Ms. Preeyaporn Suwanaged, Director General of the Pollution Control Department (PCD), revealed that during the Songkran Festival, many people travel to popular tourist destinations to relax and enjoy water play. PCD has conducted water quality inspections at these popular locations to provide information for both locals and tourists. These spots include Namtok Chet Sao Noi in Saraburi Province, Lam Phra Phloeng Dam and Tat Ton Waterfall in Chaiyaphum Province, Sela Pattaya 2 Beach and Bang Phra Luang Raft in Nakhon Sawan Province, and areas around the Chiang Mai moat, such as in front of Anoma Hotel (Tha Phae Gate), Nong Buak Haad Park, Suan Dok Gate, and Chang Phuak Gate. The majority of water quality results range from fair to good, and are considered safe for Songkran water activities.

Ms. Preeyaporn further stated that PCD has been continuously monitoring beach conditions. Many popular tourist beaches have been found to have good marine water quality. These include Mae Ramphueng Beach in Rayong, Rayong Botanical Garden, Pattaya Beach in Chonburi, Hua Hin Beach, Thao Kosa Forest Park Beach, Khao Kalok, and Ban Krut Beach in Prachuap Khiri Khan, Saphli Beach in Chumphon, Thong Nai Pan Beach and Rin Beach on Koh Phangan, Chaweng Beach on Koh Samui in Surat Thani, Hin Ngam Beach in Nakhon Si Thammarat, Khao Lak Beach, Khuk Khak Beach, Bang Niang Beach, and Bang Sak Beach in Phang Nga, Ban Khlong Nin Beach and Khlong Dao Beach on Koh Lanta, Noppharat Thara Beach and Bileh Beach on Koh Hong in Krabi, as well as Nai Yang Beach, Nai Harn Beach, and Patong Beach in Phuket.

Additionally, PCD runs the “Starred Beach Project,” which evaluates beaches based on natural beauty, environmental integrity, and effective environmental and tourism management. In 2025, two beaches received the highest 5-star rating: Bileh Beach on Koh Hong in Krabi and Koh Kradan Beach in Trang. Four beaches received 4.5 stars: Khao Kalok Beach in Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chao Mai Beach in Trang, Laem Son Beach in Satun, and Yong Ling Beach in Trang.

Regardless of the water source, Songkran participants should exercise caution. Avoid letting water enter the eyes, ears, nose, or mouth, and thoroughly rinse off after water play. If skin irritation or rashes occur during water activities, stop immediately and wash thoroughly. In areas where natural water sources are used by the public or tourists for Songkran celebrations, relevant local agencies such as the Environment and Pollution Control Office, the Provincial Office of Natural Resources and Environment, and the Provincial Public Health Office should be assigned to monitor water quality and provide information to warn the public, Ms. Preeyaporn said.