It's close to the airport, but don't let that fool you: Nai Yang is relatively remote and underdeveloped. The southern half of Nai Yang is packed with little mom-and-pop grill outfits serving traditional Thai fare to the locals. The beach is fine for swimming, particularly during low tide, but can be treacherous during the monsoon season.

The northern half is protected territory, part of the Hat Nai Yang National Park.

From November to February, giant Ridley sea turtles crawl up onto the shore, lay up to 200 eggs each, and swim back to sea. Ridleys can weigh up to 1,800 pounds each, but their numbers are dwindling fast.

The Nai Yang Park Visitor's Center can be found at the northern end of the beach - this building showcases the Park's natural flora and fauna.

Two resorts operate on the stretch of beach outside the park: the Indigo Pearl Hotel and the Nai Yang Beach Resort.