Things To Do
in Songkhla
Songkhla is a coastal province in southern Thailand known for its lively waterfront, historic Old Town, and seafood-rich culinary scene. The city blends Sino-Portuguese architecture with modern energy, anchored by the scenic Samila Beach and the expansive Songkhla Lake. It offers a relaxed, walkable core with markets, museums, and seaside viewpoints, plus easy access to nature and nearby islands.
Visitors can savor fresh seafood, explore cultural sites, and enjoy warm Thai hospitality year-round.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the historic Old Town of Songkhla, where you can admire the colorful Sino-Portuguese architecture that characterizes the area. As you stroll through the charming streets, stop by local cafes to savor a traditional Thai breakfast of jok (rice porridge) or patongko (Thai donuts). Capture the essence of the town by taking photos of murals and historic buildings that tell the story of its rich cultural heritage.
After lunch, head to the Songkhla National Museum, where you can delve deeper into the region's history and learn about the local traditions. Explore the extensive collection of artifacts, art, and exhibits that reflect the diverse influences that have shaped Songkhla over the centuries. Later, take a leisurely walk along the waterfront promenade, enjoying the sea breeze and vibrant atmosphere.
As the sun sets, enjoy a dinner at a seaside restaurant with stunning views of the Gulf of Thailand. Savor fresh seafood dishes and local specialties while listening to the gentle lapping of waves. After dinner, take a stroll along the beach, where you can witness the magical colors of the sky as night falls.
Begin your day at Samila Beach, a stunning stretch of coastline known for its soft golden sands and crystal-clear waters. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a beachside café, where you can indulge in tropical fruits and freshly brewed coffee. After breakfast, take a refreshing swim in the sea or relax under the shade of palm trees, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere.
In the afternoon, rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the calm waters and nearby islands. If you're feeling adventurous, try out some beach sports like beach volleyball or frisbee with locals and fellow travelers. Afterward, unwind with a foot massage offered by local vendors along the beach.
As dusk approaches, enjoy a beach barbecue where you can grill your own seafood or meat while mingling with locals. The sound of waves and the scent of grilled food create a perfect end to your beach day. Finish the evening by watching a traditional Thai dance performance nearby, immersing yourself in the local culture.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🚗Short taxi or songthaew ride | $2-6 |
| 🏨Budget hotel night | $15-35 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🛍️Souvenirs/market purchases | $5-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful coastal scenery and friendly locals
- Rich cultural heritage in Old Town
- Excellent seafood and vibrant street food
- Relatively compact and walkable city center
- nightlife is more low-key compared to bigger cities
- Public transport outside the city center can be limited
- Very hot and humid during long dry months
- "สวัสดีครับ/ค่ะ" - Hello (male/female)
- "ขอบคุณครับ/ค่ะ" - Thank you (polite)
- "ห้องน้ำอยู่ที่ไหนครับ/ค่ะ" - Where is the bathroom?
- "คุณพูดภาษาอังกฤษได้ไหม" - Do you speak English?
- "ราคานี้สามารถต่อรองได้ไหม" - Is this price negotiable?
Places to Visit in Songkhla
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic coastal shot with the statue against the Gulf, especially dramatic at sunrise or sunset.
Colorful shophouses, wooden balconies, and atmospheric streets ideal for architectural and street photography.
Forest trails and waterfall scenes offering lush greenery and wildlife photography opportunities.
Food in Songkhla
Songkhla Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A vibrant southern rice salad mixed with herbs, tropical flavors, and a tangy lime dressing.
Must-Try!
Spicy dry curry (often pork or beef) served with vegetables and sticky rice.
Steamed fish curry custard wrapped in banana leaf, rich and aromatic.
Hot and sour seafood soup brimming with lemongrass, lime, and chili.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Lively market by the coast offering fresh seafood to grill or fry on the spot.
Traditional market with produce, ready-to-eat dishes, and local snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A respectful greeting with hands pressed together; bow slightly. Use a polite tone when speaking to elders or service staff.
Dress modestly when visiting temples; shoulders and knees should be covered; remove shoes before temple entry in many places.
Do not point feet at people or sacred objects; avoid touching heads, which is considered sacred in Thai culture.
Safety
Tipping in Songkhla
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. In higher-end restaurants and hotels, rounding up or leaving a small gratuity for good service is common; at street food stalls, tipping is not expected.
Cash is widely used (Thai Baht) and many shops in markets accept cash; some restaurants and larger establishments accept cards and digital wallets, especially in tourist areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid days with plenty of sunshine. Best for beach time and outdoor coastal activities; stay hydrated, wear hats, and seek shade during peak sun hours.
Heavy afternoon rains and high humidity; plan indoor museum visits or market strolls and bring a light rain jacket. Sea conditions can affect boat trips.
Pleasant temperatures and lower humidity; ideal for sightseeing, outdoor markets, and sunset photography along the coast.
Songkhla at Night
Hiking in Songkhla
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails leading to scenic waterfalls and viewpoints, suitable for a half-day hike.
Airports
How to reach Songkhla by plane.
Main international gateway near Songkhla; typically a 40–60 minute drive to the city depending on traffic.
Smaller regional airport serving domestic flights; roughly a 1.5–2 hour drive to Songkhla depending on route and traffic.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant religious and cultural group across the province.
Concentrated in southern districts with distinctive customs and cuisine.
Communities contributing to commerce, markets, and cultural diversity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played and watched across towns; local clubs and public pitches are common.
Traditional Thai boxing with gyms and occasional local events.
Traditional kick volleyball sport often seen in parks and schools.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Songkhla.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes can be prepared without meat; request no fish sauce or shrimp paste. Look for jay (vegetarian) options at markets and ask vendors to confirm ingredients.