Prachuab Kiri Khan - Koh Talu

Koh Talu is a small private island in the Gulf of Thailand. It takes about 30 minutes to reach it by boat starting from Bang Saphan, but the duration can be cut in half if taking a speed boat.  The island has two resorts, (in Ao Yai and in Ao Muk), unspoiled beaches, and pristine tropical rain forest. With shallow clear blue sea, the island is a perfect choice for fishing, snorkelling, diving, kayaking, trekking or just simply chilling out. Half day trips to Koh Talu cost around 400 baht per person and depart from the pier towards the south of the bay at 9 AM, returning at 1 PM. You can book tours at a small ticket office the day before - you should do so on weekends. The tours are very popular with people, who travel down from Bangkok on weekends. Coral and marine life around Koh Talu is impressive with schools of sergeant major fish, moon wrasse, parrotfish and all kinds of hard coral. Scuba diving is possible, but the reef is quite shallow with a maximum depth of 12 meters and visibility can be murky (3 to 10 meters). You can also charter your own boat trip to Koh Talu, the advantage being that you can get away from the crowds, go around the island, stop off at any beach and seek out your own snorkeling spots. It costs around 3,000 baht for a boat seating 8-10 people. On the mainland, there are of course also attractions to be found ... like waterfalls, temples, and beaches.Sai Ku and Ka-po are both a short drive south of Bang Saphan. There is another waterfall and swimming hole called Chai Rat just after the Khao Po service station. There are several good beaches south of Bang Saphan while the beach town of Ban Krut to the north is also worth visiting. Bo Thong Lang (pictured left) is a little hidden gem.To reach the bay, cross the small bridge as you are leaving Bang Saphan for Ban Krut. There is a local temple at the same spot and 4-5 small beach restaurants, where the food is excellent.