Fantastic News! Suchart Celebrates Ao Kuak's Recognition as One of the World's Top 10 Beaches in 2026, Vows to Maintain Standards
Ao Kuak beach in Phang Nga's Similan Islands National Park ranked 10th globally in the 2026 World's 50 Best Beaches list, with Thailand's environment minister pledging to maintain strict conservation standards to preserve the site's pristin
Minister Suchart Chomklin expressed delight and pride in the success of Ao Kuak within the Similan Islands National Park being ranked among the world's top 10 beaches for 2026. He thanked park officials for their strong natural resource management and emphasized maintaining strict management standards to preserve this world-class beauty sustainably.
On May 5, 2026, the global rankings of "The World's 50 Best Beaches 2026" were announced by a network of over 1,000 tourism experts worldwide. Ao Kuak (Donald Duck Bay) within the Similan Islands National Park achieved the 10th position globally.
This recognition reflects the bay's outstanding natural beauty, complete ecosystem integrity, and unique characteristics acknowledged on the international stage.
Minister Suchart Chomklin expressed his joy and pride in this success, thanking the Department of National Parks staff and all relevant parties for their strong commitment to natural resource management. He emphasized maintaining strict management standards and using this achievement as a model to elevate national parks throughout the country, promoting Thailand's conservation-based tourism for sustainable growth and international recognition.
Athitpol Charoenchansri, Director-General of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, noted this success as a point of national pride, reflecting the effectiveness of proactive management measures including visitor capacity limits, seasonal resource rehabilitation closures, and strict waste management, which help maintain high-level marine and coastal ecosystem integrity.
Sirivat Supsai, Director of Similan Islands National Park, explained that Ao Kuak on Eighth Island (Similan Island) features crystal-clear waters, fine white sand, and the distinctive "Sailing Stone" rock formation that attracts visitors worldwide. Balancing tourism with conservation and cooperation from operators and visitors have been key factors in gaining international recognition.
The Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation affirmed its commitment to conserving and protecting invaluable natural resources, ensuring this world-class beauty remains for Thailand and future generations in a sustainable manner.
