South Thailand

Travel Guide

South Thailand
Phang Nga which includes rugged coastline, a coastal town and a bay or harbour
Phuket showing a beach, a bay or harbour and rugged coastline
Koh Samui which includes forest scenes, boating and general coastal views
South Thailand

Go scuba diving around the colourful reefs of marine parks, hop between islands and party all night at beach resorts.

South Thailand lies on a peninsula with some of the country’s most iconic resorts. The scenic shorelines of the Andaman Sea and Gulf of Thailand flank this narrow strip of land known for its beaches and islands. Dance at full moon parties after a day of exploring the region’s nature parks and beaches.

Hop between islands along the Malay Peninsula. Explore Angthong National Park that stretches across 42 islands. Sail through this marine park and capture photos of the idyllic, mountainous islands that make up the archipelago.

Nearby is iconic Koh SamuiOpens in a new window island, known for its beaches, nightlife and rainforest. See the many temples here, such as Wat Khunaram, Wat Plai Laem and Wat Hin Lat, next to a scenic waterfall in the heart of a jungle. The most recognizable feature here is the Big Buddha StatueOpens in a new window just off the northern shore on islet Koh Faan.

Relax on one of seemingly countless beaches decorating the peninsula’s eastern shores near Koh Samui and western shores near PhuketOpens in a new window, KrabiOpens in a new window and Phi Phi Island. White sands, clear waters and excellent diving make these popular spots. Visit during the dry seasons of December through April and July to August. Monsoons are common the rest of the year.

For cultural experiences, head to the southeastern province of Nakhon Si Thammarat. Browse the exhibits of the Nakhon Si Thammarat National Museum, see the fascinating Wat Phra Mahathat Woramahawihan, part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Due to the coastal location of this region, southern Thai food comprises mostly seafood, along with coconut-based curries and Malaysian influences.

Find this region south of the narrow Kra Isthmus strip of Thailand between Malaysia and southern Myanmar. Overlooking the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea, this picturesque part of the world can be reached by boats from Malaysia and Indonesia. Fly to the airports of Phuket or Krabi and get around by bus or rental car.

Jungles, glorious beaches, islands and marine parks make up the special topography of South Thailand.

Where to stay in South Thailand

Ao Phra Nang Beach featuring a garden and a luxury hotel or resort

Ao Nang

If you're spending some time in Ao Nang, Ao Nang Beach and Ao Nang Landmark Night Market are top sights worth seeing.

Ao Nang
West Railay Beach featuring a beach, tropical scenes and swimming

Railay Beach

Travellers to Railay Beach praise its stunning beaches. If you've got some more time to explore, be sure to stop by West Railay Beach and East Railay Beach.

Railay Beach
Old Phuket Town

Old Phuket Town

4.5/5(26 area reviews)

Cafes, beaches and historical sites highlight some of the noteworthy features of Old Phuket Town. Make a stop by Phuket Weekend Market or Talad Yai Market while you're exploring the neighbourhood.

Old Phuket Town
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Chaweng City Center

4.5/5(51 area reviews)

Chaweng City Center is known for its stunning beaches, and you can see some sights area like Chaweng Beach and Central Festival Samui Shopping Center.

Chaweng City Center
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Nong Thale

Travellers to Nong Thale praise its stunning beaches. If you've got some more time to explore, be sure to stop by Tubkaek Beach and Khlong Muang Beach.

Nong Thale
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Cape Panwa

While visiting Cape Panwa, you might make a stop by sights like Ao Yon Beach and Panwa Beach.

Cape Panwa
Mandarava Resort and Spa Karon Beach

Mandarava Resort and Spa Karon Beach

4.5 out of 5
14/2 Patak Road Soi 24, Karon Beach, Karon, Phuket
The price is €75 per night from 23 Sept to 24 Sept
€75
23 Sept - 24 Sept
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 4.5-star luxury hotel in Karon. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and 5 outdoor pools. Our guests praise the breakfast and the pool in our reviews. ...
Mandarava Resort and Spa Karon Beach
Phuket Marriott Resort & Spa, Merlin Beach

Phuket Marriott Resort & Spa, Merlin Beach

5 out of 5
99 Muen-Ngoen Road, Tri-Trang Beach, Patong, Phuket
The price is €157 per night from 20 Sept to 21 Sept
€157
20 Sept - 21 Sept
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 5-star luxury resort in Patong. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and 3 outdoor pools. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
Phuket Marriott Resort & Spa, Merlin Beach
Paradox Resort Phuket

Paradox Resort Phuket

5 out of 5
509 Patak Road, Karon Beach, Karon, Phuket
The price is €87 per night from 3 Sept to 4 Sept
€87
3 Sept - 4 Sept
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 5-star luxury resort in Karon. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a full-service spa. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular ...
Paradox Resort Phuket
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
HOMA Phuket Town

HOMA Phuket Town

4 out of 5
3/41 Moo 5, Soi Samkong 1, Ratsada, Phuket
Stay at this 4-star family-friendly aparthotel in Ratsada. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and breakfast (surcharge). Popular attractions Patong Beach and Bangla ...
HOMA Phuket Town
Villa Palm Vista - Luxury, Private Pool Villa

Villa Palm Vista - Luxury, Private Pool Villa

4 out of 5
19/6 Moo 4 Bophut Bangrak, Koh Samui, Surat Thani
Stay at this 4-star business-friendly villa in Koh Samui. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and private pools. Popular attractions Bo Phut Beach and Fisherman's ...
Villa Palm Vista - Luxury, Private Pool Villa
Diamond Resort Phuket

Diamond Resort Phuket

4 out of 5
106 Soi Cherngtalay 14, Choeng Thale, Phuket
Stay at this 4-star family-friendly aparthotel in Choeng Thale. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff ...
Diamond Resort Phuket
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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