Overview
This travel guide provides a personal top five of the best destinations, experiences, roads, foods, hotels, and hidden gems in southern Thailand, based on an extensive road trip across nearly every province (except Phuket). It emphasizes personal opinion, offers practical tips, and references a companion ebook for more comprehensive details and Google Maps links.
Top Destinations in Southern Thailand
- Krabi: Famous for Ao Nang, Railay, Kho Phi Phi, limestone cliffs, and beautiful beaches.
- Phatthalung: Local, laid-back atmosphere with mountain ranges, waterfalls, and the Talay Noi lake.
- Koh Samui: Surprising peacefulness, scenic mountain temples, bays, and great food.
- Hat Yai (Songkhla): Lively city with diverse culture, western comforts, and easy access to mountains and beaches.
- Khao Sok National Park: Stunning reservoir, limestone cliffs, and lake activities; described as a must-visit.
Best Experiences
- Surfing at Khao Lak: Long beach, vibrant crowd, and beginner-friendly surf.
- Muay Thai Training in Khao Lak: Accessible training camps for all levels and goals.
- Private Tour of Maya Bay, Koh Phi Phi: Rare opportunity to enjoy famous sites with few tourists.
- Dugong Spotting in Trang: Unique wildlife experience by private boat.
- Staying on the Lake in Khao Sok: All-inclusive nature lodges with kayaking, sunrise tours, and unforgettable scenery.
Top Roads for Motorcyclists
- Phatthalung to Koh Lanta: Scenic, rain-soaked drive ending with a ferry crossing.
- Krabi to Phang Nga Town: Quiet highways with mountain and bay views.
- To Hua Hin via the Coast: Long stretch along dozens of beaches; best avoided on main highway.
- Betong, Yala Province: Winding mountain roads and highland vistas near Malaysia.
Food Highlights
- Rice Pizza in Nakhon Si Thammarat: Farm-to-table with local IPA beer.
- Seoul Restaurant in Chumphon: Family-run, beachfront eatery with eclectic cuisine and art gallery.
- Noodle Shop in Songkhla Old Town: Unsigned local gem; acclaimed noodles.
- Sun-Dried Beef in Phang Nga: Traditional fishing village specialty.
- Aku Cheeseburger in Narathiwat: Double-patty burger at a family restaurant for under $3.
Top Hotels
- Mali Blues Bed and Dinner, Chumphon: Boutique beach hotel with only three rooms.
- Blue Rama, Koh Phangan: Hilltop bungalows, infinity pool, DJ, and top sunset views.
- Pawapi Resort, Koh Mook: Beachfront bungalows on a quiet peninsula, ideal for sunrise and nature.
- Blue House Airbnb, Lamai, Koh Samui: Private house with garden and homey feel.
- Panvaree The Greenery, Khao Sok: Floating resort with all meals and activities included.
Best Hidden Gems
- Hat Tung Wua Laen Beach and Saplee Village, Chumphon: Local beach town with authentic charm.
- Koh Samui Mountains: Fruit farms, temples, and panoramic views above the beaches.
- Dragon Crest Mountain, Krabi: Free trek with spectacular views.
- Haunted (Hell) Temple, Phang Nga: Eerie temple with statues and a cave adventure.
- Secret Cave Pool, Krabi: Remote, crystal-clear swimming spot near Ao Nang.
Recommendations / Advice
- For full recommendations, Google Maps links, and stories, consult the linked ebook.
- Always check real-time local weather and mood, as experiences can differ.
- Many sites are best accessed by motorbike for flexibility and exploration.
Questions / Follow-Ups
- For more hotels, restaurants, and off-the-beaten-path sites, consult the ebook or video description for links.