The southern region of Thailand is known for its beautiful beaches and stunning islands. When people think of Thailand, the islands of the south are the tropical paradise that comes to mind.
What is it?: Southern Thailand is a region known for its vibrant cities, beautiful coastlines, and historical landmarks. From the cultural city of Nakhon Si Thammarat to the tranquil beaches of Trang, the region offers a mix of cultural exploration and nature-based activities, with access to islands like Ko Tarutao and scenic lakes.
Affordability: Affordable - Southern Thailand is relatively budget-friendly, especially in cities like Hat Yai and Trang, where local food and accommodation options are inexpensive. Popular tourist areas like Ko Tarutao and Songkhla may be slightly more expensive, but still offer good value for money.
Safety: Very safe - The region is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a friendly atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it’s always a good idea to exercise common sense and be cautious in crowded or isolated areas.
Popularity: Growing - While Southern Thailand is gaining more attention, particularly for its natural beauty and laid-back vibe, it is still less crowded compared to areas like Phuket or Krabi, making it ideal for those seeking a more relaxed experience.
Tourist Infrastructure: Developing - Cities like Hat Yai and Nakhon Si Thammarat are well-connected with modern amenities, offering easy access to transport, accommodations, and local attractions. Smaller towns like Songkhla and Phattalung offer fewer services but still cater well to visitors, especially nature lovers.
Weather: Tropical - The region is 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 outdoor activities, sightseeing, and beach vacations.
Best Time to Go: November to February - The dry season offers ideal weather for exploring the region’s beaches, temples, and natural wonders, with mild temperatures and plenty of sunshine.
Known For: Temples, beaches, islands, lakes, local markets, cultural attractions, and the laid-back southern vibe.
Top Destinations: Trang • Nakhon Si Thammarat • Songkhla • Hat Yai • Phattalung • Satun • Ko Tarutao
- Andaman Coast: Renowned for its dramatic limestone cliffs, clear turquoise waters, and stunning islands like Phuket, Krabi, and the Similan Islands.
- Far South: Offers a mix of thai-muslim culture, pristine beaches, and unique attractions, with highlights including Hat Yai, Satun, and the Trang archipelago.
- Gulf Coast: Famous for its idyllic islands like Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, and Koh Tao, along with beautiful beaches and excellent diving spots.
Situated on the southwest coast of Thailand in the Andaman Sea, Phuket, Phangnga and Krabi provinces are awash with magnificent blue waters and white sand beaches often set against spectacular limestone cliffs. The natural scenery in this area is breathtaking and has been the location for many international movies.
There is no shortage of world-class resorts and spas here, along with fine dining and international and local seafood restaurants. Activities range from scuba diving, rock climbing and trekking to just relaxing on the beach enjoying the sunshine. There are some fantastic boat tours that take you around the smaller national park islands and offer a look at untouched tropical paradise.
Located on the east coast, in the Gulf Of Thailand, the province of Surat Thani has many islands. The most famous of these are Ko Samui, Ko Pha Ngan and Ko Tao. Ko Samui hosts an airport and many luxury hotels and resorts. The island has beautiful beaches and a busy nightlife.
Ko Phangan is well known for the full moon party, which attracts up to 10,000 partygoers monthly. Further north in the Gulf, the smaller island of Tao is a favorite with scuba divers and marine life enthusiasts. With many great dive sites, flourishing marine life and inexpensive scuba instruction, it is easy to see why.
The Ang Thong National Marine Park is a short boat trip from Ko Samui. These beautiful islands are untouched, with no development allowed and only day trips available. The islands have dramatic limestone walls towering hundreds of feet high and an abundance of tropical rainforests. Wildlife abounds, including long tailed monkeys, lizards, pythons, sea turtles and many different species of birds.
Southeast of Surat Thani, is the coastal town of Nakhon Si Thammarat with its clean beaches and great fishing. In the district of Sichon, architectural ruins dating back over 1,500 years can still be seen. With some significant and beautiful Buddhist temples, there is much to see and do here.
Andaman Coast
Boasting beautiful white sandy beaches, this is the gateway to islands such as Krabi and Phuket. This region is famed for its dramatic limestone cliffs, snorkeling, diving, and island-hopping adventures, attracting both beach lovers and adventure seekers.
- Railay: Famed for world-class rock climbing and stunning beaches surrounded by cliffs.
- Ko Phi-Phi: Popular island with vibrant nightlife, snorkeling, and iconic Maya Bay.
- Ko Lanta: Laid-back island offering long beaches, diving, and quiet retreats.
- Ao Nang: Bustling beach town with easy access to island tours and adventure activities.
- Phang Nga Bay: Scenic bay with limestone karsts and sea caves, home to “James Bond Island.”
- Khao Lak: Peaceful coastal area popular for diving and access to Similan Islands.
- Similan Islands: Premier diving destination with coral reefs and marine life.
- Phuket: Thailand’s largest island with beaches, nightlife, and a rich mix of culture and entertainment.
- Ko Raya: Small island south of Phuket, great for snorkeling and quiet beaches.
- Ko Phayam: Off-the-radar island with rustic charm and no cars, perfect for relaxation.
Far South
Bordering with Malaysia, this region boasts a rich history and is home to destinations such as Songkhla and Yala. Known for its mix of Thai and Malay cultures, the Far South offers quiet beaches, cultural landmarks, and off-the-beaten-path experiences for adventurous travelers.
- Hat Yai: Southern Thailand’s largest city with shopping, markets, and nightlife.
- Songkhla Old Town: Historic port town with murals, Chinese-style shophouses, and the famous mermaid statue.
- Ko Tarutao: Remote island in Satun’s marine park with hiking, beaches, and sea caves.
- Thale Ban National Park: Wetlands and rainforest park near the Malaysian border.
- Narathat Beach: Long stretch of beach in Narathiwat, ideal for peaceful seaside escapes.
- Khao Kong Buddha: Giant golden Buddha on a hilltop overlooking Narathiwat.
- Than To Waterfall: Scenic forest waterfall near Yala, popular with locals.
- Yala Central Mosque: Impressive mosque symbolizing the cultural heart of Yala.
- Trang Islands: Group of quiet islands like Ko Kradan and Ko Muk, known for snorkeling and the Emerald Cave.
Gulf Coast
The white sandy beaches and sun-kissed islands of the Gulf are hugely popular with tourists, particularly Ko Samui and Ko Pha-Ngan. This region is known for its mix of lively party scenes, tranquil bays, and lush inland jungles, attracting a wide range of travelers.
- Ko Samui: Thailand’s second-largest island, famous for luxury resorts, beaches, and nightlife.
- Ko Pha-Ngan: Known for its Full Moon Party and also for quiet beaches away from the crowds.
- Ko Tao: Popular island for scuba diving and snorkeling with crystal-clear waters.
- Chaweng Beach: Main tourist beach on Ko Samui with bars, restaurants, and nightlife.
- Lamai Beach: Slightly quieter alternative to Chaweng with a laid-back vibe.
- Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park: Coastal park with limestone peaks, caves, and marshlands in Prachuap Khiri Khan.
- Hua Hin: Popular seaside resort town with royal history, golf courses, and lively markets.
- Cha-Am: Family-friendly beach town with long sandy beaches north of Hua Hin.
- Mu Ko Ang Thong Marine Park: Stunning archipelago of limestone islands ideal for kayaking and snorkeling.
- Khao Sok National Park: Inland rainforest park with dramatic limestone cliffs and a picturesque lake.
Top Cities
- Trang: An interesting working city in the heart of the isthmus and a good base for jaunts to the western coastline and its many islands.
- Nakhon Si Thammarat: This provincial capital is one of the oldest cities in the south, with some excellent temples and colorful markets.
- Satun: The place to catch boats to the far flung Ko Tarutao National Park.
- Hat Yai: The largest city in the south and a great air connection for budget flights out of Bangkok.
- Songkhla: Popular beach resort city with a distinctively Malay flair.
- Phattalung: A massive lake is the highlight of this city on the edge of the Deep South.
National parks
- Khao Pu Khao Ya National Park: Countless waterfalls cascade into lush tropical rainforest here.
- Mu Ko Phetra National Park: This archipelago off the coast near Satun is ideal for intrepid boaters.
- Khao Nam Khang National Park: Right on the edge of the Deep South, this park has a great mix of wildlife and flora.
- San Kala Khiri National Park: Rugged mountains run right down to the sea, where an amazing beach is protected within this park.
- Hat Chao Mai National Park: A mix of islands, beaches and lush tropical jungle filled with hot springs makes this one of the top natural spots in the south.
- Khao Luang National Park: A spectacular summit view point, a dozen waterfalls and plenty of wildlife.
Other Popular Destinations
- Samila Beach: Two kilometers of white sand right in the heart of Songkhla.
- Songkhla Lake: The only natural lake in Thailand is a massive body of water and good for a boat ride.
- Southern Thailand Botanical Garden: Stunning nature trails wind through this large park filled with the wonders of southern Thailand.
- Phra Borommathat Chaiya: This temple has been here more than 1,000 years and is one of the religious highlights of the south.
- Thale Noi Waterfowl Park: An amazing population of permanent and migratory birds live around this lovely lake.
- Rattaphum: A typical southern Thai town without a trace of foreigners.
- Worth it?: Absolutely, particularly for visitors who enjoy spending time on beaches, water sports, trekking and mountains.
- What to do: Snorkeling, scuba diving, swimming, island hopping, dining on freshly caught seafood, jungle trekking, soaking up the sun on the beach.
- Best time to go: October until February, between the monsoon season and the hot summer months.
- How long?: At least five days and nights are needed to get a feel for this region of Thailand.
- Trivia: Southern Thailand is home to Ko Phi Phi, where the cult movie The Beach was filmed.