One of the best ways to spread joy is with a smile – and when better to smile than on National Smile Day? To mark this special occasion, we're sharing photos from Thailand that our wonderful followers on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook have shared.

It's no wonder Thailand is known as the "Land of Smiles"! These breathtaking views, from Pai Canyon in northern Thailand to the heart-shaped mangroves of Trang, bring us pure joy – and we want to share that joy with you! Browse the photo gallery below and get inspired for your next trip to Thailand!

In May, Thailand Insider held a photo contest, inviting its followers to share a photo from Thailand that brought a smile to their face using the hashtag #ThailandInsiderSmiles. Many of the participants shown above shared beautiful pictures with nostalgic captions about what made them smile during their Thailand vacation. Here are the three most popular photos!

Trang Province

“I Trang – The heart-shaped island in the mangroves” – @Luke.Outside

On the Andaman coast, the town of Trang offers panoramic views of lush mangrove forests and breathtaking cliffs. The mangrove forests are home to diverse flora and serve as important nesting grounds for migratory birds, as well as habitats for monkeys, sea turtles, monitor lizards, and mudskippers.

Trang's intact coastal ecosystem sustains fishing and protects the coastline from erosion, tropical storms, and tidal surges. The lush mangrove vegetation provides sustenance for the local wildlife. Recently, a herd of dugongs, a marine mammal, was spotted feeding on seagrass in Trang province. With a bit of luck, you might even see this rare animal yourself!

Ko Lipe

"The trip to Lipe Island in southern Thailand was one of my best trips in years! Besides traveling with friends, I usually travel with my family. Lipe offers many activities, such as snorkeling trips, stand-up paddleboarding, and kayaking. But what we enjoy most is relaxing on this sandbar and admiring the beautiful sunset and colorful sky every evening!" – @akara_srt

The pristine, crystal-clear water makes snorkeling and diving an extraordinary experience. Coral reefs and the fascinating underwater world can be admired through the clear water, creating unforgettable moments. Ko Lipe consists of three beaches, all with white sand and ideal opportunities for relaxation.

Pai

"Flashback: This was a few years ago when we rented motorbikes in Pai, Thailand. We spent the whole day exploring the area on our own, stopping frequently for iced coffee and seeking adventure on old dirt roads. We discovered hidden waterfalls and panoramic views and finally made it to Pai Canyon. What a sight! You can walk along the winding path (with a sheer drop on either side – ouch!) and the view is simply breathtaking. It's best to visit outside of peak hours (I recommend early morning), but even just the view stretching into the distance was magnificent." – @wildeversince

Pai Canyon in Pai, Mae Hong Son, is a true natural paradise for adventurers and mountain lovers. Narrow trails wind through the landscape, offering breathtaking views. The best time to visit is in the morning before 10:00 AM, when it's less crowded and more pleasant.

Smile in Thailand!

We hope these photos have brought you joy and inspired your next trip to Thailand! Whether you're looking for relaxation, culture, or culinary delights – there are countless activities and hidden gems to discover that are guaranteed to put a smile on your face. For the latest travel tips for Thailand, click here!