Phang Nga is a 4,170sqkm province of southern Thailand directly north of Phuket. The two provinces are separated geographically by the Sarasin Bridge, but seem worlds apart when you compare the busy tourist hub of Phuket to the tranquil, pristine luxury of Phang Nga. Natai Beach extends along the Phang Nga west coast and is only a 25-minute drive north of the Phuket International Airport. It is 45km south of the centre Phang Nga and 40km north of Phuket Town. Phang Nga is a breathtaking series of eco parks, from Phang Nga Bay to Khao Lak-Lam Ru National Park, which the Thailand government has thankfully protected from the ravages of tourism. The turquoise bays and limestone cliffs provide a spectacular backdrop to the rural simplicity of fishing villages that pepper the coastline. Rainforests, limestone caves, waterfalls and protected marine parks provide a plethora of once-in-a-lifetime opportunities to return to nature. Sail to James Bond Island, kayak through a maze of majestic limestone caves or trek to the magnificent Tamnang Waterfall (one of many in the province). Offshore, the island groups of Surin and Similan (also national parks) are renowned for their beautiful unspoilt beaches and spectacular underwater scenery, attracting hordes of divers from around the world. The province is a melting pot of Buddhists, Thai-Chinese, Muslims and even sea gypsies making it an interesting and diverse place to visit. Phang Nga is generally lacking in shops and restaurants bar a few mini marts and local markets. There are some restaurants along the coast to meet the growing demand of this developing area. However for quality shops and restaurants head south to Phuket.