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Krathing Lai Beach Activities and Facilities
There is a lesser-known quiet coastal spot north of Pattaya with a tree-lined promenade and stunning sunset views over the Gulf of Thailand.
This review of Krathing Lai Beach in Bang Lamung District explains how a quiet alternative to the bustling beaches of Pattaya and Jomtien is becoming a popular destination for tourists.
A Serene Atmosphere at Krathing Lai Beach
Often praised for its tranquility, the best way to describe Krathing Lai Beach is a "peaceful retreat by the sea".
Put another way, this beachfront location is ideal for anyone looking to escape the crowded tourist hotspots in Pattaya.
Krathing Lai Beach is not the longest or widest beach in the district or the province.
In fact, Bang Saen Beach is over two kilometres long and regarded as being the longest beach in Chonburi.
Even so, this strip of golden sand shoreline in Bang Lamung features a selection of tall shady palm trees and a welcoming sea breeze that provide a relaxed vibe and some respite from the scorching hot sun.
Most of the reviews and feedback submitted by visitors to the area highlight it as being a calm setting with a laid-back atmosphere - and all within striking distance of the Cholchan Hotel closeby.
It's a picturesque and photogenic place where paved walkways allow for leisurely strolls with sturdy benches to sit and relax while you enjoy a picnic and contemplate the view.
Pros and Cons at Krathing Lai Beach
Unlike the over-touristed beaches in Pattaya, you won't find hawkers or noisy water-based activities at any of the Banglamung beaches, including Golden Dragon Beach.
Instead, it's a scenic off-the-beaten-path where you're more likely to see local fishermen mending their nets, than crowds of people.
Hence, Krathing Lai Beach is an ideal destination to unwind, take in some fresh air, and watch the early evening sunsets.
Amenities, Facilities, and Activities
Compared to several beaches nearby (e.g. Wongamat Beach) the sand is quite coarse.
The water is shallow enough to get your feet wet. But the sea bed is muddy on the bottom and can be murky at times.
As a consequence of that, this is not the best place for snorkel swimming in Pattaya.
There are minimal facilities and there are no trained lifeguards on duty or public restrooms. You will find a few food stalls, such as one or two snack wagons selling seafood nearby. But there are no major commercial enterprises in the area.
If you're feeling energetic, the sporting activities in Pattaya greatly outnumber anything found at these peripheral beachside resorts.
Thus, outside of sunbathing, picnicking, jogging or a friendly game of volleyball on the beach, it is definitely not a place to try scuba diving, spearfishing, or surfing.
Getting to Krathing Lai Beach
The best time to spend a few hours relaxing by the sea is mornings and late afternoons. The weather will be cooler and you often get better views for taking photographs when the air is clearer.
If you're traveling from the holiday resort Pattaya, 6/1 Alley is only a short drive north via Sukhumvit Road. The signposts will have Laem Chabang Port further to the north and several links to Route 7 motorway to Bangkok.
Pro Tip: Anyone visiting Krathing Lai Beach in Bang Lamung will see a strange building about 400 metres at the end of the pier. Research suggests it was destined to be a magnificent Buddhist temple sitting over the sea at the northern tip of Krating Lai near Pattaya. Instead, Ocean Sanctuary, Chittaphawan Monks College is an unfinished Buddhist Temple in the Naklua District of Chonburi in Thailand.