Rating: 3.5/5 (6 votes)

Open Days: Open all year round

Opening Hours: Recommended 06:30 – 18:30 (check tide schedule before visiting)

 

Laem Lueat, Phetchaburi is a large sand spit extending into the sea at the mouth of the Phetchaburi River, located in Ban Laem Subdistrict, Ban Laem District, Phetchaburi Province. This area forms an important transition zone between river and sea, shaped over time by sediment deposits carried downstream. These deposits gradually created expansive mudflats and a prominent sand ridge stretching into the Gulf of Thailand. Unlike typical sandy beaches, Laem Lueat is characterized by nutrient-rich mudflat coastline, making it an essential habitat for benthic marine life such as cockles, razor clams, fiddler crabs, and juvenile fish species.

 

During low tide, the vast mudflat becomes fully visible, stretching toward the horizon. Local villagers practice a traditional harvesting technique known as “mud-scooting” to collect cockles. They lie on a small wooden board and propel themselves forward using their feet, allowing them to glide across the mud without sinking deeply. This method distributes body weight efficiently and enables effective shellfish gathering. The sight of villagers gliding across the wide mudflat has become a defining image of Ban Laem’s coastal identity and represents a traditional fishing practice passed down through generations.

 

The surrounding area consists of healthy mangrove forests dominated by species such as Rhizophora (mangrove), Avicennia, and other coastal vegetation. These mangroves act as natural barriers against waves and coastal erosion while trapping sediment. Their complex root systems serve as nurseries for young marine organisms including shrimp, fish, and crabs, contributing significantly to the food security of Ban Laem’s coastal communities. Visitors exploring the mudflats at low tide may observe hundreds of fiddler crabs waving their claws, mudskippers hopping across the surface, macaques living along the mangrove edge, and various migratory shorebirds depending on the season.

 

A popular stop for visitors is Thapthim Thong Seafood Restaurant, built on a pier extending toward the sea. The location provides panoramic views of the mudflat and the Gulf of Thailand. The atmosphere is simple and closely connected to the fishing community. Fresh seafood dishes reflect the resources harvested locally, including boiled cockles, sea crab, shrimp, and seasonal fish.

 

Laem Lueat’s geography is closely linked to the tidal system of the Gulf of Thailand. The Phetchaburi coastline generally experiences one major tidal cycle per day, with levels influenced by lunar phases. Around full moon (15th waxing moon) and new moon (15th waning moon), as well as one day before or after, the tide often recedes further than usual, revealing a broader mudflat area. Visitors interested in observing cockle harvesting should plan their trip according to low tide. Tide information can be obtained from the Hydrographic Department of the Royal Thai Navy at 02-465-2328 or 02-475-4804 during official working hours.

 

Laem Lueat is not merely a scenic photography spot but a living landscape that demonstrates the relationship between humans and coastal ecosystems. The mud-scooting cockle harvesting technique exemplifies sustainable resource use. Villagers collect shellfish seasonally and selectively by size to ensure long-term regeneration of marine resources. Such localized ecological knowledge represents valuable cultural heritage worthy of respect and preservation.

 

Getting There From Phetchaburi city, take Highway 3177 toward Ban Laem District for approximately 12 kilometers. Continue another 1 kilometer from Ban Laem town center to reach Laem Lueat. The final stretch is a local coastal road. Private vehicles are the most convenient option, and road conditions should be checked during the rainy season.

 

 

A: It is known for its river-mouth sand spit and traditional cockle harvesting on expansive mudflats.

 

A: During low tide, especially around full moon or new moon phases, when the mudflat is fully exposed.

 

A: Yes, for nature learning experiences, but close supervision is required on the mudflat.

 

A: Yes, Thapthim Thong Seafood and several restaurants around Haad Chao Samran are nearby.

 

A: Wear footwear suitable for mud, bring drinking water, and check the tide schedule before arrival.