Surat Thani - city in Surat Thani province, Thailand

Surat Thani (สุราษฎร์ธานี) is a city and a province on the Central Gulf Coast of southern Thailand.

Understand

Surat Thani (often just "Surat") is the largest province of southern Thailand. Surat Thani means City of Good People, the title given to the city by King Vajiravudh (Rama VI). It is a gateway to the islands of Thailand's Gulf Coast: Ko Samui, Ko Pha Ngan, and Ko Tao are much-visited destinations, as well as Ang Thong National Marine Park and the famous Khao Sok National Park.

Visitor information

• Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), Talad Mai Rd, 9.133053°, 99.315283°, +66 77-288-818. M-F 08:30-16:30. The TAT office on Talad Mai Road is the only government tourism office on mainland Surat Thani. TAT has brochures and maps for both local tourist destinations as well as those in other provinces. Clean public toilets are also available free of charge. TAT does not sell anything, they are only there to promote tourism. The other tourism offices around the city (like the one at the airport and the ones near Talad Kaset 1 and 2) are not official tourism offices and will try to sell you tourism packages or ferry tickets. Do not buy anything from these private tourism offices as they are usually offered at an inflated price. For ferry tickets, only buy them directly from the ferry operator or from Phantip Travel.

Get in

By road

Parallel to the railway in a north-south direction runs the Asian Highway AH2 (Thailand Route 41). The major east-west road is Thailand Route 401 connecting Takua Pa with Nakhon Si Thammarat, and Thailand Route 44|Rte 44 goes southwest from Kanchanadit to Krabi. Rte 44 was built as part of the land bridge project connecting the Gulf of Thailand with the Andaman Sea. Unlike other highways there are no crossing intersections. The wide space between the two lanes is reserved for pipelines and a railway.

By plane

As of 2014, the province has two international airports: Surat Thani International Airport in Phunphin and Samui Airport on Ko Samui. Surat Thani Airport is served by five airlines: Thai Airways International (operated by Thai Smile from Suvarnabhumi Airport), Nok Air, Thai Lion Air from Don Mueang International Airport, Thai AirAsia from Don Mueang and Chiang Mai, AirAsia from Kuala Lumpur International Airport. Samui Airport is served by Bangkok Airways and Thai Airways International from Suvarnabhumi Airport, Hong Kong, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Phuket, Chiang Mai, and Penang.

• Surat Thani International Airport (IATA: URT), 73 Moo 3, Hua Toei, Phunphin District (26 km west of Surat Thani City Centre), 9.136112°, 99.139167°.

Connect by bus or rental car (buy ticket and rent in the airport) to town. Phantip Travel has bus service connecting all flights to Surat Thani. Phantip Travel (+66 77 272230 , +66 77 282331 ) is on Taladmai Rd. Price one-way is 100 baht.

Be vigilant at the airport, or anywhere you are repeatedly asked where you have come from and where you are going. Know what Thai police uniforms look like.

If you're heading to Ko Samui, Seatran Ferry and other companies offer a bus/ferry service from the airport to Nathon Pier on Ko Samui for 400 baht (Aug 2017). It's also possible to book this trip with Air Asia, even while you're on the flight there! They also use Seatran ferry. Travel time is three hours. Buses leave the airport six times per day.

Domestic

• Air Asia, +66 2 515-9999. Flights from Bangkok (Don Mueang Airport), and Chiang Mai.
• Nok Air, 1318 (non-geographical). Flights from Bangkok (Don Mueang Airport).
• Thai Lion Air, +66 2529-9999, info@lionairthai.com. Flights from Bangkok (Don Mueang Airport).
• Thai Smile, +66 2 118-8888, customer.service@thaismileair.com. Flights from Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi Airport).

By train

The province is crossed by the southern railway, with Surat Thani Railway Station in Phunphin, about 15 km from downtown. A branch line to the west ends at Kirirat Nikhom Railway Station. It had been planned to run to the coast next to the island of Phuket, but construction ended in 1956. There are 32 railway stations in Surat Thani Province.

• Surat Thani Railway Station (สถานีรถไฟสุราษฎร์ธานี), Phunphin District, Surat Thani, 9.104118°, 99.230552°. The Surat Thani train station, despite its name, is in Phun Phin, about 12 km west of the town centre. Most comfortable are the overnight trains from Bangkok, which arrive in early morning. There are always many who try to catch the tourists and sell them trips to Surat or the islands directly. Usually the most aggressive sellers are the most expensive. However, it's not a big problem to reach the city itself from the railway station. Municipal buses depart the train station for Surat Thani every 30 minutes and cost 20 baht, though the service seems to stop around 17:00. After that, the only option is a taxi, the drivers of which will come in to the station to try and find passengers. If you go outside and turn immediately to the left, there is a taxi stand with taxis charging a fixed price of 140 baht to Surat Thani. The price is clearly indicated on a printed canvas sign attached high up. 2022-10-17

By bus

There are 3 main bus & coach terminals in Muang Surat Thani: Talad Kaset 1, Talad Kaset 2, and Surat Thani Bus Terminal.

Talad Kaset 1 and Talad Kaset 2 are across from each other, off of Talad Mai Road in the city centre, whereas Surat Thani Bus Terminal is outside of the city off of Highway 401, behind CentralPlaza. Talad Kaset 1 is for local buses to nearby districts. Talad Kaset 2 is for coaches and buses to further districts and popular tourist destinations, such as Khanom, Khao Sok, Krabi, Phang Nga, Phuket, and Hat Yai. The Surat Thani Bus Terminal is for longer haul rides, such as overnight buses to Bangkok.

• Talad Kaset 1 (Downtown Transportation Hub), Talad Mai Rd, 9.144721°, 99.328695°. For local buses to nearby districts.
• Talad Kaset 2 (Downtown Transportation Hub), Talad Mai Road, Muang Surat Thani, 9.143809°, 99.330491°. For coaches and buses to further districts and popular tourist destinations.
• Terminal 1: Surat Thani – Phuket
• Terminal 2: Surat Thani – Trung
• Terminal 3: Surat Thani– Khanom
• Terminal 4: Surat Thani– Bannaderm
• Terminal 5: Surat Thani– BanSong
• Terminal 6: Surat Thani– Bang Sawan
• Terminal 7: Surat Thani– Phasang
• Terminal 8: Surat Thani– Krabi
• Terminal 9:
• Terminal 10:

• Terminal 11:
• Terminal 12: Surat Thani– Chaiya
• Terminal 13: Surat Thani– Phuket
• Terminal 14: Surat Thani– Phuket
• Terminal 15: Surat Thani– Hat Yai
• Terminal 16: Surat Thani– Hat Yai
• Terminal 17: Surat Thani– Phang Nga
• Terminal 18: Surat Thani– Phuket
• Terminal 19: Surat Thani– Krabi
• Terminal 20: Surat Thani– Ranong
• Terminal 21: Surat Thani– Kian Sa
• Terminal 22: Surat Thani– Khao Sok
• Terminal 23: Surat Thani– Thungsong
• Terminal 24: Surat Thani– Ko Lanta
• Surat Thani Bus Terminal (บขส - pronounced: Baw Kaw Saw), Wat Pradu, Muang Surat Thani, 9.111728°, 99.298312°. For longer haul rides.

Phantip Travel

• Phantip Office - Surat Thani Town Branch, 293/6-8 Talad Mai Road, Muang Surat Thani, 9.144606°, 99.328878°, +66 77 272-230, +66 77 282-331, info@phantiptravel.com. The main transportation provider in Southern Thailand is Phantip Travel (pronounced “pun-tip”). They are licensed by both the Department of Land Transportation and Department of Civil Aviation and have been in operation in Surat Thani since the early-1970s. They also hold the government contract for the downtown transportation hub. Their coaches are easily identifiable. Their minivans are white with green Thai writing. Look for the green "(1970)" above the back passenger window and the logo "Phantip (1970)" on the front doors.
• Surat Thani (Town) – Khao Sok (2.5 hr, 200 baht)
• Surat Thani (Town) – Ko Lanta (6 hr, 550 baht)
• Surat Thani (Town) – Ko Pha Ngan (3.3 hrs, 350 baht)
• Surat Thani (Town) – Ko Samui (3 hr, 250 baht)
• Surat Thani (Town) – Ao Nang (4.1 hr, 450 baht)
• Surat Thani (Town) – Ko Phi Phi (5.3 hr, 550 baht)
• Surat Thani (Town) – Krabi (3 hr, 250 baht)
• Surat Thani (Town) – Phuket (5 hr, 195 baht)
• Surat Thani (Town) – Ko Phang Nga (3.3 hr, 150 baht)
• Surat Thani (Town) – Railay (4.3 hr, 600 baht)
• Surat Thani (Town) – Ratchaprapha Dam (2 hr, 200 baht)
• Surat Thani (Town) – Raja Ferry, Donsak Pier (1.3 hr, 150 baht)
• Surat Thani (Town) – Seatran Ferry, Donsak Pier (1.3 hr, 150 baht)
• Surat Thani (Town) – Khanom (1.5 hr, 200 baht)
• Phantip Office - Surat Thani Airport Branch, Surat Thani International Airport (Ground Floor, beside exit), 9.134400°, 99.143308°, +66 77 272-230,+66 77 282-331, info@phantiptravel.com.
• Surat Thani (Airport) – Khao Sok (2 hr, 250 baht)
• Surat Thani (Airport) – Ko Pha Ngan (4.3 hr, 500 baht)
• Surat Thani (Airport) – Ko Samui (3.3 hr, 400 baht)
• Surat Thani (Airport) – Ratchaprapha Dam (1.3 hr, 250 baht)
• Surat Thani (Airport) – Ko Tao (6 hr, 900 baht)
• Surat Thani (Airport) – Raja Ferry, Donsak Pier (2 hr, 250 baht)
• Surat Thani (Airport) – Seatran Ferry, Donsak Pier (2 hr, 250 baht)
• Phantip Office - Surat Thani Train Station Branch, Surat Thani International Airport (Ground Floor, beside exit), 9.105184°, 99.230503°, +66 77 272-230, +66 77 282-331, info@phantiptravel.com.
• Surat Thani (Train Station) – Khao Sok (3 hr, 200 baht)
• Surat Thani (Train Station) – Ko Lanta (6 hr, 650 baht)
• Surat Thani (Train Station) – Ko Pha Ngan (5.3 hrs, 400 baht)
• Surat Thani (Train Station) – Ko Samui (3.3 hr, 280 baht)
• Surat Thani (Train Station) – Ao Nang (4.3 hr, 400 baht)
• Surat Thani (Train Station) – Ko Phi Phi (6.3 hr, 650 baht)
• Surat Thani (Train Station) – Krabi (3 hr, 250 baht)
• Surat Thani (Train Station) – Phuket (5 hr, 200 baht)
• Surat Thani (Train Station) – Ratchaprapha Dam (3.3 hr, 200 baht)
• Surat Thani (Train Station) – Raja Ferry, Donsak Pier (2 hr, 180 baht)
• Surat Thani (Train Station) – Seatran Ferry, Donsak Pier

By boat

The islands Ko Samui and Ko Pha Ngan are connected with the mainland by ferries, which mostly embark from Don Sak, while the ferries to Ko Tao start at Surat Thani or Ko Samui. There are three main ferry companies that operate from mainland Surat Thani to the islands: Lomprayah, Seatran, and Raja.

There are only two ferry piers in Muang Surat Thani: Tapee Pier, which Lomprayah's High Speed Catarman operates from, and Bandon Pier, which is for night boats only. Seatran Pier and Raja Pier are in Don Sak District, 65 km (40 mi) east of Surat Thani city centre.

Ferry piers

• Bandon Pier (Night Boat Pier), Talat, 9.14323°, 99.32272°.
• Tapee Pier, Bang Kung, 9.179462°, 99.370667°. Used by Lomprayah
• Seatran Ferry Pier, Donsak District, 9.320270°, 99.736978°.
• Raja Ferry Pier, Donsak District, 9.329150°, 99.744687°.
• Bang Num Jerd Pier, Donsak District, 9.316136°, 99.733985°. Used by P&T Samui Group
• Laem Thuat Pier, Donsak District, 9.33684°, 99.68231°. Used by Lomprayah for the slow ferry.
• Lomprayah. Lomprayah High Speed Catamaran provides service from Muang Surat Thani and Donsak to Ko Samui, Ko Pha Ngan, Ko Tao, Ko Nanguan, and Angthong National Marine Park
• Seatran. Seatran Ferry provides service from Surat Thani to Ko Samui, Ko Pha Ngan, and Ko Tao.
• Raja Ferry. Raja Ferry provides service from Surat Thani to Ko Samui and Ko Pha Ngan.

Surat Thani to/from Ko Samui

Surat Thani to/from Ko Pha Ngan

Surat Thani to/from Ko Tao

Ferry coach stations

• Seatran Coach Station, Talad Mai Rd, 9.139890°, 99.323859°.
• Raja Coach Station (Sirraja 1), Si Wichai 16, Muang Surat Thani, 9.120762°, 99.309726°.

Night boats

The night boat ferries are individually owned and operated. Routes can be cancelled without any prior notice. Only buy night boat tickets directly from the ferry operator. The tickets can be purchased the day of departure from the boat operators at Bandon pier. The ticket stands are directly in front of the individual night boats.

The departure times and ticket prices for the night boats can vary as the individual boat and operator are on rotations. For example, the wooden Ko Tao night boat leaves an hour earlier than the metal Ko Tao night boats. Confirm with the operators at Bandon Pier the day of departure. Arrival times are estimates as it depends on the sea conditions.

Get around

Tuk-tuks cost around 10-20 baht/per person around the town. Hail one on any major road with a wave or yell, negotiate a fare, and sit on the bench in the back.

By motorbike

• X Motorbike Rentals, Soi 9 Karunrat Rd, 9.132068°, 99.326255°, +66 83 968 7298 (mobile), sontayareffa@gmail.com. Daily 08:00-20:00. Offers motorbike rentals and full time mechanical services. Free delivery and pickup. Free motorbike riding lessons and help with Thai licensing also available.

By car

Car hire services are available at Surat Thani International Airport.

• Avis, +66 85 484 8010 (mobile). Daily 07:00-21:00.
• Hertz, +66 77 441 323. Daily 08:00-20:00.
• Sixt, +66 81 453 6611 (mobile). Daily 07:00-20:00.
• Smile Car Rent Surat Thani, +66 87 837 4555 (mobile), +66 81 272 1576 (mobile). 07:00-20:00.
• Surat Thani Car Rent, +66 93 767 5479 (mobile). Daily 07:00-22:00.
• Thai Rent A Car, 1647 (non geographic).

By taxi

It goes without saying that if your taxi driver offers you drugs or prostitutes, you should say no.

• Taxi Thumngun (Taxi ทำเงิน), +66 77 489-288, +66 77-489-289. 24-hour call center.
• GrabTaxi. Grab taxi is available in Surat Thani.

See

• Bang Bai Mai Floating Market (ตลาดน้ำประชารัฐบางใบไม้), 9.151036°, 99.307172°. Sundays 09:00-15:00. A "must see" in Surat Thani, this picturesque riverside market offers a range of ready-to-eat foods. The market also features a large fish pond, live music, and canal boat rides (at a cost). This market is on Sundays only and even though it's open until 15:00, it’s best to go before noon.

Religious & historical sites

• City Pillar Shrine (ศาสหลีกเมือง), 9.139217°, 99.321696°. Daily 07:00-18:00. Former site of the provincial administration building. The building was first destroyed when the Japanese invaded Thailand on 8 December 1941 and landed in Surat Thani. The building caught fire during the short battle and burned down. It was reopened in 1954. On 19 March 1982 it was destroyed again by a bomb planted by communist rebels, killing 5 people. This is a religious shrine and, although it is not a temple, dress appropriately and to remove shoes when entering the structure. Free Admission
• Phra That Si Surat (พระธาตุศรีสุราษฎร์์) (Khao Tha Phet (เขาท่าเพชร)), 9.099697°, 99.351269°. Khao Tha Phet is a hill outside of the city centre. It has an elevation of about 210 m (689 ft) and offers a good view over the town. On top of the hill is the Sri Surat stupa (also known by its common name, Phra That Khao Tha Phet), which was built in Srivijavan-style in 1957. The stupa contains a Buddha relic donated by India. Next to the stupa is a sweet shorea tree (Shorea roxburghii) planted by King Bhumibol Adulyadej.

• The two most important Buddhist monasteries of the province are in Chaiya District. Wat Phra Boromathat Chaiya boasts a chedi in Srivijaya-style, dating from the 7th century and carefully restored. Buddhist relics are enshrined in the chedi, and the surrounding chapels contain Buddha figures in Srivijayan style. The Chaiya National Museum adjoins the temple. Nearby is Wat Suan Mokkhaphalaram, a forest monastery founded by the famous monk Buddhadasa Bhikkhu.

Nature

• Nai Bang Area (ในบาง) – Nai Bang is an alluvial plain around the mouth of the Tapi River which is crisscrossed with networks of canals. The canals are lined with mangrove forest alternating with traditional southern-styled houses, behind which are coconut farms and orchards. The people here still maintain a simple way of life and make their living on indigenous natural resources, despite the bustling economy in the Ban Don (town) market just opposite the river. Access to Nai Bang is by the bridge across the Tapi River or by longtail boat from Ban Don. The boat can carry 6–8 people and charges 250 baht per hour. Visitors may contact travel agents in Surat Thani who sell a one-day package tour to the Nai Bang area.
• Ko Lamphu Public Park (เกาะลำพู), 9.138671°, 99.317879°. A small, car-free island on the Tapi River offering walking & biking paths, exercise equipment, and a playground. Great place to play volleyball and basketball. Free
• Rama 9 Park (สวนหลวง ร.9), 9.139387°, 99.352793°. A city park offering walking & biking paths, exercise equipment, and a playground. There's also a large fish pond where you can buy fish food to feed the fish. Free admission
• Khun Thale Swamp (บึงขุนทะเล) (Khuntalay Swamp), 9.073636°, 99.331632°. Khun Thale Swamp, despite its name, is a picturesque marshland just south of the city centre. A local fishing spot for many years, the area is undergoing renovations (May 2018) to make the area more accessible. Despite ongoing renovations to the boardwalk, the area is still a great place for cycling. Paddle boats are available for a small fee to take out into the swamp. A troop of wild monkeys also lives on the south side of the swamp. Free
• Rubber Tree Road, 9.087241°, 99.278588°. Rubber Tree Road is a scenic stretch of Talad Klauy-Kaouhaoukway Road in Muang Surat Thani with rubber trees that form a shaded canopy over the road.
• Rice Paddy at Rice Farm Villa Hotel, Highway 420, Makham Tia, Muang Surat Thani, 9.102341°, 99.305104°. This small rice paddy is in the middle of the city. The rice paddy can be viewed free of charge, just walk though the OTOP shopping center. Free
• Si Surat Bridge (สะพานศรีสุราษฎร์), Bang Kung, Muang Surat Thani, 9.17418°, 99.358°. Tallest bridge in southern Thailand.

National parks

• Khao Sok National Park (อุทยานแห่งชาติเขาสก) – As part of the largest moist evergreen forest in southern Thailand, the park is rich in flora including certain families of lotus, white palm, and fern. Khao Sok is also one of the best bird-watching spots in Thailand. Attractions in the park include:

Ratchaprapha (Rajjaprabha) Dam: The completion of this dam in 1988 gave birth to Cheow Lan Lake about 168 km² in area, which is adorned with hundreds of islands and islets. Tham Nam Thalu: Cave Tang Nam: Streams chiseled across two ridges create this striking gorge. Many people came to pay respect to this place, around which the venerable Buddhadasa Bhikkhu's ashes were traditionally showered. Namtok Than Sawan: This scenic waterfall is three kilometres from Tang Nam. Namtok Sip Et Chan: This 11-tier waterfall originates from Bang Len canal. The first level is largest and most picturesque. San Yang Roi Trail: This two kilometre trail begins at the park headquarters and runs along the mountain shoulder past streams, waterfalls, and moist evergreen forest. A trail to a rarely seen plant called Bua Phut at Bang Luk Chang Mountain.

• Khlong Phanom National Park (อุทยานแห่งชาติคลองพนม) – High limestone mountains connected with Khao Sok National Park. Attractions in the park include Kiriwong and Chong Yung waterfalls and several caves full of stalactites and stalagmites.
• Kaeng Krung National Park (อุทยานแห่งชาติแก่งกรุง) – Mountainous area covered by moist evergreen forests, where some rare and endangered species such as tree ferns can be found. Attractions in the park include hot springs, Bang Hoi Waterfall and Khlong Pa Waterfall.
• Tai Rom Yen National Park (อุทยานแห่งชาติใต้ร่มเย็น) – The 425-km² forest areas in Kanchanadit, Ban Na San and Wiang Sa were designated a national park in 1991. The mountains of the Nakhon Si Thammarat Range are mostly covered with moist evergreen forest and exotic and rare flora and fauna. Attractions in the park include:

Namtok Tat Fa: A perennial 13-level waterfall is the highest in Surat Thani. The fourth level is most attractive with its 80 m cliff. Tham Khamin or Tham Men: Exotic stalagmites and stalactites in this cave. The walkway is well-lit and fitted with stairs. San Yen: The eastern range, about 40 km long and 1,000-1,300 m high, is fertile with rare flora, fauna, and wildlife. Namtok Mueang Thuat: This seven-level waterfall has a large basin.

Nearby districts

Chaiya District

See Chaiya page

Kanchanadit District

• Monkey Training College (First Monkey School/วิทยาลัยฝึกลิงเพื่อการเกษตร), 24 Moo 4, Thungkong, Kanchanadit, 9.13076°, 99.39191°, +66 7722-7351, or +66 08-4745-5662. By appointment only. Founded in 1957 by Somporn Saekhow to train pig-tailed macaques how to properly pick coconuts. Somporn's daughter, Somjai, now runs the school. The college remains first and foremost a training centre for coconut farmers' monkeys. Visitors are of course welcome but please contact the school before your visit. The training is done in an animal-friendly fashion. No punishments are given, only rewards. Also offers home stay ("home stay" is a word frequently used to indicate basic accommodations, and joining the host for meals) in two basic bungalows.
• Kuha Cave (วัดถ้ำคูหา), 9.154732°, 99.470583°. Cave temple filled with multiple Buddha images of various styles including Dwaravati, Srivichai, Indian Pallava, and Siam Ayutthaya.
• Sinmana Farmstay (สินมานะฟาร์มสเตย์), 9.23377°, 99.50805°, +66 08-1597-7575. Oyster farm.
• Wat Khao Pranim Viewpoint (วัดเขาพระนิ่ม), 9.240162°, 99.510390°. Hillside view of the mountains and nearby fishfarms.
• Bor Numtip (สำนักสงฆ์ถ้ำบ่อน้ำทิพย์, Tham Bo Nam Thip Bureau of Monks), 9.165462°, 99.589037°. Cave temple.
• Wat Praputthabat (วัดพระพุทธบาทศรีสุราษฎร์, Wat Phra Phutthabat Si Surat), 9.187220°, 99.579118°. Hilltop temple.
• Phu Rin Waterfall (น้ำตกภูริน), 8.983439°, 99.656972°. Small waterfall.
• Phetpanomwang (สำนักสงฆ์เขาพนมวัง, Khao Phanom Wang Bureau of Monks), 9.091979°, 99.605284°. Display of large golden Buddha statues

Outer districts

Don Sak District

• Vipavadee Waterfall (น้ำตกวิภาวดี), Pak Phraek, Don Sak District, Surat Thani, 9.138493°, 99.672963°. Medium size waterfall. Popular socializing venue after school and on weekends. Free
• Rock Fish Museum (พิพิธภัณฑ์ปลาหิน์์), Highway 4142, Don Sak, 9.318623°, 99.692294°, +66 77 371 197. Daily 08:00-16:00. Collection of hand carved fish made out of stone. This museum was established in 1992 by Mr. Kitti Sin-udom, an old fisherman who spent more than 10 years carving stone here. More than 1,000 lifelike sculptures of marine fish found in the Gulf of Thailand are on display. Donations welcome
• Wat Khao Suwanpradit (วัดเขาสุวรรณประดิษฐ์), Don Sak, Surat Thani, 9.320174°, 99.684612°. Wat Khao Suwanpradit was founded in 1982 by one of Southern Thailand’s most revered monks, Luang Pho Choi. The 45-m-tall stupa contains Buddha relics from Wat Phra Kiat from Chiang Mai. This hilltop monastery offers a great panoramic view of Don Sak as well as the Gulf of Thailand and the nearby islands. Free
• Hug Village Horse & Sheep Farm, Don Sak, Surat Thani, 9.32127°, 99.70589°, +66 85-169-4800, hugvillage@gmail.com. Daily 09:30-18:00. A horse (pony) and sheep farm with beautiful flower gardens and a café.
• Ko Raet (เกาะแรต), Don Sak, Surat Thani, 9.329346°, 99.703436°. A traditional Chinese fishing village. It's also the smallest populated island in Thailand connected to the mainland via bridge. You can walk around the entire island in less than an hour and enjoy the views of the nearby gulf islands. Has multiple traditional homestays for visitors.
• Cho Waterfall (น้ำตกโฉ), Don Sak, 9.26687°, 99.76669°. A small stream popular with the locals. Surrounded by food stalls and a couple small restaurants, people go to cool down or have their feet cleaned by "doctor fish" in the natural fish spa. Free

Khiri Rat Nikhom District

• Clear Water Canal (คลองน้ำใส), Khiri Rat Nikhom, 9.016156°, 99.015609°. A crystal clear stream. Popular local swimming spot. Free
• Hin Pat (หินพัด), Khiri Rat Nikhom, 9.0783°, 98.84407°. A giant fan-shaped rock that sits on top of a cliff. It has been a popular viewpoint among locals for many years but only became an "official tourist attraction" in 2014. Free
• Than Thong Waterfall (น้ำตกธารทอง), Khiri Rat Nikhom. Small waterfall, popular with the locals as a swimming spot.
• Phasuankwang Farm (ผาสวนกวางฟาร์ม), Khiri Rat Nikhom, 8.85015°, 98.90484°. An animal farm/petting zoo with multiple animals including: deer, rabbits, turkeys, ponies, buffalo, and crocodiles.
• Wat Tham Singkhorn (วัดถ้ำสิงขร), Khiri Rat Nikhom, 9.042676°, 99.039759°. Wat Tham Singkhorn is an ancient temple built in the Ayutthaya period (1351 to 1767). Behind the temple is a large cave with multiple Buddha statues.
• Tham Singkhorn Hotsprings (บ่อนำร้อนถำสิงขร), Khiri Rat Nikhom. Nine natural hot springs. The hottest is around 70°C.
• Namrad Forest Headwaters (ป่าต้นน้ำบ้านน้ำราด), Khiri Rat Nikhom, 8.838709°, 98.963997°. Daily 09:00-18:00. Clear, fresh water swimming spot. As of 2018, this spot has been featured in numerous local travel blogs making it very popular. Get there early in the morning if you want to avoid the crowds. Entrance is free but you have to pay to use the toilets.
• Kunfai Farm (สวนคุณฝ้าย), Khiri Rat Nikhom, 8.95568°, 99.00277°. U-Pick strawberry farm. Strawberries don't grow very well in the southern Thai heat so be sure to check ahead to see if there is any fruit available.

Ban Ta Khun District

• Rajjaprabha Dam Golf Course (สนามกอล์ฟเขื่อนรัชชประภา), Ban Ta Khun, 8.96139°, 98.80689°. Par 72, 18-hole course.
• Khao Theppithak Suspension Bridge (สะพานแขวนบ้านเขาเทพพิทักษ์), Ban Ta Khun, 8.94913°, 98.82221°. Wooden suspension bridge with a heart shape mountain in the background. Free

Phanom District

• Ban Thum Phueng (บ้านถ้ำผึ้ง), 486 Ton Yuan, Phanom District, 8.854556°, 98.869477°, +66892909420. Small farming village offering numerous homestays and cabins for visitors. Fruit orchards, rubber and palm plantations, and vegetable farms. Small waterfall and hotspring nearby. 2022-10-17
• Rajjaprabha Dam (เขื่อนรัชชประภา) (Ratchaprapha Dam, Cheow Lan Lake/Chiao Lan (เชี่ยวหลาน)), Phanom, 8.977569°, 98.820284°. 165-km² (64-sq mi) man-made lake in Khao Sok National Park. Known for its floating raft-houses, it's an extremely scenic place great place for wildlife watching, swimming, kayaking, and even diving.
• Wat Phanom's Fishes River (แหล่งปลาวัดพนม), Phanom, 8.819879°, 98.821366°. Fish viewing area. Fish include: tinfoil barb, silver barb, ponyfish, catfish, and carp.
• Mai Yai Waterfall (น้ำตกแม่ยาย), Phanom, 8.8833°, 98.49957°. The only waterfall in Khao Sok National Park that can be reached by car. Approximately 30 m high. Best time to visit is during the rainy season.

Tha Chang District

• Wat Mun Lek Folk Museum (พิพิธภัณฑ์พื้นบ้าน วัดมูลเหล็ก์), Tha Chang, 9.25747°, 99.19023°.

Khian Sa

• Nong Thung Tong (หนองทุ่งทอง), Khian Sa, 8.847620°, 99.243860°. A wildlife sanctuary/no-hunting area. It is home to over 70 species of migratory birds, the oriental small-clawed otter, and the Asian Golden Cat. The area is mixed grasslands, marshes, and swamps. During the rainy season (October-December) the area is almost completely flooded.
• Thamma Park (อุทยานธรรมเขานาในหลวง), Khian Sa, 8.77863°, 98.95681°. Hilltop temple with a picturesque view. Free
• 514 Base Historical Learning Centre (ศูนย์เรียนรู้และท่องเที่ยวเชิงอนุรักษ์ประวัติศาสตร์ ค่าย ๕๑๔), Khian Sa, 8.736246°, 99.024024°, +66 7-743-9008, +66 8-7889-3084. Formerly the People's Liberation Army 514 Camp. Provides information on the tropical rainforest’s ecosystem, social history, fighter and mass struggle during the movement of the Communist Party of Thailand, folk wisdom, indigenous values, and the concept of sacrifice for common good to youth.

Phrasaeng District

• Ang Nam Pood (อ่างน้ำผุด), Phrasaeng, 8.62253°, 98.9805°. Clear water spring. You can see the bubbles come up from the sand. Cabomba, a non-native invasive aquatic plant with pretty white flowers, can be viewed in the clear water. In addition to swimming, kayaks and paddleboats are available to rent.
• Tourism Attraction Bangsawan (สถานที่ท่องเที่ยวบางสวรรค์), Phrasaeng, 8.62253°, 98.9805°. River swimming spot.

Do

• Nakwaree Shooting Association (สนามยิงปืน นาควารี), Makham Tia, Muang Surat Thani (across from Tesco-Lotus), 9.10052°, 99.31079°, +66 86-947-0137 (mobile). Shooting range with a variety of pistol and rifle rentals. Memberships also available. Pistol rental 300 baht; rifle rental 350 baht, Range fee 100 baht. Ammunition extra

• Bang Yai Fishing Park (บางใหญ่ฟิชชิ่งปาร์ค), Makham Tia, Muang Surat Thani, 9.10201°, 99.32616°. Stocked fishing park pond. Bring your own rod. 80 baht per person

Cinema

• SF Cinema Central Plaza, 4th FL. Central Plaza Surat Thani, 9.109817°, 99.301851°, +66 77 961-555. Regularly shows (EN/TH) & (TH/EN) films.

• Major Cineplex Sahathai, Sahathai Garden Plaza Surat Thani, 9.148272°, 99.336647°, +66 77 205-825. Regularly shows (EN/TH) & (TH/EN) films.

• EGV Lotus, 3rd FL. Tesco Lotus Surat Thani, 9.104281°, 99.306706°, +66 77 405-235. Mostly in Thai (TH/--), but will screen (TH/EN) and (EN/TH) occasionally.

• SF Cinema Coliseum Surat Thani, 3rd FL. Coliseum Surat Thani, 9.146358°, 99.327279°, +66 77 910-044. Mostly (TH/--) but will screen (TH/EN) occasionally.

Festivals

• Chak Phra Festival (ชักพระ). Celebrates the return of Gautama Buddha from heaven to earth to be greeted by multitudes. The celebration takes place every year immediately after the end of three month rain retreat, about October. It is celebrated in many parts of southern Thailand, but especially in Surat Thani. The evening prior to Chak Phra Day, billboards are erected showing Buddha's story around the city and celebrations continue day and night. On land, the splendidly adorned floats are pulled across the town by the participants. At the same time, on water a float decorated with colourful Thai designs carries Buddha's image. Chak Phra festivities conclude with a boat race and traditional games. 2019-08-01

• Rambutan and Thai Fruit Festival. Rambutan trees were first planted in Surat Thani at Ban Na San in 1926 by Mr. K. Vong, a Chinese Malay. The annual Rambutan Festival is held during the August harvest. 2019-08-01

• Boon Sad Dean Sib Festival. Held on the full moon of the 10th month in traditional calendar (about August). People go to the temple in remembrance of ancestors. 2019-08-01

• Surat Thani Songkran Festival. Thai New Year water festival is celebrated every year on 13 April. 2019-08-01

• Surat Thani Loy Krathong Festival. Held on the full moon of the 12th month in the traditional Thai lunar calendar. In the Western calendar this usually falls in November. During the evening of the full moon, people launch symbolic floating "krathong" on the river. 2019-08-01

• Surat Bike Week (งานสุราษฎร์ฯ ไบค์ วีค). Held annually in February in Muang Surat Thani. 2019-08-01

• Surat Thani Kite Festival at Tha Chana Beach (มหกรรมว่าวนานาชาติ ท่าชนะ). Held annually in February or March in Tha Chana District. 2019-08-01

• Hae Pha Hom Pharthat Si Surat Lae Thammachat Khao Tha Phet Fair (งานประเพณีแห่ผ้าห่มพระธาตุศรีสุราษฎร์แลธรรมชาติเขาท่าเพชร). Held annually in March in Muang Surat Thani. 2019-08-01

• Surat Thani Food Fair (งานสุราษฎร์ธานี ฟู้ดแฟร์). Held annually in March along the Tapi River in Muang Surat Thani. 2019-08-01

Swim

Public pools

• Praram Surat Thani (Mushroom Pool), Bang Bai Mai, Muang Surat Thani, 9.140002°, 99.317173°. Nicknamed 'The Mushroom Pool' for its mushroom waterfall structure. Popular swimming spot for the local expat English teachers. 100 baht

• Pool Koff, Bang Kung, Muang Surat Thani, 9.139828°, 99.348052°. 120 baht

• Provincial Sport Centre Pool, Bang Kung, Muang Surat Thani, 9.137023°, 99.348451°. Olympic-sized swimming pool 20 baht.

• Sport Club Pool, Thatong Road, Talat, Muang Surat Thani, 9.142000°, 99.333248°, +66 77 288-035. M-F 15:00-21:00; Sa Su 09:00-20:00. Partially shaded swimming pool with a children's pool and 2 small water slides. Popular with locals for children's swimming lessons. 20 baht

• Rajabhat University Sport Complex Pool, Makham Tia, Muang Surat Thani, 9.142000°, 99.362274°. 60 baht

Hotel pools

• 100 Islands Resort and Spa Pool, Makham Tia, Muang Surat Thani, 9.102386°, 99.304507°. 150 baht for a family of 4 (2 adults, 2 children)

• Diamond Plaza Hotel Pool, Makham Tia, Muang Surat Thani, 9.106962°, 99.305273°. 60 baht

• Naraya Riverside Resort Pool, Makham Tia, Muang Surat Thani, 9.112006°, 99.314599°. 180 baht, 3 month membership also available

• Siam Thani Hotel Pool, Si Wichai Road, Makham Tia, Muang Surat Thani, 9.114067°, 99.310512°. 50 baht

• Tawan Anda Garden Hotel Pool, Makham Tia, Muang Surat Thani, 9.100053°, 99.320494°. 50 baht

• Wang Tai Hotel Pool, Si Wichai Road, Talat, Muang Surat Thani, 9.131191°, 99.313784°. Membership available for 3,000 baht per year

Buy

Local products

• Chaiya Salted Eggs (ไข่เค็มไชยา) – Ducks in Chaiya eat mollusks, crabs, and fish on the farm, which make their egg yolks particularly red. Eggs are covered with soil mixed with salty water and rice husks.
• Oysters (หอยนางรม) – Surat Thani's oysters are well known for their size, cleanliness, taste, and smell.
• Rambutan – Rambutan here are exceptional due thanks to their sweet taste, crisp meat, big size, small seeds, and thin peel.
• Phumriang Silk Cloth (ผ้าไหมพุมเรียง) – Hand-woven products of a Muslim village. The weavers here create their own patterns which are embossed on the silk by shuttle looms.
• Tha Krachai woven cloth (ผ้าทอท่ากระจาย)
• Para-rubber leaf butterflies (ผีเสื้อใบยางพารา)
• Bulrush wickerwork (ผลิตภัณฑ์จักสานจากกระจูด)
• Kalamae (กะละแม)
• Processed seafood products (ผลิตภัณฑ์อาหารทะเลแปรรูป)
• Coconut wooden products (ผลิตภัณฑ์ไม้มะพร้าว)

Groceries

• Tops Supermarket, 1st FL. CentralPlaza Surat Thani, 9.109720°, 99.302020°. Good selection of Western foods, including bakery products, cheese, wine, beer, and sweets. Also carries 'Waitrose' products imported from the UK.
• Tesco Lotus, 2nd Floor Tesco Lotus Surat Thani, 9.103551°, 99.307241°. One of the larger grocery stores in Surat Thani. Good selection of meat, produce, and grocery items. Also carries 'Tesco Finest' products imported from the UK.
• Big C, 9.148379°, 99.369383°. One of the larger grocery stores in Surat Thani. Good selection of meat, produce, and grocery items.
• Makro, Chonkasem Road, 9.121625°, 99.338489°. Most items sold in bulk. Cheap meat and vegetables. Large selection of spices as well as some imported products. No membership needed, pick up a pass from the customer service desk on the way in.

Souvenirs

• OTOP Souvenir Shop at 100 Islands Resort, Highway 420, Makham Tia, Muang Surat Thani, 9.102688°, 99.305242°, +66 81-892-4677 (mobile). Daily 07:00-19:00. Large number of souvenirs and local handicrafts, including hand woven baskets, coconut and mango wood products, pearls, clothing, dried fruit, and fish products.
• OTOP Product Zone in CentralPlaza Surat Thani, 3rd FL. Central Plaza, 9.110764°, 99.301868°. Selection of Thai products and souvenirs, including hand woven baskets, coconut and mango wood products, clothing, and cosmetics.

Eat

Night markets

• San Jao Night Market (Talat Sanjao - ตลาดศาลเจ้า), Tri Anusonn Rd at Namuang Rd., 9.146042°, 99.325881°. Walk the block and pick up whatever treats catch your eye, or grab a table at one of the restaurants and watch the market scene as you dine. Freshly juiced fruits, corn on the cob, squid-kebabs, fried chicken, saffron rice, pad Thai, sushi.
• Night Boat Pier (ท่าเรือกลางคืน), 9.143406°, 99.322896°. A popular spot for tourists to eat and drink beer before boarding the night boat to Ko Tao or Ko Pha Ngan. Lots of food carts selling seafood and noodles and standard Thai fare at only slightly elevated prices. If you walk further down the road toward the bridge, you'll find fruit vendors galore.
• Wonderland Night Market, Bang Kung, Muang Surat Thani, 9.156359°, 99.342206°, +66 64-652-2478. Daily 17:00-23:00. One of the newer night markets in town. Smaller selection of food compared to the other night markets like San Jao and Diamond, but has one of Surat's best beer gardens, sit-นี่.
• Diamond Night Market, Pohkhuntale Road, Makham Tia, Muang Surat Thani (across the road from the Diamond Plaza Hotel), 9.106112°, 99.308412°. Open Monday and Friday nights. One of the largest night markets in Surat Thani. Good variety of food.

Thai

• Kampan (กำปั่น), 388/24 Amphur Rd, 9.135538°, 99.342332°, +6677283313. 10:00-22:00 daily. A cut above your average Thai restaurant. Small menu, great choice of beer and whiskey. Mix of Thai and Western music, with a live Thai band. Panang curry or Green Curry 160 baht

Isan

• Zaab Eli Der 2 (แซ่บอีหลีเด้อ2), Chalokratt 24, Bang Kung, Muang Surat Thani, 9.145210°, 99.356294°, +66 95-412-9339 (mobile). Daily 10:30-22:00. This Thai Isan restaurant is located on a lotus pond. Indoor and outdoor seating. Menu is in Thai only but has pictures.

Mid-range

• BaanBonKhao ViewSuay (บ้านบนเขา วิวสวย), 9.093308°, 99.288890°, +66 99 364-3299 (mobile). On a hill, BaanBonKhao ViewSuay has amazing views of nearby mountains and the surrounding rubber tree farms. Has an extensive menu of Thai food including hard to find local specialties. Menu is in Thai only.
• Vanilla Cafe & Bistro, 9.093308°, 99.288890°, +66 96-635-9147 (mobile). Daily 10:00-23:00. Closest thing that Surat Thani has to “fine dining”, along with Day & Night. Offers Thai, southern Thai, European, Japanese, Korean, and Chinese fusion dishes. Cheese fries 127 baht

Splurge

• Day & Night Restaurant, 9.106172°, 99.328694°, +66 86-571-9992. Daily 07:00-midnight. Opened in 2016, Day & Night is Surat Thani's fine dining restaurant. Enormous drink menu with imported beer, wine and spirits. Their menu includes pizza, salad, burgers, lamb, salmon, and Canadian lobster. Indoor and outdoor seating. Popular wedding venue. Same owners have a restaurant of the same name in Phuket. Canadian lobster 1,950 baht 2022-10-17

Vegetarian

• Jay Wa Wa (อาหารเจวาวา), 9.140394°, 99.322118°.
• Jae Tom Vegetarian Restaurant (ร้านอาหารเจเจ๊ต้อม), 9.146775°, 99.327954°.
• Jay Hong Vegan Restaurant (ร้านอาหารเจ เจ๊หงษ์), 9.144041°, 99.331300°.
• Vegetarian Cafe, 9.125053°, 99.311770°.
• Surat Thani Vegetarian, 9.135636°, 99.328511°. Cafeteria style vegetarian restaurant with a nice garden ambiance. Selection of juices as well as free cleansing tea to go with your meal. Open since 2006.

Halal

• Madube (ม๊ะดูบี), Chalokratt Road, 9.146042°, 99.360830°.
• Bismillah (บิสมิลลาฮ), Muang Road, 9.136329°, 99.318401°.

Seafood

• Lamphu 3 (ลำพู 3) (Lampoo 3), 9.183927°, 99.369113°, +66 77 286-995. Daily 10:00-20:30. Lampu 3 offers up some of the freshest seafood in Surat Thani. Giant river prawns, shrimp, crab, squid, cockles, fish, and Surat Thani's famous giant oysters. Menu in Thai and English.

Japanese

• Hashi Japanese Restaurant, Bang Kung, Muang Surat Thani, 9.151664°, 99.336017°, +66 77 284-888. Daily 11:00-21:30. One of the more expensive Japanese restaurants in town.
• On-Zen Japanese Cafe, Donnok Road, 9.134038°, 99.325747°, +66 95 423-8186 (mobile). Daily 09:30-21:30. Formally MyCup Cafe, the building underwent renovations in 2018 and re-opened as On-Zen. This cafe serves Japanese food such as sushi, donburi, ramen, curry, as well as sandwiches, burgers, and salads.

Dessert

• 2SISTERs Cafe, Bang Kung, Muang Surat Thani, 9.151372°, 99.336685°, +66 92 263-8838 (mobile). Daily 09:00-21:00. Specializes in cakes and Chazen boba tea. Same owners as Baan Cake.
• Baan Cake (บ้านเค้ก the homemade lover), Highway 420, Makham Tia, Muang Surat Thani, 9.140667°, 99.365622°, +66 77 295-344,+66 77 295-053. Daily 09:00-20:00. Known for their young coconut cake.
• 69 Milk, Chalokratt Road, Bang Kung, Muang Surat Thani, 9.145730°, 99.365201°, +66 85-524-2248 (mobile). Daily 10:30-21:00. Specializes in Bingsu, a Korean shaved ice dessert.
• Ice Cream Nam Choke (นำโชค ร้านไอศครีม), Off Chonkasem Road, Makham Tia, Muang Surat Thani, 9.140862°, 99.327988°, +66 77 281-207. Homemade ice cream with the option of a frozen egg on top. Famous in Surat Thani for decades. Flavours include: coconut, durian, strawberry, vanilla, coffee, and chocolate.
• Yotse (ไอติมหม้อไฟยศเส), Amphur Road, Muang Surat Thani, 9.148461°, 99.334905°, +66 81-839-8262 (mobile). Daily 11:30-21:30. Ice cream served in a Thai fire pot (maw fai/หม้อไฟ) with dry ice added to give it a smoke effect.

Chain restaurants

Western

• Sizzler, 3rd FL. CentralPlaza. All you can eat soup, salad, pasta, and dessert bar. Also offers steak, grilled meat, and burgers.
• McDonald's, 1st FL. CentralPlaza.
• KFC. 4 branches: Central Plaza, Tesco-Lotus, Coliseum, and Saha Thai
• Pizza Hut, 1st FL. Tesco Lotus.
• Dairy Queen (DQ). 5 branches: Central Plaza (1st FL. and 3rd FL.), Tesco Lotus, Saha Thai, and Big C. Seasonal blizzard flavours include mango and sticky rice, green tea, Thai tea with jelly, and durian.

Thai

• MK Restaurants. 2 branches: CentralPlaza and Tesco Lotus. Famous for their suki (hot pot) and roast duck.
• Bar-B-Q Plaza, 3rd FL. CentralPlaza. DIY tableside BBQ
• S&P Restaurant, 3rd FL. CentralPlaza. Thai and Thai-style western dishes.
• Chester’s Grill, Tesco Lotus. Specializes in chicken dishes.
• Black Canyon Coffee, CentralPlaza. Large menu offering sandwiches, salads, and steak.

Drink

Bars & pubs

• sit-นี่ (Sit Nee), Wonderland Night Market, 9.156206°, 99.342245°, +66 91-036-8597 (mobile). Daily 17:00-midnight. Outdoor beer garden
• Masuk Bar (มาสุข บาร์), Amphur Road, 9.148598°, 99.334932°, +66 88-760-8893 (mobile). Daily 17:00-00:00. Signature shots, cocktails, and fire shows. Also hosts the Surat Thani Teacher bi-monthly pub quiz on occasions.
• Mouth 2 Mouth, Amphur Road, 9.138157°, 99.341257°, +66 77 969-099, mouth2mouth.suratthani@gmail.com. Daily 10:30-23:30. Cafe & restaurant, food, international beer, cocktail, whisky, wine, and music.

Coffee

• The Grounds Cafe & Hangout, 9.136403°, 99.327300°, +66 85-445-1516 (mobile). Daily 06:30-21:00. Contender for the best coffee in Muang Surat Thani, The Grounds lives up to its name as a popular hangout spot. Western style breakfast available. Fantastic milkshakes and smoothies. Price range = 60-70 baht for a latte
• Sky Koff, 9.095865°, 99.290054°, +66 91-526-5888 (mobile). A small café at Sky Hill Restaurant with beautiful views of the city.
• Kens, 9.074383°, 99.330790°. A small café overlooking the Khun Thale marsh offering excellent coffee and a Thai-Western menu. Owned by a Thai couple, Ken & Pop, who spent a number of years overseas in Australia. 75 baht for a latte
• Renovate Espresso Bar, 238/24 หมู่1 Sisawat Rd, ตำบล มะขามเตี้ย, 9.124426°, 99.334599°, +66 96-759-3659 (mobile). 08:30-17:30. A small dessert and coffee café with signature drinks flavours like navel orange, coconut, and charcoal. Navel Americano = 80 baht 2022-10-17

Sleep

Budget

• Baan URT Surat Thani Airport Hotel (บ้านยูอาร์ที โรงแรมใกล้สนามบินสุราษฎร์ธานี), 71 Maluan, 9.1551635°, 99.1901044°, +66 77 955 118, contact@hotelinsuratthani.com. Check-in: 14:00, check-out: 12:00. Clean, comfortable rooms, sells tickets to the island and provides free breakfast and free transfers to the airport. 290 baht per guest in shared dormitory and 390 baht per night for a double room 2019-01-07
• Ban Don Hotel (โรงแรมบ้านดอนโฮเต็ล), 268/2 Namuang Rd, 9.142109°, 99.323798°, +66 77-272-167. A place for really cheap and clean rooms, understandably not fancy. Most rooms don't have air-con or hot water and the entrance is through a cheap restaurant. If you're looking for a place to stay and you're watching your money, it's pretty good value. 250-350 baht
• Myplace@surat Hotel, 247/5 Namuang Rd (Not far from Tapee Hotel, a couple of minutes walk from the river and night market), 9.144181°, 99.325568°. Single room, fan, toilet outside, start at 199 baht. Bath inside from 290 baht. Clean good-sized rooms. Free Wi-Fi.
• Tapee Hotel (โรงแรมตาปี), 100 Chonkasem Rd, 9.142852°, 99.325562°, +66 77-272-575. The price differences range from fan to air-con and view. Bright entrance, staffed front desk, and short distance to the market and bus stations. The rooms are older, very clean, and the air-con worked quietly. Five minutes from the waterfront and night market. 450-550 baht
• Thai Rungruang Hotel (โรงแรมไทยรุ่งเรือง), Rungrueang Alley (Off of Talad Mai Road), 9.146176°, 99.329209°. Business hotel. Relatively nice, quiet, clean and good-sized rooms. Some have TV and hot water (probably just the air-con rooms). Wi-Fi available via username and password for 100 baht/24 hr. The hotel staff are very helpful and polite and speak enough English to answer your questions. Fan single from 280 baht, air-con double, 450 baht
• The Port Hostel by Suwatchai, 9.141565°, 99.322593°, +66 86 595-4444 (mobile), theporthostel@gmail.com. Opened in 2016. Less than 250m from the Night Boat Pier. Air conditioning in all rooms. Single 250 baht, double 450 baht, 6-person room 1,200 baht
• Journey Hostel, 9.107425°, 99.308884°, +66 62-216-6615, journeyhostel.suratthani@hotmail.com.

Mid-range

• Grand Thara Hotel (โรงแรมแกรนด์ธารา), 1/144 Donnok Rd (corner of Talad Mai and Donnok Road), 9.138249°, 99.321962°, +66 77-273-740-3. 450-550 baht including breakfast
• 100 Islands Resort and Spa, 19/6 หมู่ที่ 3 ถ.เลี่ยงเมือง ต.มะขามเตี้ย เมือง (Outside city centre. If your taxi driver doesn't know where it is, he should know where Tesco-Lotus is. The hotel is near there.), 9.102691°, 99.304837°, +6677201150. Clean, spacious rooms. Wide range of facilities and amenities including air conditioning, minifridge in the room, a pool, spa, and restaurant on-site. 770-1,200 baht 2022-10-17
• Princess Park Hotel, 19/19 Leangmuang Rd, 9.102666°, 99.303829°, +66 86 475-7780 (mobile). Muslim owned and operated. The only Halal hotel in Surat Thani. 600-800 baht

Splurge

• Diamond Plaza Hotel, 83/27 Sriwichai Rd, Moo 2 Makamtia District (on the outer edge as you enter from Phun Phin railway station), 9.106870°, 99.305246°, +66 77 277299. Reputedly the best hotel in town although on a dismal commercial stretch of road. 1,500-3,000 baht 2022-10-17
• Naraya Riverside Resort (นารายา ริเวอร์ไซด์ รีสอร์ท), Si Wichai 21, Makham Tia, Muang Surat Thani, 9.112226°, 99.314486°, +66 77 603-201. Modern hotel that backs onto the river. Large outdoor pool, fitness center, and children's playground. 1,000-2,000 baht

Go next

• Khao Sok National Park — jungle and diving adventures
• Ko Samui — backpacker paradise gone up-market
• Ko Pha Ngan — home of the infamous Full Moon Party
• Ko Tao — popular diving spot and a good place to get certified
• Ang Thong National Marine Park
• Khao Lak — coastal resort region and diving centre just north of Ko Phuket