Things to Do in Surat Thani: 8 Best Activities (2026 Guide)
Surat Thani is the transport hub of the Gulf Coast — most travellers pass through on the way to Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, or Koh Tao. The city itself sits on the Tapi River estuary, and the surrounding province contains several worthwhile stops: Srivijaya-era ruins, a quiet river market town, national parks, and the gateway to some of Thailand’s best-known Gulf islands. Here are 8 things worth your time in and around Surat Thani.
1. Gulf Islands: Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, Koh Tao
The most common reason to visit Surat Thani: catching the ferry to the Gulf islands. The main ferry piers are at Don Sak (for Koh Samui, 1.5 hrs) and Donsak–Seatran (for Koh Phangan and Koh Tao). Night ferries also depart from the town pier. Book onward ferry tickets at any travel agent in town the day before.
2. Chaiya Historical Park
Forty kilometres north of Surat Thani, Chaiya was a major centre of the Srivijaya maritime empire (7th–13th century). Wat Phra Borommathat Chaiya houses a restored chedi whose form influenced Cambodian and Javanese temple architecture. The National Museum of Chaiya holds bronze Vishnu and Avalokitesvara statues from the same period — among the finest pre-Thai art in southern Thailand.
3. Khao Na Nai Luang Dharma Park
A forested hill temple about 25 km from town, with a large reclining Buddha visible from the road. The grounds are quiet and well kept. Combine with a visit to the Ratchaprapha Dam (Cheow Lan Lake) access road for a full inland day if you have a car.
4. Tapi River Evening Market
The riverside promenade market near the city pier runs most evenings — local grilled food, fresh fruit, and regional sweets. The Tapi River is the widest in southern Thailand; longtail boats and fishing vessels moor alongside. A good place to eat cheaply and watch river life without heading to the tourist strip.
5. Surat Thani Night Market (Talad Kaset)
Two large covered night markets in the city centre sell everything from fresh produce and street food to household goods. Kaset 1 and Kaset 2 markets run nightly from around 17:00. Strong on southern Thai food: khao yam (rice salad with coconut), gaeng som (sour curry), and a variety of roti stands.
6. Khao Sok National Park (day trip)
An hour and 20 minutes inland from Surat Thani by car, Khao Sok is a viable day trip: the visitor trail system, the Sok River jungle lodges, and the boat trips on Cheow Lan Lake are all accessible without an overnight stay. Most travellers heading Khao Lak–Surat Thani stop here as a scenic midpoint.