Pattani Bay

Pattani Bay (Ao Pattani) is a large shallow bay and estuary at the mouth of the Pattani River in Mueang Pattani District, Pattani Province, on the Gulf of Thailand. Notable for its extensive mudflats, mangrove forests and traditional fishing villages, the bay is an important coastal ecosystem and bird habitat. It offers scenic coastal views and insights into local fishing livelihoods near Pattani town.

Visitors can expect a wide, shallow bay with mudflats exposed at low tide, fringed by mangrove forests and fishing piers. The setting includes small fishing villages, wooden boats, birdlife, and boardwalks or viewpoints in mangrove areas. Areas to explore include coastal roads, piers, and mangrove nature trails. The environment is natural and tranquil, focused on sightseeing, photography and nature observation rather than swimming beaches.

Pattani Bay has long served as the natural estuary and harbor for the Pattani River, supporting coastal settlement, fishing and maritime trade in the Pattani region for centuries.

The bay sustains traditional fishing communities and coastal livelihoods, reflecting local maritime culture and the close relationship between communities and mangrove and estuarine resources.