Chaweng, Beach resort in Bo Phut, Thailand
Chaweng is a long sandy beach in Bo Phut with fine white sand sloping gently into warm water and palm trees lining the shore. The northern section hosts concentrated services and activity, while the southern areas offer quieter spots away from the main crowds.
This was once a small fishing village that transformed starting in the 1970s when backpackers began arriving. The shift turned it from a quiet working settlement into a tourist hub that now attracts visitors year-round.
Fishing families and local seafood vendors continue to work alongside resorts, maintaining the original livelihood that defined this area for generations. Walking along the shore in early morning reveals how traditional practices coexist with modern tourism.
Equipment rental shops dot the shoreline, offering snorkeling gear, kayaks, paddleboards, and other water activity supplies. Plan your visit during the drier months when weather is more stable and water conditions are generally more favorable for swimming.
The eastern exposure means winter sunrises occur directly over the gulf, creating a natural spectacle few beachgoers expect. Early risers who watch from the shore witness a daily light show that changes the water and sky dramatically.
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