Hat Wanakon National Park (Mu 7, Huai Yang, 03/261-9030) is a very small park (39 square kilometers) covering beach forest, coastline, and small islands. The park is less impressive than Khao Sam Roi Yot, as it has less diversity of landscape and wildlife. It is, however, an excellent place to camp right on the coast.

Wanakon Beach has wide, soft sands and clean water, and most signs of commercial activity are conspicuously absent. You will be able to find a few vendors out during the day selling snacks and beverages and a small cafeteria-style restaurant just south of the beach at the park’s headquarters.

The National Park Department rents beach bungalows; they have air-conditioning and hot water and are some of the best equipped in the country. Some of the larger bungalows also have televisions and refrigerators, making them a great choice for large groups or families.

Practicalities

This national park is located about 50 kilometers from Hua Hin, just off Highway 4 in Thap Sakae. If you are traveling by car from Hua Hin, head south on the main road until you see signs for the park. The drive will take around an hour with moderate traffic, and you’ll pass Pranburi and Kuri Buri on your way there.

You can also take a train to Wang Duan station from Bangkok (3 hours) or Hua Hin (20 minutes). From the station to the park is about five kilometers; a motorbike or taxi should cost anywhere from 50 baht and up.