Mai Khao Marine Turtle Foundation, Phuket - a group of blue tables sitting on top of a cement field
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Mai Khao Marine Turtle Foundation Phuket

4.2
·20 reviews·Mai Khao, Thailand

Witness planes soar overhead and support vital sea turtle conservation at this serene, undeveloped beach in Phuket.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

November - April

Turtle nesting season

CrowdLow
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Mai Khao Marine Turtle Foundation, Phuket - a group of blue tables sitting on top of a cement field

Mai Khao Marine Turtle Foundation Phuket

Best Time

November - April

Turtle nesting season

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Witness planes soar overhead and support vital sea turtle conservation at this serene, undeveloped beach in Phuket.

4.2
(20 reviews)

"An unforgettable beach experience with low-flying planes and a heartwarming mission to save sea turtles!"

Vertical photo
TIP

Support Turtle Conservation

Consider volunteering or donating to the Mai Khao Marine Turtle Foundation to help save sea turtles.

Plane Spotting Fun

Head to Mai Khao Beach for an amazing view of planes landing at Phuket Airport.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Sea Turtle Conservation

Sea Turtle Conservation

Witness the incredible work of the Mai Khao Marine Turtle Foundation and learn about saving endangered sea turtles.

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Mai Khao Beach Planes

Mai Khao Beach Planes

Experience the thrill of planes flying incredibly low overhead as they approach Phuket Airport.

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Serene Beach Walks

Serene Beach Walks

Enjoy the long, quiet stretches of Mai Khao Beach, perfect for peaceful strolls and sunset views.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for Turtles & Planes

The Mai Khao Marine Turtle Foundation is most active during nesting season (Nov-Apr). For a unique experience, visit during the day to see potential hatchlings or witness planes landing at Phuket Airport, which is adjacent to the beach. Check the foundation's schedule for release events.

Beach Etiquette & Conservation

Mai Khao Beach is a vital nesting ground for sea turtles. Visitors are urged to be mindful of the environment, avoid disturbing wildlife, and properly dispose of trash. The foundation relies on responsible tourism to protect these endangered creatures.

Best Times

When
November - April
Why
Turtle nesting season
Crowd
Low
When
Daytime
Why
See turtles & planes
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Mai Khao Beach , Phuket , Thailand 🇹🇭 #thailand #travelthailand #thailandtravel #phuket #maikhaobeach #sunset #plane #cloud #beachvibes #sunsetlover
@thailand_adel
92.8K likes • 1.6M views

Support Turtle Conservation

Consider volunteering or donating to the Mai Khao Marine Turtle Foundation to help save sea turtles. TikTokInstagram+1

Plane Spotting Fun

Head to Mai Khao Beach for an amazing view of planes landing at Phuket Airport. TikTok

Kind comments would be greatly appreciated ❤️ #turtle #seaturtle #savetheturtles #polution #foundation #slippers
@turtle.slippers
64.2K likes • 326.6K views
🐢❤️#savetheplanet #saveturtles #thailand #sea #turtle #phuket
cocos_blesk
2.6K likes • 97.7K views

Respect the Beach

Keep Mai Khao Beach clean and avoid disturbing any wildlife, especially nesting turtles. Reddit

Pack Light for Beach

Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for exploring the long beach. Reddit

You need to visit this beach if you’re coming to Phuket! 📍Mai Khao Beach #plane #beach #aeroplane #phuket #oliverbowering
@oliver_bowering
33.1K likes • 514.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Support Turtle Conservation

Consider volunteering or donating to the Mai Khao Marine Turtle Foundation to help save sea turtles. TikTokInstagram+1

Plane Spotting Fun

Head to Mai Khao Beach for an amazing view of planes landing at Phuket Airport. TikTok

Respect the Beach

Keep Mai Khao Beach clean and avoid disturbing any wildlife, especially nesting turtles. Reddit

Pack Light for Beach

Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for exploring the long beach. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.2
(20 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the unique thrill of planes flying low over Mai Khao Beach and the important conservation work of the Marine Turtle Foundation. It's praised for its tranquility and natural beauty, offering a peaceful escape. However, some find the limited facilities and remoteness a drawback.

"We visited the Mai Khao Turtle Foundation Turtle Sanctuary located inside JW Marriott Hotel and Resort. We wanted to see how these turtles are cared for and protected."

Michael Ranola

"Total waste of time. We nearly stayed at the Marriott as our son is obsessed with turtles but as it was fully booked decided to visit the sanctuary instead. While I have no doubt they are looking after the turtles well, the place is literally a paddling pool with 3 turtles in. They only get fed at 11am so if you’ve missed it all you can do is look at them. Definitely not worth a special trip!"

Claire Gleave

"Came here on two consecutive days with my kid.

The staff doing the introductions was warm and friendly the first day, but brusque and snappy the second day. He very quickly ran through his introductions on the second day and stood there browsing his phone.

The key difference I noted was perhaps that the first day had a lot of Western visitors present, but the second day was mostly with thais and other Asian visitors.

They're running a worthy cause I'm sure, but the mannerisms of the staff depending on visitor ethnicity certainly came as a bit of a surprise.

Left here feeling quite disappointed."

Timothy Liew

What People Like

Spectacular plane spotting
Turtle conservation efforts
Peaceful, undeveloped beach

What People Dislike

Limited facilities
Remoteness

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The foundation is located on Mai Khao Beach. Taxis or private transfers are the most common ways to reach the area from Phuket's main tourist hubs. Be prepared for a longer taxi ride, as it's one of the northernmost beaches. TikTok

Yes, Mai Khao Beach is accessible by road. However, some areas might require a short walk from where taxis can drop you off. TikTok

For exploring the beach and nearby areas, walking is ideal. For longer distances, consider hiring a taxi or scooter if you're comfortable driving in Thailand.

Public transport directly to Mai Khao Beach can be limited. It's generally easier and more convenient to arrange private transport or a taxi.

Yes, renting a car is an option if you prefer to have your own transportation and explore at your own pace. Parking is usually available near the beach access points.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to Mai Khao Beach is free. While the foundation operates on donations and volunteer efforts, there's no admission fee to visit the beach or learn about their work. TikTok+1

The foundation's operational hours can vary, especially for specific events like turtle releases. It's best to check their official channels or social media for the most up-to-date information on when staff are available.

No, Mai Khao Beach itself does not have an entrance fee. It's a public beach.

While the beach is always accessible, direct interaction or viewing of turtles at the sanctuary might be limited to specific times when staff are present or during scheduled events.

For special events like turtle releases, it's advisable to check if pre-booking or registration is required, though many are open to the public on a first-come, first-served basis.

📸 📸 Photography

The most iconic photo opportunities are with the planes flying low overhead, especially near the airport runway. The long, undeveloped stretches of beach also offer beautiful, serene sunset shots. TikTok+1

Yes, you can take photos of the turtles, but always be respectful and maintain a safe distance. Avoid using flash, as it can disturb them. Instagram

Drone regulations can be strict in Thailand, especially near airports. It's crucial to check current local laws and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone.

The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer beautiful lighting for beach photography. Daytime is best for capturing the dramatic low-flying planes.

Generally, no specific restrictions apply to general photography on the beach, but always be mindful of private property and the conservation efforts of the turtle foundation.

🎫 🌊 Onsite Experience

Mai Khao Beach is known for its incredible plane spotting opportunities as aircraft land at Phuket Airport. It's also a great place for long, peaceful walks and enjoying the sunset. TikTok+1

Swimming is possible, but be aware of currents and potential jellyfish, especially during certain seasons. The beach is less developed than others, offering a more natural experience.

Facilities are limited as Mai Khao is a more natural and less commercialized beach. You might find a few local vendors, but it's advisable to bring your own water and snacks.

The foundation is dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing injured or endangered sea turtles, as well as protecting nesting sites. They rely on public awareness and support. TikTokInstagram+1

Compared to other Phuket beaches, Mai Khao is generally much less crowded, offering a more tranquil atmosphere. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Mai Khao Beach offers a unique blend of natural wonder and exciting sights for families. The chance to see planes flying low overhead is a huge thrill for children, providing endless entertainment. TikTok The Mai Khao Marine Turtle Foundation offers an educational opportunity to teach kids about wildlife conservation and the importance of protecting sea turtles. TikTok+1

While facilities are limited, the long, quiet beach is great for kids to run around and play. Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, and consider visiting during the day for the best plane-spotting and potential turtle sightings. It's a more laid-back experience compared to busier beaches, making it ideal for families seeking a peaceful yet engaging outing.

✈️ Aviation Enthusiasts

For aviation lovers, Mai Khao Beach is a must-visit destination. The beach's proximity to Phuket International Airport (HKT) means you can witness aircraft descending for landing at an incredibly low altitude. TikTok+1 This provides unparalleled photo and video opportunities, capturing the sheer scale and power of commercial jets. It's a prime spot for plane spotting, offering a unique perspective not found at many other beaches.

🌍 Eco-Conscious Travelers

Travelers passionate about conservation will find the Mai Khao Marine Turtle Foundation a compelling reason to visit. Supporting their efforts through donations or learning about their work directly connects you with meaningful environmental initiatives. TikTokInstagram+1 Mai Khao Beach itself is a protected nesting ground, so visitors are encouraged to practice responsible tourism by keeping the area clean and respecting the natural habitat. This beach offers a chance to engage with nature responsibly and contribute to its preservation.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Understanding the Mai Khao Marine Turtle Foundation

The Mai Khao Marine Turtle Foundation is a vital organization dedicated to the conservation of sea turtles in Phuket. Their work involves rescuing injured turtles, rehabilitating them, and releasing them back into the ocean. They also play a crucial role in protecting nesting sites on Mai Khao Beach, which is a significant location for these endangered creatures. TikTokInstagram+1

Visitors can learn about the foundation's efforts, and sometimes even witness turtle releases, which are truly heartwarming events. The foundation often relies on donations and volunteer support, making a visit a meaningful way to contribute to conservation efforts while experiencing a unique aspect of Phuket's natural heritage. Supporting their mission helps ensure the survival of these magnificent marine animals.

The Thrill of Plane Spotting at Mai Khao Beach

One of the most unique attractions of Mai Khao Beach is its proximity to Phuket International Airport (HKT). Planes descend at an incredibly low altitude, creating a spectacular and thrilling sight for visitors. The beach is often cited as one of the best places in Phuket to witness this phenomenon, with aircraft passing directly overhead. TikTok+1

This makes Mai Khao Beach a popular spot for photographers and aviation enthusiasts. The best time to catch this spectacle is during the day when visibility is good. It's an unforgettable experience that adds an unexpected element of excitement to a beach day. Remember to be aware of your surroundings and any safety guidelines, especially when near the airport perimeter.

Exploring Mai Khao Beach: Beyond the Turtles and Planes

While the turtle foundation and plane spotting are major draws, Mai Khao Beach itself offers a serene and undeveloped coastal experience. It's one of Phuket's longest beaches, characterized by its vast stretches of sand and relatively calm waters, making it ideal for long, peaceful walks. TikTok

Unlike more developed beaches, Mai Khao retains a natural charm, offering a tranquil escape from the bustling tourist areas. You can enjoy the quiet ambiance, watch the sunset paint the sky, and appreciate the natural beauty of the Andaman Sea. It’s a perfect spot for those seeking a more relaxed and less commercialized beach experience.

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