Are you going to visit Thailand? Enjoy the beauty of the beaches and forests of Sirinat National Park in Phuket!
Thailand is renowned for its paradise beaches. This is one of the reasons why tourists flock to the country and the island of Phuket. The Sirinat National Park extends over 90 square kilometres, between pines, mangroves and turquoise waters. Are you looking for serenity? The site is a haven of peace where you enjoy an exceptional setting, outside the beaten paths.
With thirteen kilometers of tropical beaches, this place away from the tourist mass will appeal to nature lovers. The park protects its fauna and flora, while offering visitors the conveniences of a seaside resort. For an unforgettable visit, we have prepared a mini-guide with all the important information to know before visiting the Sirinat National Park in Phuket!
History of Sirinat National Park in Phuket
The history of the park began in 1980 when Mr. Sanae Wattanathorn, Governor of Phuket, decided to inspect the province to identify sites worthy of being preserved. After examining the tourist potential and the needs of local villagers, it recommends that the Royal Forestry Department make it a protected park. On 13 July 1981, Nai Yang National Park became the fifty-first National Park of Thailand, by Royal Decree. In 1992, her name changed in honour of Her Majesty’s sixtieth anniversary Queen Sirikit . It is now called Sirinat National Park. During these celebrations, the area is extended to Mai Khao Beach.
The site has two ambitions: it intends to preserve the plant and animal life in its marine waters, forests and mangroves. It is also a fiercely intermingled area, walks and activities conducive to local and international tourism. In recent years, plots of the park have been sold to proponents, which raises concerns for the preservation of the fauna and flora of this small natural gem. The Thai military navy settled in the park to ensure its security, but voices rose to denounce the corruption of some officials.
What to see and do at Sirinat National Park in Phuket?
Visiting Sirinat National Park in Phuket is ideal to get away from the tourist crowd in the area. Located northwest of the island, in the Thalang district, the site is very easy to access and close to the airport.
The beaches
The place offers four beautiful beaches: Nai Thon , Nai Yang , Mai Khao and Sai Kaeo. Each has its particularity, offering the visitor several choices of activities. It is thus possible to enjoy boat trips, scuba diving and kitesurfing. Many small shops, massage parlors and exchange offices have emerged in recent years. You can easily find restaurants where to eat your feet in the sand. Ideal for a romantic evening! Arriving early in the morning, you will have the site for you and can admire the arrival of the fishermen.
For swim enthusiasts, the best beaches is certainly Nai Yang . It is a peaceful bay of two kilometers with shaded spaces. The water is warm and is perfect for snorkeling. Coral reefs are spectacular and protect currents. At the northern end of the beach, turtles come to lay their eggs every year between November and February. Here, calm reigns. We can still see fishermen selling their daily catch to local visitors and restaurants.
Near the airport, the large beach Mai Khao is Phuket's longest! It allows long strolling at the edge of the water. On the way, you will certainly cross crabs and sea turtles. The lute turtles and turtles come to lay on this quiet beach. Mai Khao is lined with some high-end hotel complexes and villas. Enjoy the luxury of staying there and admire one of Phuket’s most beautiful sunsets! Here, the beach is entirely part of Sirinat Park. Only traditional fishing is permitted. Motor boats are totally forbidden.
The park's marine environment is very diverse. ♪ virgin coral reefs are located at depths of four to six metres, approximately eight hundred metres from the shore. The main visible marine species are gorgones, soft corals, plate corals, tree corals and sea anemone. The site also aims to protect the natural habitats of taupe crabs, sea turtles and shells.
Forests
When you visit Sirinat National Park in Phuket, do not just sunbathe on its beaches and swim in its crystal clear waters! The different sprinkled or persistent-leaved forests and mangroves allow you to discover the natural wonders of the region.
mangrove is small but protected because its roots prevent the erosion of the vases. Mixing fresh water and salt water, it houses many animals: lizards, snakes, turtles, shrimps, crustaceans, crabs and fish such as mules, merouss or cranes. Panels arranged here and there give explanations on the different types of mangroves and the creatures that live them.
For lovers of ornithology, the place is a paradise on earth. You'll see one large variety of birds , including bees with chestnut-eating bees, imperial green pigeons, or black-necked sparrows. As you walk, you will surely cross species such as the necklace-fisher, the rosy stern, or the white belly sea eagle.
Other activities are possible in the immediate vicinity of the park, such as golf , or kayak which will allow you to reach the beaches by the sea.
How do I go to Sirinat National Park?
Sirinat National Park in Phuket 89/1 Mu 1 Ban Nai Yang, Tambon Sakhu, Amphoe Thalang, Phuket 83140 15 minutes from the international airport and about thirty kilometers from the city centre. Here are the main ways to get there:
- By car
From the city of Phuket, take Highway 402 on about thirty-two kilometers, then turn left to the airport of Phuket. After three kilometers, you will see the Sirinat National Park. Count forty minutes from Phuket Town and Patong, depending on traffic.
- By taxi
This is certainly the easiest way to go to the park. You can simply tell the driver your destination. From the airport, it will cost you 400 to 500 Baht.
- By public taxi
♪ songthaew , you will have to pay 40 baht from the city of Phuket.
- By bus
This is the most economical way. The journey lasts a little over an hour from the city.
Schedules & Rates of Sirinat National Park in Phuket
HORARI
Sirinat National Park is open every day from 6 am to 6 pm.
RATES
- Adult (tourist) 200 baths
- Child (tourist) 100 baths
- Adult resident 40 baths
- Child resident 20 baths
Note : The park’s office is in Hat Nai Yang and two entry points are possible by car. Passing through the beach on foot, you will not have to pay the entrance fee unless you are asked by an official park guard.
Frequently asked questions
Can we stay close to the park?
Yes, there are a wide range of accommodations ranging from five-star hotels to inns for all budgets. A campsite is also available to visitors.
What is the best time to visit the park?
Between November and April to swim and dive. Kitesurfers will feast from May to September.
Can we smoke or spray on the spot?
In Thailand, the rules are strict. It is generally forbidden to smoke on the beaches of Phuket. Electronic cigarettes are banned throughout the kingdom.
Is swimming dangerous?
Outside Nai Yang which is well protected, currents are sometimes powerful. Take all your precautions, especially for children.
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