About Surat Thani
Surat Thani province stretches from lush mainland rainforests to spectacular Gulf of Thailand islands. The provincial capital sits on the Tapee River and serves as the main transit hub for ferries to the islands. Khao Sok National Park, with its ancient jungle and Cheow Lan Lake, draws nature lovers, while Koh Samui and Koh Phangan attract beach enthusiasts and the legendary Full Moon Party crowd.
Quick Overview
Capital: Surat Thani City
Largest City: Surat Thani City
Population: 1.06 million
Languages: Thai, Southern Thai dialect
Currency: Thai Baht
Time Zone: UTC+7 (Indochina Time)
Explore Surat Thani by Topic
Best Places to Visit in Surat Thani
Discover the top 5 must-see destinations in Surat Thani, from iconic landmarks to off-the-beaten-path treasures.
Na Mueang Waterfall
Natural swimming pool in jungle setting
Ang Thong Marine Park Day Trip
Island archipelago adventure
Elephant Sanctuary, Koh Samui
Ethical elephant encounter
Big Buddha Temple
Accessible cultural landmark
Koh Tao Scuba Diving
World-class intro to diving
Recommended Itineraries for Surat Thani
Plan your perfect Surat Thani trip with our expertly crafted itineraries for every travel style and duration.
5-Day Surat Thani Explorer
- Day 1: Arrive in Surat Thani, explore city center
- Day 2: Visit top attractions and museums
- Day 3: Day trip to nearby highlights
- Day 4: Local markets and hidden gems
- Day 5: Final sightseeing, departure
7-Day Classic Surat Thani
- Days 1-2: Surat Thani city highlights
- Days 3-4: Regional exploration
- Days 5-6: Cultural immersion and local experiences
- Day 7: Return and departure
14-Day Ultimate Surat Thani
- Days 1-3: Surat Thani comprehensive city tour
- Days 4-6: Northern region exploration
- Days 7-9: Eastern highlights
- Days 10-12: Southern attractions
- Days 13-14: Return to Surat Thani, departure
Where to Stay in Surat Thani
From luxury resorts to budget-friendly options, Surat Thani offers accommodations for every traveler.
Budget Options ($35)
Hostels, budget hotels, and guesthouses offer affordable stays without sacrificing experience.
Mid-Range ($100)
Boutique hotels and well-located accommodations provide comfort and convenience at reasonable prices.
Luxury ($380)
World-class resorts and premium hotels deliver unforgettable experiences.
Anantara Bophut Koh Samui
Hansar Samui Resort
Jungle Club Hostel
Where to Eat in Surat Thani
Discover the culinary delights of Surat Thani, from local street food to fine dining experiences.
Dining on the Rocks
Ton Po Night Market
Long Tail Kitchen
Getting Around Surat Thani
Budget Breakdown for Surat Thani
Plan your spending with our comprehensive cost guide. Currency: THB.
| Category | Budget | Mid-Range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $12 | $60 | $280 |
| Food (per day) | $10 | $25 | $65 |
| Transportation | $6 | $10 | $20 |
| Activities | $7 | $15 | $45 |
| Daily Total | $35 | $100 | $380 |
Best Time to Visit Surat Thani
Best Season: December to April (dry season, calm seas)
Avoid: October-November (heavy rain, rough ferry crossings challenging with children)
Essential Travel Tips for Surat Thani
- Book ferry tickets in advance during peak season (December-February)
- Surat Thani City is mainly a transit hub — most visitors head straight to the islands
- The night buses from Bangkok to Surat Thani are an affordable option for island-bound travelers
- Exchange currency at banks or official exchange booths for the best rates
Safety Information
Travel Advisory
Thailand is under a general Level 1 advisory (Exercise Normal Precautions) from most Western governments. Areas of deep southern Thailand (Yala, Pattani, Narathiwat, and Songkhla near the Malaysia border) carry higher advisories, but Surat Thani province is not included in these warnings.
Apply high-factor sunscreen every 2 hours — children burn extremely quickly in tropical sun
Keep children hydrated — heat exhaustion risk is high in midday temperatures
Never let children swim unsupervised on beaches with red flags
Always fit children with life jackets on longtail boats and ferries
Check that motorbike helmets fit children properly before renting
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to visit Surat Thani?
The best time to visit Surat Thani is December to April (dry season, calm seas). October-November (heavy rain, rough ferry crossings challenging with children) may have less favorable conditions.
Do I need a visa for Surat Thani?
Visa requirements vary by nationality. Check with your nearest embassy or consulate for Surat Thani for current requirements before travel.
How many days do I need in Surat Thani?
For a comprehensive Surat Thani experience, we recommend 7-10 days. However, you can have a great trip in 5 days focusing on highlights.
Is Surat Thani expensive to visit?
Budget travelers can expect $35 per day, mid-range $100, and luxury $380.