Some holidays are best spent lounging on the beach with a coconut in hand, watching the waves – but if you're looking for an adrenaline rush, Thailand's islands offer plenty of adventurous activities, and the experts at Expedia Australia have compiled the best ones for fearless adventurers like you.

Whether you're staying in a hotel in Pattaya and planning to go skydiving, or traveling to Koh Chang to try ziplining, southern Thailand guarantees an exciting aerial adventure. Be sure to follow the safety instructions, work with certified professionals, and ensure you're securely seated in your harness or parachute before you take off. Once all safety precautions are in place, you can experience Thailand from a bird's-eye view.

Swim with whale sharks in Koh Tao

Koh Tao is a small island in the Gulf of Thailand that attracts visitors with its excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities. Besides swimming with fish, travelers visiting "Turtle Island" from March to June have the chance to swim with whale sharks. Numerous guided boat and snorkeling tours depart from the island to observe these gentle giants. Once you and your companions are sitting next to a whale shark, there's no need to be afraid. These animals can grow up to 12 meters long and weigh up to 18 tons, but they are harmless. Swim with them and bring an underwater camera to capture this unique experience.

Rock climbing in Koh Phi Phi

Images of Southeast Asia often show towering limestone formations rising from shimmering blue waters – one of which, Tonsai Tower, is located on Koh Phi Phi. This breathtaking rock formation has captivated many curious travelers and inspired countless people to climb it. Climbing tours to Tonsai Tower are offered on the island, and both beginners and experienced climbers can join a group of local professionals who will teach them the basics – quite literally!

Do you dream of crystal-clear waters and diverse marine life? Then a holiday on Koh Samui is perfect for adventurous divers. Several dive schools on the island offer courses, and some of the world's most enchanting underwater worlds lie just off the coast. Dive to Sail Rock and discover vibrant corals and exotic fish. Take a day trip to Angthong Marine Park and crown your adventure with a dive around one of the 42 limestone islands. Within the protected area, divers can, with a bit of luck, observe stingrays, turtles, barracudas, and many other marine creatures.

Whether you prefer daring water sports or would rather extend your exploration into the skies, there is something for every adventurer to discover on the Thai islands, even the most extreme.