Planning a trip to Thailand and wondering about the best places to visit in Southern Thailand? Well, you’re in for a treat because Southern Thailand is a dream destination for sun, sea, and natural beauty enthusiasts. It’s not just about the stunning islands and beaches; the region is also known for its beautiful national parks, dense jungles, hiking trails, and mangrove forests.
Southern Thailand is as well-developed and family-friendly as the rest of the country. Thanks to its high-quality infrastructure, it offers something for every type of traveler, from backpackers to families.
Sounds interesting, right? Let’s dive into our list of the best things to do in Southern Thailand!
Krabi Province: Easily Accessible and Full of Interesting Spots
Krabi is renowned for its picturesque beaches and over 100 small islands. There are countless exciting places to explore in Krabi Province. Here are some must-visit spots in Krabi:
Khao Sok National Park: Breathtaking Scenery and Dense Rainforest
Khao Sok National Park is a natural gem with lush, ancient rainforests. This park is one of the wettest areas in Thailand and is home to the Rafflesia kerrii, one of the world’s largest flowers. The park’s highlight is the Cheow Lan Lake, an artificial lake surrounded by karst islets and primary tropical rainforest teeming with wildlife. You can enjoy activities such as canoeing, jungle trekking, and exploring the mangroves on multi-day safari tours.
Phang Nga Bay: Iconic Landscapes and Rich Mangroves
Ao Phang Nga National Park is famous for its dramatic limestone cliffs, beautiful beaches, and extensive mangrove forests. The park’s most famous islet, Ko Ta Pu, is often called “James Bond Island” since one of the James Bond films was shot there. You can take boat tours from Phuket, Krabi, and Ao Nang to explore this stunning area. Another interesting spot is the floating Muslim village of Koh Panyee, built on stilts against a backdrop of limestone cliffs.
Phuket: Easy Access and Diverse Attractions
Phuket, Thailand’s largest island, is a bustling tourist destination with its airport and bridge connection to the mainland. The island is very developed, offering a variety of attractions for every kind of tourist. The historical Old Phuket Town attracts visitors with its colorful Sino-Portuguese architecture. Don’t miss the viewpoints like Khao Rang and Karon Viewpoint for breathtaking views, or Monkey Hill Viewpoint if you want to see playful monkeys. Phuket also boasts beautiful beaches and iconic spots like the huge Phuket Big Buddha.
Ko Samui: Family-Friendly and Vibrant Nightlife
Ko Samui is Thailand’s second largest island and, like Phuket, has its own airport making it easily accessible. This island offers a mix of family-friendly beaches and lively nightlife options. Be sure to visit lookout points for stunning island views. Also, don’t miss the Mu Koh Angthong National Marine Park, a famous national park nearby. For party lovers, the Full Moon Party and Half Moon Festival on nearby Koh Phangan are world-renowned beach parties. Koh Tao, close to Koh Samui, is perfect for snorkelling and diving.
Koh Tao: A Diver’s Paradise
Koh Tao is a small island known as a diving haven with approximately 70 to 80 dive shops. It’s one of the best places in Thailand to get your scuba diving certification, thanks to its warm, clear waters and affordable prices. Even if diving isn’t your thing, you can enjoy snorkelling with reef sharks and colorful tropical fish. The island’s underwater world is brimming with life, making it one of the top spots to visit in Southern Thailand.
Koh Lipe: Perfect for Relaxing Beach Time
Koh Lipe, the southernmost island in Thailand, is often called the Maldives of Thailand due to its stunning beauty. Although it’s off the main tourist track, it’s worth visiting for its crystal-clear waters and serene beaches. The island also offers excellent snorkelling opportunities, making it a fantastic spot to unwind.
So, there you have it! These are some of the best places to explore in Southern Thailand. Get ready for an adventure filled with natural beauty, exciting activities, and unforgettable moments. Enjoy your trip!