Beaches · The next bay south of Ao Nang
Pai Plong Beach
A small bay over the headland from Ao Nang, reached by a short jungle path with steep stairs: quieter water, and monkeys on the way.
Access
On foot from the road
Time to allow
A few hours
Best time
Around low tide, when Ao Nang is too shallow to swim
Why go
For a swim away from the longtails. Pai Plong is the bay just beyond the eastern end of Ao Nang, and getting there takes a short walk over the headland rather than a boat ticket.
What you will find
A small sandy bay behind the headland at the end of Ao Nang Beach, with a single resort behind it. Fewer boats come in than at Ao Nang, and one recent account finds it better for swimming at low tide, when the water off Ao Nang goes out a long way.
The resort on the bay was reported closed for rebuilding in October 2026; the beach itself is described as open to the public during the day.
Getting there
On foot by the path known as the Monkey Trail, which starts at the eastern end of Ao Nang Beach: stairs into the forest, a path along the headland, then a steep wooden staircase down to the bay. One recent source says you may be asked to write your name in a register at the foot of the steps.
By longtail from Ao Nang Beach, if you would rather not walk.
One source also describes wading round the rocks from the eastern end of Ao Nang at low tide; we have not been able to confirm it, and it is not something to try as the tide comes in.
Before you go
The last staircase is steep and its steps are worn: wear shoes that grip, take it slowly, and be more careful still after rain. Not for anyone unsteady on stairs, and not in flip-flops.
Macaques live along the path. Keep food out of sight and bags closed, and do not feed them.
With the resort reported closed for rebuilding, do not count on buying food or drink on the bay: bring your own water.
Common questions
How do I get to Pai Plong Beach from Ao Nang?
On foot by the Monkey Trail, which starts at the eastern end of Ao Nang Beach and ends with a steep staircase down to the bay, or by longtail from Ao Nang.
Is Pai Plong Beach open to the public?
One recent source describes it as open to the public during the day. The resort on the bay was reported closed for rebuilding in October 2026, so check what is open before you rely on it for food or water.
Are there monkeys on the Monkey Trail?
Often, though not every time. Keep food out of sight and do not feed them.