Hat Chao Mai National Park

Worth a minor detour, not a half day. The park was open but the walkway was defective half way through, also lookout point wasn’t reachable because of maintenance. There’s a lot of washed up plastic trash and some serious work is needed to make this park as pristine as it could be.

It's a beautiful park. While it is heavily touristed its natural beauty makes up for it. The best thing is the hidden beach that is inside an open circle that you need to swim through a cave to reach. It's truly spectacular and even when it's totally overrun it is that good that it still remains worth seeing. Sadly I did not bring my phone, see cave swim.

Just standing here on this spot for 5 minutes is worth more than the price of admission. The staff is delightful. The restroom is clean. I just had a nice cool shower after a long walk on the beach. You can set up a tent right next to the ocean. Hear the waves all night long.

Very similar to Phi-Phi or Similan all day style tour but a little less crowded. The islands in the park like Koh kradan would be really nice to stay on once all the day trip people have left. The snorkeling was very crowded and most of the coral is dead not to many fish to see. Emerald cave is cool but also packed with people and kayaks.

Forested part of the coast, with roads to a car park, but the attraction is a walkway that goes along the side of a forested limestone mountain island. The walkway is out and back. It's about 25 min one way with a few sections of steep steps. There is another shorter walkway on the other side. They make accessible the views of the incredible rock formations, small bays, flora, and fauna of this beautiful area. Foreigner price 5x more than Thai. 200 baht.

Very nice place, tidy and a lot of shade under the trees by the sea. Since the "bridge walkway" attraction has opened, la lot of Thai people come to visit, so better avoiding the weekends if possible

If you’re looking for a peaceful escape from the more crowded tourist spots, Hat Chao Mai National Park is a fantastic destination that shouldn’t be missed. Located about 50 km from Trang town in southern Thailand, it offers a combination of stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush mangrove forests—perfect for nature lovers and those looking to relax. The park is easily accessible and provides a laid-back vibe, making it an ideal place to unwind and enjoy the beauty of southern Thailand’s natural landscapes. One of the main highlights of Hat Chao Mai National Park is its collection of islands, each with its own charm. For example, Ko Muk is home to the famous Emerald Cave (Tham Morakot), a hidden lagoon that’s only accessible by swimming through a dark tunnel. This is a must-do experience for anyone visiting the park! Just be sure to check the tide times and be ready to swim, as the tunnel can be tricky to navigate. On Ko Kradan, you’ll find some of the most pristine beaches in Thailand—powdery white sand and clear blue waters, making it perfect for a day of snorkeling and sunbathing. If you prefer a quieter spot, Ko Chueak and Ko Waen are smaller islands where you can find solitude and immerse yourself in the natural beauty around you. The mainland also offers its own attractions, with beaches like Pak Meng, Hat Chang Lang, and Hat Yao providing plenty of space to relax, swim, or enjoy a peaceful picnic. The mangrove forests and seagrass beds within the park are home to a variety of marine life, including dugongs, which makes this park an important conservation area for these gentle creatures. If you’re a nature enthusiast or photographer, don’t forget to bring your camera, as the park is full of incredible wildlife and scenic views. For those looking to explore more actively, the park has a number of hiking trails that will lead you through its diverse ecosystems. Whether you’re into birdwatching or just enjoy walking through lush forests, these trails will allow you to experience the park’s natural wonders up close. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring water, as some trails can be a bit challenging, especially in the heat. As for recommendations, be sure to bring enough supplies, as the park is relatively remote and doesn’t have many shops or services. If you plan on snorkeling or swimming, bring your own gear or rent it from nearby shops before heading to the islands. Also, check the weather forecast before you visit—rain can make the trails slippery, and some islands may not be accessible during certain conditions. Finally, if you’re visiting the park during the high season (November to February), expect some crowds, particularly on weekends and public holidays. However, even then, the park is vast enough to provide quiet spots where you can escape the crowds. If you can, try to visit during the off-peak months to enjoy a more serene and secluded experience. In conclusion, Hat Chao Mai National Park is a hidden gem that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and tranquility. Whether you’re into snorkeling, hiking, or simply relaxing on the beach, this park has something for everyone. It’s an ideal spot for those looking to explore the raw beauty of Thailand without the crowds of more well-known destinations. Make sure to take your time, soak in the scenery, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere that makes this park so special.

Nice vibes, clean nature, comfortable restroom, good parking area and new canopy walk