There are a range of activities on offer at the resorts of Ngapali, Ngwe Saung and Chaung Tha, including fishing, scuba diving, snorkelling and kayaking, but you may find these more limited than at more established tourist resorts in Thailand. The main appeal of these places is simply to relax on their pristine white sand, with only the sound of the surf and rustling palm trees to disturb you – and perhaps to sample the delecious freshly caught seafood at their wide selection of locally-run restaurants.

The resorts all have charming villages nearby, which cater to tourists and also host active fishing communities – but if you are after a truly authentic local experience then head to Gwa and Kanthaya, where you will find zero tourism development and beaches that you are likely to have entirely to yourself.