Famous Movie Filming Locations in Thailand: Iconic Scenes from Hollywood Hits
Thailand’s landscapes have doubled as paradises, war zones, and exotic adventures in some of Hollywood’s most unforgettable scenes. From Bangkok's chaotic streets to hidden island coves, here are the top locations in Thailand that made it to the big screen — and the unforgettable scenes they hosted.
📍 Maya Bay, Koh Phi Phi | 🎬 Featured In: The Beach (2000)
Scene Highlight: Leonardo DiCaprio swims into a hidden paradise — a crystal-clear bay surrounded by towering limestone cliffs.
Why It Stands Out: This scene immortalized Maya Bay as the symbol of a dream escape.
📸 Must-Use Shot: Aerial view of Maya Bay with emerald water and lush cliffs.
📍 Phang Nga Bay – James Bond Island | 🎬 Featured In: The Man with the Golden Gun
Scene Highlight: The final duel between James Bond and villain Scaramanga on a dramatic limestone island.
Why It Stands Out: The vertical rock spire became world-famous and now carries the nickname “James Bond Island.”
📸 Must-Use Shot: The spire rising from the sea with long-tail boats nearby.
📍 Bangkok – Chinatown | 🎬 Featured In: The Hangover Part II (2011)
Scene Highlight: The Wolfpack wakes up in chaos, traversing neon-lit Soi Cowboy, Bangkok rooftops, and crowded markets.
Why It Stands Out: Captures the high-energy, unpredictable charm of Thailand’s capital.
📸 Must-Use Shots: Neon lights of Soi Cowboy; boats on the Chao Phraya; bustling street markets.
📍 Railay Beach, Krabi | 🎬 Featured In: Cutthroat Island (1995)
Scene Highlight: Pirate ships anchored in a secluded cove — a perfect tropical hideout.
Why It Stands Out: Its cinematic, secluded vibe made it ideal for swashbuckling adventure.
📸 Must-Use Shot: Sunset behind limestone cliffs and turquoise sea.
📍 Ayutthaya Historical Park | 🎬 Featured In: Mortal Kombat (2021)
Scene Highlight: Epic martial arts battles among ancient ruins and temple spires.
Why It Stands Out: The mystical, otherworldly atmosphere matched the fantasy action perfectly.
📸 Must-Use Shot: Wide-angle view of temple ruins with statues of Buddha.
📍 Kanchanaburi – Bridge over the River Kwai | 🎬 Featured In: The Bridge on the River Kwai
Scene Highlight: British POWs build the infamous bridge in a WWII drama.
Why It Stands Out: The bridge symbolizes endurance and tragedy — now a historic and cinematic site.
📸 Must-Use Shot: The iron bridge arching over misty riverbanks at dawn.
🎥 Bonus: Thailand as a Double for Vietnam, Cambodia & More
🎬 Films like Good Morning, Vietnam, The Deer Hunter, and Rescue Dawn used Thailand to double for war-torn Southeast Asia due to its versatile terrain, stable environment, and accessible logistics.
Plan Your Production in Thailand
Whether you're scouting for a tropical island, ancient temple, or gritty urban chase scene — Thailand has it all. At Filming Location Thailand, we offer:
✅ Location Scouting
✅ Film Permits
✅ Crew & Equipment Coordination
✅ Local Production Management
🎬 Let’s bring your next story to life.
📩 Visit www.locationthailand.com or contact us at info@locationthailand.com directly to start your Thailand-based shoot.