All that hard work throughout the year has culminated in a well-deserved short vacation or a weekend escape. With new year just around the corner, you might be wondering where a good place is to go for the weekend that is fun, exciting and not too far from Bangkok.

Here are 5 popular places to go for a weekend escape from Bangkok for the New Year and for a little extra icing, we will also name a couple of alternative destinations as well.

Hua Hin

Hua Hin has a bit of everything. Decent beaches, some mountains, incredible viewpoints, night markets, cafes, a wide range of restaurants, and even water parks.

It’s a great place to go solo, with a special someone or with family and friends. You will find a wonderful range of hotels and resorts as well, fit for any budget.

If you are looking to party for the New Year in Hua Hin, there are plenty of bars around the city and especially on walking street where there are bound to be some fun celebrations.

There is also a special party hosted by Burning Snow that includes a buffet, a lineup of cool DJs and other entertainment.

Alternative destinations: go further south to Pranburi, Kui Buri or Prachuap Khiri Khan city and you will see some amazing natural landscapes.

Pattaya

There is no better place to go party for the New Year than Pattaya. Whether you are bar hopping in walking street or hitting up one of the countless bars around beach road or Soi Buakhao or taking it up a notch at some of the nightclubs, Pattaya never disappoints. 

They even have a few incredible beach clubs such as Alexa Beach Club to chill, drink, and spend New Years Eve at.

There is also a less energetic side to Pattaya though. You can go around town cafe hopping, hit up some beachside seafood restaurants, splash around at Ramayana Water Park, go to a floating market or simply relax at one of the city’s most luxurious resorts and pool villas.

Alternative destinations: For a more local scene, try staying at Bang Saen or stay overnight at one of the nearby islands such as Koh Si Chang near Si Racha district or Koh Larn, which is just minutes away from Pattaya. 

Khao Yai

Khao Yai is a popular destination for Thais, especially during the holiday season as the weather gets significantly cooler in this region.

It is a perfect place for a weekend getaway if you like mountains, waterfalls, camping and hiking.

Primarily Khao Yai is a national park that covers several provinces in the region but when tourists refer to Khao Yai, it is the national park plus the Pak Chong district where all the resorts, hotels and attractions are. 

In addition to the natural wonders of Khao Yai, there are also some excellent wineries here where you can taste different local wines.

Another reason why people love to go to this region is to visit Tuscan-themed attractions such as Primo Plaza, Toscana Valley, and Palio Khaoyai. These places include shops, restaurants, and unique activities.

Alternative destination: Prachinburi where you can go white water rafting or see stunning waterfalls

Koh Samed

A tiny island in Rayong, Koh Samed has always been popular for its beautiful beaches, water activities and beach parties.

It’s also an easy island to explore by scooter or bicycle to check out all the beaches, viewpoints and interesting statues.

There are plenty of accommodations on the island across different budgets. 

Alternative destination: for a more cultural and local experience, head further down south from Rayong to Chanthaburi.

Koh Chang

Koh Chang is the furthest from Bangkok on this list but it is completely worth the trip, especially if you enjoy taking road trips. The best thing is that if you have your own car, you can take it on to the island and take your time exploring it.

Koh Chang has everything you could want in a destination. Relaxation, wide range of accommodations at fair prices, lots of natural wonders, beautiful beaches, a decent nightlife scene, excellent food, and lots of recreational activities such as island hopping.

Alternative destination: Koh Kood is another island nearby but with a far more relaxed vibe.

Watch Video