Rating: 4.5/5 (4 votes)

Open Days: Open all year round (community activities require advance contact)

Opening Hours: Recommended visiting time 07:00 – 18:00

 

Bang Khun Sai Village, Phetchaburi is a coastal fishing community that clearly reflects the lifestyle of the Gulf of Thailand. Located in Bang Khun Sai Subdistrict, Ban Laem District, it is approximately 12 kilometers from Phetchaburi town and another 7 kilometers further into the village area. Bang Khun Sai is a small fishing village situated along the shoreline. Parts of the area consist of mangrove forests and vast mudflats stretching as far as the eye can see. The main occupation of the villagers is traditional fishing, especially collecting razor clams, which has become the village’s most distinctive identity.

 

The most recognizable image of Bang Khun Sai is villagers sitting on small wooden boards and using their hands to push themselves across the mudflat surface to collect razor clams. This technique is a local wisdom that perfectly adapts to the muddy coastal terrain. The work requires skill, endurance, and a deep understanding of tidal patterns. Razor clam harvesting is best done during low tide, making tidal timing an essential part of daily life and the village’s signature activity.

 

Bang Khun Sai is home to both Buddhist and Muslim residents who live harmoniously together. This religious diversity is reflected in local culture, cuisine, and daily practices. Fresh seafood dishes are prepared in both traditional Thai styles and in accordance with Islamic dietary principles. The abundance of marine resources ensures that food here is exceptionally fresh and represents the authentic flavors of a coastal community.

 

Fishing roles within the village are generally divided by age. Younger and physically strong villagers head out to sea to catch fish and lay nets, while older residents remain at home repairing nets, crafting fishing equipment, processing shrimp, fish, crabs, and shellfish, or managing salt farms along the coast. The local economy is interconnected, forming a complete cycle from harvesting marine resources to processing and selling them.

 

Livestock raising is another aspect of village life. Cattle, meat goats, dairy goats, and chickens are commonly raised within household compounds. Due to limited space, cows are typically kept in shaded areas beside homes rather than in large open fields. Goat farming is especially popular because goats provide both meat and milk, and their products are acceptable across religious communities. These practices demonstrate how villagers adapt their livelihoods to both environmental conditions and cultural diversity.

 

The surrounding mangrove forest is an important ecological zone, home to a wide variety of wildlife, including numerous fiddler crabs, mudskippers, long-tailed macaques, and coastal bird species. Canals running through the village are rich in small aquatic life. Many households set fishing nets behind their homes, sometimes catching shrimp, fish, crabs, and shellfish for fresh daily meals. The connection between home and water is therefore deeply embedded in everyday life.

 

Beyond fishing traditions, Bang Khun Sai also showcases youth empowerment through the “Chan Siew Group,” a local youth initiative formed to help children learn about their own community. Led by Teacher Wasan Meejui, also known as Teacher Sorareh, the group encourages children to explore their village’s history, coastal lifestyle, and environmental conservation outside the formal classroom setting. This approach fosters pride and a strong sense of identity among younger generations.

 

Visiting Bang Khun Sai is not merely about seeing the sea; it is about understanding a living coastal community. Visitors can observe expansive mudflats during low tide, explore mangrove ecosystems, taste fresh seafood, and experience the simple rhythm of local life. Those interested in community-based activities should arrange visits in advance.

 

Getting There From Phetchaburi town, take Highway 3177 toward Ban Laem District for approximately 12 kilometers. Then turn onto a local road leading to Bang Khun Sai Subdistrict for another 7 kilometers. Traveling by private car is the most convenient option, as public transportation does not directly reach the village.

 

 

A: It is known for traditional razor clam harvesting using wooden mud boards and its authentic coastal fishing lifestyle.

 

A: The village can be visited year-round, but low tide is the best time to observe razor clam harvesting activities.

 

A: Yes, it is suitable for educational visits about nature and community life, but children should be supervised near mudflats.

 

A: Yes, there are seafood restaurants within the village and around Haad Chao Samran Beach.

 

A: If you plan to participate in community-based activities or visit as a group, advance contact is recommended.