Several decades ago, when Thai tourism was burgeoning, the Gulf Coast took a back seat to the Andaman side, where development quickly crowded out popular beaches and islands. Things changed after the 2004 tsunami, when tourists’ attention drifted across the isthmus to the gulf side.
What is it?: The Gulf Coast of Thailand is a vibrant region known for its beautiful beaches, charming coastal towns, and rich cultural heritage. From the bustling city of Chonburi to the serene islands of Koh Chang and Koh Kood, the region offers a mix of relaxation, adventure, and local culture.
Affordability: Affordable - The Gulf Coast offers a range of prices, from budget-friendly options in towns like Trat and Sattahip to more upscale resorts in Rayong and Chonburi. Overall, the region provides great value for money, especially for seafood lovers and beachgoers.
Safety: Very safe - The Gulf Coast is a safe region for tourists, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. The towns are generally peaceful, with tourist-friendly locals and well-developed facilities.
Popularity: Popular - The Gulf Coast is a favorite destination for both local and international tourists, with coastal cities like Chonburi and Si Racha being popular for day trips from Bangkok, while Koh Chang and Koh Kood attract visitors looking for tropical escapes.
Tourist Infrastructure: Well-developed - Cities like Rayong and Chonburi have modern facilities, including resorts, restaurants, and reliable transport links. Islands like Koh Chang and Koh Kood offer more laid-back experiences but still have a good range of accommodations and services.
Weather: Tropical - Warm year-round with a rainy season from May to October and a dry season from November to April. The dry season is the best time to visit for beach activities, island hopping, and exploring local markets.
Best Time to Go: November to April - The dry season offers perfect weather for enjoying the beaches, exploring coastal attractions, and engaging in outdoor activities.
Known For: Beautiful beaches, seafood, charming towns, coastal islands, gem markets, historic sites, and local attractions.
Top Destinations: Rayong • Trat • Koh Chang • Koh Kood • Si Racha • Chonburi • Sattahip • Chantaburi • Khao Kheow Open Zoo
- Rayong: A coastal city known for its beautiful beaches, tranquil islands, and delicious seafood.
- Trat: The gateway to the idyllic islands of Koh Chang and Koh Kood, famous for its charming town and local markets.
- Sattahip: A naval town offering pristine beaches, clear waters, and the serene Sattahip Naval Base.
- Si Racha: Known for its seafood and as the home of the famous Si Racha sauce, with attractions like Khao Kheow Open Zoo.
- Chonburi: A bustling city close to Bangkok, offering a mix of industrial development and coastal attractions.
- Chantaburi: Famous for its gem markets, historic cathedral, and beautiful waterfalls.
What these tourists found was a land with just as many white-sand beaches and islands but without all of the fanfare. Today, the gulf offers everything from resort accommodation to virgin forest and uninhabited islands. In between, visitors can sample the local cuisine, mix with locals, enjoy a spa treatment and practice their Thai in the local marketplaces.
Surat Thani is a transportation nexus for tourists in the south. It touches the gulf but offers easy access to Andaman-side destinations like Phang Nga and Ranong provinces. Mountains, mangroves and virgin forests make this an excellent stopover for nature enthusiasts.
But the crown jewel of Surat Thani is Ko Samui, an upscale resort island with limitless amenities. Major investment in infrastructure has made this one of Thailand’s most popular resort destinations. Nearby is Ko Pha Ngan, known for its hedonistic full moon parties that draw thousands of partiers every month.
On the mainland, Prachuap Khiri Khan is a province known for its gulf-side beaches, at the forefront of which is Hua Hin. Thai tourists are the backbone of the local economy, a fact that keeps prices lower than international tourists expect.
Phetburi was a favorite getaway of King Naresuan the Great at the height of his kingdom. Today the focus has shifted from royalty to tourists, though the magnitude of hospitality is no less regal. Beach resorts, temples and Buddhist grottos are the main attractions.
Covering a vast tract of land, Nakhon Si Thammarat bridges mountains, plateaus, tropical jungles and coastline. This was an epicenter for importation of Buddhism from Sri Lanka nearly 2,000 years ago and today you will find ancient religious relics housed in prominent temple museums.
Even Chumphon boasts appealing white-sand beaches, caves and waterfalls. In fact, wherever you venture along Thailand’s Gulf Coast, you’ll enjoy first-rate hospitality, mouth-watering seafood and more beachside entertainment than time permits.
Chumphon Province
Chumphon Province serves as a gateway to Thailand’s southern islands and beaches, often overlooked by travelers rushing to Ko Tao or Ko Samui. But those who linger will find pristine, uncrowded beaches, fishing villages, and scenic viewpoints. Its coastline along the Gulf of Thailand is dotted with bays, coral reefs, and islands perfect for snorkeling and diving. Inland, limestone hills and caves add adventure, while the laid-back vibe makes it a restful stop before heading deeper south.
- Chumphon: Quiet provincial capital with night markets and pier access to islands.
- Hat Sai Ri: Long sandy beach with views of Koh Samet and a monument to a Thai naval hero.
- Thung Wua Laen Beach: Popular beach for swimming and water sports just north of town.
- Mu Ko Chumphon National Park: Marine park with coral reefs, snorkeling, and island hopping.
Nakhon Si Thammarat Province
Thailand’s second largest province offers a rich blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. Known for its important Buddhist sites and strong local traditions, Nakhon Si Thammarat also draws visitors with rugged mountains, waterfalls, and quiet coastal towns. The province’s Khao Luang National Park is a highlight for nature lovers, while its artisan silver and shadow puppet crafts reflect a deep cultural heritage.
- Nakhon Si Thammarat: Historic town with Thailand’s oldest Buddhist temple, Wat Phra Mahathat.
- Khao Luang National Park: Mountain park with waterfalls, caves, and rainforest trails.
- Hat Sichon: Quiet beach town ideal for relaxing away from crowds.
- Ban Khiri Wong: Eco-village known for fruit orchards and mountain scenery.
Phetburi Province
Phetburi Province, known as Phetchaburi, lies southwest of Bangkok and offers a mix of royal heritage, temples, and natural attractions. It’s home to Thailand’s largest national park and the popular beach town of Cha-Am. Visitors can explore hilltop palaces, bat-filled caves, and riverside markets before heading to the coast or into the lush interior for hiking and birdwatching.
- Phetchaburi: Historic town with palaces, temples, and a bustling riverside scene.
- Cha-Am: Popular beach resort for families and domestic tourists.
- Kaeng Krachan National Park: Thailand’s largest national park, famous for trekking, waterfalls, and wildlife spotting.
Prachuap Khiri Khan Province
Prachuap Khiri Khan Province stretches along the Gulf of Thailand, blending bustling seaside resorts with quiet fishing towns and wild national parks. Hua Hin, its most famous destination, offers golf courses, spas, and lively night markets, while Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park provides dramatic limestone cliffs and wetlands filled with wildlife. The province caters to both luxury seekers and nature lovers.
- Hua Hin: Popular beach resort town with royal history, golf, and vibrant markets.
- Prachuap Khiri Khan: Peaceful town with stunning bay views and a monkey-filled hilltop temple.
- Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park: Coastal park known for limestone peaks, caves, and freshwater marshes.
Surat Thani Province
Surat Thani Province is a launchpad for Thailand’s famed southern islands, attracting sun seekers, divers, and backpackers. Its mainland is less visited but offers temples, waterfalls, and access to Khao Sok National Park’s rainforest and limestone cliffs. Offshore, Ko Samui, Ko Pha-Ngan, and Ko Tao lure travelers with palm-fringed beaches, coral reefs, and party vibes, making Surat Thani a diverse province for both adventure and relaxation.
- Surat Thani: Regional hub with riverfront temples, night markets, and ferry connections.
- Ko Samui: Thailand’s second largest island, famous for luxury resorts, beaches, and nightlife.
- Ko Pha-Ngan: Laid-back island known for its Full Moon Party and secluded bays.
- Ko Tao: Diving paradise with crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs.
- Khao Sok National Park: Inland rainforest reserve with limestone cliffs, jungle trekking, and lake adventures.
Top Cities
- Rayong: Known for its seafood and boats to Ko Samet, there are a few beaches here popular with Thais and expats.
- Trat: A pretty interesting port town near the Cambodian border where you catch ferries to the Ko Chang islands.
- Sattahip: Big Thai naval town with a few beaches and plenty of soldiers.
- Si Racha: A quiet little town known for its excellent outdoor zoo.
- Chonburi: A fancy shopping mall adds some depth to this typical Thai city.
- Chantaburi: A pleasantly clean city on the way to Cambodia with friendly people and a nice atmosphere.
Islands & beaches
- Pattaya: The legendary sex, sea and sun destination still dishes out the seedy goods.
- Ko Sichang: Few people know about this homey locals’ island just outside Bangkok but if you want a mellow getaway, this is it.
- Ko Samet: The favorite weekend getaway for Bangkok residents for its proximity and white squeaky beaches.
- Ko Chang: A massive natural island with a little too much eco-development along its many pretty beaches.
- Ko Kood: A quieter and more upscale alternative to nearby Ko Chang.
- Ko Maak: A lovely island with perfect beaches at the far end of the Ko Chang archipelago.
- Jomtien Beach: A quieter alternative to the craziness of Pattaya, popular with expats living in the area.
Other Popular Destinations
- Ban Phe: Famous seafood and a good stopping point if you miss the ferry to Ko Samet.
- Klaeng: A truly local beach popular with Thai holidaymakers.
- Khao Kiaw Open Zoo: A really impressive open-air zoo with lots of wild animals and a beautiful setting.
- Bang Sare: Popular with expats, this village has retained an authentic vibe.
- Laem Ngop: The last fishing village on the road to the Ko Chang archipelago.
- Ban Chang: A small village surrounded by golf courses and other tiny villages.
- Worth it?: Absolutely, those who enjoy lounging on white sandy beaches, water sports and sunbathing will find plenty to amuse.
- What to do: Snorkeling, scuba diving, islands hopping, rock climbing, caving, trekking through the jungle, watching the sun set on the beach, learning fire dancing.
- Best time to go: November until the end of February, outside of the monsoon season, when humidity is low.
- How long?: At least five days and nights are needed to really explore the area.
- Trivia: The Gulf Coast is home to the beautiful beach resort of Hua Hin, which means ‘stone head’ in Thai and is the country’s oldest beach resort.