Monkey Beach (Had Nual)
“The great irony of this spot is that the biggest mess is caused by human tourists rather than the wild monkeys themselves.”
Description
Visiting this spot is a total gamble. Some find it virtually deserted, with crystal-clear water and curious primates climbing down from the cliffs. Others arrive at peak hours to find speedboats dropping off crowds every five minutes, turning the shoreline into a messy soup of plastic and debris. This monkey beach koh larn is the polar opposite of the pristine, postcard-perfect Samae Beach nearby. The vibe here is wild, raw, and unvarnished—which either repels visitors or acts as its main charm.
The primary draw is the wild macaques, though their presence is never guaranteed. To boost your chances of a sighting, head here in the morning and bring some treats. Otherwise, the beach itself is a mixed bag: the seabed is rocky and dotted with sea urchins, while jet skis zip dangerously close to swimmers. Beyond the sunbed rental area, you will often spot piles of trash left behind by tourists. Amenities are bare-bones, limited to basic changing stalls and overpriced food stalls.
Why visit
Insider tips
💡 No monkeys in sight? Show a banana or water bottle from a distance to lure them from the cliffs.
💡 Watch your step: the seabed is rocky and home to sharp sea urchins; wear reef shoes.
💡 Skip the overpriced beach food and grab snacks at 7-Eleven near Naban Pier before heading out.
💡 Guard your belongings carefully, as the monkeys are notorious thieves if you leave your items unattended.
