Nai Harn Beach’s southerly location and lack of development means that it offers a sleepy village feel. Contrasting with the more popular tourist destinations, Nai Harn is popular with the local Thai population. The beach showcases some of Phuket’s natural beauty, offering visitors the chance to enjoy Thai beach life and escape the crowds.
The reason for Nai Harn’s lack of development is that much of the land around is owned by the monks of Samnak Song Nai Harn – an important Buddhist monastery situated in the hills just behind the beach. Respectfully dressed visitors are welcome to visit the ornate buildings and observe the monks as they go about their daily business. An excellent time to visit is early in the morning, when crowds of local flock to the monastery to worship and to donate food to the monks.
There are, however, a few beachfront developments offering rooms, dining or amenities to visitors. Le Royal Meridien Phuket Yacht Club occupies a sea facing location and is a good landmark – the best snorkelling is on offer directly in front of it. Snorkels can be hired from vendors on the beach or in the nearby restaurants, or why not sign up to a diving tour. The abundance of coral and marine life in this part of Phuket’s coast is excellent.
Swimming here is safe between November and May, with the choppier waters attracting surfers throughout the rest of the year. The beach operates a flag system to clearly indicate how safe swimming is on each day.
The stretch of soft, clean white sand and the glistening of the emerald water contrasts with the lush deep green of the dense jungle that covers the hills behind. To the southern end of the beach visitors can find a freshwater lake. There is an island in the centre that can be accessed by rented paddleboat. This is popular with local families, who take a picnic to the park on the island, which is equipped with children’s playground.
Nai Harn is located on Phuket’s south-west coast and is around an hour’s journey from the airport.
