Surat Thani Lower Southern Gulf, Thailand Travel Guide
Temperatures during March to May reach 30°C to a scorching 38°C (86°F to 100°F). Humidity remains consistently high, making midday outdoor activities intense. Mornings and evenings offer more comfortable conditions.
The southwest monsoon dominates the period from May to November, bringing regular rainfall. October and November typically see the heaviest precipitation, with daily, often intense, showers. Temperatures during the rainy season average between 25°C and 32°C (77°F to 90°F), remaining warm despite the rain. The humidity stays high throughout this period, contributing to the lush, green landscapes.
High Season (Dec-Feb) brings ideal weather but higher costs and crowds. Book accommodations and tours in advance.
Shoulder Season (Mar-Apr, Jul-Sep) features fewer crowds and potentially lower prices. Expect heat in early shoulder, intermittent rain later.
December - February
Comfortable temperatures for activities
Book ahead to secure options
March - April, July - September
Good balance of weather and value
Plan for sun protection or showers
May - June, October - November
Quieter, unique rainy season experience
Potential flooding, limited water activities
Trekking and caving are better from December to April, when trails are drier and conditions comfortable.
Cheow Lan Lake boat tours are generally available year-round, offering scenic views regardless of rain.
December to April for calmest seas.
December to February for comfortable outdoor conditions.
Pack lightweight, quick-drying clothing regardless of season.
A compact umbrella or rain jacket comes in handy.
Monitor local weather advisories during rainy season.
Entry requirements vary based on nationality and length of stay.
Many nationalities enjoy visa exemption for stays up to 30 days by air. Land/sea arrivals also get 30 days, limited to two entries per year.
For longer stays or non-exempt nationalities, apply for a Tourist Visa (TR) in advance at an embassy or consulate.
Immigration procedures involve presenting your passport and completed arrival card to an immigration officer. Fingerprint scanning is a standard part of the process at most entry points.
Thailand offers options for all budget types, from backpackers to luxury travelers.
The official currency of Thailand is the Thai Baht (THB). Exchange rates fluctuate daily. Compare rates at various exchange booths and banks upon arrival.
IVisa and VisaHQ provide visa assistance services.
Major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard) are accepted in larger hotels, upscale restaurants, and department stores. For smaller local shops, street food vendors, and markets, cash is the preferred and often only payment method. ATMs are ubiquitous but may carry a fee of 220 THB per transaction for foreign cards. Consider a pre-loaded debit card for international travel for favorable exchange rates and security. SafetyWing and World Nomads offer travel insurance options.
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service.
10% service charge may appear. If not, round up or leave 50-100 THB.
Round up fare to the nearest 5 or 10 THB.
20-50 THB for luggage handling.
50-100 THB per hour for good service.
Surat Thani is generally safe for tourists, but awareness of local health and safety considerations benefits your trip.
Use Insect repellent with DEET or Picaridin, especially dawn/dusk. Wear long sleeves/pants. Sleep under mosquito nets in basic accommodations.
Always drink Bottled water. Avoid ice unless from filtered source. Eat hot, freshly cooked food from busy vendors. Use Hand sanitizer. Be cautious with uncooked foods.
Wear a Wide-brimmed hat and High-SPF sunscreen (30-50+). Stay hydrated with bottled water. Seek shade during midday.
Surat Thani city has hospitals like Bangkok Hospital Surat Thani and public Surat Thani Hospital. Numerous clinics and pharmacies are available for minor issues and common ailments.
Consult a travel health clinic or doctor at least 4-6 weeks prior to discuss specific vaccination needs. Routine vaccinations (MMR, DPT, Polio) should be current. Recommended vaccinations: Hepatitis A/B, Typhoid, Rabies, Japanese Encephalitis.
For flight compensation, AirHelp offers assistance.
Always carry a few physical copies of important documents in a separate bag from your originals.
Highly purchase comprehensive Travel insurance, covering medical emergencies, trip disruptions, and emergency evacuation. SafetyWing is ideal for digital nomads. Insubuy offers medical coverage for US visitors.
Ensure coverage for any adventure activities. Keep a printed copy and digital version of your policy handy.
Tourist Police: 1155, Medical Emergency/Ambulance: 1669, Police (General): 191, Fire Department: 199. Keep your home country's embassy/consulate details (in Bangkok) saved.
Surat Thani is generally safe for tourists. Petty crime, like pickpocketing, can happen in crowded areas (markets, bus/train terminals). Violent crime against tourists is rare.
Consult a travel health clinic or your doctor at least 4-6 weeks before departure to discuss specific vaccination needs based on your itinerary, health history, and travel style.
Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR), Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis (DPT), Polio.
Hepatitis A and B (for food/water risks), Typhoid (for eating outside major hotels/street food).
Rabies (long-term travelers, animal contact), Japanese Encephalitis (rural areas, rainy season).
