Layan Beach
A Peaceful Beach in a National Park
Layan Beach is one of my favorite beaches in Phuket. Located at the northern end of Bang Tao Bay, it is part of Sirinat National Park and offers a perfect setting for a relaxing day by the sea, especially for families.
The beach is lined with a pleasant wooded area that provides plenty of natural shade. At its northern end, Layan opens onto a wide sandy lagoon where a small river meets the sea, sheltering a modest local fishing harbor. At the entrance of the lagoon lies Koh Kala, a small island just a few meters offshore, easily visible from the beach.
The shaded park area behind the beach is equipped with public toilets and a small local restaurant. You will also find food and drink vendors along the road, near the former Nikki Beach Club, which is now abandoned. Please note that access to the shaded park area by car requires entering the national park, with an entrance fee of 200 baht per adult for non-Thai visitors.
Layan Beach Highlights
Quiet and less crowded than most Phuket beaches
Beautiful natural setting within Sirinat National Park
Shaded areas ideal for relaxing or picnicking
Unique lagoon and river mouth landscape
Family-friendly atmosphere with calm surroundings
Layan Beach Heads Up
National park entrance fee applies if you drive into the shaded area
Limited facilities compared to more developed beaches
Some areas may feel a bit isolated, especially late in the day
The abandoned beach club may affect the scenery in parts
Swimming conditions can vary depending on the season
Best Time to Visit
Layan Beach can be enjoyed year-round, but the best time to visit is during the dry season, from November to April, when the sea is calmer and the weather is more stable.
During the low season (May to October), the beach remains peaceful and lush, but waves can be stronger and swimming conditions less predictable. Mornings and late afternoons are particularly pleasant, offering softer light and cooler temperatures.
Layan Beaches Photos
Layan Beach Map
Stéphane Audiger - Photographer & Writer
Passionate about photography since the mid-2000s, I’ve spent years capturing the beauty of Phuket and southern Thailand — from beaches and islands to festivals and daily life. My work reflects a lasting love for the region and its ever-changing light.
Last visit & photos: Layan Beach — 12 March 2017
