Main photo: Happy weekenders explore the Pranburi River estuary by kayak.//Photo: Phoowadon Duangmee
Hua Hin, with its charming beach, luxury hotels, beach houses and royal residences, always promises a classy, luxurious weekend away. However, just beyond the stylish resorts and bars lies Pranburi Forest Park - where the beauty of nature and tranquility take centre stage.
Established in 1983, Pranburi Forest Park was created in response to HM Queen Sirikit’s concerns about rapid and massive coastal erosion. The erosion was affected by a shrimp farm that left many pockets of poor land along the coastal areas of Hua Hin’s South.
This 800-acre mangrove reserve is now a safe haven for small marine life and a lush coastal forest that’s a peaceful retreat for visitors. Walking enthusiasts can enjoy strolling through the wild and finding peace in nature.
Following the narrow path into the heart of the mangrove forest, you feel like you are leaving the resort town of Hua Hin behind. The ambient music so loved by hotels, for example, is replaced by the rustling of leaves and the occasional splash of a reptile.
Photo: Visitors to Pranburi Forest Park can take a small boat for a little adventure along the Pranburi River estuary.//Photo: Phoowadon Duangmee
And the bikini-clad weekenders chilling out by the pool are cancelled out by the sight of great egrets and marine birds foraging for their brunch.
As you keep walking deeper into the wood, you wonder at or perhaps are amused by its busy root system. It looks like something out of a sci-fi movie, as if the trees decided to grow on stilts just to stay above the wetland.
Photo: A great white egret waits patiently at Pranburi Forest Park for the fish of the day.//Photo: Phoowadon Duangmee
There are educational signs along the trail giving information about the different species like the ‘Prong Daeng,’ (Indian mangrove) ‘Prong Khao” (white mangrove) though many probably can’t see the difference between them.
About halfway through the walk, you will reach an observation tower, where every single step is worth climbing for the scenic views over the lush coastal forest.
Photo: An observation tower offers a breathtaking view of the lush coastal forest in Pranburi Forest Park.//Photo: Phoowadon Duangmee
From the lookout, you can enjoy the breathtaking view of lush mangrove forest.
Below, as far as you can see, are mangroves with yellow leaves that glitter in the light of the sun and stretch out endlessly in all directions.
Underneath, a strip of wooden boardwalk twists its way into the thicker walls of woodland. On the left, you will see a mountain providing a majestic backdrop for the beautiful park.
But that’s not Pranburi Forest Park at its best.
Leaving the observation tower, you will soon reach a small canal where you can rent a small boat for a little adventure along the Pranburi River estuary.
From the boat, you see the scene start to shift from green coastal forest to a local fishing village. Cruising along the estuary, you’re mesmerized by life along the Pranburi River.
Here, where the river flows into the Gulf of Thailand, the river mouth boasts a remarkable abundance of life and scenic views.
On both sides of the river are thriving fishing communities. You will enjoy watching the fishing boats making their way back to shore. Fishermen are busy unloading their day’s catch, while seagulls sneak in hoping for the snatch of the day.
Photo: A busy root system of mangroves looks like something out of a sci-fi movie.//Photo:Phoowadon Duangmee
Once the boat ride comes to an end, you will retrace your steps along the mangrove trail, which leads out of the park. After the mangrove walk, many visitors will head to Hua Hin Beach to chill in a hotel or restaurant.
However, Pranburi River’s estuary area has more to share with enthusiasts than a walk through the lush mangrove forest. Next to Pranburi Forest Park lies Pran Khi Ri – a local beach famed for its lush and charming coastline.
Pran Khi Ri Beach is perfect for a beach walk.
With the mix of ocean breeze, sea and deserted shoreline, you can have the beach to yourself to enjoy fresh air and a sense of peace. The beach itself is lined with soft, golden sand, and clear, gentle waters make it perfect for swimming, beachcombing, or simply lounging by the shore.
Pranburi Forest Park is more just a place to go. It’s where you can leave the everyday behind and find yourself in nature.
Whether you’re a passionate walker or just need of a quiet moment to clear your mind, this beautiful piece of coastal forest just a short drive from Hua Hin Beach has something special to offer.
Photo: A sea crab takes a break on the mangrove's roots.//Photo: Phoowadon Duangmee
It’s a chance to explore the lush shoreline, breathe in the fresh ocean air, and truly connect with the nature and beauty around you.
