Thailand is a vast country, often divided into northern and southern regions to make travel planning easier. Depending on how long you’re traveling and what interests you, you may need to decide between the two. If you’re still unsure, check out our guide on North vs. South Thailand: Which Region Should You Explore on Your Next Trip? to help make your decision.
But if you’re here, you’ve chosen the South, just like I did! Southern Thailand is absolutely stunning, and in this article, I’ll share some of the places I visited and loved. While I didn’t get to explore everywhere during my month-long trip, the spots I did visit were nothing short of amazing!
1
Koh Samui
Koh Samui is a must-visit tropical destination with a mix of luxury and adventure for all types of travelers.
- Budget-Friendly and Luxury Accommodation: With a wide range of options, Koh Samui caters to backpackers and luxury seekers alike, offering beachfront villas, budget-friendly hotels, and everything in between.
- Clear Waters and Coral Reefs: The island is a paradise for water lovers, boasting crystal-clear waters ideal for snorkeling, diving, and exploring stunning coral reefs.
- Luxury Spas and Resorts: Koh Samui is renowned for its world-class spas and beach resorts, providing the ultimate in relaxation and pampering.
- Easy Accessibility: With its own airport, Koh Samui is highly accessible, making it an ideal base for exploring nearby islands such as Koh Pha-Ngan and Koh Tao.
- Natural Beauty and Outdoor Activities: Lush rainforests, scenic waterfalls, and pristine beaches offer endless opportunities for hiking, nature walks, and beachside relaxation.
Best Time to Visit: December to April (dry season).
How to Get There: Koh Samui has its own airport, making it easily accessible. You can fly from Bangkok or other major Thai cities.
Where to Stay: From beachside bungalows to luxury resorts, there’s a wide range of options depending on your budget.
Budget Tip: The island can be pricey, so consider booking accommodation outside the peak season to save money.
What to Do: For a more in-depth guide on the top things to do in Koh Samui, check out my detailed article here: 8 Of the Best Things to Do in Koh Samui, Thailand.
2
Koh Pha-Ngan
Koh Pha-Ngan is an iconic destination, famous for its vibrant Full Moon Party, but there’s so much more to this island than just nightlife.
- Legendary Full Moon Party: Famous worldwide, this monthly beach party attracts travelers from all over to Haad Rin Beach for a night of unforgettable music, dancing, and fun.
- Pristine Beaches: The island is home to beautiful, serene beaches, perfect for relaxing or enjoying water activities like snorkeling and kayaking.
- Vibrant Local Markets: Explore bustling markets offering fresh food, handmade goods, and local souvenirs, making it a great place for authentic shopping experiences.
- Diverse Accommodation: From budget hostels to cozy bungalows, Koh Pha-Ngan has something for everyone, with Haad Rin being the hotspot for partygoers.
- Easy Access: While there’s no airport, regular ferry connections from nearby Koh Samui make the island easy to reach.
Best Time to Visit: January to March (dry season), or during the Full Moon Party if that’s your interest.
How to Get There: There’s no airport on Koh Pha-Ngan. You’ll need to take a ferry from Koh Samui or the mainland.
Where to Stay: Haad Rin for a party atmosphere, or quieter beaches like Bottle Beach for relaxation.
Budget Tip: If you’re not attending the Full Moon Party, avoid staying in Haad Rin during that time, as accommodation prices skyrocket.
What to Do: For a more in-depth guide on the top things to do in Koh Pha-Ngan, check out my detailed article here: 11 Of the Best things to Do in Koh Pha-Ngan, Thailand.
3
Ko Ang Thong National Marine Park
Ko Ang Thong National Marine Park is an unforgettable day trip destination, offering breathtaking landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities. This protected archipelago of 42 islands is a must-see for nature lovers visiting southern Thailand.
- Spectacular Viewpoints: The park is famous for its panoramic views, offering some of the best vistas in southern Thailand.
- Island-Hopping Adventures: Explore the diverse beauty of this archipelago by hopping from one stunning island to another.
- Exciting Activities: Enjoy a range of outdoor adventures including hiking, kayaking, and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters.
- Tours from Koh Samui and Koh Pha-Ngan: Convenient tours are available, making it easy to access this island paradise from nearby destinations.
- Relaxation in Nature: Ko Ang Thong offers tranquil beaches and peaceful spots, perfect for unwinding amidst the beauty of nature.
Best Time to Visit: February to October, when the seas are calm for boat trips.
How to Get There: The easiest way is by booking a day tour from Koh Samui or Koh Pha-Ngan. Most tours include transportation, meals, and activities.
Where to Stay: There’s no accommodation in the marine park itself, so plan to return to your base in Koh Samui or Koh Pha-Ngan.
Budget Tip: Book group tours in advance to get better deals on prices.
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4
Krabi
Krabi is a diverse destination that offers something for every type of traveler, from breathtaking beaches to thrilling adventures.
- Spectacular Limestone Cliffs: Krabi is known for its towering limestone cliffs, making it feel like a scene straight out of a fantasy movie.
- Adventure Activities: Thrill-seekers can indulge in snorkeling, kayaking, and rock climbing, surrounded by stunning natural beauty.
- Beautiful Beaches: For those looking to unwind, Krabi offers some of Thailand’s most pristine beaches, perfect for sunbathing and swimming.
- Vibrant Nightlife: Ao Nang is the hotspot for lively nightlife, with plenty of bars and clubs to enjoy after a day of exploring.
- Relaxation and Wellness: Treat yourself to a spa day or simply relax by the beach for the ultimate rejuvenation experience.
Best Time to Visit: November to April for the best weather.
How to Get There: Krabi has an international airport with direct flights from Bangkok and other cities. From the airport, you can take a taxi or shuttle to Ao Nang or other areas.
Where to Stay: Ao Nang is the most popular choice for travelers, but you can also stay in Railay Beach if you prefer a more secluded vibe.
Budget Tip: Look for hostels and guesthouses in Ao Nang to save money on accommodation.
What to Do: For a more in-depth guide on the top things to do in Krabi, check out my detailed article here: 6 Of the Best Things to Do In Krabi, Thailand.
5
Koh Phi Phi
Koh Phi Phi is a world-renowned island, famous for its breathtaking scenery and the iconic Maya Bay, featured in Leonardo DiCaprio’s movie The Beach. With no cars or motorbikes, the island offers a unique and relaxing atmosphere for travelers of all kinds.
- Maya Bay: This stunning beach lives up to its cinematic fame, offering crystal-clear waters and dramatic cliffs.
- No Cars or Motorbikes: Koh Phi Phi’s laid-back vibe is enhanced by the absence of vehicles, making it a peaceful escape.
- Beach Parties and Secluded Spots: Whether you want to join lively beach parties or unwind in quieter areas, the island offers both.
- Boat-Accessible Beaches: Many of the island’s hidden gems are only accessible by boat, adding to the adventure.
- Kayaking Opportunities: With its calm waters and beautiful surroundings, Koh Phi Phi is ideal for kayaking and exploring the coastline.
Best Time to Visit: November to April (dry season), though it gets crowded during peak season.
How to Get There: You can only reach Koh Phi Phi by ferry, either from Phuket or Krabi. Regular ferries run daily.
Where to Stay: You can only stay on Koh Phi Phi Don. Accommodation ranges from budget hostels to high-end resorts.
Budget Tip: If you want to avoid crowds and high prices, visit in the shoulder season (May or October).
What to Do: For a more in-depth guide on the top things to do in Koh Phi Phi, check out my detailed article here: 8 Of the Best Things to Do in Koh Phi Phi, Thailand.
6
Phuket
Phuket, Thailand’s largest island, is renowned for its diverse landscapes, from lush forests to bustling city life. With vibrant nightlife and stunning beaches, it’s a top destination for travelers seeking adventure and excitement.
- Mountainous Landscape: Over 60% of Phuket is covered by forests and plantations, offering scenic views and opportunities for nature exploration.
- Patong Bay: The most popular area on the island, known for its busy beach and vibrant nightlife.
- Bangla Road: Famous for its non-stop parties, this street in Patong is the heart of Phuket’s nightlife scene.
- City Meets Beach: In Patong, you can experience the lively atmosphere of a city, with the beach just steps away.
- Action-Packed Adventures: If you’re looking for constant excitement, Phuket offers endless activities and attractions both day and night.
Best Time to Visit: November to February for cooler temperatures and dry weather.
How to Get There: Phuket has an international airport, making it accessible from many destinations. From the airport, taxis, buses, and shuttles can take you to various parts of the island.
Where to Stay: Patong is ideal for nightlife lovers, but if you prefer quieter areas, try Kata or Karon Beach.
Budget Tip: Look for accommodation deals outside Patong to save money, as it’s usually more affordable in less crowded areas.
What to Do: For a more in-depth guide on the top things to do in Phuket, check out my detailed article here: 7 Of the Best Things to Do in Phuket, Thailand.
What’s Next?
Now that you know where to go in Thailand, it’s time to plan your trip! Here are some articles that could be helpful :
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