Cha-Am is a district (amphoe) in the southern part of Phetchaburi Province, western Thailand.

The district was established in 1897 in the name of Na Yang. In 1914 the centre of the district was moved to Ban Nong Chok (now in Tha Yangdistrict) and its name was changed to Nong Chok District. After World War II, the government moved the office to tambon Cha-Am and also changed the district name to Cha-Am.

It is a beach resort town along the Gulf of Thailand and is known among Thai families for being a weekend destination within driving distance from the capital. (Source: Wikipedia)

THE PLACE

ITS LOCATION

Cha-Am lies 173 km south of Bangkok. The town can be easily reached by the Phetkasem highway. Just a few trains stop at the town's railway station. Frequent bus and minibus services link Cha-am with neighbouring towns, such as Hua Hin, and with Bangkok. The district to the north is amphoe Tha Yang. Twenty-seven kilometres to the south is amphoe Hua Hin of Prachuap Khiri Khan Province, also a beach resort.

WHY CHA AM?

Cha Am is predominantly a destination for Thai people, and hence many of the establishments catering in the main for Thai people. It is however a destination growing in popularity with foreign tourists due to its quiet and relaxed pace, much lower prices than the more well known tourist hubs, and of course extensive beaches.

While Cha Am continues to evolve, and is becoming more aware of the needs of the overseas guest, it is still the close to the "real Thailand" that you may be looking for.

While it is ostensibly a quiet beach-side location, there are many attractions within a short distance, including some with a little more adrenaline involved!

If you are looking for the glittering lights and the party atmosphere that you find in places like Patong, Pattaya, Ko Tao or the like, you may be disappointed. The town does have a 'bar soi' known locally as 'Soi Bus Station' where you can find pool tables, pretty girls, lady boys and pumping music but it tends to be closed by 2am. There are also several Karaoke bars around the town if you prefer to hear the sound of your own voice. But don't be put off, Hua Hin is just 26km south and has plenty to offer the night owls.

The really busy periods for Cha Am are the weekends, when Thai's head south for some relaxation after a hard week, and the various (and numerous) public and Buddhist holidays, when it can be absolutely buzzing.

One thing you will not be disappointed with in Cha Am is the seafood, which is of good quality, in abundance, and not expensive.

Thai people visiting Cha-Am usually come from Bangkok for the weekend. So the beachfront is very quiet during the week, and gets more animated during the weekends and national holidays.