Things To Do
in Cha-am

Cha-am is a serene beach resort town located in Phetchaburi Province, Thailand, known for its expansive sandy beaches and laid-back atmosphere. It is a popular destination for both locals and international tourists seeking relaxation and fun in the sun. The town offers a variety of accommodations, from luxurious beachfront resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses.

With its proximity to attractions like Hua Hin and natural sites, Cha-am is a perfect getaway for those looking to explore Thailand's coastal beauty.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Beach Relaxation and Local Culture
morning
:

Start your day at Cha-am Beach, where you can relax on the soft sand or take a refreshing swim in the Gulf of Thailand.

afternoon
:

Visit the Cha-am local market to explore local crafts and taste some street food delicacies.

evening
:

Enjoy a seafood dinner at a beachfront restaurant, followed by a peaceful walk along the beach as the sun sets.

day 2
Day 2: Adventure and Exploration
morning
:

Head to the nearby Maruekhathaiyawan Palace, a stunning seaside palace with beautiful architecture and gardens.

afternoon
:

Visit Santorini Park, a themed park that offers fun activities and picturesque photo opportunities.

evening
:

Cap off your day with a visit to a local night market to sample street food and shop for souvenirs.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Local Restaurant$3-5
🏨Budget Hotel Night$20-40
🚕Taxi Fare (within town)$1-3
🍺Local Beer$2-4
🛍️Souvenir Shopping$5-15

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful and relaxing beaches.
  • Affordable dining and accommodation options.
  • Less crowded than nearby Hua Hin.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Can be quiet during the low season.
  • Public transport is less frequent.
  • "สวัสดีครับ/ค่ะ" - Hello (male/female)
  • "ขอบคุณครับ/ค่ะ" - Thank you (male/female)
  • "ช่วยด้วย!" - Help!
  • "ห้องน้ำอยู่ที่ไหน?" - Where is the restroom?
  • "ราคาเท่าไหร่?" - How much is this?

Places to Visit in Cha-am

Visit one of these nice places.

Cha-am Beach

A picturesque stretch of sand with stunning sunsets, perfect for beach photography.

Maruekhathaiyawan Palace

An architectural gem surrounded by lush gardens, ideal for capturing historical beauty.

Santorini Park

A colorful and lively theme park with Greek-inspired architecture, offering numerous photo opportunities.

Culinary Guide

Food in Cha-am

Cha-am offers a delightful culinary experience with fresh seafood, local Thai dishes, and unique desserts that reflect the vibrant flavors of the region.

Cha-am Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Tom Yum Goong

A spicy and sour shrimp soup that is a staple in Thai cuisine.

Must-Try!

Pad Thai

Stir-fried rice noodles with shrimp, peanuts, and bean sprouts, often served with lime.

Som Tum

A spicy green papaya salad that combines sweet, sour, and spicy flavors.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Cha-am Night Market

A bustling market featuring a variety of street food stalls offering local delicacies.

Local Seafood Stalls

Street vendors along the beach serving fresh grilled seafood.

Climate Guide

Weather

Cha-am has a tropical climate with three main seasons. The dry season from November to February is pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). The summer months (March to May) can be hot, with temperatures soaring above 35°C (95°F). The rainy season (June to October) brings occasional downpours but also cooler temperatures.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for the Monarchy

Always show respect when discussing the Thai royal family.

Dress Modestly at Temples

When visiting temples, wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.

Remove Shoes Indoors

It's customary to remove shoes before entering someone’s home or certain establishments.

Safety Guide

Safety

Cha-am is generally a safe destination for tourists. Common safety precautions include being cautious of your belongings, especially in crowded areas, and avoiding isolated places at night. Always use reputable transportation options, and be mindful of local wildlife and beach conditions.

Tipping in Cha-am

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving small change is common.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted; credit cards are accepted at larger establishments, but it's good to carry cash for street vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Winter (November - February)

The weather is cool and dry, making it the best time to visit for outdoor activities.

Summer (March - May)

It can be hot and humid; stay hydrated and seek shade during the hottest hours.

Rainy Season (June - October)

Expect occasional heavy rainfall; travel may be impacted, but the scenery is lush and vibrant.

Festival Season (Songkran in April)

Experience the Thai New Year celebrations with water fights and local festivities.

Nightlife Guide

Cha-am at Night

Cha-am's nightlife is relatively laid-back compared to its neighbor Hua Hin. Beachfront bars offer a relaxed atmosphere with live music and cocktails. Night markets come alive in the evening with food stalls, shopping, and local entertainment. A few clubs and bars cater to a younger crowd, providing a mix of dance music and social gatherings.

Hiking in Cha-am

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Khao Nang Phanthurat Forest Park

Offers several hiking trails through lush forests and scenic viewpoints.

Pala-u Waterfall

A beautiful multi-tiered waterfall located about an hour's drive, featuring hiking trails to explore the natural surroundings.

Airports

How to reach Cha-am by plane.

Hua Hin Airport

Located approximately 15 km from Cha-am, Hua Hin Airport offers domestic flights and is the nearest airport for international travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Cha-am is quite walkable, especially along the beachfront where many attractions, restaurants, and markets are located within a short distance. Sidewalks and paths are generally well-maintained, making it easy to explore on foot. However, some areas may require walking along roads without sidewalks, so caution is advised.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Thai Residents

The majority of the population consists of local Thai families who have lived in the area for generations.

Tourists

Cha-am attracts both domestic and international tourists, especially during the high season.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Beach Volleyball

A popular sport among locals and tourists, often played on the sandy beaches.

Golf

The region features several golf courses, attracting enthusiasts from around the world.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Cha-am is generally light, especially compared to larger cities. Most visitors rely on motorbikes, bicycles, or walking to get around. Public transportation options include songthaews (shared taxis) that are affordable but may have limited routes. During peak tourist seasons, expect increased traffic near popular attractions.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Cha-am.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes; however, be sure to specify no fish sauce.

Gluten-Free Options

While Thai cuisine is naturally gluten-free, be cautious with soy sauce and some sauces.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Cha-am are basic, with a few local clinics and pharmacies available. For more serious medical care, larger hospitals are located in Hua Hin, about 30 minutes away. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses, and to know the location of the nearest medical facility.

Discover Thailand

Read more in our Thailand 2025 Travel Guide.

Thailand Travel Guide