Things To Do
in Surat Thani
Surat Thani is a vibrant province located in southern Thailand, known for its stunning tropical islands and lush forests. The city of Surat Thani serves as a gateway to popular tourist destinations such as Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, and Koh Tao. Visitors can explore traditional temples, bustling markets, and enjoy the local cuisine which features fresh seafood and tropical fruits.
Surat Thani offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences for travelers seeking an authentic Thai experience.
- "Sawasdee" - Hello
- "Khop khun" - Thank you
- "Chai" - Yes
- "Mai" - No
- "Tao rai?" - How much?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $2 - $10
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Surat Thani City Pillar Shrine, a local cultural landmark. Enjoy breakfast at a nearby café, tasting traditional Thai dishes.
Head to the Surat Thani Night Market and indulge in local street food. Explore the vibrant market stalls for unique souvenirs.
Wind down by taking a boat ride on the Tapi River to enjoy the sunset. Dine at a riverside restaurant, relishing fresh seafood.
Visit Khao Sok National Park for a guided tour and wildlife spotting. Enjoy a packed breakfast surrounded by stunning natural beauty.
Take a canoe trip on Cheow Lan Lake, surrounded by limestone cliffs. Stop for lunch at a floating restaurant to savor local cuisine.
Return to your hotel and relax for a while before dinner. Experience a traditional Thai massage at a local spa.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery, including stunning beaches and national parks.
- Affordable living costs compared to other regions in Thailand.
- Rich cultural heritage and local traditions.
- Access to popular tourist destinations like Koh Samui and Koh Pha Ngan.
- A relaxed and laid-back lifestyle.
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors.
- Transportation can be challenging, especially in rural areas.
- Hot and humid weather for most of the year.
- Less developed infrastructure compared to major cities like Bangkok or Chiang Mai.
- Possible language barrier as English may not be widely spoken.
Best Activities in Surat Thani
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the stunning natural beauty of limestone cliffs, caves, and rainforests while enjoying activities such as trekking, kayaking, and wildlife watching.
Embark on a boat tour to these beautiful islands known for their pristine beaches, snorkeling, diving, and vibrant nightlife.
Take a kayak or long-tail boat trip along the Tapi River to witness the picturesque scenery and observe the local way of life.
Experience the local culture and natural landscapes by renting a bicycle and exploring the city and its surroundings on two wheels.
Enjoy a day trip to the Ratchaprapa Dam to see its emerald green waters and breathtaking surroundings, with options for boat tours and hiking.
Embark on a trekking adventure in this lesser-known national park, offering lush greenery, waterfalls, and diverse flora and fauna.
Immerse yourself in the local culinary scene by participating in a traditional Thai cooking class to learn about authentic flavors and cooking techniques.
Tours
Uncover the best of Surat Thani with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Surat Thani
Visit one of these nice places.
Home to lush rainforests, majestic limestone karsts, and the stunning Cheow Lan Lake, offering incredible views and photo opportunities.
Known for its picturesque scenery with limestone cliffs and emerald waters, providing captivating views and excellent photo opportunities.
Boasts a hilltop location with panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscapes, making it a great spot for capturing beautiful photos.
Food in Surat Thani
Surat Thani Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fragrant rice salad with a variety of fresh herbs, vegetables, and a tangy dressing, often accompanied by crispy or grilled fish. Try it at local eateries and street food stalls.
Must-Try!
A spicy and sour soup made with shrimp, lemongrass, and a mix of aromatic herbs. It can be found in most restaurants serving Thai cuisine.
A hot and sour curry featuring seafood or fish, mixed with turmeric, tamarind, and fresh vegetables. Look for it at traditional eateries and seafood restaurants.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Surat Thani better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market is a paradise for food lovers, offering a variety of local dishes such as grilled seafood, noodle soups, and sweet treats like Kanom Krok (coconut rice pancakes).
A vibrant street food hub where you can savor an array of authentic Thai dishes like Pad Thai, Satay, and Mango Sticky Rice under the twinkling night lights.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
It is important to show respect for the King and the Royal Family as they are held in high regard in Thai culture. Avoid any disrespectful gestures or comments about the monarchy.
In Surat Thani, it is customary to remove your shoes before entering someone's home or a temple as a sign of respect. Look for cues from the locals and follow their lead.
Respecting elders is a fundamental aspect of Thai culture. Use polite language and gestures when interacting with older individuals, and always give them your seat if there are no others available.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Surat Thani with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Surat Thani
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Surat Thani, Thailand. It is not expected in restaurants, taxis, or other service establishments.
Cash is the preferred method of payment in Surat Thani, Thailand. Many smaller businesses may not accept credit cards, so it's advisable to carry enough cash. However, larger hotels, restaurants, and department stores in tourist areas may accept credit cards.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Surat Thani.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Surat Thani is during the dry season, which runs from December to March. During this period, you can expect sunny and dry weather, making it perfect for outdoor activities and beach outings. The temperatures are also more comfortable during this time.
The monsoon season in Surat Thani typically runs from May to October. During this time, you can expect heavy rainfall and high humidity. While the rain can bring lush green landscapes, outdoor activities may be limited during this period.
The shoulder seasons in Surat Thani, which fall in April and November, can be a good time to visit as the weather is transitioning between the dry and monsoon seasons. However, there may still be some rainfall during these months.
Surat Thani at Night
Hiking in Surat Thani
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Known for its rich biodiversity, Khao Sok offers stunning limestone mountains, rainforests, and a beautiful lake. Hiking trails range from easy walks to challenging treks.
This national park features diverse flora and fauna, waterfalls, and scenic views. Its hiking trails vary in difficulty and length, making it suitable for different skill levels.
A lesser-known hiking spot that offers a more secluded experience. The trails are surrounded by lush vegetation and provide a panoramic view of the surrounding area.
This trail takes you through the mountainous terrain and rubber plantations, offering a unique glimpse of the local landscape and wildlife.
Home to diverse ecosystems and several waterfalls, Phanom National Park has various hiking trails that allow visitors to explore its natural beauty.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Surat Thani through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Surat Thani by plane.
The main airport serving Surat Thani, providing domestic flights and limited international connections.
Located on Koh Samui, this airport serves international flights and is a popular gateway to tourist destinations in the Gulf of Thailand.
One of the major international airports in Thailand, located on the island of Phuket, offering numerous international and domestic flights.
Serves both domestic and international flights, located in Krabi province, which is close to several popular tourist destinations.
Located in Nakhon Si Thammarat province, this airport handles domestic flights and offers some international services.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Surat Thani, representing a significant portion of the population.
A considerable ethnic minority, often integrated into the local economy and culture.
An ethnic group found primarily in southern Thailand, with a presence in Surat Thani.
Includes various indigenous and migrant groups that contribute to the cultural diversity of Surat Thani.
The Soul of Surat Thani
Discover the essence of Surat Thani through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A traditional Thai martial art and combat sport known for its striking techniques using fists, elbows, knees, and shins.
A widely popular team sport in Thailand, played at various levels from amateur to professional leagues.
A popular racquet sport in Thailand, with many local clubs and competitions held regularly.
A traditional sport similar to volleyball but played with a rattan ball and feet instead of hands.
An increasingly popular sport among youth and schools, with local leagues and university competitions.
A popular team sport, especially among women, with many local tournaments and school competitions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Surat Thani.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Thai cuisine often features meat and seafood, many restaurants in Surat Thani offer vegetable-based versions of popular dishes. Look for options like Pad Pak (stir-fried vegetables) or Green Curry with tofu.
Those with gluten restrictions can enjoy dishes like Larb Gai (spicy chicken salad) made with gluten-free soy sauce or grilled seafood with fresh vegetables.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Surat Thani with these cultural adventures.
