Whether you’re looking to rock climb in Krabi, experience a Full Moon Party in Koh Pha Ngan or cliff dive in Ko Tao, Southern Thailand’s beaches are immensely popular destinations. Although some areas are more remote than others, most destinations are easily accessible, even for the most novice traveler. If visiting Southern Thailand from Bangkok, there are essentially two ways to visit popular destinations: flying domestically or taking the train.
Flying Domestic
Fortunately for travelers, international airports dot Southern Thailand. Five in all, —Phuket, Hat Yai, Krabi, Surat Thani, Koh Samui — the airport you choose depends greatly on the beach/area you’d like to explore. Unlike many other countries, domestic flights in Thailand are incredibly reasonable. For instance, a round-trip flight from BKK in Bangkok to Krabi can cost as little as 950 baht, or roughly $30. Yes, round-trip. Better still, Thailand has three main airlines — Nokair, Thai Airways and Bangkok Airways — allowing travelers to compare rates.
Taking the Train
However, if you enjoy the journey as much as the destination, hate flying or want to explore the geography of Southern Thailand, taking the rail system is also an option. Trains offer first class — air-conditioned, private compartments — to third class, which doesn’t guarantee you a seat, especially not one with upholstery.
Bangkok train travelers will take the Southern Line in Hua Lamphong station to Surat Thani Station near Krabi. However, the Southern Line continues on to Malaysia.
Travelers would then need to research bus schedules from Surat Thani to different destinations. In all, it can be a roughly 10-hour travel time, or longer, depending on the end destination.
First class on the train is as expensive, or more expensive, than flying. If you’d like to reach your Thailand beach quickly, safely, comfortably and cheaply, then flying is, by far, your best bet. Either way, you’ll enjoy your piece of paradise, however you choose to go.
Read This Next
Full Moon Parties Around The World
Spring Break
Aug 20, 2014#TrazeeTravel
Insta FeedDestinations / North America
Nov 21, 2024Art Basel Happenings at Miami’s The Ritz-Carlton Hotels
Art Basel Miami Beach takes place Dec. 6–8. This iconic international art fair features works from worldwide established and emerging artists. To celebrate the event, The Ritz-Carlton Bal Harbour, Miami, and The Ritz-Carlton, South Beach, host special programming with a focus on female artists.
Sponsored Content
Discover Greece’s Tower Towns: A Journey Through History
Greece's tower towns offer a captivating blend of history, architecture and stunning landscapes that make them perfect for curious travelers. These towns, particularly found in the Mani region of the Peloponnese, are defined by stone towers built during the medieval period. Constructed for both defense and as symbols of family pride, the towers stand as a testament to the region's turbulent history and its residents’ resilience.
Travel Goods
Nov 21, 2024Never Lose an Item Again with Apple’s New Share Item Location Feature
It’s your worst nightmare: Your plane is taxiing and you’re looking out the window, only to realize you’ve left your iPad or laptop in the airport. Thanks to a new feature from Apple, these fears can be allayed, ensuring we always know where our valuables are, whether traveling or at home.
Dining/Entertainment
Nov 20, 2024Experience the Only Restaurant Made Entirely of Ice in America
You’ve heard of ice hotels, but what about ice restaurants? When ice Hôtel de Glace de Québec opens in January 2025, it will be home to the only restaurant made entirely of snow and ice in America thanks to a partnership with Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac.
Sponsored Content
Seoul: Your Favorite Worldwide City
Seoul is the place for your next bleisure destination.
Destinations
Nov 20, 2024What Destinations Are Trending in 2025?
Luxury travel company Scott Dunn looks ahead to 2025 with predictions of hot destinations to visit. These focus on under-explored locations, sustainable tourism and exclusive experiences.
ShareThis