Travel destinations in Thailand – Part 7

Chumphon lies on the east coast of Thailand. It is about 5 hours drive from Bangkok and a similar distance from Phuket. It therefore makes a convenient stopping off point for anyone driving between Bangkok and Phuket which is how we came upon it. Another reason to make it the stopover of choice is the unspoilt beach of Thung Wua Laen. Although there are some small hotels and increasing sign of tourist activity, this beach remains relatively undiscovered probably because it is not so easy to reach from Bangkok as Hua Hin and and Pattaya further north. It also faces competition from Koh Samui which is a few hours ferry from Surat Thani which is the nearest airport.

The beach is beautiful with fine, white sand that squeaks when you walk on it and it gently shelves out into the clear waters of the Gulf of Thailand indicating that it is safe for swimming. A road runs alongside the beach with some small hotels on one side and, in some parts, one or two beach bars and restaurants which all offer incredibly good value especially when compared to more popular resorts. A line of coconut palm and fir trees, together with some undergrowth sprouting wild flowers,separates the road from the pristine beach.

Thung Wua Laen beach is obviously very popular with the local population from nearby Chumpon and especially for recreational activities especially on the Thai’s traditional day off Sunday. They can be seen strolling and picknicking on the beach as well as in the small restaurants. The more commercial activity of fishing, presumably to provide sea fodder for the restaurants as well as the local populace, is also in evidence. There are several fishing boats moored in the bay and fishing nets can be seen hanging in the sun to dry.

The odd intrepid backpacker as well as a few knowing tourists have discovered this beach but it is far from being developed. There is no night life and only a few simple hotels, bars and restaurants but, on the other hand, if you are only after a quiet, relaxing, beautiful, unspoilt beach for a couple of days representing a true Thailand, then look no further. This is one of Thailand’s hidden gems.