BKK’s Canals Are Getting A Makeover So You Can Enjoy Water Sports Right In The City

Recreational spots in Bangkok


Bangkok’s a busy metro where everyone always seems to be on the move. Many have turned to recreational sports to keep themselves fit as well as a temporary escape from work and the constant hustle-and-bustle. 

So, it seems that Bangkok wanted to meet the peoples’ demands and upgraded spots like Khlong Ong Ang, Wachira Benchachat Park, and Nong Bon Water Sports Centre into recreational sports playgrounds. 


Nong Bon Water Sports Centre


Nong Bon Water Sports Centre is in Prawet, located on the outskirts of Bangkok. The centre is popular for water sports like kayaking, kite surfing and sailing. It brings an au naturale vibe, making it the ideal setting for the much-needed escapade from the hustle and bustle of Bangkok. 

Visitors need to prepare their own lunch boxes, though, as there are no restaurants around. 


Image credit: @travels_again 

For those interested in a short getaway but not too keen on sports, you can also bring your book and chill; or even just use the place’s many photogenic backdrops.

Image credit: @adam_bkk

There’s also a long bicycle lane at Nong Bon Water Sports Centre for those who prefer land-based activities – you could also enjoy a long nice walk with your dogs. Pet lovers should note that their furry friends are only allowed along the bike path, and off-limits in the park’s other areas.

Image credit: @robinmama.yuka

For a yearly membership fee, only have to pay ฿60 (~USD1.95) to use the facilities and all of the rental equipment – including, the sailboats and kayaks.

Nong Bon Water Sports Centre
Address: Soi Chaloermkiat, 43 Nong Bon, Prawet, Bangkok 10250
Opening Hours: 8.30AM – 6PM
Telephone: +66-2-3280-236
Website | Google Maps


Vachirabenjatas Park 


Vachirabenjatas Park is close to the super popular joint, JJ Market. This is perfect spot for those who want to end their shopping trip with some running or cycling. 

Recently, the park has expanded its attractions to include an extreme sports playground for skating, surf skating and longboarding.

Image credit: Matichon 

The cool thing about this park is you can get a yearly membership for ฿40 (~USD1.30), which allows you to rent the park’s skateboards for the whole year.

Image credit: @kritdatigan_park

Besides the new skating spot, there’s also a bike lane for cycling enthusiasts and pedestrians to enjoy this tiny green spot in Bangkok.

Image credit: @janya2540

The park also has some flower gardens for those who love blooming colours of mother nature’s beautiful works.

Vachirabenjatas Park
Address: Kamphaeng Phet 3 Rd, Lat Yao, Chatuchak, Bangkok 10900
Opening Hours: 5AM – 9PM Daily
Telephone: +66-2-5379-221
Google Maps


Khlong Ong Ang Canal


Khlong Ong Ang Canal was renovated last year and became the zone for beautiful street art and food markets.

The United Nations gave the ‘Asian Townscape Awards’ to Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) for their efforts in remodeling the canal, as addressed in Bangkok Post.

Image credit: @tahmor

This year, it has become increasingly popular for Gen-Zers who live around there. 

Image credit: @tadvanced

Now, the young ones can enjoy getting fit whilst kayaking and stand-up paddle-boarding (SUP). 

Image credit: @tay_nathapon

The spot can get really packed over the weekend, so we’d recommend getting there by 3PM to queue up for the opening at 4PM. You can also try getting there later in the evening and bypass the sunset-watching crowd; around 6PM, the street lights come on and give an extra romantic and chill ambiance on the streets of the canal. 

Khlong Ong Ang Canal
Address: Khlong Thomม Pathum Khongkha Alley, Samphanthawong, Bangkok 10100
Opening Hours: 4PM – 10PM
Website | Google Maps


Pick your fun around Bangkok 


Whilst many are working hard to get corporate promotions or trying to score that student scholarship to their dream university, it’s also as important to have fun and get fit at the same time. Sports can keep you fit and healthy, which is great for the long run.

More places to have fun around Thailand:


Cover images adapted from: @eiwpawii, (Top Left), @ransom_photo (Bottom Left), @naamonn (Top Right), @eveningeveee (Bottom Right)

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