GOLDEN BUDDHA BEACH
and the Lost Islands of Pang-nga
Just off the coast of Pang-nga are two large islands - Ra and Phra Thong - where the beaches, forests and wildlife have somehow escaped development. On one of those, Goh Phra Thong, is the small Golden Buddha Beach club, set on a sandy peninsula between two pristine beaches. Looking out over a pair of small islands, a jungle, and a dramatic peak rising from the bay, it is the only resort on the island.
Made for nature lovers, Golden Buddha is exceptional for its marine, bird, and other wildlife. A flock of hornbills, shy monkeys, and giant sea turtles, are a few of the local inhabitants. A turtle research project carried on at the beach is helping to save several endangered species of giant sea turtles.
Situated on 11 kilometers of private beach, accommodations are in 1-bedroom thatch-roofed cottages and 2-bedroom family houses, made of tropical hardwoods and other natural materials. Sleep Thai-style under white mesh nets in comfortable Western size beds. All have spacious bathrooms with views of the sea and surrounding woods.
Truly delicious Thai and Western meals are served in an open air pavilion with views of the beaches. A selection of European wines and vegetarian meals are available.
Activities offered at the beach include snorkeling off two tiny islands 5 minutes away, excellent fishing, kayaking, and trips by long-tailed boat to adjacent islands for guided nature walks in primary forest. Take a jeep through the African-like savannah in the interior of the island. The most interesting excursion is by fast boat to the Surin Islands National Park, one of Thailand's best snorkeling sites, with a stop at a submerged rock frequented by huge but harmless whale sharks. Sea-based activities are limited during the monsoon season, which is between May and October.
Your Itinerary
Day 1:
5 days/4 nights
DAY 1 - Car to Kuraburi pier and boat trip to Golden Buddha
Pick up from Phuket, Ranong, Krabi or other South Thailand town. Ranong is closest, but all drives pass by interesting mountain scenery. The boat from the pier to Golden Buddha Beach passes mangrove forests, uninhabited islands and villagers raising fish under their raft houses. In the evening enjoy a seafood dinner at the resort.
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Day 2:
DAY 2 - Ra Island nature trip
After breakfast, a short boat ride takes you to Ra Island for a jungle walk across the forested spine of the island through tropical terrain with five different eco-systems. Emerge at a deserted beach for lunch and a swim. Return to Golden Buddha Island by boat. Dinner at the resort.
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Day 3:
DAY 3 - At leisure
Most people like to do nothing, but active options include canoeing up a mangrove canal, fishing, hiking, snorkeling, or volunteering to assist the turtle research project. All meals provided at the clubhouse.
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Day 4:
DAY 4 - Village tour and snorkeling
After breakfast, explore the island's only stilt fishing village, famous for its 'kabi' ( fermented shrimp paste). Afterwards, journey through a mangrove canal into the island's interior.
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Day 5:
DAY 5 - Off to your next destination in South Thailand.
Following breakfast, the morning is free for relaxation on the resort's 11-kilometer stretch of beach. You may leave anytime you wish for your next destination in South Thailand. Boat and car included.
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Notes:
Airfare is not included in the tour price.
1. This is a customized trip available any day of the year.
2. Peak season surcharge Dec. 15-Jan. 10 is $134 for single and $67 per person for dbl room.
Also see tour packages in:
Asia
Thailand
Island Vacation
Ecotourism
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