SRI RACHA, Thailand – The coastline near Koh Loy came alive on May 1 as workers and local residents gathered along the shore to dig for shellfish during the Labor Day holiday.
With the tide receding, conditions were ideal for collecting “hoi krapuk” and other shellfish, which are typically found just a few centimeters beneath the sand. Equipped with simple digging tools, families and groups of workers spread across the beach, carefully searching the shoreline for their catch.
Many participants said the activity not only provided a relaxing way to spend the holiday but also helped reduce daily expenses amid ongoing economic pressure. The shellfish collected are commonly used in a variety of dishes—boiled, stir-fried, grilled, or dried for later consumption. Some visitors were also able to gather enough to sell, creating an additional source of income.
The abundance of shellfish is believed to be linked to good water quality and a relatively clean environment, allowing marine life to thrive along the Sri Racha coast.
Beyond the practical benefits, the outing also served as a family activity, with children playing in the water and helping to dig in the sand, turning the shoreline into a lively and communal space during the national holiday.
