Things To Do
in Don Sak

Don Sak is a charming coastal town located in Surat Thani Province, Thailand, known for its beautiful beaches and as a gateway to the nearby islands of Koh Phangan and Koh Samui. The town offers a tranquil atmosphere, making it a perfect retreat for those seeking to escape the busier tourist destinations. Visitors can explore local markets, enjoy fresh seafood, and immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of the area.

With its warm climate and friendly locals, Don Sak is an ideal destination for both relaxation and adventure.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Don Sak
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the local market to experience the vibrant atmosphere and sample fresh fruits and local delicacies.

afternoon
:

Head to Don Sak Beach for some relaxation and sunbathing, followed by a seafood lunch at a beachside restaurant.

evening
:

Enjoy a sunset walk along the beach and dine at a local seafood restaurant, savoring dishes like grilled fish and spicy shrimp.

day 2
Day 2: Island Adventure
morning
:

Take a ferry from Don Sak to Koh Phangan, where you can explore the island's stunning beaches and natural beauty.

afternoon
:

Visit Than Sadet National Park for hiking and swimming in the pristine waterfalls.

evening
:

Return to Don Sak and enjoy dinner at a local eatery, followed by a stroll through the night market to experience local crafts and snacks.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
๐ŸœMeal at a local restaurant$3-5
๐Ÿ›ตMotorbike rental for a day$5-10
๐Ÿ–๏ธBeach chair rental$1-2
๐Ÿš•Taxi ride within town$2-4
๐ŸงดSunscreen$5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful beaches and serene atmosphere.
  • Rich local culture and delicious food.
  • Easier access to nearby islands.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transportation can be infrequent.
  • Potential language barriers in less touristy areas.
  • "Sawasdee krub/ka" - Hello (male/female)
  • "Khob khun krub/ka" - Thank you (male/female)
  • "Chan chao Thai" - I am Thai.
  • "Pom/Chan mai khau" - I don't understand (male/female).
  • "Aow niu" - I want this.

Places to Visit in Don Sak

Visit one of these nice places.

Don Sak Beach

Capture stunning views of the sunset and local fishermen at this serene beach.

Than Sadet National Park

Photograph the breathtaking waterfalls and lush greenery.

Local Temples

Historic temples with intricate architecture perfect for capturing the essence of Thai culture.

Culinary Guide

Food in Don Sak

Don Sak is a food lover's paradise, offering a rich array of local dishes that capture the essence of Thai cuisine, especially seafood.

Don Sak Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Tom Yum Goong

A spicy and sour shrimp soup that is a staple in Thai cuisine.

Must-Try!

Pla Pao

Grilled fish coated in salt and served with spicy dipping sauce, a popular beachside dish.

Pad Thai

Stir-fried noodles with shrimp or chicken, bean sprouts, and peanuts, a must-try classic.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Don Sak Night Market

A bustling market offering a variety of street food, snacks, and local specialties.

Fresh Seafood Market

A daytime market where you can buy fresh catches directly from local fishermen.

Climate Guide

Weather

Don Sak has a tropical climate with three main seasons. The dry season from November to February is cooler and ideal for outdoor activities. The hot season from March to May features high humidity and temperatures averaging 30ยฐC (86ยฐF). The rainy season from June to October brings heavy rainfall, making it essential to check weather forecasts and plan accordingly.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for the Monks

Avoid touching or sitting next to monks; always show them respect.

Shoes Off in Temples

Remove shoes before entering temples as a sign of respect.

Greetings

A 'wai' (hands together in prayer) is a traditional greeting; it's polite to return it.

Safety Guide

Safety

Don Sak is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night in less populated areas and keep valuables secure. It's advisable to stay informed about local conditions, especially during the rainy season, when flooding can occur.

Tipping in Don Sak

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not mandatory; however, leaving small change for good service is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used; credit cards may not be accepted at smaller eateries.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (November - February)

The weather is cooler and less humid, making it the best time to visit.

Hot Season (March - May)

Expect high temperatures; stay hydrated and plan outdoor activities for early morning.

Rainy Season (June - October)

Frequent rain showers; be prepared for wet weather and occasional flooding.

Festival Season

Attend local festivals such as Loy Krathong in November for a unique cultural experience.

Nightlife Guide

Don Sak at Night

Don Sak offers a relaxed nightlife scene, with beach bars and local eateries lining the coast. While it may not be as vibrant as larger cities, visitors can enjoy live music, fire shows on the beach, and late-night dining. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, making it a great place to unwind after a day of exploration.

Hiking in Don Sak

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Than Sadet Trail

A scenic trail through the national park leading to stunning waterfalls and lush greenery.

Koh Phangan Hiking Trails

Various trails on the island offering breathtaking views and diverse landscapes.

Airports

How to reach Don Sak by plane.

Surat Thani Airport (URT)

The nearest airport, approximately 60 km away, offering domestic flights and connections to Bangkok and other cities.

Getting Around

Walkability

Don Sak is moderately walkable, with many areas accessible on foot, especially near the beach and local markets. However, some attractions may require a short drive or bike ride, as the town has limited sidewalks. Overall, exploring on foot can be a pleasant way to experience the local culture and scenery.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Fishermen

A significant part of the community, many families rely on fishing as their primary source of income.

Tourists and Expats

An increasing number of tourists and expatriates are drawn to Don Sak for its natural beauty and tranquility.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Muay Thai

A traditional martial art and sport that is popular in Thailand, with local gyms offering classes.

Football (Soccer)

A beloved sport in the region, with local teams and matches drawing community support.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Don Sak is light, making it easy to navigate the town by foot, bicycle, or motorbike. Public transportation options include songthaews (shared taxis) and motorbike taxis, which are convenient for getting around. During peak tourist seasons, expect some congestion near popular attractions and the ferry terminal.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Don Sak.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian versions of traditional dishes.

Allergy Considerations

It's advisable to communicate any allergies clearly as seafood is prevalent in the local cuisine.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Don Sak is basic, with a few clinics and a hospital available for general care. For more serious medical issues, traveling to Surat Thani city for advanced treatment is recommended. It's advisable for travelers to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Discover Thailand

Read more in our Thailand 2025 Travel Guide.

Thailand Travel Guide