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Songkhla

Thailand · Coast · THB · 7.206300, 100.596900
Family friendly 6.7/10 · Rank 1024 of 2 709
Best season: January-March (dry season)

Best for

For beach lovers, history, local culture and peaceful seaside holidays.

Best season

January-March (dry season)

Daily budget
$58.00 (≈ 4 867 ₽ · ≈ 2 030 THB)
For 7 days
$406.00 (≈ 34 072 ₽ · ≈ 14 210 THB)
Songkhla is a historic city in southern Thailand, located on the coast of the Gulf of Thailand, one of the oldest cities in the country. The city is famous for its colonial architecture, old Chinese quarter, and the famous mermaid statue on Samila Beach. Here you can stroll along the waterfront, visit museums, and enjoy sea views. Songkhla is the perfect place to discover the history and culture of southern Thailand.
Summer
35.0°C
Winter
22.0°C
Sea
30.0°C
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Description and atmosphere

Energy

calm

Pace of life

slow

Local character

Hospitable, friendly, sea-loving.

Pros and cons

Pros

  • Beautiful Samila Beach
  • Rich history and culture
  • Fewer tourists than popular islands
  • Affordable prices
  • Excellent seafood

Cons

  • Dangerous jellyfish from January to March
  • Limited nightlife
  • Remoteness from major tourist centres
Climate
Summer Temperature
Average air temperature in June–August
28.0°C
Summer Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in June-August
31.0°C
Summer Max Temp
Maximum daytime temperature in summer months
35.0°C
Winter Temperature
Average air temperature in December–February
25.6°C
Winter Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in December-February
28.7°C
Winter Min Temp
Minimum temperature in winter months
22.0°C
Summer Water Temperature
Average sea temperature in the warm season
29.0°C
Water Max Temp
Maximum water temperature in warm season
30.0°C
Rainy Season
Months with the heaviest rainfall
October-December
Sea and beach
Sand Type
Type of beach surface
white sand
Sand Color
Colour of the beach sand
white
Water Entry
Type of water entry
gentle
Waves
Level of waves
moderate
Water Clarity
Clarity of the water
good
Best Beach
Name of the most popular beach
Samila Beach and Chalathat Beach
Beach
Availability of a beach
Yes
Tides
Whether tides are noticeable
Yes
Rip Currents
Presence of dangerous rip currents
Yes
Sunbeds
Availability of sunbeds
Yes
Beach Cafe
Availability of a cafe or bar
Yes
Toilet / Shower
Availability of toilets and showers
Yes
Lifeguards
Presence of lifeguards
Yes
Safe for Swimming
Whether swimming is safe
Yes
Sea hazards
Sea Urchins
Presence of sea urchins
Present
Corals / Reefs
Presence of corals or reefs
None
Jellyfish
Presence of jellyfish
Present
Sharks
Presence of sharks
None
Overall Danger
Overall danger rating
moderate
Note

Main dangers are venomous jellyfish (especially January-March), sea urchins and rip currents. Lifeguards on beaches.

Sea urchins — details

  • Sea urchins occur on rocky areas

Corals and reefs — details

  • Coral reefs of the Gulf of Siam are found in Songkhla waters, including Acropora, Porites and Favites species. Thai authorities implement coral restoration programmes, including artificial reef installation. Risk of cuts on contact.

Jellyfish — details

  • Venomous Bluebottle Jellyfish appear along the coast from January to March, their stings are painful and can cause allergic reactions. Warning signs are posted on beaches.

Sharks — details

  • Bamboo sharks (Chiloscyllium), reef sharks and hammerhead sharks inhabit Songkhla waters. Most recorded specimens (97.8%) do not exceed one metre in length. No attacks on humans have been recorded.
Attractions

Golden Mermaid Statue

Famous mermaid statue on Samila Beach, a symbol of Songkhla. A popular spot for photos and walks.

Tangkuan Hill

Viewpoint with panoramic views of the city, Songkhla Lake and the sea. Accessible by car or on foot.

Songkhla Old Town

Colourful historic district with Chinese and colonial buildings, museums and waterfront cafes.

Samila Beach

The city's main beach with white sand, the mermaid statue and views of Koh Nu and Koh Maew islands.

Songkhla National Museum

Museum in a colonial building with exhibits on the history and culture of the province.

Songkhla Central Mosque

The city's main mosque with beautiful architecture, an important religious centre for the local population.

Songkhla Zoo

Local zoo, popular for family holidays with children.

Best areas

Samila Beach

Main tourist area with beach, hotels and restaurants.

Old Town

Historic centre with colonial architecture, museums and cafes.

Tangkuan Hill

Hilltop area with viewpoint and temple.

Must-try food

Rice and Curry

Traditional dish of rice with vegetable, lentil and meat curries.

Kottu Roti

Popular street food made from chopped roti with vegetables, egg and spices.

Fresh Seafood

Prawns, squid and fish grilled at seaside restaurants.

Thai Noodles

Rice noodles with meat, vegetables and spicy broth.

Fruit Smoothie

Refreshing drink made from local tropical fruits.

Where to go next

Hat Yai

Large city with markets, nightlife and attractions, ~30 km.

Koh Yo

Island on Songkhla Lake with temples and local culture, ~20 km.

Ton Nga Chang Waterfall

Scenic waterfall in a national park, ~50 km.

Family Friendly
Suitable for families with children
Yes
Nightlife
Level of nightlife
moderate
Getting there
Nearest airports
Hat Yai International Airport (HDY).
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Visa
Visa requirements
e-visa (ETA) for most countries
Best Season
Months with the most comfortable weather
January-March (dry season)
Accommodation
Hostel (Dorm Bed)
Average price for a hostel dorm bed
$8.00
≈ 671 ₽ · ≈ 280 THB
3-Star Hotel
Average price for a 3-star hotel room
$36.00
≈ 3 021 ₽ · ≈ 1 260 THB
4-Star Hotel
Average price for a 4-star hotel room
$51.00
≈ 4 280 ₽ · ≈ 1 785 THB
5-Star Hotel
Average price for a 5-star hotel room
$53.00
≈ 4 448 ₽ · ≈ 1 855 THB
Villa / House
Average nightly rate for a villa or house
$80.00
≈ 6 714 ₽ · ≈ 2 800 THB
Apartment
Average nightly rate for an apartment
$50.00
≈ 4 196 ₽ · ≈ 1 750 THB
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Food and drinks
Lunch at a Cafe
Average price for lunch at a casual cafe
$1.80
≈ 151 ₽ · ≈ 63 THB
Dinner at a Restaurant
Average check for dinner at a nice restaurant
$18.00
≈ 1 511 ₽ · ≈ 630 THB
Coffee (Cappuccino)
Average price for a cappuccino
$1.40
≈ 117 ₽ · ≈ 49 THB
Beer (0.5L)
Average price for a 0.5L beer
$1.80
≈ 151 ₽ · ≈ 63 THB
Water (1.5L)
Average price for a 1.5L bottle of water
$0.50
≈ 42 ₽ · ≈ 18 THB
Pizza
Average price for a pizza
$6.00
≈ 504 ₽ · ≈ 210 THB
Burger
Average price for a burger
$4.00
≈ 336 ₽ · ≈ 140 THB
Dessert
Average price for a dessert
$3.00
≈ 252 ₽ · ≈ 105 THB
Fast Food Combo
Average price for a fast food combo
$5.00
≈ 420 ₽ · ≈ 175 THB
Transport
Airport Taxi
Average taxi fare from the airport to the city centre
$20.00
≈ 1 678 ₽ · ≈ 700 THB
Public Transport
Average price for a single public transport ticket
$1.00
≈ 84 ₽ · ≈ 35 THB
Short Taxi Ride
Average fare for a short taxi ride
$4.00
≈ 336 ₽ · ≈ 140 THB
Car Rental (per day)
Average daily rate for an economy car rental
$35.00
≈ 2 937 ₽ · ≈ 1 225 THB
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Activities and rentals
Bike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a bike or scooter
$5.00
≈ 420 ₽ · ≈ 175 THB
Motorbike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a motorbike or scooter
$10.00
≈ 839 ₽ · ≈ 350 THB
Excursion
Average price for an organised excursion
$30.00
≈ 2 518 ₽ · ≈ 1 050 THB
Yacht / Boat Cruise
Average price for a boat cruise
$50.00
≈ 4 196 ₽ · ≈ 1 750 THB
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Shopping
Shopping
Average amount spent on shopping
$25.00
≈ 2 098 ₽ · ≈ 875 THB
Souvenirs
Average amount spent on souvenirs
$8.00
≈ 671 ₽ · ≈ 280 THB
Tourist SIM / Internet
Average price for a tourist SIM card
$8.00
≈ 671 ₽ · ≈ 280 THB
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Frequently asked questions
Songkhla: when is the best time to go?
The best season for a holiday is January-March (dry season). At this time of year the weather is the most comfortable: minimal chance of rain, moderate humidity and optimal air temperature. This is also when the tourist infrastructure runs at full capacity — all hotels, restaurants and entertainment are open. If you want to save money, consider the period right after the high season ends: accommodation prices are lower, and the weather is still pleasant. You can check the temperature by month in the match-by-month tool.
Songkhla: what is the weather like in summer?
In summer, the air warms up to an average of +35.0°C, during the day — up to +31.0°C. This is a great time for beach holidays and long walks. Sunscreen is recommended during the peak hours from 11:00 to 16:00.
Songkhla: what is the weather like in winter?
In winter, the air temperature stays around +22.0°C, during the day — up to +28.7°C. For the winter period these are very comfortable figures that allow swimming and sunbathing. Evenings can be cooler, so a light jacket will not go amiss.
Songkhla: what is the sea temperature?
The sea near the resort warms up to an average of +30.0°C in the warm season. This water temperature is considered ideal for long swims — you can stay in the sea for hours without discomfort. The water is comfortable for both adults and children. If you want to know the exact temperature by month, use the match-by-month tool.
Songkhla: when is the rainy season?
The rainy season falls on October-December. During this period rainfall is more frequent, but usually short — the rain lasts 1-2 hours, after which the sun comes out again. Humidity is higher, so being outside may be less comfortable. At the same time, accommodation and flight prices during the rainy season are significantly lower — an excellent option for a budget holiday.
Songkhla: what are the beaches like?
The beaches here are with a "white sand" surface, white sand, good water. The most popular beaches: Samila Beach and Chalathat Beach. The beaches have sunbeds and cafes and bars.
Songkhla: is it safe to swim in the sea?
Swimming is allowed here, but standard precautions should be taken. The overall danger level in the sea is rated as high — swimming is only recommended in specially designated areas. Lifeguards are on duty on the beaches.
Songkhla: what are the sea hazards?
The sea contains: sea urchins, jellyfish. Main dangers are venomous jellyfish (especially January-March), sea urchins and rip currents. Lifeguards on beaches.. It is recommended to swim in special shoes and avoid contact with marine life.
Songkhla: how much does a holiday cost?
A holiday for one person will cost around $58.00 (≈ 4 867 ₽ · ≈ 2 030 THB) per day. The daily budget includes: a 3-star hotel, lunch at a cafe, dinner at a restaurant, drinking water, two public transport trips. Flights are not included in the calculation. You can calculate the cost of your holiday in more detail in the trip planning calculator across all 70 parameters.
Songkhla: how much does accommodation cost?
Accommodation is available for every budget: a hostel dorm bed — $8.00 per night, a 3-star hotel room — $36.00 per night, a 4-star hotel — $51.00 per night, a five-star hotel — $53.00 per night, an apartment — $50.00 per night, a villa — $80.00 per night. In high season prices can be 20-30% higher, and in low season — lower.
Songkhla: how much does food cost?
Food is one of the main expense items: lunch at an affordable cafe — $1.80, dinner at a restaurant — $18.00, a cup of cappuccino — $1.40, a 0.5L beer — $1.80, a 1.5L bottle of water — $0.50. You can eat significantly cheaper at markets and street cafes.
Songkhla: how much does transport cost?
a taxi from the airport — $20.00, a single public transport ticket — $1.00, a short taxi ride — $4.00, car rental — $35.00 per day. Public transport is the most budget-friendly way to get around.
Songkhla: what is there to see?
Among the main attractions are: Golden Mermaid Statue — Famous mermaid statue on Samila Beach, a symbol of Songkhla. A popular spot for photos and walks.; Tangkuan Hill — Viewpoint with panoramic views of the city, Songkhla Lake and the sea. Accessible by car or on foot.; Songkhla Old Town — Colourful historic district with Chinese and colonial buildings, museums and waterfront cafes.; Samila Beach — The city's main beach with white sand, the mermaid statue and views of Koh Nu and Koh Maew islands.; Songkhla National Museum — Museum in a colonial building with exhibits on the history and culture of the province.. These places are worth visiting first to get a full impression of the destination.
Songkhla: what local food should I try?
Be sure to try the local cuisine: Rice and Curry — Traditional dish of rice with vegetable, lentil and meat curries.; Kottu Roti — Popular street food made from chopped roti with vegetables, egg and spices.; Fresh Seafood — Prawns, squid and fish grilled at seaside restaurants.; Thai Noodles — Rice noodles with meat, vegetables and spicy broth.; Fruit Smoothie — Refreshing drink made from local tropical fruits.. Local dishes are an important part of the travel experience.
Songkhla: what are the best areas to stay?
For accommodation you can consider the following areas: Samila Beach — Main tourist area with beach, hotels and restaurants.; Old Town — Historic centre with colonial architecture, museums and cafes.; Tangkuan Hill — Hilltop area with viewpoint and temple.. The choice of area depends on your preferences: active or relaxing holiday.
Songkhla: is a visa required?
Visa: e-visa (ETA) for most countries. Before your trip, be sure to check the current requirements with official sources, as the rules may change.
Songkhla: how do I get from the airport?
The nearest airport — Hat Yai International Airport (code HDY). You can get from the airport to the centre by taxi, the average cost is $20.00. Public transport is also available — a more budget-friendly option.
Songkhla: what is the currency and how much money should I take?
Currency — THB. It is recommended to have cash for small expenses and a bank card for larger purchases. The approximate daily budget is $58.00 (≈ 4 867 ₽ · ≈ 2 030 THB). Check the current exchange rate before your trip.
Songkhla: is it suitable for a holiday with children?
Yes, the destination is excellent for a family holiday with children. It has all the necessary infrastructure: well-maintained beaches, cafes and restaurants with children's menus, and entertainment for all ages.
Songkhla: what is the nightlife like?
Nightlife is rated as moderate. There is not much nightlife, but the basics are available.
Songkhla: where can I go nearby?
Nearby you can visit: Hat Yai — Large city with markets, nightlife and attractions, ~30 km.; Koh Yo — Island on Songkhla Lake with temples and local culture, ~20 km.; Ton Nga Chang Waterfall — Scenic waterfall in a national park, ~50 km.. These places are convenient to visit on a day trip.

Putivator rating

6.7/10
Overall rank: 1024 of 2 709
Rank among coastal: 708