Na Mueang Waterfall
Natural swimming pool in jungle setting
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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.
- 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
Jump straight to the experience you're planning.
Best places to visit in Surat Thani
The 5 destinations our editors recommend — from iconic landmarks to under-the-radar finds.
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
Pick a length, follow the route. Each itinerary balances headline sights with breathing room.
5-Day Surat Thani Explorer
- Day 1Arrive in Surat Thani, explore city center
- Day 2Visit top attractions and museums
- Day 3Day trip to nearby highlights
- Day 4Local markets and hidden gems
- Day 5Final sightseeing, departure
7-Day Classic Surat Thani
- Days 1-2Surat Thani city highlights
- Days 3-4Regional exploration
- Days 5-6Cultural immersion and local experiences
- Day 7Return and departure
14-Day Ultimate Surat Thani
- Days 1-3Surat Thani comprehensive city tour
- Days 4-6Northern region exploration
- Days 7-9Eastern highlights
- Days 10-12Southern attractions
- Days 13-14Return to Surat Thani, departure
Where to stay in Surat Thani
Three tiers, every traveller covered — from cost-conscious to flagship hotels.
Budget $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
Cafés, neighbourhood gems, and tasting menus worth the table reservation.
Dining on the Rocks
Ton Po Night Market
Long Tail Kitchen
Getting around Surat Thani
Budget breakdown
Daily spend by tier in THB, broken out by category.
| 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
Essential travel tips
- 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
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
Is Surat Thani safe to visit in 2026?
Surat Thani province is generally safe for tourists, with low violent crime rates. The main risks are motorbike accidents, water safety during monsoon season, and petty theft in crowded tourist areas during high season. Emergency services: police at 191 (national), or 1155 (Tourist Police — English speaking), medical at 1669 (Emergency Medical Service), or 1300 (Bangkok Hospital Surat).
What is the best time to visit Surat Thani?
The best time to visit Surat Thani is December to April. Surat Thani province has a tropical monsoon climate with two distinct seasons: the dry season (December to April) and the wet season (May to November). The province receives significant annual rainfal
Do I need a visa to visit Surat Thani?
Entry requirements follow Thailand rules. Most Western nationals receive a 30-day visa exemption on arrival; tourist visas (60 days) available at Thai embassies. E-visa available online. Requirements vary by nationality, so check with your nearest embassy or the official immigration website before traveling.
What currency is used in Surat Thani?
The currency in Surat Thani is the Thai Baht (THB). ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels and restaurants, but carry cash for markets and smaller establishments.
What language is spoken in Surat Thani?
The main language(s) spoken in Surat Thani: Thai, Southern Thai dialect. In tourist areas, English is generally understood. Learning a few basic phrases in the local language is appreciated by locals.
What are the top attractions in Surat Thani?
The top attractions in Surat Thani include Khao Sok National Park, Cheow Lan Lake (Rajjaprabha Dam), Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, and Koh Tao. Each offers a unique experience, from historic landmarks to natural wonders.