Bangsaen: 10 Must-Visit Attractions in Chonburi
Welcome to Bangsaen, Chonburi's beloved seaside town! Known for its relaxed atmosphere, delicious seafood, and easy accessibility from Bangkok, Bangsaen offers a fantastic mix of beach life, culture, and local markets. To help you plan your perfect getaway, here are 10 main attractions you should not miss.
1. Bangsaen Beach (Hat Bangsaen)
The heart of the town, Bangsaen Beach is a long, curved stretch of sand popular with both locals and tourists. Here you can rent a beach chair, enjoy fresh seafood from the vendors, indulge in a Thai massage, and enjoy various water activities like swimming or banana boat rides. It's the perfect spot for a classic beach day.
2. Wonnapha Beach (Hat Wonnapha / Bangsaen Lang Beach)
Located just south of the main beach, Wonnapha Beach offers a more tranquil, laid-back evening vibe. This area is famous for its vibrant street food stalls and markets that open up in the late afternoon, making it a favorite place to watch the sunset, stroll, and try local delicacies.
3. Khao Sam Muk
This small, picturesque hill separates Bangsaen from Ang Sila. Khao Sam Muk is home to the revered Chao Mae Sam Muk Shrine, a Chinese temple dedicated to a legendary figure. The hill also offers panoramic viewpoints of the coastline, and be prepared to meet the resident wild monkeys who are accustomed to visitors.
4. The Institute of Marine Science, Burapha University (Bangsaen Aquarium)
An attraction for families and marine life enthusiasts, the Bangsaen Aquarium features a diverse collection of sea creatures from the Gulf of Thailand and beyond. You can walk through the impressive underwater tunnel and explore various exhibits and a seashell museum.
5. Nong Mon Market (Talad Nong Mon)
A true local institution, Nong Mon Market is famous across the region for its authentic Chonburi souvenirs and local products. Don't leave without trying the renowned Khao Lam (sweet sticky rice cooked in bamboo), Hoi Jo (deep-fried crab meat rolls), and various fresh and preserved seafood.
6. Ang Sila Old Market (Talad Kao Ang Sila)
Step back in time at the Ang Sila Old Market, a charming, century-old wooden market near the fishing village. This market is a fantastic place to find traditional snacks, local handicrafts, and the area's famous fresh oysters and other seafood, offering a glimpse into Chonburi's heritage.
7. San Chao Na Ja Sa Tai Chi (Na Ja Shrine)
This magnificent and richly decorated Chinese temple is an architectural marvel. The vibrant colors, intricate carvings, and stunning seaside location of the San Chao Na Ja Sa Tai Chi make it a spectacular spot for sightseeing and photography. It is a major place of worship for the local community.
8. Bangsaen Walking Street (Talad Nineteen)
Lively and energetic, the Bangsaen Walking Street (or sometimes called Talad Nineteen for its proximity to Burapha University) is a popular night market that comes alive on weekends (usually Friday to Sunday). Here you'll find countless food stalls, trendy clothing, and accessories, along with street performances and live music.
9. Wang Saen Suk Hell Garden (Wang Saen Suk Hell Park)
For a truly unique and somewhat bizarre cultural experience, visit Wang Saen Suk. This Buddhist temple garden features large, graphic statues depicting the punishments sinners receive in Buddhist hell. It serves as a moral cautionary tale and is a compelling, if slightly unsettling, piece of Thai culture.
10. Laem Thaen Viewpoint (Laem Thaen)
Located at the northern end of Bangsaen Beach, Laem Thaen is a scenic headland offering lovely views of the ocean and Khao Sam Muk. It's a popular spot for jogging, exercising, or simply sitting down to enjoy the refreshing sea breeze, particularly during the sunset.
