Things To Do
in Singhanakhon
Singhanakhon is a coastal district in Songkhla Province in southern Thailand, known for its fishing villages, salt pans and proximity to Songkhla Lake. The area blends rural agricultural life with coastal seafood culture and easy access to Songkhla city attractions like Ko Yo and Samila Beach. Visitors will find quiet local markets, waterside piers, and a relaxed pace compared with busier Hat Yai.
Singhanakhon makes a good base for exploring lake scenery, birdlife and authentic southern Thai cuisine.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the ancient temples scattered throughout Singhanakhon, where you can admire the intricate carvings and historical architecture. Enjoy a traditional Thai breakfast at a local eatery, savoring dishes like Khao Niew Mamuang (mango sticky rice) and fresh fruit. As the sun rises higher, stroll through the peaceful streets, taking in the local atmosphere and friendly smiles from the residents.
After lunch at a nearby café, immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting the Singhanakhon Museum, where you can learn about the area's history and heritage. Spend some time shopping for handmade crafts and souvenirs at the vibrant local market, where you can haggle for unique items. Take a break at a nearby park, enjoying the serene surroundings and perhaps striking up a conversation with a local resident.
As the sun sets, head to a riverside restaurant to enjoy a delicious dinner featuring fresh seafood and traditional Thai flavors. Experience the vibrant nightlife by exploring local bars and live music venues, where you can dance and socialize with both locals and fellow travelers. Conclude your evening with a leisurely walk along the riverfront, taking in the beautiful views and the cool night breeze.
Kick off your morning with a guided nature walk in the nearby protected forest, where you can spot local wildlife like monkeys and exotic birds. Take in the fresh air and enjoy the sounds of nature while learning about the local ecosystem from your knowledgeable guide. Afterward, have breakfast at a local café, sampling delicious Thai pastries and coffee.
Spend the afternoon at a nearby elephant sanctuary, where you can interact with these majestic creatures and learn about their conservation efforts. Participate in feeding and bathing the elephants, creating unforgettable memories while supporting ethical tourism. Enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by nature, relishing the tranquility and beauty of your surroundings.
Return to Singhanakhon in the evening and indulge in a hearty dinner at a local restaurant specializing in authentic Thai cuisine. Engage in a cooking class after dinner, where you'll learn to prepare traditional dishes using fresh local ingredients. Wrap up your day by sharing your culinary creations with newfound friends over dessert.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Street food meal | $1-3 |
| 🍽️Restaurant meal (mid-range) | $5-12 |
| 🏨Budget guesthouse / simple hotel (per night) | $15-40 |
| 🚕Short taxi / tuk-tuk or songthaew ride | $0.5-4 |
| ☕Coffee or iced drink | $1-2.50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic southern Thai coastal and fishing-village atmosphere
- Excellent fresh seafood and market experiences
- Close to Songkhla Lake and birdwatching/wetland habitats
- Quieter and less touristy than nearby Hat Yai or Phuket
- Limited tourist infrastructure and English signage in some areas
- Public transport is basic; a car or motorbike makes exploring easier
- Summer heat and monsoon rains can disrupt plans
- Nightlife and entertainment options are limited locally
- "สวัสดี (Sawasdee)" - Hello (formal greeting)
- "ขอบคุณ (Khob khun)" - Thank you
- "เท่าไหร่ (Tao rai)?" - How much?
- "ขอโทษ (Khor thot)" - Excuse me / Sorry
- "ไม่มีเนื้อสัตว์ / มังสวิรัติ (Mai mee neu sat / Mang-sawi-rat)" - No meat / I'm vegetarian
- "ช่วยด้วย / ฉันต้องการความช่วยเหลือ (Chuay duay / Chan tongkan khwamsuay-luea)" - Help / I need help
Places to Visit in Singhanakhon
Visit one of these nice places.
Expansive water vistas at sunrise and sunset, with fishermen, long-tail boats and mangrove edges offering reflective compositions.
The bridge and small island in the lake give panoramic shots of the water, fishing life and local villages.
Wide flat salt farms and wooden fish traps create abstract lines and textures, particularly dramatic at sunrise.
Candid scenes of daily trade—fish auctions, vendors preparing food and colorful produce make strong street photography subjects.
Sandy beaches and rocky outcrops provide seascape opportunities and foreground interest for long exposures at dusk.
Food in Singhanakhon
Singhanakhon Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A colorful rice salad with shredded coconut, herbs, dried shrimp and spicy-sour dressing; available at local markets and family-run restaurants.
Must-Try!
Spicy-sour curry often made with local fish and vegetables — a staple of southern coastal cooking, found in eateries and home-cooking stalls.
Locally caught fish, squid and shrimp grilled over charcoal — best at waterfront stalls or small seafood restaurants near the piers.
Small coconut-based cakes and sweets reflecting Thai-Malay culinary overlap; sold at morning markets and dessert stalls.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Local market where fishermen bring morning catches and vendors sell prepared dishes—great for breakfast and photographing market life.
A lively market beside Ko Yo bridge with fresh seafood, dried goods and simple restaurants; ideal for sampling local fish dishes.
If you venture into Songkhla city, find a busy night market serving grilled seafood, sweets and southern specialties.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Use the wai (hands together) and a polite greeting when appropriate; smile and be respectful in interactions.
Remove shoes, dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered), and be quiet and respectful around monks and shrines.
Showing respect for the Thai royal family is culturally important—avoid critical comments or jokes about the monarchy.
The head is considered the most sacred part of the body—do not touch others’ heads, including children.
Use the right hand for giving/receiving items; the left hand is considered less polite for these interactions.
Safety
Tipping in Singhanakhon
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not compulsory—rounding up small bills, leaving small change for servers, or 10% in higher-end restaurants is common. For guides and drivers, a modest tip is welcomed for good service.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Temperatures peak and humidity rises; days are hot and sunny—carry water, sun protection and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Frequent heavy showers and rough seas; boat trips can be interrupted and some low-lying roads may flood—pack a lightweight rain jacket and flexible plans.
Most comfortable time to visit with milder temperatures and less rain—great for outdoor activities, birdwatching and exploring markets.
Singhanakhon at Night
Hiking in Singhanakhon
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A forested hill and national park area in Songkhla province with trails, waterfalls and viewpoints—suitable for day hikes when accessible and not restricted by weather.
Green hilltop park in Hat Yai with walking trails, a reclining Buddha, and viewpoints—an easy nearby option for short hikes and panoramic photos.
Informal walking routes along beaches, salt flats and coastal lanes around Singhanakhon for low-intensity walks and photography rather than marked mountain trails.
Airports
How to reach Singhanakhon by plane.
The nearest major airport (approximately 30–60 minutes by car depending on your exact location) with domestic flights and some international routes; the main gateway for Songkhla Province.
A regional airport to the southwest (2–3 hours by car) offering domestic connections; an option if combining visits to Trang and Songkhla areas.
Larger airports further away (2–5+ hours by road) that can serve as alternate international gateways if you plan multi-destination travel around southern Thailand.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority group in many villages and towns, involved in agriculture, fishing and local commerce.
Southern Thailand has significant Malay-Muslim populations—coastal districts often feature blended Thai-Malay culture and halal cuisine.
In urbanized areas and market trading communities, families of Chinese descent contribute to commerce and culinary diversity.
Occupational groups forming the backbone of local economy—responsible for fisheries, salt production and rice or orchard agriculture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular spectator and participation sport across Thailand—local schools and clubs often play and local matches draw neighborhood crowds.
A traditional Southeast Asian sport combining elements of volleyball and gymnastics, commonly played in southern communities and villages.
Thailand’s national combat sport with training gyms available in larger nearby towns such as Hat Yai for visitors interested in workouts or watching matches.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Singhanakhon.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are limited but possible—ask for dishes without fish sauce or shrimp paste (‘mai sai nam pla’). Simple vegetable stir-fries, omelettes and some curries can be adapted; carry a translation card to explain dietary needs.
There are Muslim communities in the region; look for halal-certified stalls and restaurants (often serving Malay-influenced dishes). Seafood is widely available and often prepared without pork or alcohol.
Seafood and shellfish are ubiquitous—if you have shellfish allergies, be explicit and avoid shared-wok dishes. Carry any necessary medication and a translated allergy card in Thai.