Thailand’s beaches are world famous for their turquoise waters, dramatic limestone cliffs, and golden sands. Beyond being dream destinations for travelers, these coastlines have become iconic filming backdrops used by international productions and commercial campaigns. In 2025, Thailand remains one of the most cost-efficient and visually diverse locations in Southeast Asia for beach filming.
Why Beaches in Thailand Are Ideal for Filming
Unmatched Variety
Thailand offers beaches for every mood: romantic hidden coves, rugged rocky shorelines, and postcard-perfect white sands. Productions can capture multiple settings without leaving the country, saving both time and budget.
Cost Effective Infrastructure
Compared to other regional hubs, Thailand provides high quality crews, equipment, and logistics at lower costs, making it possible to achieve world-class production value without overspending.
Streamlined Permits with Local Partners
Filming on beaches in Thailand requires both a Thailand Film Office permit and location specific permissions, particularly for national parks or heritage areas. Working with a Thai production company ensures this process runs smoothly and avoids costly delays.
Movies Filmed on Thailand’s Beaches
Thailand’s beaches have attracted some of the biggest productions:
- The Beach (2000) starring Leonardo DiCaprio was filmed on Maya Bay, Phi Phi Leh Island. The movie’s portrayal of paradise turned the location into a global tourist hotspot.
- The Man with the Golden Gun (1974) from the James Bond series filmed at Phang Nga Bay. Its striking limestone karsts are now known worldwide as “James Bond Island.”
- Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason (2004) included scenes shot on Nai Yang Beach, Phuket, showcasing Thailand as a backdrop for romance and comedy.
- The White Lotus, Season 3 (2025) filmed at luxury resorts in Koh Samui and Phuket, blending Thailand’s coastal beauty with contemporary storytelling.
These productions show how Thailand’s beaches can serve as untouched paradises, dramatic adventure settings, or glamorous luxury escapes.
Tips for Successful Beach Filming in Thailand
- Scout with Purpose: Popular beaches like Maya Bay are iconic but crowded. Hidden gems in Krabi, Koh Samui, or lesser known islands offer equally cinematic backdrops with fewer interruptions.
- Time It Right: Early morning and late afternoon provide the best light while avoiding midday crowds.
- Work Sustainably: Heavy filming and tourism once damaged Maya Bay, leading to temporary closures. Eco-friendly filming ensures future productions can continue to use these iconic spots.
- Hire Local Experts: From navigating permits to handling tides and weather patterns, experienced Thai crews can save productions time, money, and complications.
Partner with Overgrown Productions for Your Thailand Beach Shoot
At Overgrown Productions, we guide international clients through beach filming across Thailand’s coastlines. From permit applications and location scouting to full production management, we make sure your shoot captures Thailand’s beauty while staying cost efficient and environmentally responsible.
Contact us today to discuss filming on Thailand’s beaches in 2025, whether your project calls for an untouched island paradise or a glamorous coastal resort.