PATTAYA, Thailand – Authorities in Phuket have stepped up monitoring at a secluded beach known online as “Shadow Beach” after reports of foreign tourists swimming and sunbathing nude, an issue that could also serve as a reminder for major tourist destinations such as Pattaya.
Officers from the Tourist Police Bureau joined local patrol teams from Rawai municipality on March 6 to inspect the beach in Rawai subdistrict following viral videos that drew attention to the location. Some travel bloggers have promoted the remote stretch of sand as a “nude beach,” attracting visitors looking for a clothing-optional experience.
During the inspection, authorities found several foreign tourists, both men and women, without clothing while swimming and sunbathing along the beach. Officers approached the visitors and issued warnings, explaining that public nudity violates Thai indecency laws and can carry fines of up to 5,000 baht.
Provincial officials have instructed relevant agencies to monitor the area more closely to prevent similar incidents. Local administrative units, police, and tourism authorities have been asked to coordinate efforts to ensure visitors follow the rules governing public spaces.
Authorities outlined three key measures. The first is stricter law enforcement, with police increasing patrols along beaches and warning or penalizing individuals who engage in inappropriate behavior. The second involves organizing beach areas by installing multilingual signs informing visitors about local regulations and acceptable conduct.
The third measure focuses on communication with tourists. Officials plan to work with embassies, hotels, tour companies, and tourism operators to help inform visitors about Thailand’s cultural expectations and legal restrictions.
Officials say the steps taken in Phuket highlight the importance of maintaining clear rules in popular tourist areas, something cities such as Pattaya regularly face as they balance tourism growth with respect for local culture and laws.
