Sometimes, it’s handy to have Thai friends in various places. They know about places that most tourists don’t. I’m in Pattaya visiting one of these friends – it’s really the only reason I come here – and this friend tells me about a good snorkeling spot south of Pattaya. We decide to pay it a visit today.

Haad Nang Ram – or "Dancing Angel Beach" is about 45 minutes’ drive from Pattaya, south of the Royal Navy port at Sattahip. In fact, the beach is on navy land, although it is open to the general public. There are two sections to the beach, seperated by a small rock outcrop. The southern-most side is a bit better, but you have to pay to drive a car into it. You can park on the north side for free and walk down.

The beach is planted with pine trees, and there’s a gentle slope of sand well out into the sea. There are a couple of small islands just offshore, close enough to swim to. There are a lot of boulders on the bottom in the deeper water, with sponges and other life growing on them. You can see several types of fish, including some coral butterfly fish, in among the rocks. Visibility can be a bit limited at the north end, so I would recommend you swim out around the rocks at the south end for the best snorkeling. Note that if you swim out to the islands, and climb onto them, some navy boys will eventually come around to ask you to move along.

You’ll need a car to get to Haad Nang Ram. The beach can be deserted on weekdays, but packed with Thais on weekends. There are several food stalls around the parking lot on the north side. They will in fact send food directly to you. On weekends, a guy on a motorcycle will come around to see if you want to order anything. On weekdays, stop by the stalls on your way in to pick up a menu, the call them to order.

Posted by michael under Just back from...
Tags: Beaches • Pattaya • Snorkeling • Thailand
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