Patong

The busiest beach on the island, with sunbeds, food and shops the whole way along. Parasailing and jet skis run off the sand.

From May to October the rip currents here are serious. If a red flag is flying, stay out of the water.

Freedom Beach, one of the clearest bays on the west coast, is reached by longtail boat from Patong. Agree the return time and the price before you get in.

Bangla Road runs inland from the middle of the beach and is Patong’s nightlife street: bars, clubs and loud music, busiest late at night. It is not aimed at families after dark.

None of Patong’s restaurants on our list holds a halal certificate we could check ourselves, so ask at the door if it matters to you.

Sala Bua at the Impiana puts tables on the sand, in a resort long known for Muslim guests; its weekend seafood barbecue is the reason to go. Beirut Nights on Thaweewong Road is Lebanese and the best-rated of the Middle Eastern kitchens here. Tandoori Flames cooks its biryani dum-style in a real tandoor.