BEST SURF SPOTS IN THAILAND

Phuket

Koh Phayam

Koh Phayam - Thailand Koh Phayam features a sandy beach break with waves breaking both right and left. The best surf conditions occur at low and mid tide, particularly during rising tide. Access is straightforward, requiring a short walk (5-15 minutes) from Koh Phayam village to Aow Yai Beach, where the prime break is located. This laid-back island offers a relaxed atmosphere, making it an ideal escape from the crowded tourist hotspots of Thailand. While the surf can be fun, it may lack the consistency found at more renowned locations. The island welcomes Southwest swells, providing decent conditions for both beginners and experienced surfers. With minimal crowds and a friendly vibe, Koh Phayam is a hidden gem for those seeking to enjoy some waves in a tranquil setting, complemented by stunning beaches and local eateries.

Koh phangan

Koh Phangan - Thailand Koh Phangan features a beach break with both right and left waves, characterized by a sandy bottom and powerless conditions. The spot is accessible within a 5-minute walk from the ferry terminal, making it convenient for surfers. It works best at low and mid tide during rising tide. This surf spot is ideal for beginners, offering a relaxed atmosphere with few surfers on weekdays and weekends. Board rentals are available on the beach for approximately 10 USD per day, with options for longboards and funboards. The prime surfing time is between 9 AM and 11 AM, providing a perfect window for those looking to catch some gentle waves in a picturesque setting.

Patong Beach

Patong Beach - Phuket, Thailand Patong Beach features a sandy beach break with waves breaking both right and left. It is accessible within a 5-minute walk and works best during mid to high tide. The crowd is typically empty during the week and on weekends. While Patong is more famous for its vibrant nightlife and shopping, it can occasionally offer rideable waves, though consistency is not guaranteed. The spot is often considered a close-out, particularly if the swell is not favorable. It serves as a suitable location for beginners looking to catch some waves in a relaxed environment. However, surfers are advised to check conditions regularly and consider exploring nearby spots for potentially better surf experiences.

Koh Lanta - Klong Dao

Koh Lanta - Klong Dao Klong Dao features a beach break with both right and left waves over a sandy bottom. The waves are generally fun and powerless, making it an ideal spot for beginners and casual surfers. The best conditions occur from April to November, particularly during the peak swell months of June and July. This uncrowded surf spot is located on the northern end of Koh Lanta, easily accessible from Saladan town. With instant access to the beach, surfers can enjoy a laid-back atmosphere while riding a few peaks along the shore. The waves work at all tides, and the area is known for its beautiful scenery. Although the surf diminishes in December through February, Klong Dao remains suitable for stand-up paddleboarding. Local surf shops provide equipment and guidance, ensuring a pleasant experience for all skill levels.

Kata Beach

Kata Beach - Phuket, Thailand Kata Beach features a sandy beach break with both right and left waves, ideal for beginners. The spot works at all tides, with fun wave power and a friendly atmosphere. Access is straightforward, located about an hour south of Phuket Airport, with instant access to the beach. This vibrant surf destination is known for its beautiful landscape and welcoming locals. While it can get busy during peak seasons, the beach remains relatively empty during the week. Kata Beach hosts the annual Quiksilver contest, enhancing its surf culture. Surfers can enjoy the local surf shop, "Phuketsurf.com," for board rentals. However, caution is advised after heavy rains due to changing conditions. Overall, Kata Beach offers a solid surf experience with a relaxed vibe, making it a must-visit for surfers in Thailand.

Cape Pakarang

Cape Pakarang - Khao Lak, Thailand Cape Pakarang features a reef break with both right and left waves, characterized by a sharp coral bottom mixed with sand. The spot thrives on a clean south-west groundswell and is best surfed during the shoulder seasons of April/May and October/November. It accommodates all tides, with rising and falling movements. Accessing the waves requires a 15-30 minute hike over broken coral, making booties advisable. The southern edge offers a long right in front of the tsunami tower, while the northern tip presents a long left. The atmosphere is generally uncrowded, with few surfers on weekdays and weekends. However, caution is advised due to potential dangers from rocks and pollution. The beach south of the rivermouth also provides decent waves, enhancing the overall surf experience at this remote location.

Pansea Beach

Pansea Beach - Thailand Pansea Beach features a left-point break with a sandy bottom interspersed with rock. The wave breaks best at low to mid tide, requiring a swell of 1 to 1.5 meters. The take-off point is approximately 100 meters offshore, near a prominent rock. This secluded beach is about 250 meters long and is accessible via a short walk. While Pansea Beach is not the most consistent surf spot, it offers fun sessions when conditions align. The shallow reef can pose challenges, so caution is advised. The beach is less crowded than nearby surf areas, allowing for a more relaxed experience. Located near the upscale Chedi Resort and Amanpuri Hotel, the overall vibe remains laid-back despite its exclusivity. Always check the surf conditions before heading out, as they can change rapidly.

Khao lak

Khao Lak - Thailand Khao Lak features fun sandy bottom beach breaks with consistent waves ranging from 0.3 to 0.9 meters. The spot is accessible with instant access to the beach, and it works best at low and mid tide during rising and falling tides. The wind predominantly comes from the south, southeast, east, and northeast. This laid-back surf destination is less crowded than nearby Phuket, making it ideal for families and those seeking a relaxed atmosphere. While the local surf scene is minimal, with few surfers and more boogie boarders, Khao Lak offers reliable conditions, especially at Cape Pakarang and Bang Niang. The area is equipped with amenities, including Pakarang Surf Shop for board rentals. Visitors can enjoy the local market, restaurants, and the best bakery in Thailand, all within a short walk from the beach, where waves can be found breaking near the lighthouse.

Kata Noi

Kata Noi - Phuket Island Kata Noi features a right-hand beach break with sandy bottom, ideal for fun sessions. Located just south of Kata Beach, it is accessible via a short walk from the Katatani Hotel. The spot works best at mid and high tide, with optimal conditions from northwest, west, and southwest swells, complemented by west winds. This picturesque beach offers a manageable surf experience, particularly at the northern end where the waves can be more interesting. While the crowd is generally moderate, surfers can enjoy a friendly vibe, making it a great alternative to busier spots. With its beautiful setting and consistent waves, Kata Noi is perfect for those seeking enjoyable rides without the hassle of larger crowds. Just be mindful of the rocks and show respect to the locals while enjoying the surf.

Karon Beach

Karon Beach - Phuket Island Karon Beach features a right-hand beach break with sandy bottom, delivering fun waves during the surf season from June to September. The spot is easily accessible, located about an hour south of Phuket Airport, with instant access within 5 minutes from Kata Beach. This surf destination offers consistent big waves due to strong south-west winds, making it ideal for surfers of all levels. The beach works well at all tides, providing ample opportunities for sessions. While weekdays are generally empty, expect a few surfers on weekends. Caution is advised due to potential rips and undertow, so it's essential to stay aware of conditions. Karon Beach is a great choice for those seeking a less crowded surf experience on Phuket Island.

leam sing

Leam Sing - Phuket Leam Sing features powerful left-breaking sandbar waves over a sandy bottom, ideal for bodyboarders. The spot is best accessed from Surin Beach, heading south towards Kamala, with a steep descent leading directly to the beach. Optimal surf conditions occur during mid to high tide, particularly in the afternoon. This hidden gem offers a laid-back atmosphere, attracting both surfers and locals. While it may not be as crowded as other spots, the waves can be fast and ledgey, providing an exciting challenge. The beach is beginner-friendly, making it a great place to hone your skills when conditions align. With instant access and equipment rentals available nearby, Leam Sing is a must-visit for those seeking a unique surf experience in Phuket.

Nang Thong Beach

Nang Thong Beach - Khao Lak Nang Thong features a beach break with sandy bottom, offering both right and left waves. It works best on low and mid tides, particularly with a westerly windswell. The spot is generally uncrowded, making it a hidden gem for surfers seeking solitude. Located near Khao Lak, access is straightforward via a small road beside Nang Thong Supermarket, just 250 meters from the beach. The waves break on either side of a rocky outcrop marked by a large beacon, with one side often outperforming the other based on swell direction and sand banks. The backdrop of the national park enhances the experience, while the area is sheltered from the prevailing southwest monsoon winds, making it a reliable option when other spots are blown out.

RAYONG - Mae RAMPHUNG BEACH

Rayong - Mae Ramphung Beach Mae Ramphung Beach features a beach break with both right and left waves, characterized by a sandy bottom. The spot is ideal for beginners, especially on smaller days, but can produce solid 2.4-meter waves with powerful barrels during optimal conditions. Located just a few hours from Bangkok, this 10-kilometer stretch offers five different surf spots, all with mellow waves perfect for longboard surfing. The area is less crowded, providing a relaxed atmosphere for surfers. Wind conditions are favorable from the west and southwest, while the best surf occurs at mid to high tide. Local surf schools offer rentals and lessons, making it accessible for newcomers. With fresh seafood nearby and a friendly vibe, Mae Ramphung Beach is a hidden gem for both locals and adventurous travelers seeking quality surf without the crowds.

Ko Samet

Ko Samet - Thailand Ko Samet features a beach break with sandy bottom, offering small, powerless waves that peak at 1.2 meters (4 feet). The spot is best during the dry season when swells come from the East and Southeast, working optimally at mid and high tide with a rising tide. Accessible via a two-hour drive from Bangkok to Rayong, followed by a boat ride to the island, Ko Samet is a tranquil destination known for its stunning landscapes and crystal-clear waters. While it can be crowded on weekends, it remains largely empty during the week, making it ideal for those seeking a peaceful surf experience. The area is not known for high-quality surf, but the beautiful surroundings and friendly atmosphere attract many visitors. Bodyboarders will find the conditions more favorable, and the local beaches, such as Ao Pai and Sai Kaew, provide additional options for beach breaks.

Bang Niang Rivermouth

Bang Niang Rivermouth - Thailand Bang Niang Rivermouth features a rivermouth wave with a sandy bottom, breaking both right and left. This spot is best during mid to high tide, particularly on a falling tide, with optimal conditions from a westerly or southwesterly swell and east winds. The wave can be fickle, depending on sandbanks, and tends to produce punchy, fast wedges close to shore. Access is straightforward; park in the coconut grove after turning off highway 4 at Bang Niang. The wave is easily reachable within a 5-minute walk. Early mornings are ideal for less wind and fewer crowds, making it a great choice for surfers seeking a relaxed atmosphere. However, be cautious of water quality after heavy rain and watch for falling coconuts while enjoying this lazy man's break.