🔄 Updated 21 Jun 2026
Plenty of people drive straight through Prachuap on the way south without stopping, even though this small town is an easy one-day visit. What makes it special is the landscape — the hills press right up against the sea, with three bays lined up in a row that earned it the name the Three Bays town. We've picked the spots that were worth it, and we'll tell you straight what you need to prep for at each one.
Khao Chong Krachok, the three-bay viewpoint
Khao Chong Krachok is the landmark of Prachuap town, sitting in the middle of town right by Ao Prachuap. On the hill stands Wat Thammikaram Worawihan (Wat Khao Chong Krachok), and the summit holds a chedi enshrining Buddha relics and a replica of the Buddha's footprint. From the top you can see all three bays around you — Ao Noi, Ao Prachuap, and Ao Manao — plus Khao Ta Mong Lai and Khao Lom Muak further off.
- The climb — a concrete staircase of about 396 steps; take it slow and it's roughly 20–30 minutes, with rest spots along the way
- Entry fee — none, it's a temple, so dress modestly
- Best time — early morning or late afternoon before sunset, when the sun is gentler and the view is at its best
- Watch the monkeys — there are troops of them the whole way up; don't carry a visible bag of food or snacks, and keep a firm grip on your glasses and phone
Tip
If you want the best light, head up in the late afternoon to catch the sun dropping behind the Tenasserim range, then come back down and walk Saranwithi Bridge as the town lights start to come on.
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Saranwithi Bridge, a stroll along the bay
Saranwithi Bridge is a red concrete pier reaching out into Ao Prachuap. It was once the old fish pier, later restored into a spot for walking and taking in the view. Stand on it and you can see all three bays — Ao Prachuap straight ahead, Ao Noi to the left, Ao Manao to the right — with Khao Chong Krachok rising close by. It's a popular photo spot both morning and evening.
- Morning — quiet, few people, good for photos and watching the fishing boats head out
- Evening — a cool breeze, locals come out for a walk and some exercise, easygoing atmosphere
- Close by — you can walk from the bridge to the foot of Khao Chong Krachok, so pair the two in one trip
Ao Manao, Khao Lom Muak, and Ao Noi
Beyond the town, the two bays flanking it each have their own kind of charm. Ao Manao and Khao Lom Muak sit inside the Wing 5 air base, while Ao Noi is to the north of town.
Ao Manao (Wing 5)
A clean white-sand beach with clear water, curved like a lime — which is what the name means. It sits inside the military zone but is open to visitors, with restaurants and air force welfare accommodation. In the morning you'll often see troops of dusky langurs come out to feed.
Khao Lom Muak
A seaside hill inside Wing 5 with a 360-degree view from the top, but it only opens during long holiday weekends of 3 days or more. Register in the morning between 06.00 and 10.30; there's no fee, and the climb takes about 45 minutes to an hour.
Ao Noi
A quiet bay north of town with Wat Ao Noi and a fishing village. The vibe is local — a good stop for photos and picking up fresh seafood.
What to know before Khao Lom Muak
Khao Lom Muak doesn't open every day — only during long holiday weekends of 3 days or more (such as New Year). Before you plan, check the Wing 5 announcement again. If it doesn't line up with an open day, head up Khao Chong Krachok instead, which is open every day.
Other stops around the Three Bays town
- Prachuap City Pillar Shrine — a red Lopburi-style building with a tiered prang spire, a place to pay respects in the middle of town
- Wa Ko Aquarium — fish tanks and an underwater tunnel, good for kids; call ahead at 0-3266-1098
- Prachuap walking street — open around 16.00–21.00, with fresh seafood and local snacks to graze on
- Khao Ta Mong Lai — a rocky headland between the bays with its own local legend, a photo spot for sea views and boulders
The Three Bays town in one day
Suggested route
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