Surfing Spots – Thailand
Best Surfing in Thailand: The 5 Ultimate Surfing Spots of 2025
Think Thailand, and you might think of images of beaches and temples, but Thailand now rides high on the list of surf destinations, with swells that are starting to be noticed on the surfing stage. People are discovering what it has to offer and the amount of surf schools throughout the coastline, making it increasingly more popular for surfers around the world.
With its growing surf culture, the best surfing in Thailand is no longer just a hidden treasure but is celebrated and recognised. Surfers now carve Thai waters from the surf schools of Phuket to the pale blue waves of Ranong. So let’s pack our boards and experience what Thailand has to offer!
As a travel enthusiast and photographer from the UK. I have a passion for nature and wildlife, I tend to focus on eco-tourism and sustainable travel but like to cover a wide range of articles. My favourite destination has got to be Malta, I love the food there and the relaxing nightlife of Silema is my happy place!
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In a Hurry? Here's our Key Info for This Article
- Discover the rapidly growing surf scene in Thailand, a hidden gem on the map of global surf destinations.
- Explore a variety of top surf spots in Thailand, suitable for both seasoned surfers and beginners, amidst breathtaking natural beauty.
- Phuket stands out with surf schools and beginner-friendly waves during the surfing season, particularly from May to October.
- Enjoy not just the waves but also the unique cultural experiences and delectable local cuisine that accompanies surfing holidays in Thailand.
- Stay informed about the best times and places to surf with accurate and detailed Thailand surf reports.
- Learn and improve your surfing skills with the ample opportunities provided by established and reputable surf schools throughout Thailand.
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An Introduction to Thailand’s Surfing Scene
Welcome to the world of surfing in Thailand! This Southeast Asian nation, long celebrated for its scenic beauty and strong culture, is carving out a name for itself within the international surfing community. Peer into the waters of the Andaman Sea and discover the swells that make surfing holidays in Thailand an unforgettable experience.
You’ll find its once serene beaches are now dotted with surfers and an increasing number of surf schools. Whether you’re dreaming of riding your first wave or perfecting your technique, the many surf schools along the coasts cater to every surfer’s goals. Here’s a look at what you can expect when planning your surfing trip to the Kingdom of smiles!
- Quality surfing with fewer crowds, offering a more intimate encounter with the waves
- Surf spots that cater to a range of skill levels, from the gentle waves perfect for newbies to challenging breaks for the veteran surfers
- Seasonal surf events like the Phuket Surfing Contest, where novices can learn and pros can compete
- Beaches renowned for their surf-readiness during various months of the year
Here is a table of the various beaches and what they have to offer to those wave-riders out there:
| Surf Locale | Level of Difficulty | Seasonal Popularity | Facilities Available |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kata Beach, Phuket | All Levels | May-Oct (High) | Surf Schools, Board Rentals |
| Bang Tao Beach, Phuket | Intermediate | May-Oct (Moderate) | Surf Schools, Relaxation Spots |
| Kalim Beach, Phuket | Experienced | Jun-Sep (Prime Surfing) | Competitive Events, Board Rentals |
| Ranong’s Ao Yai Beach | Beginner to Advanced | Oct-Dec, Apr-May (Optimal) | Eco Surf Retreats, Local Cuisine |
Phuket
As you seek out the best surfing in Thailand, you’ll find Phuket’s shores at the top of the list. With each beach offering unique characteristics, the island presents many surf schools and waves for every level of surfer. So if you are here to learn or even take part in the Phuket surf competition, Phuket is the perfect place to start your adventure with many budget accommodation options right at the beach to have quick access for a surf.
Kata Beach
Kata Beach is the beating heart of Phuket’s surf scene. This busy beach is full of surf schools and rental shops, making it the spot for both newbies and seasoned wave-riders alike. Its friendly atmosphere and consistent waves make it an ideal choice for those looking to combine surf time with some beach relaxation.
Kalim and Bang Tao Beaches
For more experienced surfers, Kalim Beach challenges you with its right-hand reef break and impressive 3-meter waves. Conversely, Bang Tao Beach caters to intermediate surfers with variable conditions.
Phuket’s Local Cuisine
Off the waves, Phuket’s many restaurants await. UNESCO-recognized Peranakan cuisine is Phuket’s gourmet icon, offering a mix of Thai and Hokkien flavours. Be sure to try dishes like Mee Hokkien noodles and O Tao, a unique oyster omelette that’s a local favourite.
Phuket’s Rich Culture
Phuket is not solely about surfing, its cultural community accentuates the surf experience. You can walk around places like Old Phuket Town, where Sino-Portuguese architecture tells historical tales. Or perhaps you’ll watch the sun dip below the horizon at Promthep Cape, a viewpoint of the bay. Also a great viewing point for watching the surfers in the water.
| Feature | Kata Beach | Kalim Beach | Bang Tao Beach |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wave Type | Consistent, All Levels | Right-Hand Reef Break | Variable |
| Peak Surfing Season | May to October | May to October | May to October |
| Suitable for | Beginners to Advanced | Seasoned Surfers | Intermediate Surfers |
| Amenities | Surf Schools, Rentals | Limited Shops | Surf Shops, Rentals |
| Cultural Experience | Beachfront Markets | Quiet, Local Feel | Lively Nightlife |
Phang-Nga
Imagine a place where the surf season doesn’t bow to the calendar, a place for surf all year round. Phang-Nga province, with its Khao Lak area, makes surfing holidays in Thailand an exciting year-round prospect, similar to the Indonesian surf season. Unlike many other coastal regions that peak during certain months, Khao Lak stands out with consistent waves that defy the typical May to October surfing season in Thailand.
Phang-Nga doesn’t just deliver exciting surf, it connects you with nature, allowing for a thrilling experience. The exploration does not stop at the waves, as the province introduces you to some amazing food. Dive into a dish of sour curry with snapper and Thai rice noodles, often celebrated at local establishments like the renown Naimuang restaurant.
- Experience the Best Surf
- Indulge in Local food
- Discover Natural Wonders
- Immerse in Cultural Richness
Your surfing holidays in Thailand are incomplete without a visit to the Khao Lak-Lam Ru National Park, where the natural heritage of Phang-Nga is right in front of you. Furthermore, a stroll through Takuapa Old Town offers a little history, rich with stories and architecture.
| Activity | Location | Experience |
|---|---|---|
| Surfing | Khao Lak | Year-round waves suitable for all levels |
| Culinary Discovery | Naimuang Restaurant | Authentic Thai seafood dishes |
| Nature Exploration | Khao Lak-Lam Ru National Park | Lush rainforest and abundant wildlife |
| Cultural Visit | Takuapa Old Town | Historical landmarks and local crafts |
Ao Yai Beach
If you’re looking for a surfing experience away from the hustle, Ao Yai Beach in Ranong is the perfect spot for you! Flaunting a 2-kilometer stretch of surf-friendly shores and being one of the top surf spots in Thailand. Surfing season here is between the ideal months of October to December and April to May.
Thailand surf reports are starting to put Ao Yai Beach on the map for its uncrowded waves and chilled ambiance. But there’s more on offer here, the island is also a preservation area for traditional lifestyles, allowing you the chance to befriend locals and take in the Thai culture.
- Sample the Southern rice salad and indulge in Yawye, for a true taste of the regional cuisine.
- Allocate time to explore the Temple in the Sea and unwind at the Raksa Warin Hot Spring.
- Discover more than just the surfing beaches Thailand is known for by delving into the rich culture of Ranong.
| Activity | Details |
|---|---|
| Surfing Period | Optimal between Oct-Dec & Apr-May |
| Local Cuisine | Southern rice salad, Yawye |
| Cultural Attractions | Temple in the Sea, Raksa Warin Hot Spring |
Hua Hin
With your surfboard underarm and a thirst for adventure, you’ll want to catch the latest surge in Thailand’s surf scene. Hua Hin’s coastlines are making significant waves in the surfing world as well as being listed as one of the best places in Thailand for digital nomads. While this Prachuap Khiri Khan province mainstay has long been favoured for other water sports, it’s now the surf breaks at Khao Takiab and Wanakorn Beaches that are drawing the crowds.
Khao Takiab and Wanakorn Beaches
Known for their scenic beauty and favourable surf, Khao Takiab and Wanakorn beaches stand out as prime destinations for surfing holidays in Thailand. These surfing beaches in Thailand offer the perfect mix of conditions for all levels, supported by the presence of reputable surf schools in Thailand. The consistent winds and manageable waves provide the perfect environment for beginners to find their footing.
What to Eat in Hua Hin
The coastal town is celebrated for its fresh seafood. From the traditional sun-dried squid to the spicy tang of giant catfish sour curry, your taste buds are in for a treat. Venturing through Hua Hin, you’ll find more than just surf, with landmarks like Hua Hin Railway Station and Pak Nam Pran, the town has everything for everyone.
Here is a list of some must-trys while in Hua Hin:
- Sun-dried Squid
- Giant Catfish Sour Curry
- Fresh Seafood at Local Markets
Rayong’s Growing Surf Community
Rayong, conveniently located near Bangkok, emerges as a sanctuary for surf enthusiasts, who are needing to be in close proximity to the capital. The province’s waters may not give towering heights of the southern swells, but they provide the perfect conditions for beginners.
With many surf schools, Rayong is setting up the stage for memorable surf holidays, offering instruction and guidance at spots like Ban Kon Ao Beach and Mae Ram Phueng Beach. These surfing beaches in Thailand are also garnering attention for their user-friendly waves, which are ideal for those looking to hone their skills or simply have fun in a relaxed environment.
- Ban Kon Ao Beach: A spot perfect for finding your footing and catching easy waves.
- Mae Ram Phueng Beach: Offering longer stretches of sandy beach with gentle swells, great for practice sessions and longboarding.
Rayong doesn’t solely cater to the surf-obsessed. The local food is a surfers’ delight when on a break from the surf. Offering fresh catches like crab egg chilli paste and steamed fish curry to nourish the body after a day riding the waves.
The province’s vibrant surf community reflects the regional enthusiasm for the sport and to give people visiting Thailand a new and exciting activity to try out. Whether you’re standing on a board for the first time or seeking a new favourite surf destination, Rayong welcomes you.
When to Chase the Best Waves in Thailand
Align your surf holiday with the surfing season in Thailand, which peaks during the monsoon months from May to October. Surfing during these months means you’ll be treated to larger and more consistent waves. Moreover, this period sees fewer tourists, presenting the perfect waves without thousands of tourists on the beach.
Thailand surf reports often mark June as the month where waves reach their peak, particularly with swells up to 3 meters high! Don’t worry if you’re still polishing your surfing skills, because Thailand’s friendly sandy sea beds create a safer learning environment than the daunting reefs found in other surfing capitals like in Australia’s surf scene for example.
Below, find a detailed breakdown of what to expect during Thailand’s surf season:
| Month | Wave Height | Crowd Density | Beginner-Friendly Spots | Advanced Surfer Hotspots |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| May | 1-2 meters | Low to Medium | Kata Beach, Phuket | Kalim Beach, Phuket |
| June | Up to 3 meters | Low | Bang Tao Beach, Phuket | Kalim Beach, Phuket |
| July-August | 1.5-2.5 meters | Medium | Karon Beach, Phuket | Bang Tao Beach, Phuket |
| September-October | 1-2 meters | Medium to High | Ranong, Ao Yai Beach | Khao Lak, Phang-Nga |
Conclusion
Thailand is rapidly becoming one of the best surfing destinations to be discovered. With each wave and tide, surfers from around the globe are drawn to the stunning shores of Phuket, the unspoiled crests of Phang-Nga, and the surf community of Rayong. These spots are increasingly being recognized as the top surf spots in Thailand, offering unique experiences and challenges for every level of surfer.
Surfing holidays in Thailand are more than a chance to catch exceptional waves, they are full-blown cultural expeditions. From the hustle of local markets to the quiet of remote beaches, every element of your trip is an opportunity to learn more about the Thai culture.
So, as the sun sets on another perfect surfing day, rest assured that whether it’s your first try on a board or just an add to your long list of surfing spots, the promise of the best surfing in Thailand awaits. So pack your board for your next surfing holiday in Thailand and let’s hit those waves!
Best Surfing in Thailand FAQ
The best surfing spots in Thailand include Kata Beach in Phuket, Kalim and Bang Tao Beaches also in Phuket, Ao Yai Beach in Ranong, and Khao Takiab in Hua Hin. Each offers a unique surf experience with varying challenges for different skill levels.
The prime surfing season in Thailand is from May to October, which aligns with the monsoon season, bringing bigger and more consistent waves. However, some spots like Khao Lak in Phang-Nga provide good surfing conditions year-round.
Phuket is known as a surfer’s paradise due to its variety of beaches offering excellent waves for all levels, an abundance of surf schools, and its vibrant surf community. Kata Beach is especially popular for its facilities and surf-friendly atmosphere.
Yes, Thailand has numerous surf schools, particularly in popular areas like Phuket and other surfing beaches. These schools cater to all levels, from beginners to advanced surfers, with lessons and board rentals widely available.
Absolutely, Thailand is an excellent place for beginners to learn to surf, with many beach destinations offering surf schools that provide lessons and all the necessary equipment. Beaches with milder waves, like those in Rayong, are perfect for newcomers. As a beginner, always make sure to have some travel insurance with you in case of surfing related accidents and emergencies.
