Khao Tao Beach
Khao Tao means Turtle Hill in Thai, but it stretches the imagination a little to work out why the name applies to this particular hill. In any case, Khao Tao is a popular destination just a short drive from Hua Hin and there are a couple of worthwhile beaches here. On arrival, you might assume the main attraction is Haad Khao Tao because all the resort signs lead that way. In fact, that beach is rather bland and most people prefer to visit the much nicer Sai Noi beach instead. Even though, there is an interesting temple complex accessible from Khao Tao beach, and several Thai restaurants along the shore. A small fishing fleet is also based here which can provide some good photo opportunities. Haad Sai Noi or simply Sai Noi beach, is a small and secluded spot and an ideal day trip away from Hua Hin. As well as the excellent beach, there is a huge Buddha statue on top of the hill which can be reached through a dense forest. Most people just visit Sai Noi beach to unwind and soak up the relaxed atmosphere.
To reach Khao Tao and its beaches, head south on Petchakasem Road for around 14 kilometres until you come to Soi 101. A large signpost indicates the way to Khao Tao but there are two choices when you get to the reservoir. Either continue straight on and follow the signs to Haad Khao Tao or bear right and circumnavigate the reservoir to reach Sai Noi beach. In the latter case, you’ll eventually come to a quiet shaded spot where you can park, and the beach is located directly ahead. The total distance is around 17 kilometres which should take no more than 20 minutes by road. There is an alternative path which follows the lake in the other direction and leads to the beach, but it’s not suitable for cars.
Sai Noi beach is very small compared with the others, but it’s perhaps the nicest one where you can experience a quiet, uninterrupted day without having to do much. The sand is fine and deep, and the beach declines sharply so it’s ideal for swimming as you don’t have to venture far from the shore. The beach lies in a small cove with rocks either side, so the sea views are quite limited but pleasant. There are seldom crowds here, and it has a secluded and even cosy atmosphere. On weekdays and in low season there are never many visitors, but it livens up just enough on the weekends. There are chairs, tables and sun beds and several places to eat. Thankfully, there don’t seem to be any vendors to hassle you, but it’s probably inevitable at some time or another.
Just about the only places to eat and drink here are the small restaurants on the beach and on the access road just behind. The food is mainly Thai with some European fast food options. When you choose a sun bed or table, the menu arrives sharply and the service is good. Besides the restaurants located here, it’s possible to dine back at Haad Khao Tao or on the approach road, which has dozens of snack stands and a few simple restaurants.
Khao Tao Big Buddha
You won’t find horses, jet-skis or banana boats on Sai Noi beach. Instead, it’s possible to swim, have a well deserved massage (there is a small hut on the beach, prices start at 300 baht), take a walk or even play volleyball. There’s a permanent net set up on the beach where a few Thai children come to practice.
For those keen to exercise a little more, some concealed steps on the northern end by the rocks lead up to the splendid Big Buddha statue. The walk takes around 5-10 minutes but once at the top, the views back towards Khao Takiab and the surrounding countryside are reward enough. An adjoining path leads further up to the summit with an impressive view of Sai Noi below.
Besides lounging around at Sai Noi beach, there are a few other things to do back in Khao Tao village such as fishing at the lake or visiting the temple complex. There are several resorts dotted around too which have swimming pools, restaurants and other facilities.
