BEACH
Wanakon National Park is the place to be if you’re looking for nature walks in Thap Sakae District. This idyllic park with pine trees surrounding the beach, allows you to combine a relaxing time at the beach with an active nature experience. The entrance to an enjoyable 2-3 hour walking trail is right next to the beach bungalows.
The sandy beach in the park is well maintained. At low tide the beach is very wide making it a rather long walk to have a good swim. The entrance fee for the national park is 100 baht per person, 30 baht per car, and 20 baht per scooter.
WHERE TO STAY
You will find 15 bungalows and 1 restaurant. An alternative option is to rent a tent and a thin matrass for less than 500 baht. You have to book this online through National Park Bungalows. The restaurant is reasonably priced and open until 8 p.m.. If you like beer or any other alcohol, make sure to bring your own as they do not sell any at the restaurant. The first shop is 10 kilometers away.
Wanakon National Park is one of the smallest national parks in Thailand, making it easy to explore on foot. The park is home to different types of plants and animals, such as porcupines, golden jackals and various snakes. Birds are plentiful with over 40 species.
About 7 kilometers off the coast are the islands of Ko Chan and Ko Tai-si. Here you will find a good coral reef, making it an ideal place for snorkeling and diving. You can occasionally see dolphins here too.
Wanakon National Park is 25 kilometers south of Prachuap Khiri Khan and 3 kilometers from the nearest highway. You will need your own transportation to reach the beach. We did not see any transportation between the beach and the highway, so if you come by public transport, you will have to walk the last 3 kilometers.
