Ao Prachuap is located near the town center of Prachuap Khiri Khan. It features a long sandy beach and clear water, perfect for strolling and relaxing. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful coastal atmosphere with beautiful scenic mountain views. This bay is considered the central bay among the three essential bays (Ao Noi, Ao Prachuap, Ao Manao) that give the province its nickname, "Mueang Sam Ao" (The City of Three Bays).

Bay Highlights and Scenery

• Beach Activities: The beach has fine sand suitable for swimming and beach activities such as picnics. There are also shaded areas for sitting and enjoying the view.

• Framing Mountains: A highlight of the bay is the picturesque view of surrounding mountains and small islands. The bay is prominently framed by Khao Chong Krachok to the north, a key attraction where visitors can climb steps to a summit temple to see a 360-degree panorama of all three bays and often spot the tame Southern Dusky Leaf Monkeys.

• Photogenic Moments: Sunrises and sunsets create particularly beautiful and romantic scenery over the water.

Gathering Points and Local Life

• Sarun Vithi Bridge: The waterfront promenade, which includes the long Sarun Vithi Bridge (Saphan Saran Vithi) jutting into the bay, serves as the town’s main gathering spot. This wooden pier provides the perfect vantage point for capturing picturesque fishing boats and the bay’s natural curve.

• Local Market and Atmosphere: The atmosphere is less commercialized than many other Thai resort towns, focusing instead on local life. In the evenings, the area often comes alive, particularly on weekends when the Mueang Sam Ao Walking Street transforms the seaside road into a bustling night market offering local cuisine and crafts.

Ao Prachuap is thus a perfect destination for tourists and families who want to relax, enjoy the sea view, and experience a truly peaceful beach atmosphere.

Private car:

• Use Highway 4 toward Prachuap Khiri Khan town, then turn toward the beach

Bus:

• Get off at Prachuap Khiri Khan Bus Terminal, then take a local taxi or songthaew to the beach

Train:

• Get off at Prachuap Khiri Khan Railway Station, then take a taxi or local transport to Ao Prachuap

• Morning and evening are best for photography and watching sunrise/sunset

• Bring water and a hat for sunny days

• Keep the beach clean and dispose of trash properly

• Observe safety if swimming

• You can continue walking to Ao Manao or Khao Lom Muak from the bay

Admission Fee

• Free admission for all visitors

Opening Hours

• Open daily: 24 hours