Nai Harn Beach
Located between the smaller beaches of Ya Nui and Ao Sane, Nai Harn Beach is one of the most popular beaches on Phuket, especially with the locals, although it rarely gets too crowded. It is also one of the most beautiful, fringed with verdant jungles on either side and with a spacious stretch of golden sand. Apart from the beach, a freshwater lake inland provides more recreational opportunities for visitors and some of Phuket’s most spectacular viewpoints, inlcluding the famous Phrom Thep, can be found nearby.
On The Beach Of Nai Harn
Nai Harn Beach offers something for everyone to enjoy. For those who came just for the beach, the tranquil blue waters gently ebbing on the golden sands provides a beautiful and relaxing scenery. For those who want some action, there are plenty of things to do, as well.
Nai Harn Beach Activities
The waters of Nai Harn Beach are ideal for swimming most of the year. In fact, even from May to October when the waves are large on other beaches, the waves here remain pretty small, which is why it is not a popular beach for surfing. Even so, one should always keep an eye out for red flags during this season, since strong undertows can occur.
While surfing is not much of an option here, boogie boarding is and boards can be rented out from stalls on the shore. Snorkeling equipment can be rented out, as well, and it is recommended that you do so since the scenery under the waters in this area can be quite captivating. Sea kayaks are available for rent, too, as well as occasional jet-skis during the high season.
Nai Harn Beach Facilities
Sunbeds and parasols are available for rent at about the same price as that on other beaches. Public toilets can be found on the northern end of the beach but if you don’t want to go that far, you can always pay a small fee to use those at the restaurants.
Nai Harn Beach Restaurants
There are many restaurants located right behind the beach of Nai Harn, both fine dining and family-friendly establishments. Some offer Thai food while others serve Italian food, Mexican food, western food and all-day breakfasts.
There are also open-air restaurants right on the beach, near the southern end which serve fresh seafood dishes at reasonable prices.
Nai Harn Beach Attractions – Things To See Around Nai Harn Beach
The Nai Harn Beach area is rich in attractions. Not only will you find an idyllic beach here, but you can also go to Phuket’s most famous viewpoint or spend a day around the lake.
Phromthep Cape
Phormthep Cape affords some of the most spectacular views of Phuket, so bringing your camera is a must. The views of the sunset are especially breathtaking here, which is why many tourists come up here during that time.
Apart from the views, though, there is also an excellent restaurant here overlooking Nai Harn Beach which has an extensive menu of international dishes and if you climb up the stairs from the car park, you will find yourself at Elephant Shrine, surrounded by large and small wooden elephants by the thousands, all of which are very impressive works of art. There is also a lighthouse here known as the Kanchanaphisek Lighthouse where you can see a small collection of vintage lighthouse equipment.
Nai Harn Lake
Located a little further inland from the beach, Nai Harn Lake is a medium-sized freshwater lake, the banks of which provide a good place for families to enjoy a picnic. There is also a children’s playground here and plenty of restaurants towards the northern end.
Windmill Viewpoint
Aside from Phromthep Cape, Windmill Viewpoint is another viewpoint located in the area which provides amazing views of the beaches below and the ocean and islands beyond. Apart from the large windmills here, though, there is nothing much else to see so you can just take your time admiring the views then head down to Nai Harn Beach for a swim.
Nai Harn Monastery
Often mistaken for a temple, the Nai Harn Monastery is a Buddhist monastery with a fairly simple yet beautiful architecture. This is also a relaxing place since it is surrounded by trees, as well as a good place to get a glimpse of local religious practices.
Nai Harn Beach Activities – Things To Do In And Around Nai Harn Beach
Those looking forward to a fun-filled vacation will not be disappointed when they come to Nai Harn Beach. There are, after all, plenty of activities offered in the area, both on the beach and beyond.
Beach Activities
Aside from swimming, which is safe most of the year, snorkeling is a good option to explore around Nai Harn Beach, with equipment for rent right on the beach. Boogie boarding and kayaking are also possible.
Sports Activities
Once in a while, locals gather for a game of beach volleyball here and you are free to join in if you wish. You can also rent a bike and cycle around the area so you can see all its amazing views without getting too tired.
Sightseeing
If you want to enjoy different, more stunning views of Nai Harn Beach, head to the top of Phromthep Cape or to Windmill Viewpoint where you will find your breath taken away by what you see. You can also go to the lake which is not too far from the beach or visit the local monastery.
Spa & Wellness Activities
If relaxing on the beach or on the lakeside does not seem to be enough for you, you can go to one of the massage shops in the area for a Thai massage, some of which even have herbal saunas that you can also use. For a wider range of wellness treatments, go to one of the bigger spas, like those at the resorts, where you can expect yourself to be truly pampered as you deserve.
Nai Harn Beach Shopping
There are not too many shops located here. However, there are shops selling beachwear and other beach essentials right on the beach while there are art galleries and convenience stores not far away. If you’ve gained an interest in Muay Thai, there is a shop selling goods related to the sport, as well.
Nai Harn Nightlife