Thailand is a wonderful country to discover with kids, and it’s easy to find great hotels at an affordable price. See our best budget Thailand hotels for families, from beach paradises to buzzy city breaks.
Best Western Premier Bangtao Beach Resort & Spa
Best Western Premier Bangtao Beach Resort & Spa, Phuket
Best budget Thailand hotel for: beachfront convenience
In the north of Phuket, just 25km from the airport and on Phuket’s most family-friendly beach, the lovely Best Western Premier Bangtao Beach Resort & Spa is more mid-range than strictly budget, but you’ll find competitive rates during low season, and it’s perfect for spending a few days in Phuket as part of a longer trip. A beachfront resort with 235 rooms spread across tropical gardens, there are two large pools with stunning Andaman Sea views and direct sand access. The location is ideal for exploring local attractions such as the Big Buddha and cultural theme park FantaSea, but still tranquil and set away from the area’s busy nightlife.
The best option for families are spacious, two-bed Deluxe Family rooms – one bedroom has a king-size bed, and the other two singles. Rooms all have aircon, balcony/terrace, living area, tea and coffee-making facilities, minbar and free Wi-Fi. For larger families, extra beds are available for an extra charge. Families of four could also book a Deluxe Bungalow, and you’ll be closer to the beach for those early morning and evening strolls.
High season rates (November to April) range from $220 to $300 USD per night for family rooms, and low season rates (May to October) drop to around $150 to $220 USD per night. Which, for what you get, is a pretty good deal.
The Rimping Village Hotel, Chiang Mai
Rimping Village Hotel, Chiang Mai
Best budget Thailand hotel for: city oasis
We love this charming boutique hotel located in the Wat Ket area of Chiang Mai, close to the Ping River. The Rimping Village Hotel is known for its peaceful vibe and great customer service, and the decor is relaxing too, blending modern comforts with traditional Lanna-style architecture. With lots of perks families will appreciate such as a lovely pool with sunbeds, and free bikes to explore the area, it’s an oasis of privacy, tranquility and nature that has the benefit of being just 10-15 minutes walk from the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, and a few minutes more from Thapae Gate at the Old Town.
There are plenty of Thai and international restaurants close by, as well as the bustling riverside with its live music and bars. And if you fancy a night in, there’s a local supermarket with plenty of international produce. Spacious rooms include the Family Suite, featuring a double bed and two single beds, a Smart TV, Wi-Fi, espresso machine, and a separate bathtub and shower.
High season rates (November to February) are around $130 to $150 per night. In the low season (March to October), you’ll find rates of $100 to $130 per night, often including breakfast, depending on current offers and your dates.
Via Best Western Sanam Pao, Bangkok
Vīb Best Western Sanam Pao, Bangkok
Best budget Thailand hotel for: city adventures
Bangkok is a sprawling city, and while there are many districts which work for a family city break, it helps to be close to public transport. The very affordable Vib Best Western Sanam Pao is close to the BTS Skytrain Sanam Pao Station, making it a great choice for families ready to explore the city’s attractions affordably. It’s a modern, tech-focused hotel near the Victory Monument with a central location in the Phaya Thai district, and literally just a minute’s walk from the BTS Sanam Pao station, from which it’s an easy transfer to Siam shopping district, Chatuchak Weekend Market, and all the Bangkok cultural attractions.
Family-friendly rooms are modern and comfortable, and while they’re not the largest, they’re stylish and efficient with thoughtful layouts. Kids and teens will love the smart TVs, super-fast Wi-Fi and digital services at the hotel, and you’ll love being close to the Bangkok Art and Culture Centre, MBK and Siam Paragon malls, and parks like the King Power Rangnam area. There’s also a fitness centre and relaxing lobby lounge. Great street food can be found near the Victory Monument, and in the many local restaurants.
Low season rates are $50 – $80 per night for a family room, going up to $80 – $120 per night during the high season, making it a Bangkok budget bargain to return to each time you’re in the city.
Phi Phi Villa Resort, Koh Phi Phi
Phi Phi Villa Resort, Tonsai Bay, Koh Phi Phi
Best budget Thailand hotel for: lush nature
Koh Phi Phi was popular long before Leonardo di Caprio arrived, though The Beach movie put it on the big screen, meaning it’s harder to find a Phi Phi bargain these days. However, Phi Phi Villa Resort falls into the affordable category nicely. It’s a boutique beachfront resort with easy access to Tonsai Bay and Loh Dalum Beach, with spacious rooms, lush gardens, and an easygoing atmosphere where your kids can run around to their heart’s content. The white sand beach outside the resort is private with incredible Andaman Sea and Phi Phi Lay Island views, and there’s a lovely pool with inflatable flamingoes for splash time.
Family room types range from Family Bungalows to Deluxe Family rooms and 2-bedroom Villas, but we love the Family Bungalow for its budget-friendly nature. They come with kingsize and two twin beds, private terrace, air-conditioning, satellite TV, mini-fridge, and ensuite bathroom; low season rates are from $80 – $120 per night, while high season (November to April) is $130 – $180 per night. If you want to come during holiday season, you’ll pay a bit more – from $180 – $250 per night. Top tip: book an early morning boat trip to avoid the crowds and enjoy the crystal clear waters of Maya Bay where The Beach was filmed.
Best Western Plus Carapace Hotel, Hua Hin
The Best Western Plus Carapace Hotel Hua Hin
Best budget Thailand hotel for: pools and slides
The Best Western Plus Carapace Hua Hin is a beachfront resort located on the serene Khao Tao Beach, a short drive south of Hua Hin, close enough to the attractions for easy access, but relaxing enough for a peaceful stay. It’s a family-friendly hotel with modern amenities, a beautiful pool area, and direct beach access. The biggest draw for families has to be the pools – a large lagoon-style pool with multiple sections, including a dedicated kids’ pool and waterslides. There’s also a supervised kids’ club with an indoor play area, a restaurant serving Thai and international cuisine with kids’ menus, a fully equipped gym, spa, and free Wi-Fi throughout the resort.
Local attractions include the waterpark Vana Nava Water Jungle, Hua Hin Night Market, the lively weekend Cicada Market, and Santorini Park – a Greek-themed amusement park with rides and entertainment.
Family rooms are the best budget option here, and you’ll find a king-sized bed and sofa bed (or two twins with a sofa bed), with direct pool access or garden/pool views. Rooms have aircon, flat-screen TV, minibar, private balcony, and an ensuite bathroom. Rates are $80 – $120 per night in the May-October low season, $120 – $180 per night during November-April, and during peak season (Christmas, New Year and Songkran), rising to $180 – $250 per night.
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Holiday Inn Resort, Ao Nang, Krabi
Holiday Inn Resort Ao Nang Beach, Krabi
Best budget Thailand hotel for: natural beauty
Perched on a lush hillside above Ao Nang Beach, Holiday Inn Resort Krabi Ao Nang Beach is a great contemporary budget pick for families. There’s a kids’ club, saltwater pool and outdoor playground, and a Kids Stay and Eat Free program – it’s safe to say families are welcomed here. With 171 spacious, modern rooms and suites, designed with a nod to the beautiful Krabi landscape and architecture, you’re steps away from pristine Ao Nang Beach, downtown shops, and plenty of family-friendly restaurants and bars. There’s also the option to join day tours to the stunning Emerald Pools and Tiger Cave Temple, and enjoy family activities such as kayaking, snorkelling, and hiking at Railay Beach.
There are several options for families at Holiday Inn Resort Krabi Ao Nang Beach, but we recommend a Family Room, Ensuite, Pool View, which includes a double bed and a bunk bed for children, with premium amenities. This room offers more space for families, and rates can go from $115 – $170 per night in low reason, $170 – $230 per night in high season, and $230 – $270 during peak season.
U Inchantree Kanchanaburi
U Inchantree Kanchanaburi, Kanchanaburi
Best budget Thailand hotel for: river cruises
A boutique riverside resort located near the famous River Kwai Bridge in Kanchanaburi, U Inchantree Kanchanaburi is a great option for families wanting a peaceful and scenic getaway. It’s cheaper than the islands, and has the draw of the River Kwai, its famous bridge and the beautiful waterfall paradise of Erawan National Park. The resort can also arrange boat rentals on the River Kwai for a fun family outing. There’s an infinity pool with river views, as well as Thai Peppers and The Terrace restaurants, and free bikes to explore the area.
There are several good accommodation options for families depending on size, and for most rooms, one child under 12 can stay free of charge. Deluxe Triple rooms with garden views have two big beds, rain showers, private balconies or terrace, Wi-Fi, aircon, LCD TV with deluxe channels, coffee/tea, work desk, slippers and bathrobes. Prices range from $95 – $120 in the low season, $110 – $140 in the high season, and $150 – $190 during the peak season.
Nearby family attractions include the River Kwai Bridge: a 5-minute walk from the resort, where you can cross the famous bridge with its beautiful river views. The Death Railway Museum is one for history lovers, near the River Kwai Bridge, centred around the construction of the railway during World War II, and for more wartime history, there’s the Kanchanaburi War Cemetery, honouring Allied forces who died here. The Erawan National Park, with its stunning 7-tiered waterfall, is a great spot for family hikes and swimming in the natural pools.
Lobby, Best Western Nexen Pattaya
Best Western Plus Nexen Pattaya, Pattaya
Best budget Thailand hotel for: convenient attractions
The new Best Western Plus Nexen Pattaya is a great choice for families travelling to Pattaya. It’s just 90 minutes’ drive from Bangkok and near Pattaya and Wong Amat beaches, with a complimentary shuttle to both as well as well as nearby attractions. Of the beaches, Pattaya is best for watersports and boat trips, whilst Wong Amat is quieter and more family-friendly. There’s a large outdoor swimming pool at the hotel with a kids’ section, and onsite dining with Thai and international options plus kid-friendly dishes. You’ll also find a fitness suite, spa, free onsite parking and free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel.
The hotel is bright and stylish, with 164 rooms and suites. You can pick up a Superior Family Room for $50 – $70 during the low season, and $70 – $1115 during the high season, rising to $115 – $130 during peak season holidays. Deluxe Family Rooms are still fairly reasonable, at $70 – $100 / $100 – $140 / $140 – $170.
Some of the local attractions include: Art in Paradise: an interactive 3D art museum that’s popular with kids; Sanctuary of Truth: a beautiful wooden temple near the hotel, where families can learn about Thai culture and enjoy the scenic surroundings; Mini Siam: a miniature park displaying small-scale replicas of famous landmarks from around the world; the Teddy Bear Museum: with numerous displays of teddy bears in different costumes and themes, also a short distance from the hotel; and Cartoon Network Amazon Waterpark for fun and splash times.
Milky Bay Resort, Koh Phangan
Milky Bay Resort, Bantai, Koh Phangan
Best budget Thailand hotel for: secluded paradise
Koh Phangan takes longer to reach than Gulf of Thailand sibling Koh Samui due to its lack of airport, but the ferry over makes it an exciting and special experience, and you’ll find more affordable resorts on the island. Milky Bay Resort has a great location set in lush gardens between main town Thong Sala and Ban Tai beach, with easy access to local markets, restaurants, and transport, in a quieter, more family-friendly environment. Ban Tai beach is the star of the show, with its white sands and calm clear waters, perfect for idling the day away with swimming, snorkelling, kayaking, and volleyball.
The resort’s beachfront restaurant is the perfect place to enjoy spectacular sunsets with a drink and choices of Thai or Italian food, including beachfront seafood barbecues. Once you’ve had enough swimming, there’s a cooling beachfront pool as well as beach massages and herbal steams.
Family Rooms and Bungalows are spacious and well-equipped for families with young children, costing as little as $35 – $85 during low season – they are apt to rise during high season, whilst still remaining very much in the budget range.
Best Western Chaweng Beach Samui
Best Western Chaweng Beach Samui, Koh Samui
Best budget Thailand hotel for: lively beach vibes
The Best Western Chaweng Beach Samui is a new addition to the Best Western portfolio, and perfect for families looking for some modern comforts alongside all the fun of Koh Samui’s vibrant beach scene. Located on one of its most famous spots, the lively Chaweng Beach, you’ll find plenty of opportunities for beachside dining and entertainment along the broad expanse of white sand. While Chaweng is known for its nightlife, the area has plenty of family attractions too: water parks, boat tours, and nearby cultural sites like Wat Phra Yai (Big Buddha). And Chaweng’s shallow waters are perfect for kids, who can play safely and try their hand at some watersports.
The hotel has 63 stylish rooms with modern amenities, including complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and cable TV. The warm, Thai-inspired décor makes for a comfortable relaxation spot after a long day enjoying Chaweng, and the indoor swimming pool is popular with families seeking an escape from the sunshine (or showers). Deluxe rooms have aircon, ensuite bathrooms and Wi-Fi, and you’ll pay around $70-$100 per night, rising to $115-$140 in high season, and up t0 $170-$230 during the peak holiday season.
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