PHUKET, THAILAND – Six foreign tourists were swept out to sea at Nai Thon Beach on August 11, 2026, including Russians, Indians and Israelis. They entered the water despite red warning flags, forcing lifeguards and volunteers to launch a rescue.
The incident happened around 9 am at Nai Thon Beach in Sakhu, Thalang district. High waves and strong currents dragged the six visitors away from the shore.
Rescuers had to brave waves over two metres high and strong winds to reach them. Lifeguards and volunteer helpers joined the effort.
Red flags mark swimming ban
The roughly one-kilometre-long beach is prone to rough seas during Phuket’s low season. Four lifeguards from the Sakhu subdistrict administrative organisation patrol the beach, supported by about two volunteers.
A volunteer lifeguard named Nu said some foreign visitors regularly ignore safety warnings and closed-off areas even after staff explain the rules. Some avoid the staff and enter the sea at other spots along the beach.
Some even get angry at the lifeguards because they see their presence as a sign that swimming is safe.
said Nu, volunteer lifeguard.
Lifeguards themselves in danger
Nu said red flags with strong wind and high waves mean a clear ban on going into the sea. The presence of lifeguards does not make the surf and currents safe.
Because of limited staffing, the helpers split into two teams, each watching one end of the beach. In an emergency they must run to the scene, while a rescue operation in the water can also pull them into the current.
Call for more staff and vehicles
Nu urged the authorities to provide more lifeguards, equipment and vehicles. He mentioned all-terrain vehicles for beach patrols so teams can reach emergencies faster.
A volunteer named Om, who runs a surfboard rental business on the beach, said he helped rescue about two of the six tourists. He confirmed red flags were clearly visible and said the day before seven visitors were swept out to sea and all were safely rescued.