Mr Qi Dhun Hua, 43, was pronounced dead on arrival Patong Hospital. His daughter, who has yet to be anmed by the authorities, survived.
Beach guards reported that Mr Qi and his daughter ignored red “no swimming” flags and entered the dangerous surf, and soon were swept away from the beach by large waves.
Lifeguards on patrol quickly recovered the pair from the heavy surf, but Mr Qi was already conscious.
He was taken to hospital after first-responders administered cardio-pulmonary resuscitation (CPR) on the beach while tourists looked on.