Waves, Woods & Wontons: Thailand’s Coolest Hidden Town

“Waves, Woods & Wontons: Thailand’s Coolest Hidden Town”

Ever stood at a place where you could see the sea, the river, and the mountains all at once? Where morning mist wraps the treetops, and fishing boats come and go with stories written on their hulls?

Welcome to Paknam Chumphon—a coastal escape that blends nature, local life, and cinematic views, all in one easygoing destination in southern Thailand.

Start at the Top: Khao Matree Viewpoint

Before the sun fully rises, climb up to Khao Matree. This hill near the coast offers 360-degree views—golden sunrise over the ocean to one side, and sunsets fading into forested hills on the other. On rainy days, a thin layer of mist floats like a dream over the mountains. Look down to spot colorful fishing boats drifting in and out of the estuary—this is the true “Paknam” (river mouth) of Chumphon.

Morning mist gently covering the mountains : Captured from the scenic Khao Matree viewpoint.

Colorful fishing boats on the Tha Taphao River, seen from Khao Matree : This is the heart of the Paknam Chumphon community in Mueang District, Chumphon.

Tha Taphao River flowing into the sea : This view explains the origin of the name “Paknam Chumphon.” (The beach on the right is Paknam Chumphon Beach.)

Love lock corner at Khao Matree.

East Side Vibes: Beaches, Boats & Local Brews

Facing the east, you’ll catch sights of small islands dotting the Gulf of Thailand and Hat Pharadorn Beach—a quiet stretch where forest meets sand. While you're here, don’t miss Cafe Tham Sing, a cozy hilltop spot brewing Chumphon’s own bold robusta coffee. Sip your cup, breathe in the sea breeze, and let the view do the talking.

Pharadonphap Beach : photographed from the balcony of Tham Sing Coffee on Khao Matree.

Seaview balcony of Tham Sing Coffee, : perched on Khao Matree.

Fishing boats lined along the shore of Pharadonphap Beach.

Seaside view from the balcony of Nawa Café, : located on Pharadonphap Beach.

Whale sculpture at Paknam Chumphon.

Dive into Local Life at Paknam Chumphon Town

From the viewpoint, head down to the Paknam community, once a booming fishing port and trading post. These days, it’s a bit slower, a bit more soulful. Mornings are peaceful, but by late afternoon, the waterfront fills with locals relaxing by the shore.

Stroll around and discover:

Chinese shrines nestled between homes

Chao Pho Puntao Kong Shrine by the river, : where longtail boats ferry passengers and offer river tours.

Chinese-style pavilion at the Khao Matree viewpoint.

Myanmar crew members at the docks, part of the region’s fishing lifeblood

Fishing boat cruising along the Tha Taphao River.

Splashes of street art hiding in alleyways

Street art scenes in the center of Paknam Chumphon.

Authentic eats like Dumpling Captain, a humble dim sum joint locals love

Dim sum served at Phu Kan Restaurant, : a simple but well-loved local spot.

Extend the Adventure

Got more time? Swing by Hat Sai Ri and pay respect at the Prince of Chumphon’s memorial. Or just keep wandering—the more you explore, the more you’ll realize: this town isn’t made for tourists. It’s made for travelers who look a little closer.

Monument of Admiral Prince of Chumphon, : a local landmark at Paknam Chumphon.

Why Go?

Paknam Chumphon is not about big-ticket attractions or five-star thrills. It’s about small moments, wide views, and real people. You don’t need a ticket—just time, curiosity, and a good pair of shoes.

“Getting here is easy. Leaving is the hard part.”

Editor in Chief : Nampetch Siramanon
Editor: Pacific Leisure (Thailand)
Content Creator : Mr. Saroj Na Ayutthaya