ROADTRIP | Swinging above salt marshes and clam fishing along Thailand's unknown coast.
By Charlotte Burgoyne
Crystal clear waters, white sand beaches lined with palm trees. When we think of Thailands' seashores, paradisiac images immediately flash to our minds; but obviously not all of the country's seaside is alike. On a roadtrip towards Amphawa floating market, located South West of Bangkok, I came across some amazing kid-friendly activities along the coast.
Swinging above salt marshes & indulging salt ice cream
One hour after leaving Bangkok (or two hours, if like us, you live the Capital city on a friday afternoon during monsoon season!), we get into Samut Sakhon. On both sides of the roads, big rectangular water ponds with a pinkish color line up : Salt marshes ! During the salt collecting season (from the end fo the Autumn to the beginning of the Spring) they are covered white little domes of salt. A great place to stop at with the kids to explore and learn about this industry is Salt Lake De Maeklong Cafe. This restaurant built a swing on top of one of their salt marshes, and let visitors roam around freely on the property. Don't miss their salt ice cream, and try the salt feet bath!
Exploring the mangrove et digging for clams
Back on the road, we drive down the coast ten more minutes, and we get into Samut Songkhram. This region is famous for its mangrove and sand banks. We stop at the Don Hoi Lot. Right off the parking lot, there is a pier with long tail boats to hire by the hour. The captain takes us on a little tour in the mangrove and show us how to dig for clams on a sand bank. It is hard to believe we are only 1h30 minutes away from Bangkok !
Practical infos
- If you want to want to extend your trip, head West towards Amphawa floating market and the famous Maekong train market.
- Check the time of the tides before heading to Don Hoi Lot, as you might not be able to land and fish on the sand bank. We went in August, and the high tide was around much time.
- Sleeping in the region. We stayed at the ChababaanCham resort in Amphawa and loved the hammock on the roof of each room, the open air bathroom and the architecture mixing wood and concrete.
