Things To Do
in Kantang
Kantang is a laid-back coastal town in Trang Province, southern Thailand, perched along the Trang River and a short drive from inland rubber plantations and nearby beaches. It serves as a quiet gateway to the region’s seafood markets, Sino‑Thai heritage, and nature escapes. The town blends Thai, Chinese, and sea-faring influences, which you can feel in its markets, temples, and waterfront eateries.
Visitors come for fresh seafood, relaxed pace, and easy access to Trang’s beaches and mangroves.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Kantang and settle into your accommodation with the sound of the waves in the background. Grab a traditional Thai breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh tropical fruits and local delicacies. Spend some time walking along the pier, where fishermen prepare their boats for the day.
Visit the Kantang Cultural Center to learn about the area's history and heritage. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a waterfront restaurant, where you can taste authentic southern Thai cuisine. Take a short stroll through the local markets and pick up some handmade crafts.
Watch the sunset over the tranquil waters while enjoying a refreshing coconut shake. Dine at a beachfront restaurant, relishing fresh seafood while listening to live local music. End your day with a peaceful walk along the beach, under the star-studded sky.
Take a boat trip to the stunning Koh Kradan, known for its pristine beaches and clear waters. Snorkel among vibrant coral reefs, encountering colorful marine life and striking underwater scenery. Enjoy a beach picnic lunch prepared by your guide, surrounded by the beauty of nature.
Relax on the soft sands or take an optional kayak tour around the island to discover hidden beaches. Explore the small trails that lead to breathtaking viewpoints for stunning photo opportunities. Unwind with a refreshing drink as you soak up the sun.
Head back to Kantang and freshen up before heading out for dinner. Enjoy a unique dining experience at a local BBQ restaurant, where you can grill your own seafood right at your table. Spend the evening mingling with locals and travelers over desserts made from the region's famous fruits.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $2-4 |
| 🥭Local fruit (per kg) | $1-3 |
| 🚗Short taxi or songthaew ride in town | $1-3 |
| 🏨Budget hotel room (per night) | $15-40 |
| ☕Coffee or drink at cafe | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Fresh seafood and friendly locals
- Relaxed pace and easy access to nature and beaches
- Limited nightlife and less developed tourist infrastructure
- Seasonal weather impacts some activities
- "Sawasdee khrap/ka" - Hello
- "Khob khun khrap/ka" - Thank you
- "Ao rai?" - How much is this?
- "Nee arrai?" - What is this?
- "Chai dai mai?" - Can I? / May I?
- "Mai ao" - No, thank you
Places to Visit in Kantang
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide river reflections and lamplight at dusk, with boats drifting past and soft silhouettes of trees.
Colorful, weathered storefronts and narrow lanes that showcase architectural character.
Morning light over stalls, fishermen unloading catches, and fragrant herbs in baskets.
Coastline views with blue water, limestone cliffs, and soft horizons at sunrise or sunset.
Colorful temple rooftops and gold accents offering striking contrasts for photography.
Food in Kantang
Kantang Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hot, sour soup with shrimp, fresh herbs, and fragrant lime leaves; widely available at seaside eateries and markets.
Must-Try!
A fragrant southern rice salad with shredded coconut, herbs, and sliced vegetables; a great introduction to regional flavors.
A pungent southern curry made with fermented fish, vegetables, and chilies; best tasted at local eateries that specialize in southern fare.
Freshly caught fish simply grilled with lime, chilies, and herbs, perfect with steamed rice.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Early-morning market with seafood, fruit, vegetables, and ready-to-eat street bites along the riverfront.
Casual stalls along the Kantang River offering fried snacks, seafood skewers, and seasonal fruit.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Show respect in public and avoid negative commentary; dress modestly when visiting temples.
Dress modestly, remove shoes where required, and avoid touching sacred objects; never point feet at people or religious icons.
Use a light bow with palms pressed together; match the depth of the other person’s wai and voice accordingly.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially in markets or religious sites.
Safety
Tipping in Kantang
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service; small amounts (10–50 THB) are common in eateries, hotels, and tour services.
Cash is widely used in markets and smaller eateries; credit/debit cards accepted in larger hotels and tourist spots; ATMs are common in town.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
March–May brings hot days and high humidity. Mornings and late afternoons are best for outdoor activities; beaches are great for short swims when the sea is calm.
Frequent showers and short deluges; muddy trails and lush green landscapes. Pack a light rain jacket and waterproof bag; rain can shape fishing schedules and market activity.
Pleasantly warm days and breezy evenings; ideal for walking tours, river cruises, and day trips to nearby beaches.
Kantang at Night
Hiking in Kantang
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails with viewpoints, streams, and potential wildlife sightings; suitable for a half-day hike.
Low-difficulty rural hikes and bike-friendly routes through plantation landscapes.
Airports
How to reach Kantang by plane.
Domestic flights connect to Bangkok and other Thai destinations; about 60–90 minutes by road to Kantang depending on traffic.
Major hub in southern Thailand with connections to regional and international destinations; about 2–3 hours by road.
A longer drive but serves many international flights; can be used as a gateway for southern Trang Province trips.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of residents identify as Thai Buddhists, reflecting the province’s culture.
Longstanding Chinese influence visible in markets, food, and family businesses.
Small Muslim communities in the southern districts, contributing to regional diversity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Traditional Thai boxing widely watched and practiced in towns across the region.
Popular among locals and youth; casual matches and leagues happen in community fields.
Local culture around fisheries supports angling and boat-based recreation.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kantang.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most markets offer vegetables with coconut or tofu dishes. Communicate simply: 'kin jay' for vegetarian, and look for dishes with tofu, vegetables, and rice. Ask for no fish sauce or shrimp paste.