In this guide, I’ll take you through the best things to do and the main attractions in Surat Thani. Whether you’re visiting for a day or staying longer, you’ll discover why Surat Thani is worth a visit.
Where is Surat Thani?
Surat Thani is located in Southern Thailand, on the Gulf of Thailand. Its capital city, Surat Thani City, is a major hub for travelers heading to popular destinations like Koh Samui, Koh Tao, and Khao Sok National Park.
What to do in Surat Thani:
Whether you’re visiting for a day trip or planning to spend several days exploring, here are the must-see attractions and top suggestions for your Surat Thani itinerary based on my experiences traveling there.
1. Surat Thani City Pillar Shrine
Surat Thani City Pillar Shrine is a stunning spiritual landmark in the heart of the city. Open daily from 7 AM to 7 PM and free of charge, it’s an accessible and meaningful place to visit for locals and travelers alike.
Known for its unique blend of Thai and Chinese architectural styles, the shrine is a serene spot to admire intricate designs, learn about local traditions, and enjoy a moment of peace during your Surat Thani exploration.
2. Ko Lamphu Island
Lamphu is a small, tranquil island on the Tapi River in Surat Thani. Easily accessible via a bridge, it’s a green oasis in the city, offering shaded walking paths, picnic areas, and scenic river views, especially at sunset.
The park features an open gym and a volleyball court, where locals often come to exercise or unwind. It’s a perfect spot for travelers seeking a quiet escape while exploring Surat Thani.
3. Phum Riang and Laem Pho
On my recent visit to Surat Thani, I had the opportunity to explore the surrounding area by scooter. Therefore, if you have time, I recommend visiting Phum Riang, a small community where both Buddhists and Muslims live together harmoniously.
At the entrance of Phum Riang Village, you’ll find a historic cannon, adding a unique touch to the village’s charm.
A 45 min scooter ride away from Surat Thani City, Phum Riang is a quiet village known for its traditional silk weaving. Known as Phum Riang Silk, this handcrafted fabric is a signature product of the region. Its standout feature is the use of gold and silver threads, woven into elegant, original designs that showcase the community’s rich cultural heritage and craftsmanship.
You can purchase silk products here at reasonable prices.
Adjacent to the beach, a public park stands out with its collection of Muay Thai statues, showcasing various poses and techniques from Thailand’s traditional martial art. It’s a peaceful and culturally rich area worth visiting during your time in Phum Riang.
Nearby, Phum Riang Beach offers a glimpse into the region’s natural and cultural beauty. This coastal area is home to a fishing village and a small boat dock. Its eastern shore features muddy terrain and vibrant mangrove forests.
The beach is quite calm. There is a coffee shop where you can hang out. When I was there there were no foreigners. There is also a Flea market and a few local restaurants.
4. Fai Tha Street Food
Fai Tha Street Food is a local food market offering authentic and affordable Thai street food. With no foreigners in sight, it’s a true local experience, and the food is absolutely delicious. (unlike some markets in Phuket where the food is overpriced and of low quality).
5. Surat Thani Night Market
The Night Market is a lively gateway to authentic Thai food, shopping, and culture. Marked by colorful lights and the aroma of street food, it invites you into a vibrant space filled with food stalls, fresh fruits, desserts, and unique souvenirs.
Perfect for travelers seeking authentic Thai street food, the market offers a bustling atmosphere and affordable prices, making it a must-visit spot in Surat Thani.
Surat Thani Accommodation
During my last trip, I stayed at B2 Surat Thani Boutique and Budget Hotel, which I found to be an excellent choice for where to stay in Surat Thani city.
Its location is perfect—right in front of the Surat Thani City Pillar Shrine, next to Motorbike Rentals Surat Thani(where I rented the scooter), and close to Surat Thani Bus Terminal. It’s also within easy reach of major attractions like the night market and Koh Lamp Island.
Link to book B2 Surat Thani Boutique and Budget Hotel on Agoda
The rooms are clean, spacious, and offer a lovely view of the city, making it a comfortable and convenient option for travelers. Plus, this hotel is cheap for the quality it offers, making it a great value for your stay.
For booking hotels in Thailand, I always recommend using Agoda. They consistently offer better deals and a hassle-free booking experience, making it easier to find great accommodation at the best price.
Where to Eat in Surat Thani
A part from Night Markets I highly recommend Roti Chao Koh, perfect for roti lovers. Their fluffy, freshly made rotis can be paired with both sweet and savory toppings. Try the coconut roti.
How to Get to Surat Thani City
By Plane
Flying from Bangkok to Surat Thani is the fastest and most convenient option, perfect for those short on time. Here’s a quick guide to making the trip:
Budget airlines like Thai VietJet Air, AirAsia, Nok Air, and Thai Lion Air operate daily flights. Tickets start at 900-1,500 THB ($25-$40) if booked early.
Flight Details
- Duration: About 1 hour 10 minutes.
- Airports:
- Suvarnabhumi (BKK) for Thai Lion Air.
- Don Mueang (DMK) for most budget carriers.
Arriving at Surat Thani Airport (URT)
Located 30 km from the city center, you can get to Surat Thani City by:
- Shuttle Bus: About 100 THB, 30-40 minutes.
- Taxi: Around 300-400 THB.
- Direct Transfers: Combined bus and ferry tickets to Koh Samui or Koh Tao.
By Night Train from Bangkok
The first time I visited Surat Thani, I opted for the night train from Bangkok. If you are not in a hurry, it is way to get to Surat Thani. The sleeping train takes an average of around 10 to 12 hours, with comfortable sleeper berths and scenic views in the morning. The train drops you off near Surat Thani City, and from there, a short bus ride takes you into the city center.
By Bus from Phuket/Khao Lak
On my second visit, I took a bus from Khao Lak, enjoying a scenic ride through the countryside. This was a budget-friendly option that was surprisingly comfortable and efficient.
Surat Thani’s bus station is conveniently located right in the city center, making it easy to explore the city upon arrival.
Other routes include:
- Surat Thani City to Koh Samui: Take a bus to Donsak Pier, where ferries depart for Koh Samui. It’s a smooth and well-coordinated journey.
- Surat Thani City to Koh Tao: Reach Koh Tao via ferries connecting through Koh Samui or Koh Phangan.
- Surat Thani City to Khao Sok National Park: Just under two hours by bus or private transfer, Khao Sok is a must-visit for nature lovers.
- Surat Thani City to Bangkok: Overnight buses and trains are the most common, but flights are also available for faster travel.
Is Surat Thani Worth Visiting?
Yes! Surat Thani is worth visiting, especially if you’re curious about experiencing a typical Thai city without the tourist crowds. While one day is enough to see the main sights, I enjoyed staying for two days on my second visit to explore at a more relaxed pace.
How is Surat Thani?
It’s quintessentially Thai: bustling, affordable, and full of charm. Unlike tourist hotspots, you’ll find few foreigners here, which makes it a great place to immerse yourself in local culture. The cost of food and transportation is low, and the friendly locals add to the city’s laid-back atmosphere.
Best Time to Go to Surat Thani
The best time to visit is during the dry season (November to April) when the weather is cooler and ideal for exploring. The monsoon season (May to October) brings heavy rains, which might affect outdoor plans.
Where to Rent a Motorbike in Surat Thani
Renting a motorbike is the best way to explore Thailand. Look for Motorbike Rentals Surat Thani (เช่ามอเตอร์ไซค์ สุราษฎร์ธานี) shop near the city center (also near the bus station). Rental prices range from 300 THB per day. I rented a Honda Click 125 for 2 days for 600 THB. Don’t forget to carry an international driver’s!
Final Thoughts
Surat Thani might not be a tourist hotspot, but it offers an authentic Thai experience that’s hard to find elsewhere. Whether you’re stopping by on your way to the islands or planning a short stay, this city is full of hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
Having visited the city twice, I can say it’s worth spending a day exploring its rich culture, delicious food, and peaceful spots. Add Surat Thani to your travel plans and enjoy a taste of the real Thailand!
