Koh Phra Thong, Thailand: Golden Sands and Sea Turtles

Where Stillness Meets the Sea

Imagine standing on a beach so empty that your footprints are the only ones visible in the golden sand. The breeze smells of salt and mangroves. In the distance, sea turtles glide gracefully beneath gentle waves. Welcome to Koh Phra Thong, Thailand, a place where time slows down and nature speaks softly.

While Thailand is often associated with bustling markets and lively resorts, Koh Phra Thong breaks that mould. This island has secluded beaches, untouched wildlife, and rustic charm. It offers one of the most intimate nature-based travel experiences in Southeast Asia.

In this post, you’ll learn why Koh Phra Thong is a top eco-tourism spot in Thailand. You’ll find out what makes its ecosystem special and how to visit responsibly. Enjoy the island’s stunning natural beauty!

Where Is Koh Phra Thong and Why Is It Unique?

Koh Phra Thong sits in the Andaman Sea, just off the coast of Phang Nga Province in southern Thailand. It’s often overlooked because of popular spots like Phuket or Khao Lak. But that’s what makes it special.

Key Features:

• 20 kilometres of uninterrupted golden beaches
• Savannah-like inland landscapes rare in Southeast Asia
• Important nesting grounds for sea turtles
• Small, locally-run eco-lodges instead of large resorts

It’s not just about what you see here; it’s about how the island makes you feel — unhurried, connected, and calm.

Beaches Like No Other

Golden Sands Stretching to Forever

Koh Phra Thong’s beaches are not just beautiful — they’re surreal. The island’s west coast is lined with vast, open sands that glow golden in the afternoon sun. There are no deckchairs, no vendors, no music — just waves, birds, and the occasional crab.

Best Beaches to Explore:

• Ao Tao Beach: Wild, empty, perfect for walking and reflection.
• North Beach: Quiet and scenic, often visited by sea turtles.

Hack: Sunrise is best viewed from the east side of the island. Sunsets over the west coast are magical and uninterrupted.

Sea Turtles and Conservation Efforts

Koh Phra Thong is one of Thailand’s most significant turtle nesting grounds. Leatherback and green turtles come to shore here, especially from November to February, to lay eggs.

How You Can Help:

• Volunteer or donate to The Naucrates Project, a long-standing conservation group working on the island.
• Avoid night-time beach visits during nesting season.
• Never touch or disturb turtle nests — admire them from a respectful distance.

This island is proof that travel can support conservation when done mindfully.

For more responsible travel ideas, read How to Travel Responsibly in Fragile Ecosystems Across Asia.

Activities for the Thoughtful Explorer

Koh Phra Thong isn’t about ticking off tourist checklists. It’s about immersing yourself slowly and intentionally.

1. Kayaking Through Mangroves

Explore quiet estuaries and hidden canals teeming with birdlife. You might spot hornbills, kingfishers, and mudskippers along the way.

2. Wildlife Spotting in the Savannah

The island’s flat grasslands are home to deer, wild pigs, and even the occasional leopard cat. Take a guided nature walk with local experts who understand the rhythms of this place.

3. Snorkelling and Island Hopping

Nearby Koh Ra and Koh Kho Khao offer beautiful coral reefs and more remote beach hideouts. Tours are available through small eco-lodges.

Sustainable Stays: Eco-Lodges and Local Hospitality

Koh Phra Thong has resisted large-scale development. You won’t find five-star hotels here. You’ll find eco-lodges made from natural materials. They use solar energy and have staff who love and protect this island.

Recommended Eco-Stays:

• Golden Buddha Beach Resort: One of the island’s first eco-lodges, with a strong emphasis on sustainability.
• Mr. Chuoi’s Bungalows: Rustic, budget-friendly, and deeply connected to the local community.

Expect simplicity, warm hospitality, and unforgettable sunsets.

Curious about other quiet coastal getaways? Explore Pangkor Island, Malaysia: Fishing Villages and Tranquil Beaches.

When to Visit Koh Phra Thong

• Best time: November to April (dry season)
• Turtle nesting: November to February
• Avoid: May to October (monsoon season can disrupt travel and tours)

The island remains serene even in high season, thanks to limited visitor capacity.

How to Get There

1. Travel to Khuraburi (a mainland town in Phang Nga)
• From Bangkok: Overnight bus or flight to Phuket/Krabi + drive
• From Khao Lak: Approx. 90-minute drive
2. Boat to the island
• Long-tail boats depart from Khuraburi Pier.
• Trips are usually arranged through eco-lodges.

Note: There are no ATMs on the island. Bring cash and basic supplies.

Local Culture and Community

The people of Koh Phra Thong are mostly Thai-Muslim, with a small Moken (sea gypsy) population. Their lifestyle is simple, humble, and deeply tied to the land and sea.

Respectful Travel Tips:

• Dress modestly when visiting villages.
• Greet locals with a smile or “sawadee kha/krub”.
• Be mindful of religious customs, especially during Ramadan.

Joining in with the community makes your stay more rewarding. It also helps ensure that tourism directly benefits local people.

Responsible Travel Checklist

• Say no to single-use plastics
• Stay in certified eco-lodges
• Keep noise levels low in natural areas
• Don’t collect shells or disturb wildlife
• Choose local guides and support community tourism

Koh Phra Thong isn’t just a place to visit. It’s a place to respect, protect, and cherish.

Conclusion: Reconnect with Nature in Thailand’s Quiet Corner

Koh Phra Thong, Thailand, is not a place you stumble into; it’s a place you intentionally seek. If you want to break away from the mainstream, find peace, and travel with your heart, this is your place.

You won’t come back with flashy selfies or souvenir bags. Instead, you’ll have sand in your shoes, salt in your hair, and a quiet smile that says, “I found something special.”

Ready to slow down and explore a wilder side of Thailand?

Share your thoughts! Drop your travel questions in the comments. Also, tell us about your favourite secluded beaches in Asia. Let’s keep discovering, gently.