Things To Do
in Surat Thani
Surat Thani is a vibrant province in southern Thailand, known as the gateway to the stunning islands of Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, and Koh Tao. The city itself offers a blend of traditional Thai culture and modern amenities, making it an attractive stop for travelers. With lush landscapes, beautiful temples, and a rich culinary scene, Surat Thani invites visitors to explore its natural beauty and cultural heritage.
It serves as an ideal base for island-hopping adventures and outdoor activities.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Surat Thani Night Market to sample local breakfast dishes like Khao Tom (rice soup) and fresh fruit.
Explore Wat Phra Borommathat Chaiya, an ancient temple with stunning architecture, and learn about its history.
Enjoy dinner at a riverside restaurant while watching the sunset over the Tapi River.
Go on a half-day tour to Khao Sok National Park for a jungle trek and a chance to see exotic wildlife.
Visit the local hot springs in the area for a relaxing soak in nature.
Dine at a local seafood restaurant and experience live music at a nearby bar.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Street Food Meal | $1-3 |
| 🍺Local Beer | $2-4 |
| 🚌Bus Ticket | $0.50-2 |
| 🏨Budget Hotel Night | $10-25 |
| 🍽️Dinner at a Restaurant | $5-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery and access to islands.
- Rich local culture and delicious cuisine.
- Less touristy compared to other destinations, offering an authentic experience.
- Limited nightlife options compared to bigger cities.
- Language barrier may exist for non-Thai speakers.
- Public transportation can be less frequent and less reliable.
- "Sawaddee krub/ka" - Hello (male/female)
- "Khob khun krub/ka" - Thank you (male/female)
- "Chai" - Yes
- "Mai" - No
- "Pom/Chan puut paasaa thai mai dai" - I cannot speak Thai (male/female)
Places to Visit in Surat Thani
Visit one of these nice places.
An ancient temple with intricate architecture and stunning views, perfect for capturing the essence of Thai culture.
A lush park filled with unique rock formations and rich biodiversity, ideal for nature photography.
The serene river offers beautiful sunset views and opportunities to capture local life along its banks.
Food in Surat Thani
Surat Thani Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A creamy coconut curry noodle soup, popular in southern Thailand.
Must-Try!
A spicy curry made with fresh seafood, often served with rice.
A spicy green papaya salad that is a staple in Thai cuisine.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where you can find a variety of street food stalls offering local specialties.
A vibrant day market filled with fresh produce and ready-to-eat meals.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Always show respect and avoid physical contact with monks, especially women.
A traditional greeting where you place your hands together in a prayer-like gesture and bow slightly.
Visitors should dress modestly when visiting temples, covering shoulders and knees.
Safety
Tipping in Surat Thani
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated; rounding up your bill or leaving small change is common.
Cash is widely used, but many places accept credit cards; ensure you carry enough cash for street food and small vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Cooler and drier weather, ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the city.
Hot and humid conditions with occasional rain, best to stay hydrated and use sun protection.
Heavy rainfall and thunderstorms are common, making it less ideal for outdoor excursions.
Experience local festivals like the Surat Thani Festival, showcasing culture and food.
Surat Thani at Night
Hiking in Surat Thani
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A network of trails offering hikes through dense rainforest, with opportunities to see wildlife and stunning landscapes.
A moderate hike that provides panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, ideal for photography and nature enthusiasts.
Airports
How to reach Surat Thani by plane.
Located about 30 minutes from the city center, this airport serves domestic flights and is the primary gateway for travelers heading to the nearby islands.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population consists of ethnic Thai people, who are known for their hospitality and cultural traditions.
A significant number of tourists visit Surat Thani as a transit point to the islands, contributing to the local economy.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A traditional form of Thai boxing that is popular in Surat Thani, with local gyms offering training and events.
Football is widely played and followed in the region, with local teams playing in community leagues.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Surat Thani.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer vegetarian options, but it’s best to ask if dishes are cooked with fish sauce.
Gluten-free options are limited, so it's advisable to communicate restrictions clearly.