Thailand The Johnsons

Suan Son Pradipat Beach is a popular destination located in Hua Hin. Known for its natural beauty, the beach is characterized by its long stretch of soft, powdery sand and clean waters.

The beach is not typically crowded, making it a peaceful spot for visitors to enjoy a swim or a relaxing day by the ocean. The beach is easily accessible by tourist train and is connected to another beach, Khao Takiab.

It is situated on property owned by the Thai military, and there is a nominal entry fee for private cars. Parking is readily available, making it convenient for those who choose to drive. The beach is well-equipped with amenities for visitors. There is a park area that includes a cafe, a Thai restaurant, and a food court. Beach chairs are available for rent, and vendors occasionally pass by selling local delicacies such as grilled squid, roti, and ice cream.

Large trees by the beach provide ample shade, adding to the overall comfort and enjoyment of the beach. Despite its popularity among locals and tourists alike, Suan Son Pradipat Beach maintains a tranquil atmosphere. It is a place where visitors can enjoy the beauty of the ocean and the relaxation of a beach day without the distraction of water activities such as banana boats and jet skis.

Suan Son Pradipat Originally under the responsibility of the Royal Forest Department, it was later transferred to the Royal Thai Army for use in military affairs as the Army Staff School.

Suan Son Pradipat is a picturesque beach in Hua Hin which gets its name from the lush forestation of oak pine trees that grow here. Because it is located in a military zone under the supervision of the Royal Thai Army’s Infantry Center, the beach is quiet, calm, and less crowded than others. Stop and savor the skeleton of a Bryde’s whale displayed at the beach entrance.

It is one of the popular destinations covered by the Thailand Railway’s weekend train excursions. You can avail of the train on Saturdays and Sundays from Bangkok and enjoy a lovely 5-hour trip taking in the beautiful scenery on the way.

Back in 2008 I visited this floating market. Back then it was quieter and less touristy. Dread to think what it's like now, so take a look at a time when it was for real and not the tourists!

Some info below:

Back in 2008 I visited this floating market. Back then it was quieter and less touristy.

The Damnoen Saduak experience can be an assault on the senses, with the twisty passages between boats and the jumble of watercraft all demanding your attention as your boat picks its way through the canal, the rising heat of the day (especially if you visit later in the morning), and the smell of the cooking food clashing with the damp odor of the canal water.

In the past, daily commerce in Thailand was conducted mostly along rivers and canals (or khlongs in Thai). Bangkok’s water network was busy and served as the principal means of communication causing Bangkok to be called as the "Venice of the East" by early European visitors.

Damnoen saduak Floating Market in Ratchaburi is one of the most popular floating markets in Thailand. Every day many Thai and foreign tourists travel here to shop, eat, and absorb the atmosphere of Thailand water markets that have been like this for over 100 years. Klong Damnoen Saduak is the straightest and longest canal in Thailand. The canal was built on royal initiative as King Rama IV of Thailand wanted to link the Mae Klong River with Chinese river ways to support transportation and trade. It took over 2 years to dig, and was eventually finished under the reign of his successor King Rama V. The canal is 32 kilometers long and has more than 200 branches. Damnoen Saduak Floating Market's popularity grew to new heights in 1971-1973 when the river was full of farmers on their boats selling their wares. And that is the way trade is performed in this area until today.

The Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is one of Thailand’s most famous and iconic tourist attractions.

It is located in the Ratchaburi Province, about 100 kilometers southwest of Bangkok, Thailand’s capital.

The market is renowned for its picturesque setting and the unique shopping experience it offers visitors.

Here are some primary details about the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market:

Floating Market Concept

The Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is a traditional Thai market where vendors sell their goods directly from boats.

The market’s main waterway, Damnoen Saduak Canal, is lined with long-tail boats loaded with various products, including fresh fruits, vegetables, street food, souvenirs, clothing, and handicrafts.

Vibrant Atmosphere

The market exudes a lively and colorful atmosphere, with vendors wearing traditional Thai clothing and engaging in friendly banter with shoppers.

It’s a bustling scene, especially in the morning when the market is busiest.

Local Cuisine

One of the highlights of visiting Damnoen Saduak is the opportunity to sample authentic Thai cuisine.

Many vendors prepare and sell delicious Thai dishes like noodle soups, rice dishes, and exotic fruit juices.

The market is primarily known for its coconut-based snacks and sweets.

Boat Tours

Visitors can explore the market by taking a boat tour. These tours often involve navigating the narrow canals that connect to the main market area.

It’s scenic and enjoyable to experience the market and get close to the vendors.

Shopping

The market offers a wide range of products, making it a great place for souvenir shopping.

Traditional Thai handicrafts, silk scarves, wooden carvings, and other unique items can be found.

Cultural Experience

The Damnoen Saduak Floating Market provides insight into traditional Thai culture and the locals’ way of life.

It’s an opportunity to see age-old trading practices and interact with friendly vendor

https://youtu.be/2gZyWwo9mxE

Just a short view of Bang Sak Beach, my happy place in Khao Lak.
BANG SAK BEACH
Bang Sak Beach is one of the most secluded beaches of Khao Lak still visited by tourists. It borders Pak Weep Beach in the south and Ban Thap Tawan Beach in the north.

Bang Sak Beach is also called the beach of the locals. This is because there are no accommodations in the middle of the bay. Locals and fisherman meet here for a picnic or a cozy get-together on the beach or in the shade of the trees. Behind this stretch of beach there is a road with some small local restaurants. An interesting place if you are interested in local life and food.

In the southern part of Bang Sak there are only a few luxury resorts, these are surrounded by a few restaurants on the beach. Also in the northern part of the beach there are again a number of restaurants, small bars and massage facilities on the beach. There are only two resorts in this part of Bang Sak Beach. So here you can count on a quiet beach with total relaxation.

Bang Sak, like many other beaches in Khao Lak, is an ideal beach for a long beach walk with a stop at one of the small restaurants.

Chao Mai National Park is home to several picturesque beaches, with white sandy shores and crystal-clear waters. As you will see from this slideshow video.

I can only say it is the closest place to heaven on Earth I have ever visited! No people, no traffic, no dogs, no buildings, no anything except beautiful nature untouched.

I visited here on my road trip to the southern part of Thailand in December 2023, I will after this visit be going again, if not just for the peace, the beauty of this amazing place. This is the most beautiful part of Thailand you will ever see!
Please enjoy!

Music free under creative commons licence, from YouTube music library
Credits to: Quincas Moreira
for writing -Nature Nurture

Chao Mai National Park is home to several picturesque beaches, with white sandy shores and crystal-clear waters. As you will see from this slideshow video.

I can only say it is the closest place to heaven on Earth I have ever visited! No people, no traffic, no dogs, no buildings, no anything except beautiful nature untouched.

I visited here on my road trip to the southern part of Thailand in December 2023, I will after this visit be going again, if not just for the peace, the beauty of this amazing place. This is the most beautiful part of Thailand you will ever see!
Please enjoy!

Music free under creative commons licence, from YouTube music library
Credits to: Quincas Moreira
for writing -Nature Nurture