Seaside Paradise Top 50 beaches & islands in Thailand. The Indochinese peninsula is a magical land ranking second to none. Two oceans run parallel to the coastline spanning an impressive distance of more than 2,600 kilometres. More than 900 islands and islets dot the waters off the expansive coasts and enjoy the embrace of the gorgeous turquoise blue ocean. Taking the time to explore even just a tiny fraction of the seas and beaches in Thailand will provide you with a personal, magical and unforgettable experience. Taking in the picturesque landscape and a blissful journey along the Indochinese peninsula is one travel experience sure to provide you with fond memories that will remain dear to your heart for years to come.
“Seaside Paradises” is a compilation of colourful accounts from various seaside destinations in Thailand. Let this guide lead you and your family on an unforgettable journey accompanied by the sea breezes at your back and the sun on your shoulder. The gorgeous tropical colours of the beaches, fun activities for couples, and simple indulgences that Mother Nature alone can provide for are sure to create the perfect atmosphere for a remarkable tropical holiday.
Contents Bangkok NATURAL Beaches ROMANTIC Beaches Page Page 1 Ko Kham, Chon Buri Province 8 15 Ko Kut, Trat Province 54 36 Pattaya 2 Ko Samae San, Chon Buri Province 10 16 Ko Mak, Trat Province 58 37 Hua Hin 46 3 Hat Sam Roi Yot, Prachuap Khiri Khan Province 12 17 Hat Khung Wiman, Chanthaburi Province 60 47 20 45 4 Mu Ko Ang Thong, Surat Thani Province 14 18 Ko Man Nok, Rayong Province 64 21 1 2 35 18 5 Mu Ko Surin, Phang-nga Province 18 19 Ao Kio, Ko Samet, Rayong Province 66 3 19 17 6 Ko Phra Thong, Phang-nga Province 22 20 Hat Tawan Ron, Chon Buri Province 68 44 16 7 Mu Ko Similan, Phang-nga Province 26 21 Hat Pran Buri, Prachuap Khiri Khan Province 72 N 22 8 Ao Phang-nga, Phang-nga Province 30 22 Hat Ban Krut, Prachuap Khiri Khan Province 76 15 9 Mu Ko Hong, Krabi Province 32 23 Ko Thalu, Prachuap Khiri Khan Province 80 23 W E 10 Ko Phi Phi Le, Krabi Province 36 24 Ko Nang Yuan, Surat Thani Province 84 11 Ko Rok, Krabi Province 38 25 Ao Thong Nai Pan, Ko Pha-ngan 86 12 Ko Muk, Krabi Province 42 26 Hat Mae Nam & Hat Bo Phut, Ko Samui 90 S 13 Ko Lao Liang, Trang Province 44 27 Hat Na Dan, Nakhon Si Thammarat Province 94 24 38 14 Mu Ko Tarutao, Satun Province 48 28 Ko Yao Noi, Phang-nga Province 98 25 29 Ko Racha, Phuket Province 102 26 Samui 5 39 COLOURFUL Beaches 30 Hat Khlong Muang, Krabi Province 106 6 4 48 Page 31 Hat Bakantiang, Ko Lanta, Krabi Province 110 7 35 Hat Sai Kaeo, Ko Samet, Rayong Province 126 32 Ko Ngai, Krabi Province 114 27 36 Hat Pattaya, Chon Buri Province 130 33 Ko Kradan, Trang Province 118 49 37 Hat Ta Waen, Ko Lan, Chon Buri Province 134 34 Ko Li Pe, Satun Province 120 38 Hat Sai Ri, Ko Tao, Surat Thani Province 138 8 39 Hat Chaweng, Ko Samui 142 28 FAMILY Beaches Page Phuket 40 40 Hat Patong, Phuket Province 146 10 30 Krabi 44 Hat Khlong Phrao, Ko Chang, Trat Province 164 50 41 Ko He, Phuket Province 150 9 43 45 Hat Mae Ramphueang, Rayong Province 168 31 42 Ko Phi Phi Don, Krabi Province 154 41 42 43 Ao Rai Le, Krabi Province 158 46 Hat Jomtien, Chon Buri Province 170 29 11 32 47 Hat Hua Hin, Prachuab Khirikhan Province 174 33 12 48 Hat Lamai, Ko Samui 178 13 49 Hat Khao Lak, Phang-nga Province 182 50 Hat Karon & Kata, Phuket Province 186
34 14 Natural Beaches “Sea is life” is not an overstatement. Three fourths of the earth is covered with water and an ocean habitat. of species. “Natural beach” celebrates the purity of the ocean ecosystem; the underwater world serving as a seawaters provide for. Both above and below the water’s surface, from beaches to mangrove forests and beach forests to underwater explorations, all are inter-connected in the most mythical and magical way that will entice you to explore further and won’t disappoint your curiosity. 8 Seaside PARADISE To Pattaya Chon Buri Sattahip Nature Insight N Ko Kham Chon Buri Province “Reviving Coral Project” Most people have been thinking that coral is a plant rather than an Ban Samae San animal. In fact, coral is an invertebrate similar to a sea anemone Ko Kham Ko Samae San branches. Naturally, it produces limestone to protect its soft body. Since the sea has been affected by El Niño causing the rapid rising of the sea temperature, coral bleaching has occurred. Some corals Activity could revive but others could not. When the number of the coral is Snorkelling : Renting equipment costs t 30 Baht. The Royal Thai Navy decided to establish this project to revive the corals. According to several studies, Ko Kham has suitable ecology for t Exploring the coral reef by glass - bottom boat, which is included with the ticket price. Useful Tips Toilets facilities are available but the restaurant is not open everyday, so it is advisable to bring your own food and beverage. Do not forget to take your rubbish back with you. How to Get There Ko Kham belongs to Mu Ko Samae San growing corals as the seawater is transparent enough to allow the in Chon Buri which is 4 km from the Ban right amount of light into the water and the temperature of the water Samae San shore, Sattahip, Chon Buri. A tiny island which is not far from the coast of Sattahip is Ko Kham or try exploring the island by rambling on is rather stable as well as the degree of saltiness is perfect for corals The island can be reached by marine ship the navy conservation area. Therefore, the island is not the wooden pathway, which takes about half an to grow. Therefore, as part of this project, the navy team picked the which departs from Thai Island and Sea invaded by civilisation. Unnecessary buildings do not exist here hour. Natural History Museum. On the weekend, except toilets and small shelters. A one-day trip to Ko Kham Another must-do activity is to explore brought it to the deep water. The outcome was positive as the corals needs to be booked in advance since activities involving the coral garden which is under the surveillance grew rapidly and healthily. As a consequence, this area has also 15-20 minutes to reach the island. The return conserving the environment such as growing coral are of the Royal Thai Navy. This undersea spot is become the hospital for healing coral reefs nearby. Coral reaching ticket costs 200 Baht for each passenger. usually held on the island. Besides, the island serves as a small utterly unspoiled. At the far end of the array of adulthood would be sent to the area where there is a lack of abodes (Recommend to book in advance) nature study classroom for people who want to learn about buoys is the swimming zone where sea Tel. +66 8 6835 3231 or +66 8 9936 9409) nature as well as for those who want a peaceful hideaway anemones are abundant as well as tiny Nemo, hospital to heal then returned back to their origin to continue their and need clean air. Wind yourself up with the clean beach of which is an adorable and famous fish to most duties. N 12° 34’ 24”, E 100° 55’ 60” Best time to travel. Jan-Apr 10 Seaside PARADISE Seaside PARADISE 11 Nature Insight “The guardian of the sand” The guardian which needs to be acknowledged is the tiny grasses on the beach which to dry weather and can grow well on the sand, therefore, it is often found on the beach. Its duty is not only growing up to cover the sand but also to fortify sand ridges not to dissolve when waves and wind are heavily hitting the shore. In turn this sand ridge will protect us when the strong storm is approaching the beach. Spinifex littoreus is a tiny guardian which is just at the tip on our noses. To Pattaya Chon Buri
Furthermore, the soft sand and crystal clear Sattahip N blue sea make it hard to believe that this island is just 2 hours away from the busy capital of Thailand. The name of this beach is called after the name of a type of grass which Ban Samae San is found along the coast. This kind of grass has an uncommon look similar to an urchin. Sometimes the wind blows this grass away Ko Kham and it will adorably roll over on the ground. Ko Samae San Not many facilities are available on the island. Eco Activity There are only a shelter and deck chairs and t Biking around the island. the breathtaking beach. However, these seem t Swimming and sightseeing to be good enough to make us happy and the landscape of the meadow How to Get There at Hat Luk Lom which can be Ko Samae San is 1.4 km away from Ko Samae San accessed by bicycle. the coast of Ban Samae San in t Snorkelling where the Chon Buri which can be reached from Chon Buri Province equipment can be hired from Thai Island and Sea Natural History Ko Samae San, preserved by the Royal Thai Navy, is the home for sea the pier and on Hat Luk Lom turtles to hatch eggs, the abode for rare plants and the safe home for Beach. Boat shuttle services to delicate corals. Most of all, this island serves as a classroom in the middle snorkelling sites are available. begins at 9.00 a.m. The last boat departs of the sea where tourists and students can experience and learn about t Trekking through the lush from the island at 4.00 p.m. The journey the unspoiled nature. takes approximately 10 minutes costing t Visiting the Natural History 250 Baht per passenger including all the Museum to see the whale’s activities on the island. The island is open the island, Hat Luk Lom is the most beautiful beach because of the white bones. N 12° 35’ 12”, between Tuesday and Sunday as well as soft sand similar to the beaches along the Andaman Sea. E 100° 56’ 47.5” holidays, from 9.00 a.m. to 4.30 p.m. Tel. Best time to travel. +66 3843 2475 or +66 3843 2471. Jan-Apr N 12 Seaside PARADISE To Hua Hin Pran Buri
Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park Hat Pran Buri Prachuap Khiri Khan Province Prachuap Khiri Khan
Hat Leam Sala, Tham Phraya Nakhon Thung Sam Roi Yot Khao Daeng Nature Insight “Wetland” Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park Thung Sam Roi Yot is one of the most important wetlands in Thailand. In the past it was an inland gulf but later on sediment carried by wind or water deposited on the surface of the land and a sand ridge began to emerge; therefore, fosters the sea to move further away. Finally this area became a basin with a swamp. The wetland has rich diversity of natural habitants both plants and animals, especially rare birds like splay-footed Purple Swamphens. Uncommon plants like pink Sacred Lotus and green Narrow-leaf Cattail are found here. This place seems so The high-rising limestone mountains are the symbol of Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park. Khao Sam quiet like no living creatures exist but when you listen more Roi Yot means mountains with 300 peaks which describe the landscape of this mountain quite well. carefully, you can hear some noises from the creatures that The backdrop of limestone outcrops creates a contrast and unique scene of lofty mountains you cannot see. However, invisibility does not mean no- and sea enticing people to discover the startling mystery of this place. The Park encompasses a existence. series of unspoiled beaches and coves. The viewpoint on Khao Daeng peak is another beautiful labyrinthine mountains passing along a mangrove forest into the ocean. Eco Activity How to Get There Equally breathtaking are several caves; such as, Phraya Nakhon Cave which is well-known Camping on Hat Leam Sala. Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park is located in Sam for its considerable size and uncommon big Karst Window. Inside the cave, there is a Thai - style pa- Trekking from the Hat Leam Sala to Tham Phraya Roi Yot district, between Pran Buri and Hua Hin, Nakhon. Prachuap Khiri Khan province. It is 45 km away there are other caves called Tham Kaeo and Tham Sai where striking peculiar shapes of stalagmites Trekking to the viewpoint on Khao Daeng. and stalactites exist creating a distinct ambience. Sightseeing by boat to see the mangrove forest and Road, pass Pran Buri and head for Khao Sam Roi Yot landscape of Khlong Khao Daeng. National Park. Other tourist attractions are also Observe the landscape of the wetland and watch scattered around this neighbourhood. rare birds at Thung Sam Roi Yot Wetland. N 12° 12’ 12” Best time to travel. E 100° 0’ 51.5” Jan-Apr 14 Seaside PARADISE Seaside PARADISE 15
Mu Ko Ang Thong National Park Surat Thani Province
Almost 50 islands are the Ko Mae Ko is another highlight of Mu Ko Ang Thong. Likewise components of Mu Ko Ang Thong. Each island offers different scenery. However, the most to waste their sweat a little before reaching Thale Nai (Inner Sea), spectacular viewpoint from above is located at which is the great viewpoint. A huge emerald lagoon, situated in the the top of Ko Wua Ta Lap which needs a little middle of the limestone mountains which gradually subside into an climbing effort. Even though reaching the inland bay amidst the island. Inner Lagoon is another startling top of the island needs high endeavour, the attraction in the world which is worth visiting. Mu Ko Ang Thong is not far from Ko Samui; thus, most including several islands in different peculiar tourists normally purchase a one-day trip. Hence, the atmosphere in shapes is worth your sweat. the evening and at night is pristine and serene.
Activity t Hiking on a 450 m. steep trail to For tourists who come to Samui and want to appreciate marine nature which is still the viewpoint of the peak of Ko unspoiled, Mu Ko Ang Thong is the ideal place for them. It is among one of the most Wua Ta Lap. well-known islands that the tourists should visit since the beauty of these islands t Explore the Tham Bua Bok. render a unique experience and atmosphere different from other islands. t Kayaking trip beyond Ko Wua Ta Lap. 16 Seaside PARADISE Seaside PARADISE 17
Useful Tips How to Get There Restaurants, camping areas, tents and 5 houses for Mu Ko Ang Thong National Park has a centre on Ko rent are available on Ko Wua Ta Lap. Please reserve Wua Ta Lap where the Tourist Information Centre is situated. These islands are 75 km. from Surat Thani Entrance fee coast and 35 km. from Ko Samui. Most tourists purchase Adults 400 Baht, Children 200 Baht package tours from Ko Samui which are offered by Mu Ko Ang Thong National Park several service providers. Different types of boats Nature insight +66 7728 6025, +66 7728 0222 depart from different piers and also the prices might [email protected] vary. “The journey Usually the package tour is a one-day trip N 9° 38’ 7’’, E 99° 40’ 18’’ of Chub Mackerel” which departs from Samui in the morning, then visits N Best time to travel. Ko Wua Ta Lap (viewpoint), Ko Mae Ko (Thale Nai), Chub Mackerel (Pla Too) has been a favourite dish of Thai Jan-Apr cuisine for a long time because of their abundance in the Gulf National Park closed 1 Nov-23 Dec annually. in the evening. Tourists can nevertheless stay over of Thailand. As a result, Chub Mackerel has become one of on the island where they can separate from the group the major exported foods of Thailand. tour on Ko Wua Ta Lap, then meet the group tour in The key habitat of Chub Mackerel is in the Gulf of the next morning to travel back to Ko Samui. Thailand where Mu Ko Ang Thong is one of their breeding Lomprayah Ko Mae Ko become the important food to feed the entire Thai people. The +66 2629 2569-70, +66 2629 2641, Thale Nai (Emerald Lagoon) +66 8 6308 7462 To Ko Samui 200,000 roe each time and it takes only 1 day for baby www.lomprayah.com mackerel to hatch. Then they will swim to the north part of the Seatrans Discovery National Park Gulf of Thailand where the tide is calmer and safer for schools +66 2240 2582 View Point www.seatrandiscovery.com Ko Wua Ta Lup teenagers, they will swim back to Mu Ko Ang Thong again to Hi Sea Tour lay the roe. Then the repeated cycle begins over and over +66 7742 1285, +66 7742 1290 again. www.highseatour.com Surat Thani 18 Seaside PARADISE Seaside PARADISE 19 Nature Insight Mu Ko Surin National Park “The Moken’s Story” Phang-nga Province
Apart from the widespread acceptance as the best sites for snorkelling, Mu Ko Surin National Park is praised by most tourists for the outstanding management in terms of quality and prices. Food and limited electricity are provided as well as accommodation for people who like comfort to stay in a bungalow situated in the midst of the forest. For tourists who are more down-to-earth might prefer to stay in the tent located nearby the The Moken is widely known as the Sea Gypsies. This tribe beach. has a nomadic lifestyle. They usually travel from one island to Diving is undoubtedly the main activity. another across the Andaman Sea. The Moken people still live There are more than 10 diving spots which can their life peacefully similar to their ancestors by living be fully explored within two days. In addition, the harmoniously with the sea and speaking the traditional tribal language. Finding seafood is painless for them, as they spend most of their life in the sea. During the monsoon season, about the sea will bring you to the diving spots and transparent turquoise water. The fact that Mu Ko Surin is a part of the National Park, its natural envi- let you enjoy a whole new world under the water. their homes. After the monsoon is gone, they will move to - After visiting this marine Park, we are all certain that the shore. The simple bungalows will be built just to protect est on the hillside are well-preserved. world. them from rain and wind. Until the monsoon comes then, the same life cycle repeats year after year. Seaside PARADISE 21 Useful Tips Accommodation: Mu Ko Surin consists of North Surin and South Surin Islands. North Surin Island where the How to Get There Mu Ko Surin is 60 km. from Ao Khura Buri (Phang-nga The rent costs 2,000 Baht per house (for 2 people). province). Therefore, the nearest pier to the island is from Tourists should book at least 10 days in advance via Khura Buri Pier where several tour companies offer both a www.dnp.go.th. There are two areas for camping which one-day excursion and overnight trip. The island can be reached both by speed boats (1 hours) and express boats the National Park and Ao Mai Ngam which has both (2-3 hours). Tickets can be purchased directly from the tour toilet and shower facilities as well as a restaurant. companies or through agents at the Khao Lak area and in Electricity: Using an electric motor which provides Phuket where tour companies provide transportation power between 6.00 a.m. – 10.00 p.m. only. to Khura Buri Pier. Food : Restaurants are located at Ao Chong Khat and Boat tour operator list Ao Mai Ngam on North Surin Island. There are both a la Sabina Tour carte and set menu. www.sabinatour.com Boat service : In case of travelling by themselves, the +66 8 1737 5801, +66 8 1737 2625, +66 7647 2216 Tourist Information Centre provides 2 rounds of long-tail Baracuda Diving boat services for snorkelling which are in the morning www.barracudadive.com and in the afternoon. The morning round departs at +66 2183 6120-2, +66 8 1855 8066, +66 8 1622 8066 9.00 a.m. and arrives at 11.30 a.m. The afternoon round departs approximately at 1.00 p.m. and arrives at 4.00 p.m. The nearest airport to Khura Buri Pier is Phuket International Mu Ko Surin National Park Airport. The distance between the airport and Khura Buri Tambon Khura, Khura Buri district, Phang-nga province, Pier is 200 km. Tourists can go to the pier by rented vans 82150 (1,800 Baht) or sedans (1,500 Baht) and by shuttle buses N Ko Ri (Ko Stok) +66 7647 2145, +66 7647 2146. provided by tour companies. [email protected] From Bangkok to the pier by bus In every April, the Moken people from another islands N 9° 25’ 20’’, E 97° 52’ 10’’ The Southem Bus Terminal provides transportation from Bang- will gather in Mu Ko Surin to perform a sacred spiritual ceremony. kok to Khura Buri leaving Bangkok at 7.00 p.m. The objective of the ritual is to pay respect to their ancestors Best time to travel. arriving at Khura Buri at 5.00 a.m. The stop for the pier is Hat Mai Ngam Ao Mae Yai and the spirits who protect them as well as throwing away their Dec-Apr the entrance of the Khura Buri Pier where tour operators Ao Sai En bad luck. Because of this sacred ceremony, the totem pole was National Park closed 16 May-15 Nov annually. will provide shuttle buses to the pier. Ao Mai Ngam Nature Trail built to demonstrate their gratitude towards their ancestors. The Transport Co., Ltd. National Park Office Even though the lifestyle of the Moken people is +66 2422 4443-44 www.transport.co.th To Phang Nga Mainland ultimately simple, when the Tsunami hit several countries in Lignight Tour Company Ko Mangkon South East Asia in 2004, the Moken people who live and know +66 2894 6151-3 www.rottourthai.com Ao Chong Khat the sea very well noticed a peculiar condition beforehand, Phuket Tong Tiew Company Moken Village therefore, were able to migrate to the high mountains and be +66 2894 6144-5 www.rottourthai.com Hin Phae safe from the Tsunami which killed thousands of city inhabitants Phuket Central Company who all had high technological equipment. It, nevertheless, +66 2894 6171-2 www.rottourthai.com could not save their life from this deadly disaster.
Ko Torinla 22 Seaside PARADISE Seaside PARADISE 23
Ko Phra Thong Phang-nga Province
Ko Phra Thong is one among the groups of islands which is located so close to the mainland that it seems like it is on another bank of the river opposite the mainland. The large area of Ko Phra Thong is not well-balanced with the small number of population on the island. The island is the least spoiled by modern development. The forest and wildlife are still undamaged. Only the sound of nature is resonated here. The locals live their simple life and are well in tune with the sea. Thus visiting Ko Phra Thong you will be close to nature by sleeping in huts, watching the sea and savanna, and sightseeing by car. The last activity makes Ko Phra Thong savanna on the island in the middle of the Andaman Sea which was named later as the Safari of the Andaman Sea. Backed with Eugenia tree, the golden savanna stretches to the horizon. This is the home of deer that draw great attention from tourists. If you are lucky enough, you will see the deer walking on the beach. It is one of the lovely moments that rarely occur. 24 Seaside PARADISE Ko Ra Khura Buri Pier To Ranong N
Ko Phra Thong Baan Lions Homestay Grassland Island
Mr. Chuoi Bar & Hut 4 Phang Nga Ko Kho Khao
Useful Tips Homestay provided by local people and resorts with the embrace of nature can be found. 4 Ban Lions Homestay: The village was built after the Tsunami. Nowadays To Khao Lak local homes are adapted to be a homestay for tourists to live their life as local people; such as, learning how to produce the traditional equipment to catch squid. +66 8 0692 0039 www.andamancommunitytourism.com Mr. Chuoi’s Bar and Hut: Uncommon cottages which are very simple and suitable for a tranquil stay on Ko Phra Thong. This accommodation suits people who love peace and want to immerse fully in the nature of this island. +66 8 4855 9886 www.mrchuoibarandhut.com Golden Buddha Beach Resort Nature Insight The only luxurious resort is located on a spectacular uninhabited beach on Ko Phra Thong. Even though “Safari of Andaman” it is the only upscale resort on the island, it also offers a touch of local by the wooden bungalow. The How to Get There As the land of Ko Phra Thong is even as well as made up of sandy soil, the Ko Phra Thong is situated near the coast, but resort completely depends on solar energy, thus it needs to be reached from Khura Buri Pier by electricity is available all day long. hiring a long-tail boat. It takes approximately +66 8 1892 2208 1 hours to arrive costing 1,500- 2,000 Baht. www.goldenbuddharesort.com subsist even though the land is not so fertile. Since the island is in the remote Or tourists can use the pickup services provided area, the place is full of rare animals; such as, deer, hornbills, and lesser N 9° 7’ 38”, E 98° 15’ 23” by the hotels or homestay on the islands. adjutant (a type of stork) which is one of the endangered species. Probably Best time to travel. Dec-Apr 26 Seaside PARADISE Seaside PARADISE 27
you will sleep intimately with the sea while listening to the Whereabouts which people spend most of serene sound of waves all night. Apart from that, there are their time are on the beach and in the water by powdery soft sandy beaches and the most crystal clear exciting scuba diving and snorkelling at different sea you can have in Thailand, together with the rainforest diving spots where the nature of the underwater world harbouring a variety of rare birds like Nicobar Pigeon and varies from place to place. The rainforest which covers Large Flying Fox bat. the island is ideal for simple trekking. In the evening, deep forest. If you are quiet enough to hear the sound of Chicken Crab, you will know why it is dubbed by this name. Changing the ambience to the next door island which is also a part of Mu Ko Similan, but it is quite isolated far from other islands in this group. couples of years ago. The environment of this island is rather similar to those on Mu Ko Similan. The outstanding highlight about this island is the amazing coral reefs located along the serene beach. It is unfortunate that this island does not allow guests to stay overnight. However, for the sake of preserving this beautiful nature, it is worthwhile. Mu Ko Similan Phang-nga Province
Mu Ko Similan is ranked among the most beautiful and unspoiled seas in the world. This is the heaven for both scuba divers and other tourists. There are more to the wonderful and spectacular scenery than meets the eyes. Mu Ko Similan National Park consists of 9 charming islands named in running numbers from island number 1 to number 9 where Ko Si or Island 4 and Ko Paet or Island 8 are the hub of facilities; such as, cozy accommodation, nice restaurants, and camping area where Seaside PARADISE 29 Ko Paet N How to Get There Mu Ko Similan is 65 km from the Phang-nga Coast, Ko Chet which can be reached by speedboats from Thap Lamu Pier by several tour providers. Both a one-day trip and Ko Hok overnight trips are available. The cost is 2,500 Baht (including transportation, food and snorkelling). Ko Ha A trip to Ko Ta Chai is a separate journey where To Phang Nga the boat departs from Ban Nam Khem Pier, Takua Pa Ko Si Mainland district. Only a one-day trip is available. Medsye Tour: +66 7644 3276, +66 8 6663 4666, +66 8 1538 7097 www.medsyetour.com Ko Sam Nemo Tour: +66 8 9019 7899, +66 8 6887 3998, +66 2347 2096-7 www.nemotour.com Ko Song Similan Tour: +66 7641 1742 , +66 8 1978 8727 www.similan-tour.com Ko Nueng For Scuba diving, live-aboard service is available which Eco Activity the minimum stay is 3 days, or you can choose a one-day t Camping on Ko Si and Ko Paet. scuba diving trip from agents at Khao Lak. t Trekking through the forest for a nature study on Ko Si is only a short trail to Kha Luang Ground which is the viewpoint. Useful Tips t Donald Duck Rock viewpoint at Ko Paet. Accommodation on Ko Si costs around 1,000-2,000 t Observing Chicken Crab in the evening. Baht. Tent and bedding rental services are available. t Snorkelling to see coral reefs and schools of colourful Electricity operates between 6.00 p.m.-7.00 a.m. on Ko Si. Nature Insight package. Restaurants are available on both Ko Si and Ko Paet t Scuba Diving: Both live-aboard and day trips are available open from 8.00 p.m. until 10.00 p.m. for you. They can be purchased in the Khao Lak area. Travelling to other nearby islands in the case of “Sea Fan Story” not coming with a tour, the Tourist Information Centre Sea fans seem to fascinate tourists to this marine site. It is a hidden treasure in the deep blue sea which provides a long-tail boat service from Ko Si to Paet and can be found in the underwater of Mu Ko Similan. Its branches have different stunning and intricate to other islands which costs 150-200 Baht per person. patterns which can amaze people seeing them. However, sea fans also hold another mystery. Mu Ko Similan National Park In fact, all a sea fan is one of the sea creatures of which its branches are the abode of thousands +66 7645 3272. of sea fans. To put it right, this well-liked creature is the village of several sea fans. If we look at the sea fan closely, you will see that all the branches are connected to each other. Since sea fans survive by eating N 8° 34’ 16’’, E 97° 38’ 13’’ - Best time to travel. ing the food to every single sea fan. It is such a friendly community to live with. Dec-Apr National Park closed 1 May-31 Oct annually. 30 Seaside PARADISE Seaside PARADISE 31 Activity Sightseeing by cruise: tourists can kayak directly through Enjoy a completely hassle-free and the cave. popular activity by hopping on a boat to Homestay on Ko Panyi: take in the picturesque scenery of the Experience the unique living island and explore the sights on land style of the Muslim community during the stops taken at all the most popular spots. sea by spending a night or two in Kayaking: homestay-like accommodation Get close and intimate to nature by on Panyi. kayaking and venturing by paddling into Panyi Homestay the mysterious green sea. A popular +66 8 9590 5133, kayaking route is to Tham Lot where +66 7645 0636
Nature Insight Mangrove Forest Phang-nga Bay is home to the largest mangrove forest in all of Thailand. In contrast to the white sand and clear blue Ao Phang-nga Phang-nga Province sea, the mangrove forest is covered by mud and unclear seawater that is home The aerial view of Phang-nga Bay reveals an intricate line of canals and rivers meandering into the Andaman to many forms of aquatic life; such as, Sea. Like green velvet, the landscape of Phang-nga Bay is covered by Thailand’s largest mangrove forest situated against the backdrop of numerous limestone mountains. The scene creates a stunning example N Phang-nga Town of nature’s architecture. How to Get There The odd-shaped limestone mountains are scattered across Phang-nga Bay, making a cruise Start your journey by boarding a boat the mud and help refrain the muddy soil along the waters an excellent sightseeing experience for travellers. The mountain cliff was shaped and at the Tha Dan Pier (9 kilometres from Pier altered by the sea waves and the wind, transforming its contour into intriguing features; such as, Poodle Phang-nga city) and Khlong Khian Tham Lot mangrove is home to many forms of Mountain, Crab’s Eyes Mountain, or Leaning Mountains. Pier. You can rent a long-tail boat for aquatic life during the early stages of Ko Panyi The sea at Phang-nga Bay is typically calm and still due to the surrounding mountains that act 1,000-1,200 Baht per boat or buy a their life cycle. Mangroves also serve as a as windshields. In the olden days, sea travellers often used this landscape as a safe place to hide, as can package tour from travel agents in natural barrier against Tsunami waves. Khao Ta Pu Phuket. N 8° 16’ 28”, E 98° 30’ 2.5” Thailand. Best time to travel. Nov-Apr Phuket Airport Ko Yao Noi Ko Yao Yai To Phuket Town 32 Seaside PARADISE Seaside PARADISE 33 Mu Ko Hong Krabi Province Mu Ko Hong or Hong Archipelago is one of the most striking and noteworthy unique rock formations. About 12 islets lay in line vertically stretching from the north to the south of Phang-nga and the Krabi sea. The shady silhouettes of the islands trigger the imagination of travellers and invite all to discover Mother Nature’s mystique.
Amongst the numerous islands of the area, with travellers. The island has only a few beaches but offers plenty of room for travellers to set off on their kayaks, as they embark upon a sea adventure they will never forget with majestic limestone rocks as their backdrop. The place to be is a large lagoon nestled amongst the embrace of the surrounding mountains. The mountains encircling the lagoon are what gave this island its name, “Hong,” (which translates to “room” in Thai language). This mysterious geological phenomenon should not be missed or forgotten.