South Thailand Travel Guide : Best Islands, Beaches & Things to Do

• Andaman Coast: Phuket, Krabi, Phi Phi, Trang. They are known for their limestone cliffs, party vibes, and iconic, breathtaking sunsets.
  
   
• Gulf Coast: Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, and  Koh Tao offer calm blue seas and world-class diving.

Tip: The Andaman is your pick for adventure and stunning scenery. The Gulf is perfect for chill vibes, snorkelling, and smaller crowds.

• Andaman Coast:  From November to April is the ideal time to visit Thailand particularly Southern part. As the water goes clear, the weather is weirdly forgiving, and you can actually move between islands without the sea itself flipping your plans.
• Gulf Coast: The Gulf is just offbeat enough to shift this window; Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, and Koh Tao are all best during January to April (sometimes October sneaks in with good weather too). But November–early December is usually the rainiest season.

Tip: The Songkran festival should be visited during mid-April. It is a loud, fun and unforgettable Thai festival worth experiencing.

Phuket is a vibrant island where the best beaches in Thailand meet a rich culture. Wander through Old Town’s colourful streets, or hop on a boat to explore nearby Phi Phi and James Bond Island.

Activities to do:

• Relax at Patong, Kata, or Karon Beach
• Snorkelling and sea kayaking
• Thai cooking classes
• Sunset cocktails at the beach

Krabi is known for its dramatic limestone cliffs and turquoise waters. From Railay Beach to hidden lagoons, nature lovers will find endless adventure.

Activities to do:

• Rock climbing at Railay Beach
• Kayaking through mangroves
• Island hopping to the Four Islands

Visiting Emerald pools and hot springs is among the best things to do in Thailand when exploring South Thailand.

The Phi Phi Islands are world-famous for clear waters and lively beaches. Snorkel in stunning bays or watch the sunset from the viewpoint for unforgettable views.

Activities to do:

• Snorkelling in Loh Samah Bay
• Island hopping tours
• Diving trips for marine life exploration
• Sunset photography at Phi Phi Viewpoint

Koh Lanta is perfect for travellers looking to slow down and enjoy calm beaches. Explore local culture, quiet stretches of sand, and wellness retreats.

Activities to do:

• Relax at Klong Dao or Long Beach
• Cycle through palm-lined roads
• Snorkelling and diving trips
• Yoga and wellness retreats

Koh Samui combines luxury, culture, and stunning beaches. From vibrant nightlife to peaceful spots, there’s something for every traveller.

Activities to do:

• Relax on Chaweng or Lamai Beach
• Visit Big Buddha Temple
• Waterfall hikes and nature walks
• Snorkelling, spa retreats, and Thai boxing lessons

Koh Tao is South Thailand’s best destination to visit for diving, with crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life. Even non-divers will love its scenic beauty.

Activities to do:

• Take PADI diving courses.
• Snorkel at Shark Bay
• Relax on Ao Leuk Beach
• Kayaking and cliff jumping

• Speedboat: It is Fast and good for travellers who are in a rush, but more likely to be shut down in rough sea windows (notably the Andaman monsoon during September and October).
• Regular ferry/catamaran: It is slower but more reliable, great if you’re carrying luggage or travelling with family.
• Longtail: Best for short stretches like Railay, offering stunning views along the way, but not advisable for cross-channel.

Airports and reality checks

• Phuket International to Rassada Pier or Patong: take 45 minutes if traffic is moderate.
• Krabi International to Klong Jilad Pier: 30 minutes.
• Trang Airport to main piers: 30–60 minutes.
• Surat Thani to Don Sak: it will take 1.5 hours by road, followed by a 1.5–2 hour ferry to Koh Samui, making the total journey closer to 3–4 hours.

3-Day Quick Escape: Phuket + Phi Phi

• Highlights: Explore Phuket Old Town, relax at Patong Beach, sunset at Promthep Cape, and go island-hopping to Phi Phi with snorkelling.
• Activities: Beach relaxation, sightseeing, snorkelling, and short island tours.
• Estimated Cost: ~12,500 THB (INR28,750)

5-Day Adventure: Phuket + Krabi + Railay

• Highlights: Phuket sightseeing, Phi Phi day tour, travel to Krabi, visit Ao Nang and Railay Beach, hike to Emerald Pools.
• Activities: Island hopping, rock climbing, kayaking, and sunset watching.
• Estimated Cost: ~21,500 THB (INR49,450)

7-Day Island Hopper: Phuket + Krabi + Koh Lanta + Phi Phi

• Highlights: Phuket beaches and markets, Phi Phi snorkelling, Koh Lanta for calm beaches and cycling, Krabi day trips to Railay.
• Activities: Snorkelling, cycling, kayaking, and cultural exploration.
• Estimated Cost: ~29,500 THB (INR67,850)

10-Day Adventure + Culture: Phuket + Krabi + Koh Lanta + Koh Samui + Koh Phangan

• Highlights: Island tours, beaches, temples, waterfalls, yoga retreats, snorkelling, and Full Moon Party or quiet beach days.
• Activities: Sightseeing, snorkelling, hiking, cultural visits, nightlife.
• Estimated Cost: ~47,000 THB (INR108,100)

Also Read – Top resorts in Thailand

1. Visa Basics: Visa on Arrival now allows up to 30 days stay to most qualified nationalities at approximately 2,000 THB (INR 5,500). Another advantage that many travellers enjoy is visa-exemption schemes of up to 30 days free of charge; however, one must always confirm with the Thai consulate before travelling.
2. Diving & Sea Safety: Adhere to safety briefs, ensure you do not fly within 24 hours of diving and go with reputable operators- particularly in Koh Tao.
3. Sun and Mosquito Care: Bundle sunscreen and insect repellent in a package that is reef-safe and hydrate frequently. The bugs and tropical sun are more powerful than one would imagine.
4. Smart Packing: Carry copies of the passport, travel insurance, domestic cash, universal plugs, and a dry bag. One can find a fast-drying towel as well as snorkel gear to facilitate beach life.

Dreaming of paradise? You have it all in this South Thailand Travel Guide, be it the nightlife of Phuket, cliffs in Krabi, iconic bays in Phi Phi, or diving escapes in Koh Tao. It is the place where the lue ocean and the adventure of the island-hopping, and the swing of the hammocks all meet. Pack, plan and leave the magic to work. It is not merely a journey – it is a memorable adventure to be experienced. So to fulfil your wish for a perfect journey, plan your trip with Pickyourtrail by discovering Thailand tour packages now.