Thailand is one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations. People from all over the world flock to Thailand’s tourist hubs of Bangkok, Pattaya, Phuket and Chiang Mai. The year-round warm weather, the hospitality of the Thai people, the wonderful food and the low cost of Thailand make it a great place to visit.
A lot of foreigners visit year after year, and the Kingdom grows on them and they look forward to their yearly visits. After they’ve explored the tourist areas of Bangkok or Phuket, many travellers look to find more exotic and off-the-beaten-track locations.
The Gulf of Thailand is filled with quiet places, wonderful beaches, stunning waterfalls and other attractions that draw visitors from Thailand and around the world.
Nakhon Si Thammarat
This area is tucked away beneath the tourist areas of Koh Samui, Koh Phan Ngan, and Koh Tao. It’s a sophisticated city filled with grand old temples, delicious food and distinctive handicrafts.
With a small but significant Muslim population, Nakhon begins the transition in Thailand’s deep south.
With stunning beaches dotting the coast throughout the province, it has attracted its share of luxury villa builders. New projects like the Sichon Beach Villa attract affluent customers to a tranquil life on the shores of the Gulf.
Surat Thani
This is a rural province in southern Thailand set on the Gulf of Thailand. It reaches inland to the border with Myanmar and is home to the Khao Sok National Park.
It’s most well-known as the gateway to the Gulf islands of Koh Samui, Koh Pha Ngan, and Koh Tao. The nearby Mu Ko Ang Thong National Marine Park features forested peaks, scenic views and abundant wildlife.
Chumphon
Southern Thailand officially starts at Chumphon. The main highway splits into west and east coast branches. Those headed west for the Andaman Sea can take Route 4 all the way through Ranong and Phang Nga to eventually arrive in Phuket. If you take Route 41 to the east you will head down to Surat Thani and Nakhon Si Thammarat.