Ao Nang

Ao Nang is a coastal settlement along the Andaman Sea, backed by limestone cliffs and lined with a main road that runs through hotels, restaurants, and shops. The layout stretches from the beach inland, mixing visitor facilities with everyday businesses that serve both travelers and residents.

The area began as a small fishing village and gradually became a tourist destination starting in the 1980s. Growth here developed more slowly than in nearby areas, which shaped its character up to today.

Street vendors and family-run restaurants throughout the area serve fresh seafood prepared according to local recipes passed down through generations. The food culture here shows how fishing traditions continue to shape what people eat and how they gather for meals.

Long-tail boats depart from the main beach to nearby islands throughout the day and remain the primary water transport option. Local tuk-tuks and small buses called songthaews are readily available for getting around the area or reaching adjacent towns.

The beach features a natural sandbar that becomes exposed during low tide, allowing people to walk across to a nearby island on foot. This happens only at certain tide times and is a favorite activity for families visiting the area.