Sirinat National Park
Located just steps from the northern runway of Phuket International Airport, Sirinat National Park offers a serene buffer zone of casuarina-fringed coastline that feels worlds away from the neon chaos of Patong.
What to expect
The park spans three distinct beaches—Nai Yang, Nai Thon, and Mai Khao—each characterized by fine, golden sand protected by a dense canopy of pine-like casuarina trees. Unlike the rest of Phuket’s tourist-heavy west coast, the shoreline here is remarkably devoid of rows of rentable beach umbrellas and jet skis. The primary activity here is low-impact: picnicking in the shade, birdwatching, or swimming in the calm, protected waters of Nai Yang Bay. During the low season (May to October), the sea can become choppy, but from November to April, the bay is a calm, shallow turquoise basin. It is also one of the few places on the island where you can watch wide-body jets descend low over the water, a unique spectacle for photographers.
History & significance
Established in 1981, Sirinat was originally known as Nai Yang National Park before being expanded and renamed. Its true significance lies in its role as a critical nesting site. Between November and February, rare Olive Ridley and Leatherback sea turtles famously crawl onto the northern stretches of Mai Khao beach to lay their eggs. The park is managed by the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, which strictly enforces protection zones to ensure the safety of these marine visitors.
Practical tips
- Operating Hours: The park is technically open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, though the beach areas are often accessible earlier for those staying in the immediate vicinity.
- Entry Fees: Foreign visitors must pay an entrance fee (typically 200 THB for adults, 100 THB for children). Keep your ticket if you plan to visit multiple sections of the park in one day.
- Best Time to Visit: Arrive before 10:00 AM to secure a picnic spot under the best casuarina trees. If you want the dramatic "plane spotting" photos, check the flight schedule boards at the airport arrivals hall to cross-reference with the wind direction (as planes change landing paths based on weather).
- Crowds: Avoid weekends if possible; local Thai families frequent the park on Saturdays and Sundays.
Getting there
Sirinat is located in the Thalang District, sitting at the northern tip of Phuket. If you are staying in the airport precinct, it is a 5-10 minute walk or a short ride on a motorbike taxi. From Phuket Town or the main tourist beaches, the drive takes 45–60 minutes. Use the "Nai Yang Beach" gateway as your primary entry point; it is the most accessible via public roads.
Nearby
- Black Ginger: Located within The Slate resort nearby, this upscale restaurant is built into the center of a lagoon and is accessed by a hand-pulled raft. It is widely considered one of the best authentic Southern Thai dining experiences in the region.
- Wat Nai Yang: A quiet, traditional temple located just a few minutes’ walk from the park entrance. It offers a glimpse into the local community life that existed here long before the airport.
- Nai Yang Night Market: Held periodically along the road leading to the park entrance, this is the place to grab authentic moo ping (grilled pork skewers) and fresh fruit shakes to bring into the park for your picnic.