Waterfalls Near Ban Krut and Bang Saphan
Published · Last checked · Independent guide, no bookings
Behind the beaches, the land rises into the Tanao Si hills along the Myanmar border. Streams tumble down in tiers through green forest. If you need a break from sand and sea, the waterfalls near Ban Krut make a cool day trip. Here are the main ones and how to plan a visit.
Sai Khu Waterfall
Sai Khu is in Ron Thong subdistrict, Bang Saphan district, west of Phetkasem Road. It has nine tiers, each with its own character. Tiers two to four are gentler and good for a rest and a dip. Tier five, with a large cliff face, is often called the most beautiful. The stream flows all year, and the forest around it is in good condition.
Getting to Sai Khu
Drive about 8 km past the Bang Saphan Yai junction on Phetkasem Road (around km 404), turn towards Ban Pong Ko and continue about 11 km. Another route runs from Bang Saphan along Route 3196. Sai Khu is about 23 km from Ban Krut Beach and about 10 km from Wat Khao Tham Ma Rong.
Huai Yang Waterfall National Park
Further north, Huai Yang Waterfall National Park covers about 161 square kilometres of hill forest. It was set up in December 1991. Its main fall has seven tiers, and a marked trail leads up the first five. The park has more falls too, including Khao Lan and the nine-tier Khao On, which lies in Bang Saphan district. Wildlife here includes gibbons, langurs, barking deer and serow.
Getting to Huai Yang
There is no public transport to the park. Drive south on Highway 4 from Prachuap Khiri Khan town. The park is signposted about 29 km south of town, then about 7 km inland. From Hua Hin it is about 125 km, so it also suits travellers searching for waterfalls near Hua Hin.
When to go
Waterfalls flow best during and just after the rainy season, when the forest is green. In the dry season some falls shrink or stop. Sai Khu runs all year, though it is fuller after rain. Check the water level before a long drive.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best waterfall near Ban Krut?
Sai Khu, a nine-tier fall in Bang Saphan district, is the closest well-known choice, about 23 km from Ban Krut Beach.
Can you swim at Sai Khu Waterfall?
The lower tiers, two to four, are gentler and popular for a dip. Avoid swimming after heavy rain.
Best waterfalls near hua hin
Huai Yang Waterfall National Park, about 125 km south of Hua Hin, is a good choice, with a seven-tier main fall.
We give no fixed prices or timetables, because they change. Check the official source (for trains, the State Railway of Thailand at railway.co.th) before you travel.
