Stretching from the Gulf of Thailand to the jungle-draped mountains of Khao Sok, Surat Thani is the largest province in southern Thailand. It’s famed for the resort islands of Koh Samui and Koh Phangan, together with the scuba diving hub of Koh Tao.

Things to do

Experience the boutique shopping and international restaurants of Koh Samui, which is renowned for its upmarket resorts and white sandy beaches. Rent a scooter to explore the island’s interior waterfalls, Buddhist temples and traditional villages before relaxing on the sands of Lamai Beach or watching the sunset at Taling Ngam.

To the north lies the island of Koh Phangan, which has made a name for its monthly Full Moon parties and buzzing nightlife. Participate in a yoga retreat or enjoy a range of water sports on busy Haad Rin before feasting on authentic Thai dishes at the lively Thong Sala Night Market.

Want to explore below the water’s surface? Head to the scuba diving capital of Koh Tao to get up close to big pelagic species at Chumphon Pinnacle and go wreck diving on the HTMS Sattakut. Beginners can take their first steps with introductory dive courses or snorkel on the colourful reefs surrounding the island.

Get up close elephants, gibbons and a variety of bird species while exploring the dense evergreen rainforest and towering limestone karst formations of Khao Sok National Park. Kayak down the Sok River or hike along one of the park’s many trails, then relax in a floating raft house on Cheow Lan Lake.

Getting around

Surat Thani International Airport is a 35-minute drive from the centre of Surat Thani, while Samui Airport serves the island of Ko Samui. Ferries connect Ko Samui, Ko Phangan and Ko Tao to the mainland.