Sirinat National Park protects a stretch of Phuket’s northwest coast, including Mai Khao, Nai Yang and other beaches near the airport. Its appeal is the mix of sandy shore, casuarina shade and coastal habitats, with planes passing low over parts of Mai Khao as they land. You can walk along the beach, pause for a picnic or look for birds and other wildlife. Conditions and upkeep can vary, so come for the coast and open-air setting rather than a developed visitor attraction.
Coastline and habitats
Sirinat National Park lies on Phuket’s northwest coast, close to Phuket International Airport. The protected area includes beaches and coastal ecosystems, with mangroves and marine habitats among them. Its shore gives the park a different feel from Phuket’s busier beach districts.
The park was established as Nai Yang National Park in 1981 and took the name Sirinat in 1992. It covers about 90 square kilometres across land and sea. The coastline includes Mai Khao, Nai Yang and Nai Thon; some accounts also include Sai Kaeo.
Sea turtles and wildlife
Parts of this coast are nesting habitat for sea turtles. Nai Yang and Mai Khao are identified as nesting beaches between November and February, and the park runs a turtle conservation programme. Nesting activity should be observed from a respectful distance.
The park’s habitats also support birds and other wildlife. Mangroves can be explored by boat or kayak at high tide. Along the shore, the mix of beach and tree cover makes a walk or picnic a straightforward way to spend time outdoors.
Perguntas frequentes
Can you see planes from Sirinat National Park?
Yes. Planes can be seen coming in to land over parts of Mai Khao Beach, near Phuket International Airport.
When is sea turtle nesting season?
Nai Yang and Mai Khao are identified as nesting beaches between November and February. Keep a respectful distance from nesting activity.
How large is Sirinat National Park?
The park covers about 90 square kilometres of land and sea on Phuket’s northwest coast.
