I discovered Phang Nga by sheer luck – you could even call it magical. During my last time in Thailand, from 2017 to 2019, I met a dear friend nicknamed Allano. He invited me to Phang Nga (his home province) several times while I was in Bangkok.

During this time (and afterwards – I visited my “Thai family” again shortly after the start of the Covid-19 pandemic in early 2022) I fell hopelessly in love with Phang Nga. And not just because of my personal connection, although that certainly played a role.

Many of my favorite activities in Phang Nga are actually among the best in all of Thailand. This is especially true considering how uncrowded (and frankly, not very touristy) most of them are.

Where to settle in Phang Nga

As you can imagine, the hotel options in Phang Nga are very diverse: from inland accommodations that are hardly visible to foreign tourists, to coastal hotels that wouldn't be out of place further south in Phuket. Generally, I recommend choosing accommodation in or around Khao Lak National Park to enjoy both a convenient location and beautiful surroundings. However, there are other options as well.

If, for example, you feel comfortable in one place (in this case, a beach resort) and don't want to explore much, the Koh Yao islands (Koh Yao Yai or Koh Yai Noi) could be an attractive base. However, if you value authenticity, simple accommodation in an inland town like Khok Kloi or Kalai might be the best choice.

Things to do in Phang Nga

Watch the sunrise from the Samet Nangshe viewpoint.

The beauty of a sunrise over Phang Nga Bay is so breathtaking that you almost need an essay writer to describe it! If you're struggling to find the right words or structure your text, professionals can help bring your thoughts to life and ensure your description is as vivid and captivating as the sight itself. Keep in mind that, depending on your exact location in the area, you might need to get up as early as 4:00 AM to reach the Samet Nangshe viewpoint in time. But I promise you, it's absolutely worth it.

Indulge in the culinary delights of the Khok Kloi Market

Although this Phang Nga itinerary includes some typical tourist attractions, much of it is wonderfully authentic. I'm talking about the fresh market in Khok Kloi, for example. There you can find some of the best Khaaw Mok Gai (also known as Thai chicken biryani) in all of Thailand.

Explore the beaches of Khao Lak National Park or the Koh Yao islands

A holiday in Phang Nga without a beautiful beach is unthinkable, and there are several easy-to-find spots where you can find one without any trouble. For those who don't want to forgo the comforts of the mainland, the entire (rugged, but stunning) coastline of Khao Lak National Park is ideal. Alternatively, Koh Yao Yai or Koh Yao Noi make excellent bases.

Visit J'Nong!

Another, more local option (and a tip for foodies) for things to do in Phang Nga? Enter J'Nong Recipe restaurant in Kalai into your GPS. I admit I'm a little biased in this recommendation (J'Nong is my friend Allano's mother), but it's some of the most delicious Thai food I've ever eaten anywhere in the world.

Take a day trip to the Similan Islands or James Bond Island.

The beaches I mentioned earlier are beautiful, but not the most beautiful in Phang Nga province. That honor belongs either to the Similan Islands (a nature reserve off the west coast of Khao Lak) or James Bond Island, a famous island in Phang Nga Bay that can be reached on a day trip, which also takes you to other interesting places.

How many days does it take to explore Phang Nga?

Phang Nga isn't a huge province, but the destinations are quite spread out. This is less of a problem if you have your own car; however, if you're relying on others (especially Grab or taxis booked through your accommodation), it can have a greater impact on your trip. In any case, you should generally plan to spend a full day at each of the destinations listed in this guide.

To explain more precisely: If you want to visit the Similan Islands and enjoy the sunrise from the Samet Nangshe viewpoint, you should plan at least three days in Phang Nga. Since you'll be arriving from elsewhere on the first day, that day doesn't really count. Although Phang Nga can be a challenging destination for travelers with limited time, this makes it ideal for those who want to stay longer.

More frequently asked questions about visiting Phang Nga

Is Phang Nga worth a visit?

Phang Nga is definitely worth a visit! For some travelers, this simply means exploring the province's beautiful islands, be it the Similan Islands off the west coast of Khao Lak National Park or the Koh Yao Islands in Phang Nga Bay. Others explore local destinations like Khok Kloi and Kalai.

Which is better, Phi Phi or Phang Nga Bay?

The beauty of the Phi Phi Islands is undeniable. On the other hand, they are among the most crowded places in Thailand, and not always home to the most pleasant tourists. Many islands in Phang Nga Bay appear significantly more pristine and are therefore more popular with travelers.

What is there to do in Phang Nga?

Phang Nga offers a diverse range of activities: from the beaches in Khao Lak National Park and on island groups like the Similan and Koh Yao islands, to culinary experiences at the Khok Kloi market or the J'Nong Recipe restaurant, and the breathtaking natural beauty of Phang Nga Bay. It requires some patience and a willingness to venture off the beaten path, but the trip is well worth it.

Conclusion

I hope you enjoy my tips for Phang Nga. This province is one of the most beautiful in Thailand – although it's located north of Phuket, it feels like a real hidden gem. It combines breathtaking landscapes (like the Similan Islands) with authentic charm, whether it's the culinary experience at the Khok Kloi Market or the pristine beaches of Khao Lak National Park. You can even experience my personal connection to Phang Nga with a visit to J'Nong Recipe. Do you need help planning your trip to Phang Nga? I'd be happy to take care of all the travel arrangements for you!