Things To Do
in Don Sak

Don Sak is a quiet coastal town in southern Thailand that serves as the gateway to the Gulf islands. It sits along the Thi Phat River near the bay, linking travelers to Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, and Koh Tao by ferry. Life here unfolds at a relaxed pace, with colorful markets, friendly locals, and scenic river views.

The area offers easy day trips, fresh seafood, and a distinctly southern Thai vibe.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival in Don Sak
morning
:

Arrive at Surat Thani Airport and take a scenic drive to Don Sak, where you can soak in the lush landscapes of Southern Thailand. Check into your cozy accommodation and refresh yourself before heading out to explore. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, tasting authentic Thai dishes.

afternoon
:

Visit the breathtaking Thong Krut Beach for relaxation and sunbathing, where the azure waters invite you for a refreshing swim. Savor lunch at a beachfront restaurant, indulging in fresh seafood while enjoying the stunning ocean views. Afterward, explore a nearby fishing village, experiencing the local culture and lifestyle.

evening
:

Head back to your hotel to unwind and freshen up before dinner. Attend a traditional Thai dance performance at a cultural center or enjoy a quiet night by the beach. Wrap up your day with a delicious meal at a local restaurant, sampling unique regional specialties.

day 2
Island Adventure to Koh Samui
morning
:

Set off early on a ferry to the beautiful island of Koh Samui, where the warm sun and clear waters await. Enjoy breakfast on the boat with scenic views of the ocean and surrounding islands. Upon arrival, rent a scooter to explore the island at your own pace.

afternoon
:

Visit the iconic Big Buddha statue and take memorable photos, then head to the pristine beaches of Chaweng or Lamai for some sun and fun. Savor lunch at a beachside café, enjoying local flavors and refreshing drinks. Spend the afternoon snorkeling or simply relaxing by the water.

evening
:

As the sun sets, find a beachside spot for an unforgettable dinner, where you can dine with your toes in the sand. Consider treating yourself to a traditional Thai massage to unwind after a fun-filled day. Experience the vibrant nightlife at local bars or take a moonlit stroll on the beach.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$3-6
🧃Local drink (soft drink/tea)$0.5-2
🥗Street food snack$1-3
🏨Budget hotel per night$15-40
🚗Short taxi ride$3-10

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Gateway to Koh Samui and other Gulf islands with easy ferry access
  • Calm, walkable town with fresh seafood and market culture
  • Affordable Southern Thai cuisine and friendly locals
  • Riverside ambiance and scenic sunsets
  • Limited nightlife and nightlife amenities compared to bigger cities
  • Public transport options can be infrequent or slower to remote areas
  • Weather can be hot and humid; rain can disrupt outdoor plans during the monsoon
  • "Sawasdee kha" - Hello (female speaker)
  • "Sawasdee kap" - Hello (male speaker)
  • "Khob khun kha" - Thank you
  • "Chai" - Yes
  • "Mai chai" - No
  • "Nee tao rai?" - How much is this?
  • "Hong nam yoo thi nai?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Khor thot" - Excuse me / I'm sorry

Places to Visit in Don Sak

Visit one of these nice places.

Don Sak Riverfront at Sunset

Golden light over the Thi Phat River, with fishing boats and silhouettes against the water.

Wat Don Sak Temple Complex

Intricate gilded temples and serene courtyards ideal for architectural photography.

Koh Samui Ferry Crossing from Don Sak Pier

Dramatic shots of ferries slicing through waves with palm-fringed shores in the background.

Morning Market Scenes

Vibrant stalls, vendors, and fresh produce at dawn—great for candid and street photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Don Sak

Don Sak’s cuisine emphasizes fresh seafood and southern Thai flavors, with coconut-based curries, lemongrass, kaffir lime, and chili. Expect bold herbs, tangy sour soups, and rice-based dishes, with easy access to markets and riverfront eateries. Street stalls and casual restaurants provide quick bites and scenic dining by the water. Vegetarian options are available, though fish sauce and shrimp paste are common, so ask for adjustments if needed.

Don Sak Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Tom Yum Goong

A spicy, sour shrimp soup with lemongrass, galangal, and lime leaves; widely available at market stalls and seafood restaurants.

Must-Try!

Gaeng Som

A bright, sour fish curry with tamarind and vegetables; typical of southern Thai coastal cuisine.

Khao Yum

A fragrant southern rice salad with herbs, coconut, and chili; often served with fish or shrimp.

Som Tam

Green papaya salad with lime, chilies, and peanuts; common at markets and casual eateries.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Don Sak Market

Morning market offering fresh seafood, fruit, snacks, and ready-to-eat meals near the riverfront.

Pierside Food Stalls

Casual stalls near the ferry piers serving grilled seafood, soups, and grilled skewers with river views.

Climate Guide

Weather

Don Sak has a tropical monsoon climate with high humidity year-round. The cool, dry season (roughly November to February) brings pleasant days and cooler nights, while the hot season (March to May) can be very warm. The rainy season (June to October) brings frequent showers and lush, green landscapes, with typhoon activity possible on rare occasions. Overall, plan for heat and sun for most outdoor activities, with rain gear as a backup during the monsoon.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Temple Etiquette

Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered); remove shoes before entering temple buildings; speak softly.

Greetings

A Wai (hands pressed together) is a respectful greeting; return with a light nod or Wai.

Public Behavior

Respect local customs, especially in rural areas; avoid loud displays of affection in religious sites.

Language Courtesy

Using polite particles like 'ka' (female) or 'kap' (male) shows respect when addressing locals.

Safety Guide

Safety

Exercise normal travel precautions: watch personal belongings in crowded markets and piers, use licensed transport, and stay hydrated in the heat. Road and ferry schedules can be delayed during storms, so allow extra time. Swim at supervised beaches and follow local advice about currents and tides. In case of medical needs, know the location of nearby clinics and the route to larger hospitals in Surat Thani.

Tipping in Don Sak

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tips are appreciated but not obligatory; a small amount to hospitality staff, drivers, and guides is common if service was good.

Payment Methods

Cash in Thai Baht is widely accepted; many larger restaurants and hotels accept cards. ATMs are available in town; some smaller vendors may be cash-only.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Cooler coastal mornings and hot afternoons; stay hydrated, seek shade, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.

Rainy Season

Frequent rain showers and high humidity; afternoon storms are common—pack light rain gear and waterproof bags; landscapes stay lush.

Cool/Dry Season

Pleasant temperatures and lower humidity; ideal for outdoor exploration, city walks, and island trips.

Nightlife Guide

Don Sak at Night

Nightlife in Don Sak is low-key, centered around riverside seafood eateries, small bars, and night markets. After dark, the town slows down, offering laid-back vibes, gentle live music, and easy conversations with locals. It’s not a party destination, but the waterfront scene is pleasant for an evening stroll and a casual meal.

Hiking in Don Sak

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Khao Sok National Park (approx. drive from Don Sak)

Lush rainforest trails, waterfalls, and Cheow Lan Lake; famous for jungle hikes and wildlife spotting.

Coastal and rainforest trails near Ban Don Sak

Short, scenic hikes along the coastline and nearby forested areas offering ocean views and wildlife encounters.

Airports

How to reach Don Sak by plane.

Surat Thani International Airport (URT)

Regional gateway to the province; about a 1.5–2 hour drive to Don Sak depending on traffic.

Koh Samui International Airport (USM)

Nearby island airport with frequent domestic connections; access via ferry from Don Sak pier when schedules align.

Nakhon Si Thammarat Airport (NST)

Another regional option with broader southern connections; typically a longer drive to Don Sak.

Getting Around

Walkability

Don Sak is compact and walkable around the riverfront and town center, with markets, temples, and eateries within easy reach on foot. Some areas farther from the pier may require a short ride, but overall it’s a manageable town for pedestrians and cyclists.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Thai Buddhists

Majority population in the southern region with temple-centered culture.

Local Muslims

Southern Thailand has diverse communities; respectful understanding of local practices is appreciated.

Thai Chinese and Sea-Gypsy communities

Cultural diversity reflected in markets, food, and festivals.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Muay Thai

Thailand’s national sport; local gyms and events are common in the region and can be watched or joined by visitors.

Water sports

Snorkeling, kayaking, and casual sailing are popular around the gulf coast and nearby islets.

Cycling

Rural roads and scenic coastal routes make for enjoyable rides around Don Sak and the surrounding countryside.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Don Sak is generally light, with local buses and songthaews serving the town and ferry terminals. During ferry departures and arrivals, parking and short delays around the piers can occur. In rural areas, roads can be narrow and winding, so drive carefully and allow extra time for travel to surrounding beaches and markets.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Don Sak.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Ask for dishes without fish sauce (nam pla) or shrimp paste. Look for clear vegetable curries, tofu options, and fresh fruit. Use polite phrases like 'mai sai nam pla' (no fish sauce) or 'sua pai' to request adjustments.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Basic healthcare is available in Don Sak through local clinics and the district hospital. For more advanced care, patients typically travel to Surat Thani or Koh Samui, where private hospitals and larger facilities offer a wider range of services. Carry a copy of your medical records and travel insurance information.

Discover Thailand

Read more in our Thailand 2025 Travel Guide.

Thailand Travel Guide