to a good snorkeling spot. alternatively, you can pay to go on an island hopping trip or snorkeling trip and they will normally lend you the equipment and take you on a boat to some awesome snorkeling locations. 

Where are the best places for snorkeling in Thailand?

Here are some of the best snorkeling locations in Thailand: 

How much does it cost to take a snorkeling trip in Thailand?

If you take a trip 2,500 – 5,000 baht (shared boat tour). Or just rent some kit and go. 

8 Trek to a jungle Hill temple

Itinerary in Chiang Mai Monks Trail Chiang Mai

If you’re looking for Intrepid things to do in Thailand with kids why not trek to a jungle Hill temple? This is an activity that you can do in many locations around Thailand. For example, if you are staying in Phuket you can visit the Big Buddha statue on the Hill, the stunning temple with remarkable views of South Phuket. Alternatively if you are staying in Chiang Mai you can check Trek up the monks trail to Wat Pha Lat – a very scenic and authentic hill temple. If you are staying in Pai you can visit Chedi Phra That Mae Yen (the Pai Buddha). In general it is free to visit Thai temples.

monks trail Chiang Mai Wat tha lat

We do recommend that you dress conservatively, covering knees and shoulders. Also if you are planning to trek into the jungle we recommend taking precautions. drink plenty of water and Wear appropriate footwear for trekking over rough terrain. Furthermore, always say to the trail and make sure that you have a map and if possible use GPS on your phone. If you’re not sure of directions or navigation we recommend trekking with a local guide. Watch the trail carefully for wild animals and do not try walking off the trail. 

Where are the best jungle hill temples in Thailand

We love the Big Buddha Phuket. Our TOP PICK is Wat Pha Lat in Chiang Mai.

How much does it cost to visit a jungle hill temple in Thailand?

FREE

8 Visit a waterpark

blue tree kids water park phuket

If you are looking for fun things to do in Thailand with kids why not visit a Waterpark? A water park is an awesome way to cool off from the intense tropical heat and it is also a great way to have a giggle with your family. You can find waterparks in all of the main destinations in Thailand. For example, if you are staying in Phuket try visiting the blue tree water park. This water park has plenty of exciting slides, jump platforms, an over-water climbing wall, a zipline and a kids play area.

Itinerary in Chiang Mai Grand canyon

Just next to the blue tree waterpark you can also find the Blue Tree Adventure Village. If you are in Bangkok there is actually a waterpark on the rooftop of a shopping mall! This is called the  Pororo waterpark. If you are in Chiang Mai don’t miss the epic Grand Canyon waterpark. This is a water park with an adventure theme. At the Grand Canyon Chiang Mai there is an inflatable obstacle course, a zipline, some terrifying slides and a kids play area. 

What are the best waterparks in Thailand?

Blue Tree waterpark Phuket, Pororo waterpark Bangkok and the Grand Canyon Waterpark in Chiang Mai

How much does it cost to visit a water park in Thailand?

Most water parks in Thailand range between 300 – 1,200 baht

9  Do a jungle zipline

things to do in Thailand zipline

If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush with your family there are also plenty of adventurous activities in Thailand.  For example, in Chiang Mai, there are several jungle zipline courses. In our opinion the best zipline place in Chiang Mai is the Pong Yang Adventure Park (around 1.5 hours from Chiang Mai). We love the beautiful, intrepid hilly location of this adventure park.

The zipline and high ropes course is very impressive and covers a large area. We also love the other activities that you can do at the Pong Yang Adventure Park. There is also a jungle roller coaster which is loads of fun for families with kids. 

What are the best places to go ziplining in Thailand?

There are plenty of zipline courses around Chiang Mai. We love the Pong Yang adventure park. There is also Eagle track zipline, Flight of the Gibbon and Dragon Flight Zipline park.

How much does it cost to do a jungle zipline in Thailand?

Must jungle ziplines are part of a large circuit of high ropes obstacles. Zipline courses range between 1,000baht and 4,000baht depending on the location and number of platforms.

10 Ride a night train 

train thailand with kids the backpacking family

If you’re looking for memorable things to do in Thailand with kids then why not try taking a night train? Night trains are a fantastic affordable way to get around Thailand. This is a great way to hit two birds with one stone. A night train is a great way to travel long distances across Thailand. Night trains in Thailand are actually surprisingly comfortable.

Thailand sleeper train first class cabin

If you take a 1st class private sleeper cabin there are 4 bunk beds, bedding and lockable doors for privacy and security. There is something beautifully relaxing about watching the country rolling by.

TOP TIP: Always book your tickets a couple of days in advance. You can book tickets directly at the station, book online or book tour agent (normally around 100 baht more expensive)

What are the main night train routes in Thailand?

You can take a night train to travel from Bangkok to Chiang Mai. You can also take a night train to travel from Bangkok to Surat Thani (gateway to the islands of the south). 

How much does a night train cost in Thailand?

First class sleeper tickets normally range in price between 1,500 – 2,000 baht. Remember you are also saving the cost of one night’s accommodation. 

11 Find an epic view point

View points in Koh Tao Nang Yuan family travel the backpacking family

If you’re looking for stunning things to do in Thailand with kids make sure that you visit some of the amazing viewpoints. Thailand has some absolutely breathtaking viewpoints.  It is important that you do your research before you visit a viewpoint in Thailand. In some cases you will need to trek through the jungle. Paths can be quite steep and the terrain may be uneven. So be aware that navigation can be very challenging in the jungle. We always recommend using a phone with GPS capacities and offline maps available. Always stay on the main trail.

Koh Tao viewpoints John Suwan

If you are visiting a viewpoint in Thailand we recommend wearing appropriate footwear (trainers not flip flops). Bring plenty of water. Also, this is not an ideal activity for families with younger kids. Many of the viewpoints in Thailand are high and have steep drops. Therefore, if you do visit a viewpoint in Thailand we recommend doing it with older kids and being very cautious.

What are the best viewpoints in Thailand?

Here are a few epic viewpoints that you can visit in Thailand:

How much does it cost to visit viewpoints in Thailand?

Most viewpoints are FREE to visit. Some viewpoints have a small entrance fee – generally less than 250 baht.

12 Explore a local market

Bangkok Trok Mor Morning market

If you are looking for cultural experiences to do in Thailand with kids why not explore a local market? Thai markets are a multi-sensory experience. Wherever you are in Thailand you wont be far from a local market. We absolutely love the energy and vibes of the morning markets. If you get a chance to visit a morning market you can see fruit and vegetable stalls. Locals line the streets selling fish, meat and local delicacies. We love the local breakfast food that you can buy and try in morning markets. And the prices are always SO reasonable – you can just eat your way around the market enjoying the sights and smells.

There is a night market culture in Thailand. You can find night markets in almost every town and city in Thailand – BUT they don’t necessarily run every night. Many night markets open one night a week – so it is worth asking around locally about the times and locations of the nearest night market. Most night markets sell an impressive range of street food. Whether you’re looking for fresh pad Thai or crispy insects covered in spice – Thai night markets have it all. By the way, one of the BEST night markets in Thailand can be found near the Chiang Mai gate (on the south wall of the old town). There is an even more impressive market running through the old town every Saturday night. 

What are the best Markets to visit in Thailand?

We love the Chiang Mai morning and night market at the Chiang Mai gate (south gate) and the Saturday night market in Chiang Mai. We also love the Trok Mor morning market in Bangkok.

How much does it cost to visit a market in Thailand?

FREE. Food and drinks tend to be very cheap – normally costing less than 100 baht.

13 Take an island hopping trip

island hopping tours james bond island Thailand

What is the most epic things to do in Thailand with kids is take an island hopping trip. Island hopping trips are boat trips that visit several different islands, normally stopping at beautiful beaches and snorkeling places. They may also take you to other attractions such as sea caves and viewpoints. Island hopping trips may also include sea kayaking. Some island hopping trips also offer sunset experience and may take you to see glowing plankton. 

best beach in Koh Phangan

Island hopping trips are normally all inclusive. Always check what is included when you book. As a minimum an island hopping should include equipment rental, drinks and lunch. They may also include transfer from your accommodation, national park fees and insurance. If you are planning to do an island hopping trip in Thailand we recommend booking your trip a couple of days in advance. Trips can sometimes get a little bit busy. 

What are the best places to do an island hopping trip in Thailand?

You can do Island hopping trips in Thailand at the following destinations: 

  • Phuket
  • Phang Nga bay
  • Koh Phi Phi
  • Krabi and Ao Nang
  • Koh Samui
  • Koh Phangan
  • Koh Tao
  • Koh Lipe

How much does it cost to take an island hopping trip in Thailand?

Island hopping is not very cheap in Thailand. Most island hopping trips range in price from around 2,000 baht to 5,000 baht (for a shared trip). 

14 Stay in a jungle tree house

If you’re looking for unique things to do in Thailand with kids consider staying in a jungle tree house. There are jungle tree house options around Thailand. One of our favorite jungle tree house resorts is based in Khao Sok National Park. Our Jungle Camp is an Eco-resort with a focus on sustainable development, organic agriculture and local education.

thailand tree house eco resort our jungle camp

They also offer an impressive range of luxury accommodation including a jungle tree house lodge. This is a great activity for the whole family. We love the fact that you can explore the Khao Sok national park, visit the lake and see wildlife. 

How do you get to Our Jungle camp in Khao Sok?

You can take buses to Khao Sok from Phuket and Surat Thani.

How much does it cost to stay in a treehouse at Our Jungle Camp?

Jungle tree houses normally cost £60 – £120 per night at Our Jungle Camp

15 Visit the hill tribes of the North 

One of the most interesting things to do in Thailand with kids is get into the mountains of north Thailand. If you get a chance we recommend going to visit one of the Hill tribes. There are different ways of doing this. For example, you could book a guided trek from Chiang Mai or Pai. Guided treks tend to be quite expensive and will normally take several days including stops at various homestays and the opportunity to experience the authentic hospitality of north Thailand.

Bamboo bridge Pai itinerary

Another way to meet people from the hill tribes is to stop by one of the Hill tribe villages closer to Pai or Chiang Mai. These cultural villages are often set up for tourists. This can be off putting as it may not feel authentic. In our humble opinion, these villages still provide a unique opportunity to meet tribe women and support them by buying craft.

Where can you meet tribal village people in Thailand?

There is a Karen long neck village located near Pai. Local women make and sell craft, art and gifts. 

How much does it cost to visit a tribal village in north Thailand?

There is normally a small entrance fee for tribal villages around 100 baht

16 Have a chat with a monk

Chiang Mai with kids monks and toddler

Another way to help kids experience the fascinating Thai culture is to arrange a chat with a monk. The monks in Chiang Mai are very friendly and welcoming to visitors and also offer the opportunity to have a chat with a monk and find out more about their life, values, beliefs and religion. We found this to be a very enriching experience and excellent for worldschooling. If you’re interested in having a chat with a monk we recommend dropping into one of the beautiful temples around Chiang Mai and asking if they are able to set you up with a chat.

Itinerary in Chiang Mai Wat chedi Luang

You will be able to sit outside surrounded by beautiful temple buildings and artwork and have a conversation with one of the English speaking monks. This is a great way of showing interest in Thai culture and religion and will help you build a deep appreciation for this fascinating culture. The monks in Chiang Mai are very friendly, welcoming and knowledgeable and really enjoy talking to foreign visitors.

We also recommend taking a walk around town early in the morning to see the monks taking alms (offerings). The best time for this is between 6am – 8am every day. 

Where can you do a monk chat?

The best place to do monk chat in is in Chiang Mai – enquire in a temple

How much does it cost to do a monk chat?

FREE

17 Learn to surf

If you’re looking for fun things to do in Thailand with kids why not take a surf lesson? There are several areas around Thailand where you can learn to surf. In general, if a beach is good for surfing you will also be able to find small surf schools who can provide lessons and rent surf boards.

uk-staycation-water sports Yorkshire family holiday surfing

Surfing is a seasonal activity in Thailand. If you are planning to surf it’s important to visit during the correct season, which will vary depending on the location.

What is the best place to surf?

One of our favorite locations for surfing in Thailand is Phuket, especially Kata beach. During the rainy season (June – December) Kata beach is a great place to learn surfing. Most days the surf is not too big and is suitable for beginners and intermediate level surfers. There are plenty of surf schools along the beach who can rent surf boards and offer surfing lessons. Don’t miss Jimmy’s surf school on Kata beach.

How much does it cost to surf in Thailand?

Lessons normally cost around 800 baht per hour. Surf board rental starts at around 150 baht per hour.

19 Play on the beach

family travel bloggers hammock bottle beach new

If you’re looking for things to do in Thailand with kids don’t forget to just allow some time for your kids to play on the beach. Thailand has many beautiful beaches with gorgeous jungle backdrops and beautiful water. If you’re planning to spend time on the beach in Thailand with kids, be aware that the tropical sun can be very intense.

Koh Phangan beach

It is important to wear sun protection SPF50 and avoid sun exposure during the hottest hours of the day. 

What are the best beaches for kids to play in Thailand?

Here are a few of our favourite family friendly beaches in Thailand. We love Nai Han beach and Kata beach in Phuket. Tonsai and Railaey beach are beautiful. We also love

How much does it cost to visit beaches in Thailand?

FREE

20 Stay in a hotel with a private swimming pool

One of our favorite things about Thailand is the amazing affordable accommodation. In Thailand your money goes a long way on accommodation. Thailand is packed with creative, innovative and unique hotels, many of which are perfect for families. If you’re planning a trip to Thailand why not splash out on an amazing hotel for your family?

Some of our favorite hotels in Thailand have private swimming pools. In our opinion this is a dream come true. Imagine relaxing in your luxurious suite, enjoying refreshing drinks, whilst your kids play in your private swimming pool taking in the beautiful tropical surroundings.

Don’t miss our guide to THE BEST Phuket hotels with private swimming pools

What is the best private pool hotel in Thailand? 

One of the best luxury hotels with a private pool is the impressive Keemala Resort in Phuket.

How much does it cost to stay at a private pool villa at Keemala?

Prices typically range between £400 – £1,000

21 Try sea kayaking 

Koh Tao with kids kayaking

If you’re looking for active things to do in Thailand with kids then why not try sea kayaking. many popular tourist destinations around Thailand and have hotels and resorts which offer kayak rental. You do not necessarily need to be a guest to take advantage of a kayak rental. If you are renting a sea kayak make sure that you also get some life jackets.

things to do in Tioman kayaking the backpacking family

Stay close to shore and always assess the water conditions carefully. We don’t recommend sea kayaking for families with younger kids or non-swimmers. Also make sure that you have a reasonable level of physical confidence and competence. 

What is the best place to try sea kayaking in Thailand?

You can rent sea kayaks at most beach destinations in Thailand. We loved sea kayaking on Mae Haad beach in Koh Phangan.

How much does it cost to rent a sea kayak in Thailand?

It normally costs around 250 baht per hour to rent a sea kayak in Thailand.

22 Visit a trampoline park 

If your kids have a lot of energy try visiting a trampoline park in Thailand. Trampoline parks in Thailand are a lot of fun. They normally have a wide range of different trampolines, foam pit ball pits and slides. This is ideal for younger kids, especially if they are very active. One of our favourite trampoline parks in Thailand is located in Phuket next to the Blue Tree water park.

Blue tree adventure village phuket for kids

The Adventure Village trampoline Park is an amazing place for kids to bounce, play, slide and swing. Another popular indoor play park is called Kidzoona. Although they do not have trampolines, there is a wide range of indoor play activities including active play, imaginative play, creative play and problem-solving. 

What are the best trampoline parks in Thailand?

Adventure Village Phuket is our favourite trampoline park in Thailand

How much does it cost to visit a trampoline park in Thailand?

Trampoline parks normally cost 400 – 700 baht 

23 Visit an aquarium

Phuket holiday itinerary aquarium

We have already mentioned the beautiful sea life in Thailand. If you’re spending some time in a city in Thailand you can also learn about tropical sea life by visiting an aquarium. Many of the major cities in Thailand have aquariums where you can see bizarre and beautiful fish and learn about unique animals of the oceans.

Sea life Bangkok Aquarium

We also love the growing emphasis on conservation and preservation of our ocean ecosystems.

Where can you find Aquariums in Thailand?

You can visit an aquarium in Bangkok. There are a couple of aquariums in Phuket.

How much does it cost to visit an aquarium in Thailand?

Entrance to aquarium in Thailand generally costs 250 – 700 baht

24 Visit a museum

Children's discovery museum Bangkok

If you’re looking for educational things to do in Thailand with kids make sure you visit a museum. Most of the major cities in Thailand have museums. Some museums focus on culture, history and archaeology. You can also find science museums in Thailand. If you’re in Bangkok don’t miss the amazing kids Discovery Museum. This is one of the BEST museums in Bangkok for kids.

Children's Discovery Museum Bangkok

It is free to visit this museum and there is a wide range of exhibits and attractions to inspire curiosity and engage kids through exploration, learning and play. Our kids loved the Bangkok Discovery Museum so much we have actually visited a few times. 

What are the best museums in Thailand?

Our favourite museum for kids in Thailand is the Children’s Discovery museum in Bangkok

How much does it cost to visit the Kids Discovery Centre in Bangkok?

FREE

25 Have a go at white water rafting 

White water rafting near Chiang Mai

And finally one of the most adventurous things to do in Thailand with kids is go white water rafting. We do not recommend this activity for families with younger kids or families with kids that cannot swim. However, if you’re visiting Thailand with adventurous teenagers then you may want to try white water rafting.

white water rafting

One of the best places to try white water rafting in Thailand is around 1 hour North of Chiang Mai. The best way to book a white water rafting trip in Chiang Mai is to pop into a local tour office and ask about white water rafting trips. white water rafting trips normally include a guide, instruction, paddles, helmets and life jackets. 

Where can you arrange a white water rafting trip?

If you’re in Chiang Mai check out Siam River Adventures White Water Rafting & White Water Kayaking

How much does a white water rafting trip cost in Thailand?

All inclusive white water rafting packages start at around 1,800 baht