Mae Haad Beach & Sandbar

About this Place

Mae Haad beach in the northwest of Koh Phangan is famous across Thailand for its extraordinary natural sandbar — at low tide, a narrow luminous strip of white sand emerges from the sea and extends 200 metres outward, connecting the mainland beach to the tiny forested island of Koh Ma. Walking the sandbar feels genuinely magical: water lapping at both sides, the horizon unobstructed in every direction, and the sensation of standing in the middle of the Gulf of Thailand with dry feet. Snorkeling around Koh Ma reveals healthy hard coral gardens and abundant reef fish in clear, shallow water. The beach itself is calm and family-friendly with safe swimming conditions and gentle shelving. A handful of bungalow resorts and open-air restaurants line the shoreline, many with hammocks strung between palms. Check tide tables carefully before visiting — the sandbar disappears completely at high tide. The best photography is at sunrise, when the first light catches the sandbar and reflects off the still water on both sides. Mae Haad is easily reached from Thong Sala by rented motorbike in around 20 minutes along the scenic west coast road. One of Koh Phangan's most photographed and memorable spots for good reason.