Where Did They Film White Lotus Season 3? Your Thailand Deep Dive

If you’re wondering, “Where did they film White Lotus season 3?” and in turn, feeling ready to book a trip to get you to this set-worthy paradise, you’ve come to the right place.

With The White Lotus season three season filmed across Thailand — including at Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui and Anantara Mai Khao Villas — we’re getting ahead of your questions just as we did with our season two deep dive. There are countless ways to construct a well-planned Thailand itinerary, so depending on the season you visit and whether you’re on your honeymoon, seeking adventure, or showing your family a new-to-you corner of the world, Thailand reveals its magic with each stop on your itinerary.

The Best Time to go to Thailand

When helping plan a trip to the Land of Smiles, one of the most common questions we get asked is, “When is the best time to go to Thailand?” quickly followed by, “Where should I go?” For most travelers, the optimal time to visit Thailand is during the dry season, which runs from November to February. Traveling during this period allows you to visit many different parts of the country, from bustling Bangkok to the Golden Triangle — the area of northwestern Thailand where the border meets Laos and Myanmar — all while enjoying ideal temperatures and limited rain.

…Thailand’s weather is more nuanced than the labels “dry season” and “rainy season” might suggest.

Conversely, Thailand’s rainy season typically runs from the end of June through October or November. During this time of year, the heat and humidity can be pretty intense for those not accustomed to the conditions. That said, Thailand’s weather is more nuanced than the labels “dry season” and “rainy season” might suggest. If you’re planning to visit between January and September, Thailand’s east coast favorites —like Koh Samui — are more likely to have sunny and dry weather. If you’re traveling from October to April, focus your trip on destinations in Western Thailand like Phuket and Krabi.

If the seasonality of this complex country is overwhelming you, that’s where we come in. Your SmartFlyer travel advisor can guide you to destinations within Thailand that best match your vision for your trip, no matter what time of year you want to travel.

The Best Places to Go in Thailand

The beauty of Thailand is in its contrasts: the neon lights and food markets of Bangkok, TV and movie-set-worthy islands, beaches dotting the coasts, and the lush hillsides, and mountain temples of the north. And now that you know the best time to visit, we’re rounding up our destination picks and property recommendations for some of the best places to go in Thailand.

Bangkok

Bangkok feels like a city straddling two identities…

The Thai capital is often your first glimpse of Thailand — and what an impression it makes. At first glance, Bangkok feels like a city straddling two identities: newly constructed sky-high buildings and buzzing streets are couched alongside timeless ancient temples that remind you of the country’s rich cultural roots. But as you explore, you’ll discover the city’s vibrant layers.

Bangkok is a place where venerable temples like Wat Arun and the Grand Palace hold stories of the past, while the food markets overflow with bold flavors. Hidden gems await down winding alleyways, and every tuk-tuk ride feels like an adventure in itself. We recommend adding SOOKSIAM to your Bangkok itinerary for a true foodie adventure; in addition to a floating market theme, they have food from every one of Thailand’s seventy-seven provinces!

A Handful of Top Bangkok Properties

Capella Bangkok: Capella Bangkok has been decorated with award after award, including the #1 spot on the 2024 World’s 50 Best Hotels List. Sitting directly on the Chao Praya River, time slows down as soon as you step foot in this contemporary and calm hotel (which is saying a lot in a city with as much energy as Bangkok). The riverside villas are perfect for honeymoon couples as they all feature private gardens with a private jacuzzi plunge pool. Guests adore the heartfelt service, lunar-inspired spa treatments, and cocktails at Stella which are each named after inspiring women.

Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok: This riverside hotel has epitomized luxury and hospitality for over over a century, attracting royalty, celebrities, and literary icons. Nestled along the Chao Phraya River, Mandarin Oriental, Bankgok seamlessly blends Thai heritage with world-class service, featuring opulent suites, a serene spa, and award-winning dining, including the two Michelin-starred Le Normandie. With its timeless elegance, iconic Authors’ Lounge, and impeccable attention to detail, it remains a grande dame amongst Bangkok’s top properties.

Kimpton Maa-Lai Bangkok: Nestled beside Lumphini Park — Bangkok’s version of Central Park —  Kimpton Maa-Lai Bangkok is refreshingly light, airy, and spacious. The lobby is the hotel’s heartbeat and you’ll always find a friendly face (both human and furry!) to greet you at this pet-friendly hotel. Opt for a park-view room and spend time among the hotel’s lush green spaces for a quiet reprieve from the city.

Rosewood Bangkok: Embodies the Thai spirit in its design, the shape of this stunning thirty-story building is inspired by the wai, a famous Thai greeting guesture. Its prime location in the city’s commercial center puts you within walking distance to ample restaurants and shopping. If we had our pick, we’d opt for the Sky Pool Suite, which has a private outdoor plunge pool with panoramic views of the city. Or, for ultimate privacy, opt for one of their opulent houses. Bannakarn House occupies the entire top floor with the hotel’s highest elevation plunge pool.

Phuket

While night markets, pulsating nightclubs, and beach parties that stretch until dawn are all on offer, there’s more to Thailand’s largest island than its party scene.

The world knows Phuket as having one of Southeast Asia’s most vibrant nightlife scenes. While night markets, pulsating nightclubs, and beach parties that stretch until dawn are all on offer, there’s more to Thailand’s largest island than its party scene. Thalang Road in Old Town Phuket is beloved by locals for its candy-colored Sino-European-style houses, charming shops, and ample cafes. Be sure to wander Soi Romanee — one of the most beautifully preserved streets — for a true taste of Phuket’s heritage. Most travelers flock to the more well-known beaches in Phuket, like Patong or Kata, but you’re not most travelers. Our favorite beaches include Pansea Beach and Surin for postcard-perfect water and powdery white sand and Mai Khao for when you don’t just want quiet — you want ultra secluded.

A Handful of Top Phuket Properties

Anantara Mai Khao Phuket Villas: While we could stop at the words “pool villas,” it’s worth mentioning that Anantara Mai Khao Phuket Villas is located on the oh-so-secluded Mai Khao beach. Peace and privacy are the name of the game here — the pool villas are hidden behind lush gardens along the lagoons overflowing with lily pads. Notably, The White Lotus season three was filmed at this property in addition to Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui.

Amanpuri: Living up to its name which means “a sense of peace” in Sanskrit, Amanpuri is exactly what you dream of when you imagine a peaceful beach resort in Phuket. As the first-ever Aman Resort, the property set (and has maintained) a gold standard for hospitality. Its location on Pansea Beach is among the most beautiful stretches of beach in Phuket, sunset-facing, and completely private. If you’re traveling with your family in tow, they’ll feel right at home in one of the multi-bedroom villas.

Chiang Mai

While Bangkok and Phuket tend to get more time in the spotlight, Chiang Mai is where you’ll pause and think to yourself, “This is why people fall in love with Thailand.” Chiang Mai is full of soul — and yes, the elephants here are a major part of that. Northern Thailand is the best place to have an elephant encounter, as they’re deeply woven into the local culture. (Continue reading for tips on how to select an ethical elephant sanctuary in Thailand).

Your SmartFlyer travel advisor can set you up to venture to hillside villages, stunning waterfalls, and lush rice paddies.

Chiang Mai offers more than elephant encounters, with ample spiritual and wellness facets to explore. For those who wake up early enough, Wat Phra Singh temple is a sacred place where you can witness the monks receiving alms. Chiang Mai is also known for having some of the country’s best massages, particularly by their expert blind masseuses whose heightened sense of touch ensures a deeply intuitive experience. And then there’s the food — Thai curry takes center stage here, along with dishes influenced by neighboring Myanmar and Laos. A visit to a nearby cooking school is a fun way to make sure you can recreate your favorite dishes at home. Leave plenty of room in your itinerary for a day trip (or two) into the surrounding mountains. Your SmartFlyer travel advisor can set you up to venture to hillside villages, stunning waterfalls, and lush rice paddies.

137 Pillars House Chiang Mai: An 1800s Thai colonial estate that’s been renovated into a luxury boutique hotel? This is the type of one-of-a-kind hotel you travel halfway across the world to experience. 137 Pillars House Chiang Mai is steeped in fascinating history, stunningly preserved, and a testament to what makes this corner of Thailand so special.

Chiang Rai

This region offers some of the most breathtaking landscapes in Thailand, making it a perfect match for adventurous travelers.

Further north lies Chiang Rai, a region undoubtedly worth a spot on your itinerary. Here you’ll find the Golden Triangle where the borders of Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet at the Mekong River. This region offers some of the most breathtaking landscapes in Thailand, making it a perfect match for adventurous travelers. Immerse yourself in the untouched wilderness as you trek through the jungle before unwinding in the warmth of the region’s natural hot springs. Chiang Rai is also known for its tea plantations where you can sip on some of the world’s best oolong, green, and black tea. And, of course, there are plenty of temples to see; most notably, Wat Santikhiri (a peaceful mountain temple in Mae Salong), the White Temple (a dazzling modern masterpiece), and the Blue Temple (a vivid and artistic temple that really stands out).

Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort: Located in the jungle of Chiang Rai and boasting a view of Laos and Myanmar, Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort beckons. We have to talk about two of the most unique experiences here: the Jungle Bubble Rooms and the elephant camp. The Jungle Bubble Rooms offer guests a glamping elephant experience where you can spend the night observing the gentle giants in their natural habitat. Then there’s the elephant camp, which offers a number of incredible experiences, including a journey into the jungle with the elephants and their caretakers on their daily walks.

The Best Beaches and Islands in Thailand

Phuket may be Thailand’s largest island, but it’s just one of 1,400 islands in the country! To help you narrow it down, we’ve crafted a list of some of the best beaches and islands in Thailand.

For Private Island vibes: Koh Samui

A tropical island in the Gulf of Thailand known for its palm-fringed beaches, Koh Samui blends laid-back island charm with upscale indulgence. Beyond its stunning coastline, the island offers lush rainforests, hidden waterfalls, and cultural landmarks like the Big Buddha, making it a perfect mix of relaxation and adventure. For something truly unforgettable, have your SmartFlyer travel advisor arrange an overnight luxury yacht tour of Angthong National Marine Park. And for those craving a little adrenaline (or a great workout), you can train with a professional Muy Thai kickboxer.

Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui: There’s a reason the Max production team chose this property as one of its filming locations for season three of The White Lotus — the feeling that you’ve stepped onto an island all your own is surely part of the magic. While none of Koh Samui’s beaches are technically private, the resort’s beach is an exclusive escape accessible only to its guests. The dense landscaping (there are over 800 coconut palms!) ensures you’ll have lots of privacy while the pool bar makes for an impressionable spot to watch the sky change colors at sunset. Thanks to sprawling acreage, this ultra-private property makes for a fantastic option for honeymooners, families, and groups alike.

For a Remote Beach Only Accessible by Boat: Railay Beach, Krabi

By day, the beach is filled with sunbathers; by night, as the sun sets and the tourists leave, it transforms into your very own quiet paradise.

Railay Beach retains its reputation as one of the most beautiful beaches in Thailand thanks to its remote location, only accessible by boat. By day, the beach is filled with sunbathers; by night, as the sun sets and the tourists leave, it transforms into your very own quiet paradise. Work with your SmartFlyer travel advisor to charter a private longtail boat for a tour of Phra Nang Cave Beach, Tup Island, Koh Gai, and Poda Island for even more beautiful beaches in Krabi.

Rayavadee Resort: If you’re up for a little adventure, Rayavadee Resort puts you in a prime location to scale the limestone cliffs just off Railay Beach. Not only is it steps away from Krabi’s popular Railay Beach, but it also borders Krabi Marine National Park. Surrounded by lush flora and fauna, a stay in one of their two-story pavilions will make you feel like you’re in a secret garden paradise.

For a Serene Island Escape: Koh Yao Noi

…known for its unspoiled beaches, lush mangroves, breathtaking limestone karst views, and opportunities for kayaking, cycling, and exploring hidden coves.

Koh Yao Noi is synonymous with serenity and a slower pace. Think: yoga on the beach, meditation under swaying palm trees, and recharging before continuing on with your trip. This tranquil island in Phang Nga Bay, nestled between Phuket and Krabi, is known for its unspoiled beaches, lush mangroves, breathtaking limestone karst views, and opportunities for kayaking, cycling, and exploring hidden coves.

Six Senses Yao Noi: One of the true leaders in the ‘barefoot luxury’ concept, this secluded property overlooks Phang Nga Bay, offering breathtaking views of limestone karsts rising from emerald waters. Designed with sustainability in mind in true Six Senses Resorts fashion, the resort features private pool villas, world-class wellness programs, and personalized experiences, from sunrise yoga to island-hopping by private boat. With its blend of laid-back yet attentive service, exceptional dining, and immersive nature experiences, it’s the ultimate retreat for those seeking tranquility and exclusivity.

ÀNI Thailand: If you’re seeking an exclusive-use property for you and up to twenty friends, ÀNI Thailand makes for the ultimate hideaway on a serene stretch of Koh Yao Noi. Guests love taking private cooking lessons with their Executive Chef, a sunset cruise in a longtail boat, and watching fire jugglers in action. Your stay here is sure to be fully customized based on what you and your crew need, making it ideal for multi-generational trips, milestone celebrations, or corporate retreats.

For the Traveler Who Loves Under-the-Radar Spots: Koh Kood

…offers a laid-back atmosphere and hidden waterfalls, making it the perfect escape for travelers seeking tranquility and natural beauty away from the crowds.

One of Thailand’s best-kept secrets, Koh Kood is the definition of unspoiled beauty. A true paradise with crystal-clear water and powdery white sand, it’s the kind of place where you’ll want to put your phone on DND — and leave it there forever. This under-the-radar island in Thailand’s Trat province offers a laid-back atmosphere and hidden waterfalls, making it the perfect escape for travelers seeking tranquility and natural beauty away from the crowds.

Soneva Kiri: Sometimes a little gatekeeping is necessary, but since we’re among friends, Soneva Kiri is one of our favorite under-the-radar spots in Thailand. Tucked on a secluded bay in Koh Kood, disconnecting from the outside world is encouraged (so is leaving your shoes in your luggage). Soneva Kiri’s commitment to sustainability means the utmost attention and care was taken to use natural materials and preserve as much of the natural environment as possible. The multi-structure pool villas are sprawling starting at 5,000 sq. ft. and most have their own private stretch of beach. Each guest is assigned their own personal ‘Friday’ to cater to every whim imaginable. You’ll be tempted to spend the entirety of your stay in your villa — and we wouldn’t blame you.

For Sunrise Chasers: Maya Bay, Phi Phi Islands

Made famous by The Beach starring Leonardo DiCaprio, Maya Bay is every bit as stunning in real life as it is on screen. Maya Bay itself is a protected area within the Hat Noppharat Thara-Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park, meaning there are no hotels or resorts directly on the bay, but these islands are one of the most popular places for boat tours so the beaches can get overcrowded — fast. To avoid the daytime crowds, opt for a sunrise tour. You’ll get the beach (almost) to yourself and capture that perfect sunrise shot.

Can’t Miss Activities for Your Thailand Itinerary

Thai Wellness Experiences

Thai people are known for integration into wellness, so we recommend arranging a few spa treatments and wellness experiences. Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui has a ‘Secret Night Ritual’ where you can experience a four-hands healing journey complete with Tibetan singing bowls, a coconut and lotus petal bath, and a warm lava shell massage — all under a star-lit sky. 

Amanpuri offers an ancient Thai ‘Nuad Pan Boran,’ a complete Thai massage that uses techniques practiced by Buddhist monks for over 2,500 years. Capella Bangkok’s ‘Hom Mali’ massage uses Hom Mali rice from the paddy fields in northern Thailand to create a scrub that induces deep relaxation. Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort shares an ancient healing art called ‘Ya-Pao,’ a Thai detoxification therapy to balance the wind, water, and fire elements within you.

Ethical Elephant Encounters

An elephant encounter can be one of the most unforgettable parts of your trip to Thailand. As incredible as these experiences are, unfortunately not all elephant sanctuaries are created equal. Many travelers can find themselves unknowingly supporting unethical practices. 

Before you arrange a visit to an elephant sanctuary, rescue, or rehabilitation center, you want to make sure they demonstrate ethical care for these beautiful animals. We’ve rounded up some points of consideration for finding an ethical elephant sanctuary in Thailand. 

Red flags to avoid:

• Offering elephant rides or activities like painting
• Forced interaction with tourists
• Performances, tricks, or demonstrations
• Use of restraints, such as chains around their feet

Green flags to look for:

• Elephants are observed from afar in as near a natural setting as possible
• The sanctuary actively gives back to local conservation efforts

For example, organizations like The Golden Triangle Asian Elephant Foundation serve as a home for elephants, their caretakers, and their families. They rescue street elephants and support them by returning them to their natural habitat.

Ancient Temples

Visiting one of Thailand’s 33,000 ancient temples is a beautiful way to honor the country’s rich cultural heritage and deep spiritual roots. Whether they are intricately ornate or modestly humble, each temple is significant.

If you’re planning to visit one of Thailand’s temples, keep in mind that women need to have their shoulders and knees covered. We recommend packing lightweight fabrics, like linens, so you’ll still be cool in the warmer temps.

Start Planning Your Trip to Thailand

Your SmartFlyer travel advisor can arrange an epic eight-night Thailand itinerary for you or create a custom itinerary tailored to your specific interests and desires (even if it is just to see where The White Lotus season 3 was filmed!).