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CHUMPHON
The provincial capital is 463 kilometers south of Bangkok Chumphon is best known for its 222 kilometer-long coastline and offshore 'birds' nest' islands. The provincial capital is the best place from whence to visit the comparatively remote coral-fringed Ko Tao (Turtle Island), which actually falls within Surat Thani province, and boasts arguably the best scuba-diving waters anywhere in the Thai Gulf. Principal mainland beaches include Hat Pharadonphap, Hat Pha Daeng and Hat Sai Ri. The latter is the site of a shrine, in the form of an ancient British manufactured motor torpedo gunship, dedicated to H.R.H. Prince Chumphon, 'Father of the Royal Thai Navy'. The palm fringed Ao Thung Makham, Ao Thung Wua Laen and Hat Arunthai are other picturesque bays and beaches. Notable offshore islands, few more than 30 minutes from the mainland, include Mat Phon, Sak, Samet, Mattra, Thong Lang and Rat, the latter well known for camping, fishing and scuba-diving. Maphrao and Lanka Chui islands host cliff-dwelling sea swallows whose nests are collected to satisfy the demands of local gourmets.
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