Why Visit Bang Saen
Bang Saen is the closest proper beach to Bangkok, a 1.5-hour drive east in Chonburi province. Unlike Pattaya, it's never been a foreign tourist destination; it's where Bangkok families and Thai students from Burapha University go for a cheap weekend beach day.
Expect ฿200 lunch for two with seafood, ฿100 beach chair rentals, and a 5km long beach boardwalk lined with fruit vendors, banana boat operators, and grilled-squid stalls.
Getting to Bang Saen
The cheapest way is a bus from Ekkamai Bus Terminal heading toward Pattaya, asking the driver to stop at Bang Saen (฿120, 1.5 hours). A motorcycle taxi from the highway to the beach costs ฿30-50.
Alternatively, take the BTS to Bang Sue and connect to the new commuter rail to Chonburi, then a songthaew to Bang Saen. Driving via the motorway takes about an hour with no traffic.
The Beach Scene
Bang Saen Beach is famous for its colorful inner-tube rentals (฿50), beach umbrellas, and rented mat-and-table setups where families spend the entire day eating, drinking, and napping. Vendors walk the sand selling fresh fruit, grilled squid, and ice cream.
Khao Sam Muk Monkey Hill
At the south end of the beach, Khao Sam Muk is a small headland with a Chinese shrine, panoramic viewpoint, and resident troop of macaques. Drive or motorbike taxi up; entry is free. Watch your bags as the monkeys are notorious snatchers.
Food and Practical Tips
The beachfront is lined with seafood restaurants serving grilled fish, prawn, and crab at half the Bangkok price. Try Tang Wan or any of the open-air tents near the beach. Bring small banknotes; few stalls take cards. Sunscreen and a hat are essential. Most visitors come for the day, but Bang Saen has plenty of guesthouses if you want to overnight.