Mae Haad Beach
Relaxed northwest beach famous for the natural sandbar that links the shore to the islet of Koh Ma at low tide.
- Category
- Beaches
- Entrance fee
- Free
- Hours
- Open 24 hours
- Best time
- Low tide (to walk the sandbar to Koh Ma) and the dry season roughly Feb-Sept; great for sunset
- Time needed
- Half day
About Mae Haad Beach
Mae Haad is one of the island's quietly great beaches and honestly a bit underrated. The star feature is the natural sandbar that appears at low tide and lets you walk straight out to the little islet of Koh Ma. Kids love it, and the shallow calm water makes it easy for families.
The other reason to come is the snorkelling. The reef right off the sandbar is about the best shore snorkelling on the island, so you don't need a boat to see fish here. Add a good sunset over the water and you've got a solid half-day.
No big honesty caveats on this one. It's calm, it's family-friendly, and it delivers what it promises.
Highlights
- Natural sandbar to Koh Ma at low tide
- Calm, shallow water good for families
- Some of the island's best shore snorkelling right off the sandbar
- Fine sunset spot on the northwest coast
Tips
- Check the tide and come at low tide to walk the sandbar across
- Bring a mask and fins to make the most of the reef
- Aim for late afternoon to catch the sunset after a swim
- Easiest reached by scooter or taxi via the west-coast road
How to get there
~13 km northwest of Thong Sala; scooter or taxi ~25-30 min via the west-coast road through Chalok Lam