Suan Son Pradiphat Beach
Suan Son Pradiphat (Sea Pine Tree Garden), or more simply known as Suan Son, is a remote and tree-lined beach adjoining Khao Takiab but with its own distinctive character. Even many local residents have never visited Suan Son, which is a shame as it’s a lovely unspoilt area that deserves to be more widely known. Perhaps it’s charm is that the beach remains a hidden gem and has not become overcrowded with tourists. The beach and nearby land is owned by the Thai military, but access is granted to the public and there are some basic facilities and accommodation here.
To reach Suan Son by road is simple. Take the main Petchakasem highway south until around 9 kilometres from Hua Hin, where there is a left turn and a small signpost, but blink and you’ll miss it. It’s probably easier to keep an eye open for the large PTT gas station and take an immediate turn beforehand. Note that a modest entrance fee applies to cars, but motorbikes are free. Go past the guarded barrier to enter the army compound and then over the railway line. Turn left and take the next right where you’ll arrive at a small parking area next to the beach. There are also plenty of buses and minivans that leave regularly from Hua Hin on the way to Pranburi. Alternatively it’s possible to take a train, which is almost certainly the slowest option and not all trains will make a stop.
Suan Son is a very pleasant place in which to spend a few hours. The attractive and sandy beach is extremely wide and fringed by large pine trees that provide decent shade. It might appear like there’s not really much here, but there are some friendly beach vendors and a few activities are possible. For sun seekers, deck chairs and sunshades can be rented, and anybody that appreciates nature and tranquility will surely be delighted here.
Most Thai visitors can be found in groups sat under the trees but foreign tourists usually stand out, as Suan Son could be a well kept secret between Thais. There are normally few visitors, which is a welcome contrast with Hua Hin’s busier beaches. Further north, Khao Takiab beach can be reached on foot in less than 10 minutes. In the opposite direction, the Big Buddha statue can be seen at Khao Tao which is about an hour’s walk away.
Accommodation is available in the army resort nearby as well as some small bungalows, but most visitors probably arrive with their own transport and return home later the same day. There is also an intriguing whale skeleton on show close by. It was apparently beached here in 1977 and is now proudly displayed along with some interesting facts about its discovery and history.
There is an inexpensive restaurant near the car park, which serves drinks all day and occasionally food. A few beach vendors sell fruit and other snacks but don’t count on being able to get a hearty meal here. A picnic on the beach could be a better idea, but you’re advised to bring your own food.
This is a marvellous beach for those that want to avoid the crowds, but there are nevertheless a few things to do apart from simply watching the world go by. A small massage shop is located close to the car park, and a few places on the beach rent out large tyres, presumably to sit on (but other improvisations are possible!). You could just take a walk or throw a Frisbee around, as there is certainly enough space here.
Close to the Petchakasem Road entrance on the right hand side, is an eighteen hole golf course at the Royal Thai Army Sports Centre. It’s cheaper to play on weekdays rather than weekends.
