Tourist highlights across southern Thailand

Koh Samui is undoubtedly the region’s top tourist destination. However, the many magnificent attractions on mainland are unfortunately often overlooked by visitors. The mainland scenery is dominated by vegetated mountains and gorgeous sheltered sandy beach areas, while several historical sights can be found here as well. Most remarkable are ancient Phetchaburi’s crumbling temples.

The stretch of shoreline south of Phetchaburi provides a popular weekend getaway for many Bangkokians and goes all the way to the more famous seaside resort towns of Hua Hin and Cha-am. Especially Cha-Am offers very affordably priced restaurants and accommodation and most of its visitors are Thai people.

One of the country’s best bird-watching environments is located within a short distance from Khao Sam Roy Yot National Park. About 93 miles farther down the shore, Chumphon offers limited tourist facilities but does provide the most ideal departure base, from which where boats non-stop sail to the charming island of Koh Tao (Turtle Island).

 Koh Tao, on the beach

Online guide to Koh Tao

Positioned southeast of Chumphon is Koh Samui, compared with the other isles it boasts the most stunning landscapes featuring long stretches of sandy white beaches lined with waving palm trees. Obviously Samui Island’s exceptional beauty wasn’t ignored by tourist project developers, but this means at least that visitors can buy some extra modern comfort if they can afford it.

During the past two decades Koh Phangan has drawn away an increasing amount of backpackers from neighbouring Koh Samui. Accommodation on Koh Pha Ngan is much more budget-friendly, while especially the famous full-moon parties attract huge crowds of young international travellers. Hat Rin on Koh Phangan is a stunning and tranquil beach.

Southern Thailand’s cultural capital is Nakhon Si Thammarat, tucked away beneath the isles visiting this city might be a rewarding travel experience as it is the location of grand historic temples, unique handicrafts and mouth-watering cuisine.

Rail services leaving from Bangkok link each of mainland localities, while buses following a route along motorways 4 and 41 depart regularly. Two jumping-off points operate daily boat services to the isles. Koh Tao can be reached via non-stop sailings leaving from Chumphon, while 403 miles from Bangkok at Surat Thani, the best selection of boat trips is offered. 

South Thailand tourist guide