Haad Chao Samran is the closest beach to Phetburi and enjoys immense popularity amongst the Thais, so if you are after a quite day at the beach, weekdays are your best bet.

Slightly nicer than Haad Puk Tian the beach here is in better shape and the town is not quite as desolate with loads of eateries and excellent seafood. There is also a beach wat, a police station and a few small supermarkets here.

For birdwatchers, try the expansive marshy land (competing with the inevitable shrimp farms and half constructed condominiums) between Haad Puk Tian and Haad Chao Samran.