Mai Khao Beach (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Mai Khao Beach?
What makes it 71% Kids-Friendly: School-age children can join turtle releases, splash parks and resort kids’ clubs, yet strong currents and almost no lifeguards mean ocean swimming needs strict adult watch.
Positives:
- Spacious sandy shore: The 9 km beach gives kids room to run and explore safely away from crowds.
- Turtle conservation activities: Families can join guided programs to learn and help with turtle nesting and release.
- Gentle waves for young swimmers: The gradual slope into the sea at low tide makes it ideal for beginners to splash and practice swimming.
Challenges:
- Remote location: It sits 40 km from Phuket town, so factor in a 1 h drive each way and limited public transport options.
- Few public amenities: Restrooms and shaded shelters are sparse on the public beach; pack water, snacks, and sun protection.
- Afternoon sea breeze: Winds pick up after noon, creating choppier seas that may be rough for small children.
What is Mai Khao Beach?
- A 9-kilometre-long sandy shoreline on Phuket’s northwest coast, constituting the island’s longest beach
- A protected coastal zone within Sirinat National Park, characterized by undisturbed dunes and native palm groves
- A stretch of sand bordering Phuket International Airport, notable for its clear vistas of low-flying aircraft
What is so special about Mai Khao Beach for with kids?
- 9 km of quiet sand perfect for castle building and free play.
- Guided turtle nesting and hatchling release for hands-on learning.
- Safe, shallow waters at low tide for kids to splash and swim.
- Minimal crowds leave space for family picnics under palm shade.
Recommended visit duration: 3-4 hours
Why 3-4 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Enough time to play on the sand, join a turtle tour, and relax under palm shade without rushing kids.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Mai Khao Beach
Sandcastle & Shell Hunt:
Kids can dig and decorate sandcastles along the soft 9 km shoreline.
Tip: Bring buckets, spades, and a shell-sorting tray. Choose a spot near resorts for quick shade breaks.
Turtle Nesting & Hatchling Release:
Observe sea turtles digging nests (Nov–Mar) and join the hatchling release on April 13.
Tip: Book with a local conservation group at least two weeks ahead. Keep noise low and use dim red light after sunset.
Gentle Shoreline Splash:
Wade in the shallow waters and watch small waves roll in.
Tip: Use kid-sized life jackets. Visit at low tide for safer play.
Plane Spotting Picnic:
Watch aircraft take off and land over the beach from the northern end.
Tip: Bring binoculars and a picnic blanket. Head there around sunrise for fewer crowds.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Mai Khao Beach
- Combine with a resort stay: Book a family-friendly beachfront resort for free sunbed use, kids’ club access, and easy shade.
- Use low-tide windows: Check tide charts to schedule safe swimming sessions around low tide.
- Reserve turtle programs early: Contact local conservation groups at least two weeks ahead to secure hatchling release spots.
Reviews of Mai Khao Beach
Victoria Hoskins
This beach is nice and quiet, with a good outlook and yes you can see aeroplanes coming in so that is interesting. We visited in July 2025 and found that the surf was rough so swimming was not recommended. Also, the main issue, is the large amount of litter on the beach. Noone seems to be taking care of the beach or conscious of the fact that the litter problem is out of control. It would be much ...
ahmed saeed
Peaceful escape away from the crowds. This beach is a hidden gem — calm and wonderfully quiet. Being far from the city means fewer tourists and more space to relax.
Kimjo Larsen-Taylor
Beautiful and quiet. Lots of litter washed up on the beach, which is a shame as otherwise it's idyllic.
Thulana Fernando
One of the most underrated and less populated beaches in Phuket. It's a big stretch and if you wanna walk your dog, or just chill or look at the flights going off and landing, this is the beach.
hit the trip
Popular place , many people go to see airplane fly at low altitude , its good , unique , feel like you can almost touch the airplane, but thats all about, the sea when i was there it was not good for swim.
When is the best time to visit Mai Khao Beach (Phuket, Thailand)?
Visit November–March for dry weather and turtle nesting. Avoid May–October when monsoon winds bring stronger currents. Check tide and weather forecasts before planning water play.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Sirinat National Park parking fee | THB 200 |
| Beach umbrella & chairs rental | THB 300 |
| Family turtle conservation tour | THB 1,800 |
| Snacks & bottled water | THB 200 |
| Total Estimated | THB 2,500 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Mai Khao Beach
Address: Mai Khao Beach, Phuket 83110, Thailand
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