Hua Hin is a well-known beach resort about three hours’ drive south of Bangkok. Less well-known is that a short drive from here is a beautiful coastal national park with gigantic limestone cliffs soaring up from the coast, overlooking tropical wetlands, and stretches of beach meeting the warm waters of the Gulf of Thailand.

Trekking and kayaking are popular in the park, but most visitors come for the birdlife. The combination of wetlands and geographical positioning of Khao Sam Roi Yod, means a great many species of birdlife visit the area. Stay over in basic accommodation close to the park to avoid the tourists spots, or make a day trip from Hua Hin, about 40 kilometres north.