Thai Island Family Retreats
Koh Kho Khao
This island has only recently been developed as a tourist destination in the Phang Nga province just off the coast from Takua Pa. Its little beach is the main attraction: white sand for sunbathing, rocks for picnics, trees for shade. A sandy shelf means that the sea is shallow for some way out — perfect for kids. There is not too much else to do, other than trek through the rainforest to a waterfall, stroll down a couple of mangrove walks or visit the ruins of a 13th-century village.
Where to stay Koh Kho Khao Resort (kkkresort.com) has great gardens and a pool with a garish mushroom fountain in the middle. It costs about £103 per night for a family room in peak seasons.
How to get there It is an hour and a half by road from Phuket airport to Takua Pa, then a five-minute hop by ferry from Baan Nam Kem pier.
Koh Kood
A beautiful mountainous island bordering Cambodia, Koh Kood still manages to feel quiet and unexplored despite its fancy resorts. Many are available only to holidaymakers on package deals and are accessible only by helicopter or boat, but in recent years more budget options have opened up around Klong Chao. There are no banks or large shops, but there are plenty of pretty beaches, particularly on the west side. The coral is in good condition.
When not lazing on beaches, the author writes a father blog.