7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Prachuap Khiri Khan
Summary: Planning a quick weekend getaway is a great way to save money while still seeing new places. Here are 7 fun weekend getaways for digital nomads living in Prachuap Khiri Khan.
Digital nomads living in Prachuap Khiri Khan, are perfectly positioned to explore some of the most beautiful and intriguing destinations in the country. Whether you're looking for popular tourist spots or hidden gems off the beaten path, there's something for everyone within a short journey from this coastal town. Here are seven fun weekend getaways that offer a mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences.
Hua Hin
Hua Hin is a well-known beach resort town that offers a perfect blend of city life and seaside relaxation. As a favorite retreat for the Thai royal family, Hua Hin boasts a beautiful beach, lively markets, and high-end resorts. Visitors can enjoy water sports, golfing, and visiting the Hua Hin night market for delicious street food and local crafts. The Cicada Market is also a must-visit for art lovers and those looking to enjoy live music and performances.
How to Get There: Hua Hin is easily accessible from Prachuap Khiri Khan by bus or train, with the journey taking approximately 2 hours.
Travel Tip: Don't miss the chance to visit the historical Hua Hin Railway Station, one of the oldest in Thailand, featuring beautiful architecture and a royal waiting room.
Where to Stay: The Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Hua Hin is a luxurious option with a stunning pool and colonial charm. For a more budget-friendly stay, consider the Hua Hin Ibis.
Where to Eat: For a unique dining experience, head to The Baguette Hua Hin for their French pastries and cozy atmosphere, or try the seafood at Hua Hin Seafood for its fresh catches and beachside location.
Kui Buri National Park
For wildlife enthusiasts, Kui Buri National Park is a must-visit destination. It's one of the best places in Thailand to spot wild elephants in their natural habitat. The park also offers opportunities to see gaurs, barking deer, and various bird species. Guided tours are available to increase your chances of wildlife sightings and to learn more about the park's conservation efforts.
How to Get There: The best way to reach Kui Buri National Park is by car or motorbike, which takes about 1.5 hours from Prachuap Khiri Khan.
Travel Tip: Plan your visit in the late afternoon when the animals are most active and the chances of spotting elephants at the salt licks are higher.
Where to Stay: Stay at the Kui Buri Resort for a comfortable and convenient base close to the park, with some bungalows offering views of the surrounding mountains.
Where to Eat: Dining options are limited near the park, so it's best to eat at your resort or pack a picnic to enjoy during your visit.
Bang Saphan
Bang Saphan is a tranquil beach town that's perfect for digital nomads looking to unwind and escape the crowds. The beaches here are pristine, and the pace of life is slow, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and contemplation. Snorkeling and diving are popular activities, with nearby coral reefs offering a colorful underwater world to explore.
How to Get There: Bang Saphan can be reached by train or bus from Prachuap Khiri Khan, with the journey taking around 1 hour.
Travel Tip: Visit the Wat Tang Sai temple on Thong Chai Mountain for breathtaking views of the coastline and an impressive golden Buddha statue.
Where to Stay: Coral Hotel Bang Saphan is a favorite for its beachfront location and friendly service. For a more secluded experience, consider the Baan Klang Aow Beach Resort.
Where to Eat: The Why Not Bar offers a laid-back atmosphere with good food and occasional live music right on the beach.
Phraya Nakhon Cave
The Phraya Nakhon Cave is a stunning natural wonder located within Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park. The highlight is the iconic Kuha Karuhas pavilion, which sits majestically inside the cave and is illuminated by natural light from an open ceiling. The trek to the cave can be challenging, but the breathtaking views and serene atmosphere make it well worth the effort.
How to Get There: The cave is accessible by a combination of boat and hiking, starting from Bang Pu village, which is about a 2-hour drive from Prachuap Khiri Khan.
Travel Tip: Visit early in the morning to catch the best light for photography and to avoid the heat of the day during your hike.
Where to Stay: The Dolphin Bay Resort offers comfortable accommodations and is situated close to the national park's entrance.
Where to Eat: The Blue Beach Restaurant is known for its fresh seafood and traditional Thai dishes, with a stunning view of the Gulf of Thailand.
Sam Roi Yot Beach
Sam Roi Yot Beach is a serene coastal area within the Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park, known for its dramatic limestone mountains and quiet, unspoiled beaches. It's an excellent spot for kayaking, bird watching, and simply enjoying the peaceful surroundings. The park also features freshwater marshes and caves to explore, including the famous Phraya Nakhon Cave.
How to Get There: The beach is about a 1.5-hour drive from Prachuap Khiri Khan. Renting a car or motorbike is the most convenient way to get there.
Travel Tip: Make sure to visit the Thung Sam Roi Yot freshwater marsh, which is the largest wetland in Thailand and a haven for birdwatchers.
Where to Stay: The Anchana Resort and Spa is a great option for those looking for comfort and relaxation, with a pool and spa services available.
Where to Eat: The Meaw Seafood Restaurant offers delicious local dishes in a casual setting right by the beach.
Wang Duan Waterfall
Wang Duan Waterfall is a hidden gem located in the heart of the jungle. It's a lesser-known spot, perfect for those looking to connect with nature away from the tourist trail. The waterfall features several tiers and natural pools where you can take a refreshing dip. The surrounding forest is also great for hiking and spotting local wildlife.
How to Get There: Reaching Wang Duan Waterfall requires a car or motorbike ride from Prachuap Khiri Khan, taking about 2 hours, followed by a short hike.
Travel Tip: Wear good hiking shoes and bring insect repellent to make your trek to the waterfall more comfortable.
Where to Stay: Accommodations are sparse near the waterfall, so it's best to stay in Prachuap Khiri Khan or plan your visit as a day trip.
Where to Eat: Pack a picnic to enjoy at the waterfall, as there are no restaurants in the immediate vicinity.
Ban Krut
Ban Krut is a quaint coastal village known for its pristine beaches and laid-back atmosphere. It's an excellent destination for those looking to experience local Thai culture without the hustle and bustle of more touristy areas. The beach is perfect for long walks, sunbathing, and swimming. The Wat Tang Sai temple on Thong Chai Mountain offers stunning views and is an architectural marvel.
How to Get There: Ban Krut is accessible by train or bus from Prachuap Khiri Khan, with the journey taking about 1.5 hours.
Travel Tip: Rent a bicycle to explore the village and its surroundings at a leisurely pace, taking in the local way of life.
Where to Stay: Ban Krut Resort is a popular choice for its beachfront bungalows and friendly service. Another option is the Rachavadee Beach Resort with its unique circular huts.
Where to Eat: The Coco Beachfront Bar & Restaurant is a favorite among locals and visitors alike for its fresh seafood and beachside dining experience.
These weekend getaways offer a diverse range of experiences, from bustling beach towns to secluded natural retreats. Digital nomads in Prachuap Khiri Khan can easily take a break from their screens and immerse themselves in the beauty and culture of Thailand.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is one of the founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and the Founder and President of Expat Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
Get a quote in 2 minutes from our partner, Cigna Global Health.
Get Quote
Thailand Forum
Talk with other digital nomads and expats in Thailand on our Thailand forum - meet people, get advice and help others.
Contribute
Help others in Thailand by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Thailand.
Digital Nomads in Thailand offer advice about healthcare, hospital visits, emergency rooms visits, finding a doctor and buying health insurance in Thailand.