Hat Chao Mai National Park

Hat Chao Mai Overview

Hat Chao Mai National Park, or อุทยานแห่งชาติหาดเจ้าไหม in Thai, is a stunning coastal park located in the Trang Province of southern Thailand. Covering an area of approximately 89 square miles (230 square kilometers), this national park offers a diverse blend of marine and terrestrial ecosystems.

It is nestled along the Andaman Sea and features a picturesque coastline interspersed with limestone cliffs, mangrove forests, and pristine beaches. The park is renowned for its striking karst formations, such as the towering cliffs of Ko Muk and the breathtaking Morakot Cave (Emerald Cave), a hidden gem that can only be accessed through a tunnel during low tide.

The terrain of Hat Chao Mai is a mosaic of sandy beaches, dense mangroves, and verdant tropical forests. The park is dotted with islands, including Ko Kradan, Ko Cheuk, and Ko Waen, each offering its unique charm. Coral reefs surround many of these islands, harboring a vibrant underwater world.

The forests are dominated by native flora, including towering dipterocarp trees and a variety of ferns and palms. The mangrove forests along the shore serve as vital habitats for marine and terrestrial life while acting as natural coastal protectors against erosion.

Wildlife enthusiasts will find Hat Chao Mai a haven for diverse species. Dugongs, also known as sea cows, are among the park’s most notable inhabitants and can often be spotted grazing on seagrass meadows near the coastline. Other marine life includes dolphins, sea turtles, and a plethora of fish species that thrive in the coral reefs. The terrestrial areas of the park host small mammals like crab-eating macaques and Sunda pangolins.

Birdwatchers can enjoy sightings of kingfishers, herons, and hornbills, making it an avian paradise. The mangroves and forested areas also provide refuge to various reptiles and amphibians.

Visitors to Hat Chao Mai National Park can experience its beauty in numerous ways. Snorkeling and diving are popular activities, allowing explorers to marvel at the vibrant coral reefs and marine life. Kayaking through the mangroves offers a serene encounter with the park’s unique ecosystems, while boat tours provide access to the islands and the enchanting Morakot Cave. For those seeking relaxation, the pristine beaches of Ko Kradan and the mainland are perfect for sunbathing and swimming. Nature trails through the park’s forests provide opportunities for hiking and wildlife spotting.

The park’s management faces challenges such as balancing tourism with conservation. Protecting the vulnerable dugong population and preserving coral reefs from environmental degradation remain top priorities. Efforts have been successful in some areas, with community-driven initiatives and collaboration with conservation organizations helping to enhance sustainability. Continued education and awareness campaigns are crucial to maintaining the park’s biodiversity while accommodating its growing popularity as a tourist destination.

Park Map

Hat Chao Mai National Park Highlights

Wildlife

Birds

The mangroves, wetlands, and coastal areas of Hat Chao Mai National Park provide rich habitats for a diverse array of bird species. Here are some of the park’s more popular birds:

Black-and-Red Broadbill
This striking bird is known for its vibrant plumage and melodious calls. It is often seen perched in the mangroves or near water bodies.

Collared Kingfisher
A beautiful bird with turquoise wings and a white chest, the collared kingfisher is commonly found in the park’s mangroves, hunting for fish and small crustaceans.

Greater Sand Plover
This shorebird is often seen along the sandy beaches, foraging for small invertebrates. Its long legs and distinctive call make it easily recognizable.

Pacific Reef Heron
Known for its adaptability, this heron can appear in both dark and light morphs. It is often spotted hunting along rocky shores and reefs.

Oriental Pied Hornbill
A striking bird with a prominent casque on its beak, the Oriental pied hornbill is frequently seen in the forested areas of the park.

Brahminy Kite
This majestic raptor, with its distinctive chestnut body and white head, is often seen soaring over the coastal waters, searching for prey.

Lesser Adjutant Stork
A large and endangered wading bird, the lesser adjutant stork can be found in the wetlands. It is known for its bald head and massive bill.

Common Greenshank
A migratory wader, the common greenshank is often spotted in the park’s tidal flats and estuaries, feeding on small fish and invertebrates.

Blue-Winged Pitta
This brightly colored terrestrial bird is a delight to birdwatchers. It inhabits the forested areas and is often heard before it is seen.

White-Bellied Sea Eagle
A majestic bird of prey, the white-bellied sea eagle is often seen soaring above the park’s coastline, scanning for fish and other prey.