Sai Kaew Beach ⛱️ in Phuket

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The Best Secret Beach Near the Sarasin Bridge

Sai Kaew Beach (meaning “Crystal Sand”) is a pristine, undeveloped 3-kilometer stretch of coastline located at the northern tip of Phuket. Situated just south of the Sarasin Bridge, which connects Phuket to the mainland, it is part of the Sirinat National Park. Unlike the bustling tourist hubs in the south, Sai Kaew offers a raw, natural landscape dominated by towering casuarina trees and a deep, golden shoreline.

The atmosphere here is one of total tranquility, and the area has remained largely free from the high-rise resort development that dominates the rest of the island. There are no jet skis, no loud beach clubs, and no rows of commercial sunbeds. Instead, you will find a vast, open horizon and the soothing sound of the Andaman Sea.

Showing gold sand and green pine trees with blue sea in the background — Sai Kaew Beach

Why Sai Kaew Beach is a Must-Visit

1. Unmatched Solitude and Space Even during the peak travel season (December to March), the beach remains remarkably empty. It is the ideal location for travelers seeking social distancing, long meditative walks, or a quiet spot to read under the shade of the pines.

2. Proximity to the Sarasin Bridge A short walk to the north end of the beach brings you to the historic Sarasin Bridge. This pedestrian-friendly bridge is a landmark of Phuket history and offers some of the best sunset views in the region. It is a popular spot for local fishermen and photographers capturing the orange hues reflecting off the water.

3. Authentic Southern Thai Flavors One of the highlights of Sai Kaew is the cluster of open-air, bamboo-style restaurants. These eateries serve authentic Southern Thai seafood at local prices. You won’t find fine dining here, but you will find the freshest catch of the day, from spicy papaya salad (Som Tum) to grilled prawns and steamed sea bass.

Shot of the golden hour with a orange sky — Golden hour

Top-Rated Seafood Restaurants Near Sai Kaew Beach

If you are visiting this beach, you must stop at one of these highly-rated local spots near the bridge:

Sai Kaew Beach Restaurant: Great for authentic, fresh seafood (daily catch) and drinks, located on a quieter northern beach with a simple, local feel.
Rim Pan Seafood: Situated right at the foot of the Sarasin Bridge, this restaurant is famous for its “toes-in-the-sand” dining experience. It specializes in local Phuket delicacies like Mole Crabs (Sand Crabs) and spicy seafood soups.
Thanoon Seafood: Located just across the bridge on the Phang Nga side, this spot offers a panoramic view of the channel. It is widely considered one of the best places for a romantic sunset dinner.
Kin Dee Restaurant: A bit further inland but highly recommended for its garden setting and traditional recipes that focus on organic, local ingredients.

Shot of yellow bamboo hut with blue sky in the background — Sai Kaew Beach Restaurant

The Nearby Beaches of Sai Kaew

Haad Pak Phra (The Northern Tip): Located directly at the foot of the Sarasin Bridge, this is the “official” northernmost beach. It’s more of a fishing village atmosphere than a swimming spot. You can watch locals drying jellyfish and see longtail boats navigating the deep channel between Phuket and Phang Nga.

Mai Khao Beach (The Southern Neighbor): Sai Kaew transitions seamlessly into Mai Khao Beach. This is the longest beach in Phuket (11km). It is famous for airplane spotting near the airport runway and is home to high-end luxury resorts like the JW Marriott and Renaissance.

Natai Beach & Pilai Beach (Across the Bridge): While technically in Phang Nga province, these beaches are only a 5-minute drive across the Sarasin Bridge. They offer the same pristine, quiet vibe as Sai Kaew but with a different perspective looking back at Phuket.

Nai Yang Beach: Just south of Phuket International Airport, is the beautiful and tranquil Nai Yang Beach. A beach with a quiet atmosphere, lined with tall pine trees, white soft sand and tranquil waters. It is considered the pearl in the north of Phuket.

Travel Tips and Essentials

Best Time to Visit: The ideal window is from November to April. During these months, the sea is calm and the water is crystal clear. During the monsoon season (May to October), the waves can be quite strong, and swimming is often discouraged due to steep drop-offs in the seabed.
Getting There: From Phuket International Airport, it is a quick 15-minute drive north. From Patong or Phuket Town, expect a 1-hour journey via Route 402.
National Park Status: As part of Sirinat National Park, visitors are encouraged to “leave no trace.” Please ensure you take all trash with you to preserve the pristine nature of the sand.

Shot of a green palm tree and blue sea in the background — Sea view

Final Verdict

Sai Kaew Beach is Phuket’s “Hidden North.” It is a destination for the soul—a place where the pine trees meet the sea and the modern world feels miles away. Whether you are stopping by before heading to the mainland or seeking a quiet day trip from the south, this gem remains one of the last true slices of paradise on the island.