Located less than 200 km south of Bangkok and just 20 km north of Hua Hin, Cha-am is a quiet beach retreat in Petchaburi Province; a long stretch of silvery sand that is far quieter than nearby Hua Hin.

Cha-am is popular with couples looking for a romantic retreat, seniors who like peace and quiet, and families with young children who are looking for an area that is both safe and free from the hassle of beach vendors. It’s also a popular weekend destination for Bangkok residents who enjoy the sea, even if the sand is not as fine as at nearby Hua Hin. While it is relatively quiet, Cha-am still offers visitors a number of beach activities, such as jet skiing and banana boat riding, and the seafood is as readily available and inexpensive as any beach town in Thailand.

There are places nearby recommended to visit such as Maruek Kathayawan Palace, Phra Ramrachaniwet Palace (Baan Puen Palace), Phra Nakorn Khiri Royal Palace (Khao Wang), Hat Puek Thien, Hat Chao Samran. Many activities are also interesting such as water activities, horse riding, going to mangrove forests and biking.

For a little local character, visitors can travel north to a quaint fishing village that includes a harbor full of fishing boats and a number of seafood restaurants.

Key Tips

 Cha-am hospital is located on the east side of Sri Sakul Thai Road. It provides 24-hour emergency care.

 There is a medical clinic on Naranthip Road, one block south of Petchakasem Road. While the doctor speaks English, the clinic is for non-emergencies only. Mon-Fri: 17:30-20:00 hrs, Sat: 08:00-11:30 hrs, 17:30-20:00 hrs, Sun: 17:00-20:00 hrs.

 There are a number of Tourist Police substations along Cha-am beach, the largest of which is located at the intersection of Naranthip Road and Ruamjit Road. The main police station is on the north side of Naranthip Road, between Petchakasem Road and the train station.

 There is a small post office on Ruamjit Road, just south of The Methavali (closed on Sundays and holidays). The main post office is near the main police station on the north side of Naranthip Rd, between Petchakasem Rd and the train station.

 There are a number of Internet cafes along the beach road as well as at the CAT Telecom office on Naranthip Rd.

 Although Cha-am is a relatively quiet beach town, do ride motorbikes with extreme caution, especially at night. Always wear a helmet and closed-toe shoes.