The Famous Sandbar of Phang Nga Bay
Laem Haad Beach is all about one thing: that sandbar. At low tide, a long strip of white sand extends far into the sea, maybe 100 metres or more. You can walk right out to the tip with water on both sides. It’s the kind of spot made for photos. Everyone stops to take selfies, looking like they’re walking on water.
We’ve visited a few times now. The setting is simple but effective. A few coconut palms cluster at the base of the sandbar, one leaning at that perfect postcard angle. There’s low green vegetation, calm shallow water, and views across to Koh Yao Noi’s hills. That’s it. No dramatic cliffs like Kudu Yai. Just sand, sea, and sky.
Timing Matters
The tide changes everything here. Low tide exposes the sandbar for walking and photos. High tide covers it up, but makes swimming better since the water gets deeper and clearer. Check the tide times before you go. Tour guides often aim for early afternoon when low tide typically falls, but this shifts with the lunar cycle.
One thing nobody warns you about: millions of tiny crabs appear when the water recedes. Some people find them fascinating. Others can’t sit anywhere. If crabs bother you, visit at high tide instead.
Getting There
Most visitors arrive on day trips from Phuket that combine Laem Haad with James Bond Island or Hong Island. Tours give you 30 minutes to an hour here. Enough for photos and a quick swim.
If you’re staying on Koh Yao Yai, rent a scooter and ride five minutes from Chong Lard Pier. No entrance fee. Park where the road turns to dirt near Laleuca Café.
Bring water and snacks. There’s a small café nearby, but nothing on the beach itself. Shade is limited to those few palms, so sun cream is essential.
Worth the Stop?
For photos, absolutely. The sandbar really does look as good as the pictures suggest. But manage expectations. It’s a quick stop, not a half-day beach. Recent reviews mention some plastic waste washing up, which is disappointing but common across Thai beaches now. Go early if you can. Late afternoon brings more tour groups.
Laem Haad Beach Map
Your Phang Nga Guide
