What to See in Surat Thani

Visitors wondering what to see in Surat Thani will find a nature lovers’ paradise. It is a fantastic jumping-off point for Khao Sok National Park and Koh Phangan and Koh Samui islands. Locally, there are sights such as the Wat Sai Museum, Wat Phra That Si Surat, and the Night Market. 

To truly explore all that Surat Thani offers, the best option is a car rental in Surat Thani. Drive Car Rental has a convenient pickup location at Surat Thani Airport. With keys in hand and our tips in mind, you’ll be ready to make the most of your Surat Thani trip!

Things to See in Surat Thani Town

Staying in Surat Thani Town isn’t strictly necessary. The city primarily exists as a transit hub for the rest of the province; it also serves as one of two provincial ferry terminals to and from Koh Samui and Koh Phangan. Those staying in town for a day can see the following:

Wat Phra That Si Surat

Wat Phra That Si Surat is located on a hill just to the southeast of town. It is a simple temple that grants visitors a commanding view of Surat Thani town, and its forested grounds offer a shady respite from the southern Thai sun.  

Wat Sai and Museum

Wat Sai is a quaint temple built in 1932 and occupied by the Japanese at the very start of World War 2. This temple has a beautiful teakwood building that houses a few pieces of local history and serves as a museum. Visitors can see relics of a bygone era while enjoying the temple grounds

The Night Market

Located just around the corner from Wat Sai is the night market. No Thai city is complete without one, and this is no exception. Try a delightful array of street food on display from the city’s many hawkers.

With the things to see in Surat Thani Town being a bit limited, it’s time to move on to other destinations around the province.

Surat Thani Mainland Attractions

There are several sites to see all over Surat Thani province for those with the flexibility of a rental car. Here are some of the most treasured:

Khao Sok National Park

A reservoir and nature reserve that consists of several limestone karsts rising straight out of the water. Much like Phang Nga Bay in Phuket, but with freshwater, this earthly paradise is an Instagrammable dream. 

Take a day tour or choose to stay overnight in the floating bungalows. Feast on freshly caught seafood while local guides take visitors around on Thailand’s signature longtail boats. With luck, some rare wildlife will appear for memorable photos. 

Tai Rom Yen National Park

The forested Tai Rom Yen National Park lies on the opposite side of Surat Thani Province. Filled with waterfalls and nature trails, it’s the perfect place to enjoy the serenity of the jungle and get away from the crowds of the beach towns. 

The Islands

The islands of Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, and their tiny cousin Koh Tao are all part of Surat Thani Province. Quickly reached by speedboat ferry, there are also slower car ferries. Those wishing to take their car on the ferry should check in advance with tour agents to secure bookings; it should be noted that getting a car to Koh Phangan and Koh Tao may not be possible, so plan accordingly. 

All three islands are legendary in their own right and provide quick access to the nearby Mu Koh Ang Thong Marine National Park. This archipelago is strictly off-limits to all but day trips. Here, visitors have an opportunity to experience the Gulf of Thailand’s pristine ecosystem without damaging the natural beauty. 

Koh Samui is the largest and most resort-oriented island, with all the comforts one could ask for. Koh Phangan is more sparsely populated–excellent for driving around and discovering secluded beaches and quiet walks in the forest. Finally, Koh Tao is tailor-made for scuba diving adventures, with numerous dive shops offering unbeatable deals. 

Drive Car Rental Can Help You See the Real Surat Thani

Here at Drive Car Rental, we offer rental locations throughout Thailand. We have special rates for weekly and monthly rentals. Additionally, those who book far in advance can get early bird discounts along with the best vehicle selection. 

We even have electric cars for visitors wishing to go green. Book your vehicle now and see all that Surat Thani has to offer!