Nakhon Sri Thammarat - Khanom

Khanom Beach is comprised of 3 sandy beaches: Nai Praet, Nai Phlao and Pak Nam. With the hype as usual being the primary means of promotion, this beach is touted as the Riviera of the Gulf of Thailand. Needless to say, this is not true. However, Khanom has managed to become a destination in its own right. Albeit the number of visitors is low, Khanom seems to attract visitors that take a break from Samui.

In my view, especially Nai Phlao isn’t worth a visit unless you are going there to see Khao Wang Thong Cave. If you are going, then check out Suchada Villa, which is a family-owned and family-run resort that offers quality-for-money accommodation. 


http://www.suchadavilla.com/

More interesting, at least in my book, are the beaches in the Sichon district. There, the sand is clean, the beach spacious and un-crowded and the water is clean. The main beach is known as Hua Hin Sichon among the locals. Rocks line the beach all the way to a curved sandy stretch where people can swim. Hin Ngam beach has a unique characteristic in that it is littered with round rocks of various striking colors, hence its name. Kho Khao beach is also a popular beach that connects to Hin Ngam beach.

In the Khanom District, I highly recommend a visit to the Mu Ko Thale Tai National Park. Sure, there is an OK beach to the left when you reach the pier. But do yourself the favor of taking the easy route. Instead, turn right at the pier and take the gravel road that leads you precariously over a ridge and you’ll reach a wonderful and almost desert beach in a small bay.

As the name indicates, the national park is a collection of islands (here viewed from the before-mentioned ridge), so you need to take a boat from the pier to explore those wonderful sights.