Best Things to Do in Southern Thailand & the Andaman Coast (2026 Guide)

The best things to do on the Andaman Coast are defined by the sea. Phang Nga Bay’s sea kayaking through limestone cave systems and past the James Bond Island (Khao Phing Kan) is among Southeast Asia’s great experiences. Maya Bay on Koh Phi Phi Leh — closed for ecological restoration until 2022 and now operating with visitor limits — remains one of the world’s most beautiful beaches. The Similan Islands (accessible November-May) consistently rank among the world’s top 10 dive sites for visibility, coral diversity, and marine life including whale sharks and manta rays. Krabi’s Railay Beach, accessible only by longtail boat, has towering limestone cliffs on three sides and emerald water.

Best time to visit

November to April is the dry season on the Andaman Coast: calm seas, blue skies, and the best diving conditions. December-January is peak season with the most visitors and highest prices. October-November is shoulder season with occasional rain but significantly lower costs. May-October is monsoon season on the Andaman side (the Gulf Coast’s Koh Samui is better during this period) — rough seas make boat travel dangerous and many dive operators close. The Similan Islands National Park closes completely from May 15 to October 31. Plan your visit accordingly.

Getting around

Phuket International Airport is the main hub (direct flights from Bangkok, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, and European charter routes). Krabi Airport serves Ao Nang and Railay directly. Between islands, speedboat transfers and longtail taxis are standard — prices are fixed (Ao Nang to Railay: 100 THB by longtail, 10 minutes). Koh Lanta is reached by ferry from Krabi town or Ao Nang (2 hours). The Similan Islands require an overnight boat trip from Khao Lak. Within Phuket, Grab works well; in Krabi and Koh Lanta, scooter hire (250-300 THB/day) is the most practical option.

What to eat and drink

Southern Thai food is the spiciest and most aromatic regional cuisine in Thailand: massaman curry (Muslim-influenced, rich with potatoes and peanuts — a UNESCO-listed intangible cultural heritage), gaeng tai pla (pungent southern fish curry), pad sator (stir-fried with pungent beans, shrimp paste, and seafood), and fresh grilled fish at any beachside restaurant. The best markets: Phuket Weekend Night Market (Chaofa Road, Friday-Sunday evenings), Krabi Town Night Market (Maharaj Soi 8, daily), and Phuket Old Town’s Sunday Walking Street. Thai iced tea, fresh coconut, and Singha/Chang beer are the drinks. Phuket’s Old Town has excellent specialty coffee.

Neighborhoods to explore

Phuket Old Town — The original Sino-Portuguese town centre: painted shophouses, Chinpracha House mansion museum, and the best local food on the island. A 15-minute tuk-tuk from Patong Beach.

Patong Beach, Phuket — The main party strip: Bangla Road nightlife, beachfront bars, watersports, and busy but functional beach. Best avoided for first-time visitors seeking tranquillity.

Ao Nang, Krabi — The mainland base for Railay Beach boat trips and 4-island tours. A walkable beachfront with good restaurants and guesthouses.

Railay Beach, Krabi — Accessible only by longtail boat from Ao Nang. Limestone cliffs, crystal water, rock climbing, and the famous Phra Nang Cave Beach with its shrine of wooden phalluses.

Long Beach, Koh Lanta — Koh Lanta’s best beach: a 3km stretch of sand with shallow water, minimal development at the south end, and coral reef accessible by snorkel directly from shore.

Khao Lak — The mainland base 80km north of Phuket for Similan and Surin Island dive trips. Quieter and more family-oriented than Phuket.