Overview of ตลาดลงเล (Long Lay Market)

The Long Lay Market is primarily known for its fresh seafood, offering visitors a chance to buy fish, prawns, crabs, and other marine products directly from the vendors. It is a local market where fishermen and farmers sell their fresh produce and catch from the surrounding areas, providing an authentic experience of daily life in Sam Roi Yot.

The market is also home to a variety of other goods, including local vegetables, fruits, spices, and traditional Thai snacks. Visitors can find local delicacies and street food as well, making it a good place for both shopping and casual dining.

Main Attractions and Offerings

1. Fresh Seafood

   • The market is particularly famous for its fresh, locally caught seafood. Visitors can find a range of seafood, including fish, prawns, squid, and crabs. The seafood is typically very fresh, as it is directly sourced from nearby waters.
   • Seafood lovers can purchase fresh ingredients for cooking or enjoy cooked seafood from local stalls offering quick meals.

2. Local Produce

   • In addition to seafood, the market also sells fresh fruits and vegetables, including local produce like mangoes, papayas, coconuts, chili peppers, lemongrass, and fresh herbs commonly used in Thai cooking.

3. Street Food

   • The market has stalls offering local Thai street food such as som tam (papaya salad), pad thai, grilled meats, and satay (meat skewers). There are also sweet treats like kanom krok (coconut rice pancakes) and mango sticky rice.
   • It's a great place to sample traditional Thai flavors in a laid-back setting.

4. Local Handicrafts and Souvenirs

   • In addition to food, the market features a range of local handicrafts and souvenirs, such as handmade jewelry, clothing, woven baskets, and other traditional Thai crafts.
   • These items make perfect souvenirs for visitors looking to bring home a piece of Thai culture.

5. Casual Dining and Relaxation

   • The market is often frequented by locals, making it a great place to sit down, relax, and enjoy a meal while watching the hustle and bustle of local life. It's not overly crowded, offering a more relaxed shopping experience compared to larger tourist markets.

Operating Hours

Long Lay Market typically operates in the early morning to late afternoon. The market's hours may vary slightly depending on the season and demand, but the general operating hours are:

• Monday to Sunday:
  • 6:00 AM – 3:00 PM

The market generally starts winding down by mid-afternoon, so it's best to visit early to experience the full range of offerings.

Location

• Address:
  Long Lay Market, Hat Sam Roi Yot, Sam Roi Yot District, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Thailand

The market is located close to Hat Sam Roi Yot, which is a quieter and less commercialized beach area compared to other beaches in Thailand. It's approximately 20-30 minutes by car from Prachuap Khiri Khan city center.

How to Get There

1. By Car:
   If you're traveling from Prachuap Khiri Khan, the easiest way to get to the market is by car, and it’s only a 20-30 minute drive south. You can rent a car or take a taxi to reach the market.

2. By Tuk-Tuk or Songthaew:
   In the Sam Roi Yot area, local tuk-tuks or songthaews (shared taxis) are common modes of transport, and you can hire one to take you to the market if you're staying nearby.

3. By Bicycle:
   If you're exploring the area on a bike, Long Lay Market is accessible by bicycle from the nearby beach areas or resorts.

Why Visit ตลาดลงเล (Long Lay Market)?

1. Authentic Local Experience:
   Long Lay Market is a hidden gem in Sam Roi Yot. It provides an authentic glimpse into the local life of the area, with vendors selling fresh products from nearby farms and the ocean. It’s less touristy compared to larger markets in Hua Hin and offers a more relaxed, genuine atmosphere.

2. Fresh Seafood:
   If you're a seafood lover, this market is a must-visit. The seafood is incredibly fresh and affordable, and you can find a variety of locally sourced fish and shellfish.

3. Fresh Produce:
   For those who enjoy cooking, Long Lay Market is the perfect spot to pick up fresh Thai ingredients, fruits, and vegetables for a home-cooked meal.

4. Street Food:
   The market has a great selection of traditional Thai street food, so you can indulge in local delicacies while exploring the market.

5. Less Crowded:
   Unlike the more touristy spots in Hua Hin, Long Lay Market is relatively calm and quiet. It’s a great place to enjoy a slower pace of life and experience the local community without the overwhelming crowds.

Conclusion

ตลาดลงเล (Long Lay Market) offers an authentic and peaceful market experience in Sam Roi Yot, perfect for those looking to enjoy fresh seafood, local produce, and traditional Thai street food. Its location near the beach makes it an ideal stop for anyone visiting Hat Sam Roi Yot or exploring the natural beauty of the area. Whether you're shopping for fresh ingredients, sampling delicious local dishes, or simply soaking in the relaxed atmosphere, Long Lay Market is a great place to experience the true essence of life in this charming coastal region.