Bang Saen Travel Guide

Read this travel guide to plan your trip to Bang Saen, a beautiful coastal town in Eastern Thailand. Learn about things to do, places to visit, food to eat, places to stay, and more.


Introduction to Bang Saen

Bang Saen is a beautiful coastal town in Eastern Thailand, located on the Eastern Gulf Coast. With its pristine beaches, cultural attractions, and natural wonders, it’s no wonder that Bang Saen is a must-visit destination in Thailand. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or a culture vulture, there’s something for everyone in this charming town.

List of Places to Visit in Bang Saen

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Bang Saen is home to a number of museums and historical places that are a must-visit for history buffs and culture enthusiasts alike. Some of the most popular cultural attractions in Bang Saen include:

  • Bangsaen Art and Culture Centre: This art and culture centre showcases the work of local artists and hosts exhibitions, workshops, and other cultural events throughout the year.
  • Burapha University Aquarium and Museum: This museum showcases the marine life of the Eastern Gulf Coast and features a collection of fossils, rocks, and minerals from the region.
  • Wat Saen Suk: This beautiful temple is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike. Its stunning architecture and serene atmosphere make it a must-visit attraction in Bang Saen.

Natural Attractions of Bang Saen: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Bang Saen is home to some of the most breathtaking natural wonders in Thailand. Here are some of the top natural attractions in Bang Saen:

  • Bang Saen Beach: This long stretch of beach is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. With its crystal clear waters and white sandy beaches, it’s no wonder Bang Saen Beach is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike.
  • Khao Sam Muk: This mountain offers stunning views of the ocean and is home to a number of hiking trails. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a casual stroller, you’ll love exploring the natural beauty of Khao Sam Muk.
  • Koh Loi: This small island is just a short boat ride from Bang Saen and is home to a number of water sports and beach activities. It’s the perfect spot for a day trip or a weekend getaway.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Bang Saen

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, you’ll love exploring the hiking and biking routes of Bang Saen. Here are some of the most popular hiking and biking routes in the area:

  • Khao Sam Muk Hiking Trail: This trail winds up Khao Sam Muk and offers stunning views of the ocean and surrounding areas.
  • Bang Saen Bike Route: This biking route follows the coastline and is great for cyclists of all skill levels.
  • Nongmon Market to Chao Khun Thong Temple Hiking Trail: This scenic hiking trail takes you through lush greenery and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Best Things to Do in Bang Saen: Activities and Tours

Bang Saen is home to a number of activities and tours that are sure to make your trip unforgettable. Here are some of the best things to do in Bang Saen:

  • Water sports: Bang Saen Beach is the perfect spot for water sports like jet skiing, banana boating, and parasailing.
  • Food tours: Take a food tour of Bang Saen and sample some of the best local cuisine.
  • Night markets: Bang Saen has a number of night markets that are perfect for shopping and trying local street food.

Week-Long Itinerary for Bang Saen

If you’re planning to spend a week in Bang Saen, here’s a suggested itinerary:

Day 1: Arrive in Bang Saen and spend the day relaxing on the beach.

Day 2: Visit the Burapha University Aquarium and Museum and explore the surrounding area.

Day 3: Take a day trip to Koh Loi and enjoy the water sports and beach activities.

Day 4: Hike Khao Sam Muk or explore the town on foot.

Day 5: Take a food tour of Bang Saen and sample some of the best local cuisine.

Day 6: Spend the day at Bang Saen Beach and enjoy the water sports and beach activities.

Day 7: Visit Wat Saen Suk and immerse yourself in local culture.

Food and Drink Scene of Bang Saen

Must-Try Dishes

Bang Saen is famous for its delicious seafood, but there are plenty of other dishes to try as well. Here are some of the must-try dishes in Bang Saen:

  • Tom Yum Goong: This spicy soup is made with shrimp, lemongrass, and other aromatic herbs and spices.
  • Som Tam: This spicy salad is made with shredded green papaya, tomatoes, and peanuts.
  • Pad Thai: This stir-fried noodle dish is a Thai classic, and it’s especially delicious in Bang Saen.

Local Beverages

Thailand is known for its delicious and refreshing beverages, and Bang Saen is no exception. Here are some of the must-try local beverages in Bang Saen:

  • Thai Iced Tea: This sweet and creamy tea is the perfect way to beat the heat.
  • Chang Beer: This popular beer is brewed in Thailand and is the perfect complement to spicy Thai food.
  • Coconut Water: Nothing beats the refreshing taste of fresh coconut water on a hot day in Bang Saen.

Where to Stay in Bang Saen: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Bang Saen has a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. Here are some of the top places to stay in Bang Saen:

  • The Tide Resort: This luxurious resort is located right on the beach and offers stunning ocean views and premium amenities.
  • Bangsaen Heritage Hotel: This stylish hotel is located in the heart of Bang Saen and offers easy access to all the top attractions.
  • Sammuk Resort: This budget-friendly resort is located just a short walk from the beach and offers comfortable accommodation at affordable prices.

What to Buy in Bang Saen: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for souvenirs and local products to bring home from Bang Saen, here are some of the best options:

  • Thai silk: Thailand is famous for its beautiful silk, and Bang Saen has plenty of shops selling silk products.
  • Local handicrafts: From pottery to hand-woven baskets, there are plenty of local handicrafts to choose from in Bang Saen.
  • Thai snacks: Bang Saen has a number of shops selling delicious Thai snacks and ingredients that make great gifts.

Local Culture and Customs of Bang Saen

Thailand is a country with a rich cultural heritage, and Bang Saen is no exception. Here are some of the local customs and traditions to be aware of when visiting Bang Saen:

  • Dress modestly when visiting temples and other religious sites.
  • Remove your shoes before entering someone’s home or a sacred space.
  • Show respect for the Thai monarchy and avoid making any disrespectful comments or gestures.

Best Time to Visit Bang Saen

The best time to visit Bang Saen is from November to February, when the weather is cool and dry. March to May can be hot and humid, while June to October is the rainy season.

Do’s and Don’ts of Bang Saen

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine.
  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Learn a few basic phrases in Thai.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect the Thai monarchy.
  • Touch someone’s head, as it is considered disrespectful in Thai culture.
  • Point your feet towards someone, as it is considered rude in Thai culture.

Safety and Health

Safety in Bang Saen

Bang Saen is generally a safe destination for tourists, but it’s always a good idea to take basic precautions like locking your valuables in a safe and avoiding dark or secluded areas at night.

Health in Bang Saen

Thailand is a country with excellent healthcare facilities, including hospitals and clinics in Bang Saen. However, it’s still recommended that you take out travel insurance and be aware of any potential health risks in the area.

Getting to Bang Saen: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Bang Saen

The closest airport to Bang Saen is Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok, which is approximately one hour and 30 minutes away by car or taxi.

Bus Stations Near Bang Saen

Bangkok’s Eastern Bus Terminal (Ekkamai Bus Terminal) is the closest major bus station to Bang Saen, with frequent services to and from the town.

Other Options

Taxis and private car hire companies are also available in Bangkok and can provide transportation to Bang Saen.

How to Get Around in Bang Saen

Bang Saen is a small town that is easy to explore on foot or by bicycle. Taxis and tuk-tuks are also available for those who prefer a faster mode of transport.

Where to Go Next from Bang Saen: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Bang Saen is located in a beautiful coastal region of Thailand, with plenty of nearby destinations and excursions to choose from. Some of the top destinations to visit near Bang Saen include:

  • Pattaya: Just a short drive from Bang Saen, Pattaya is a popular coastal resort town known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife.
  • Koh Samet: This island paradise is just a short boat ride from Bang Saen and is home to some of the best beaches in Thailand.
  • Bangkok: Thailand’s vibrant capital city is just a few hours’ drive from Bang Saen and is a must-visit destination for tourists.

Conclusion

Whether you’re looking for a peaceful beach getaway or an adventure-filled holiday, Bang Saen has something to offer. With its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and delicious local cuisine, it’s no wonder that Bang Saen is one of Thailand’s top tourist destinations. So start planning your trip today and get ready to experience the best of Eastern Thailand!