Understand

Once a sanctuary for endangered Giant Leatherback turtles, this idyllic coastal area now faces a bleak reality. Due to rampant egg poaching, uncontrolled resort development, and pervasive pollution, these magnificent creatures have disappeared from these shores. Don't be fooled by glossy brochures; Mai Khao beach is far from pristine. Pollution mars its once-pristine sands, especially during low season when the authorities fail to clean it regularly. Urgent action is needed, including sustainable waste management programs, education initiatives in local schools, and more robust efforts from the National Park to preserve this fragile ecosystem. Visit now and experience the serenity of a place on the brink of overdevelopment, as foreign investors and corrupt officials threaten its natural beauty.

Get in

Getting to Mai Khao beach can be a bit challenging since public transport is limited. However, don't worry! The easiest way to reach the beach is to grab a taxi from the airport, which will take you there in about 20 minutes. If you prefer to drive, just follow the signs to Turtle Village and continue past the large hotels. Soon, you'll find yourself on the quietest beach on Phuket, part of the National Park. Don't worry about entry or parking fees in this area. Just be mindful that some resorts may not allow you to use their parking facilities unless you're a customer. If you're coming from the village, there's a road that leads directly to the beach through the beautiful 'Mai Khao Dream' resort.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Pad Thai: Pad Thai is a signature Thai dish consisting of stir-fried rice noodles with a uniquely balanced blend of sweet, sour, salty, and tangy flavors. It typically includes shrimp or chicken (though can be prepared with tofu for a vegetarian version), scrambled eggs, bean sprouts, and is garnished with crushed peanuts, lime wedges, and fresh herbs like cilantro and green onions. The dish is served with a side of som tam (green papaya salad) and mango sticky rice for a complete meal.

Tom Yum Goong: This spicy and aromatic soup is a beloved Thai classic that features a fragrant broth made from stock, kaffir lime leaves, lemongrass, galangal, lime juice, fish sauce, and chili paste. It's packed with succulent prawns, mushrooms, tomatoes, and other vegetables, with optional additions like snakehead fish or even chicken. The dish is often garnished with fresh cilantro and a sprinkling of pepper.

Mango Sticky Rice: This iconic Thai dessert is a delightful combination of sweet, creamy mango and glutinous rice. The sticky rice is cooked in coconut milk and sugar until it achieves a chewy texture, then served alongside ripe, juicy mango slices. The dish is sometimes garnished with toasted coconut flakes or sesame seeds for added crunch and flavor. It's typically enjoyed during the mango season (May to September) as a sumptuous, refreshing treat.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing