Book Retreats in Surat Thani

Surat Thani: A Popular Yoga Holiday Destination

Surat Thani is a rural southern Thailand province located in the Gulf of Thailand. It encompasses Ang Thong National Marine Park islands, including the popular beach destination Ko Samui. Other islands include Ko Tao, which has well-known dive locations, and Ko Pha Ngan, which hosts the famous Full Moon Party every month.

Surat Thani, which means “city of good people” in literal translation, offers you a decent indication of the kind of welcome you may expect there. We are positive you will have the fun of your life on a yoga retreat in Surat Thani. Other attractions in the province include festivals, Buddhist temples, and monasteries. Rehearse your yoga routine in a beautiful setting by signing up for a Surat Thani yoga retreat.

Whether the yoga classes you attend are intensive vinyasa flow yoga, deep stretch hatha yoga, ashtanga yoga, Iyengar yoga or even calm yoga meditation sessions, your yoga teachers will be dedicated to guiding you through your yoga practice.

You will receive thorough, individualised corrections and support while taking part in a yoga retreat at one of our retreat centres, which can improve many aspects of your life. You might be encouraged to study topics like the Vedas, yoga sutras, the Bhagavad Gita, 8 limbs, nature of self/soul, nadis, chakras, consciousness, karma, gunas, ego, tantra, and more to gain a deeper understanding of yourself and the world around you.

Why Go To A Yoga Retreat in Surat Thani?

Surat Thani is also known as “the province of a thousand islands” because of the region’s abundance of beautiful islands, many of which are part of the archipelago that includes the islands of Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, Koh Tao, and the Mu Koh Ang Thong Marine National Park.

Most tourists are mesmerised by Koh Samui’s beautiful beaches and emerald sea, which mirror the blue sky. The beaches for all-day swimming and tanning include Hat Chaweng and Hat Lamai. Hin Ta and Hin Yai, a surprising-shaped rock near Hat Lamai, are both naturally beautiful.

Visitors to the 210 metres above sea level Khao Tha Phet Wildlife and Nature Education Station can see the city from above in addition to the magnificent beaches and stunning coral reefs. Visitors can also eat seafood at the eateries beside the Tapee River or at Aow Ban Don Tai while taking in the view of the ocean.

Khanom Jung, Phumriang shell, oyster, Khanom Chin (thin rice noodles) with spicy curry paste prepared in the southern style, Khanom Chindae, and bitter beans with a distinctive aroma are just a few of the mouth-watering foods and sweets available in Surat Thani.

Thailand is a wonderful country with loads to offer all types of tourists, and Surat Thani is a great place to visit if you’re passionate about yoga. Yoga studios, retreats, and workshops are available all year, as are massage training programmes, meditation retreats, organic permaculture farms, natural healing, and Ayurvedic programs.

You can choose from a number of yoga retreats that can include accommodation (guest rooms) and full-day group experiences. These will help you expand your awareness of the outside world and your self-awareness.

Many yoga retreats also allow you to use their gym and spa, where you can even take an ice bath to help you relax after your yoga class.

The following meals may also be included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner. All our retreats follow the necessary safety protocols when arranging group outings, and they can satisfy your dietary requirements while adhering to all safety measures.

What Can I Expect From A Yoga Retreat In Surat Thani?

A yoga retreat in Surat Thani can provide a chance to relax, rejuvenate, and explore the beautiful Thai countryside. Participants can expect a variety of yoga classes with experienced instructors, delicious organic meals made with locally-sourced ingredients, time to explore the local culture, and activities such as trekking and kayaking. Depending on the retreat, there may also be time for spa treatments and other complementary activities.

Exploring Surat Thani During Your Yoga Retreat Holiday

Best Beaches in Surat Thani

Ao Muang (Mango Bay)

Ao Muang Beach is located 47.7 kilometres from the region’s centre, the city of Trang, and is ranked 49th out of 53 beaches in the Trang Province. It is one of the beaches in the Haad Farang community, which is only 10.8 miles away. The beach is situated amidst mountains in a natural setting. Trees that naturally provide shade cover part of it.

It is advised to wear appropriate shoes because the shoreline is short and straight, with blue ocean and golden sand covering the rocks. The water’s entrance is very smooth. This beach is appropriate for a variety of people, including hikers, lone travellers, fans of relaxing getaways, etc. Even in the height of the tourist season, the area is practically uninhabited.

The coast of Ao Muang Beach is free to all. However, it has no amenities.

Shark Bay

Shark Bay is THE location on Koh Tao where, with a little bit of luck and effort, you can view sharks! It’s all in the name! If this seems overly thrilling, it’s important to remember that you shouldn’t anticipate running into a shark (or sharks) as soon as you enter the water. You will frequently have to swim pretty far at first if you want to view the blacktip reef shark. You have the best chance if the water is 3 to 4 metres deep. You’ll still need some luck, though. In other words, even while you are (ultimately) not hunting for sharks, you still notice them. Then you are just really (un)lucky! In any case, Shark Bay might have easily been called Turtle Bay. Instead, you can imagine why.

Haad Yao (West)

Out of 95 beaches in the Surat Thani Province region, Haad Yao is located 20th, 99.6 kilometres from the province’s capital, Surat Thani. It is a beach in the Haad Yao village and is about 0.1 kilometres from the town’s centre. The beach is situated in a city. Trees that naturally provide shade cover part of it.

You don’t need special footwear because the expansive coastline has golden sand, crystal-clear water, and deep turquoise colour. It’s typical for the water to feel chilly when you first step in. This beach is appropriate for a variety of people, including lone travellers and lovers of relaxing getaways. During the peak season, it gets somewhat congested.

Access to a significant portion of the beach is limited. Hotel guests are the only ones who can use the beach amenities. They also have a beach restaurant, showers, restrooms, and a swimming pool on their list.

Chaweng Yai Beach

A true swimming enthusiast might find Chaweng charming but also frightening. It depends on the area of the beach you go swimming at.

The most curving coastline may be found in the beach’s northernmost section, next to the little satellite island Koh Matlang. The shallows here are long and thin, sometimes extending for many kilometres, but the sand is soft and white. These shallows are lovely and ideal for strolls on the beach, photo shoots, and sunbathing. However, it would help if you navigated to avoid significant portions of the sea floor that are covered in tonnes of seaweed and jagged coral fragments.

Lamai Beach

Lamai Beach is located 86.8 kilometres from the Surat Thani Province’s capital city, the city of Surat Thani, and ranks fifth out of 95 beaches in the region. It is one of the Baan Lamai settlement’s beaches, located approximately 0.9 kilometres from the town’s centre. The beach is situated in a mountainous urban area with gorgeous scenery. Trees that naturally provide shade cover part of it.

You don’t need special footwear because the beach has golden sand and crystal-clear turquoise water. It’s typical for the water to feel harsh when you first step in. This beach is appropriate for a variety of people, including lone travellers and lovers of relaxing getaways. During the peak season, it gets somewhat congested.

Access to a significant portion of the beach is limited. Hotel guests are the only ones who can use the beach amenities. They include beach restaurants, loungers, and umbrellas. A lifeguard watches over this beach line during the season.

Hat Khuat Beach

This wonderful, isolated cove is an excellent choice for a leisurely day of swimming and snorkelling because it offers a stretch of soft sand and is overlooked by verdant hills. There is a legitimate feeling of exclusivity because no formal roads go to the beach. Most visitors travel from Hat Khom via water taxi or trek through the jungle from Chalok Lam to Bottle Beach with a bag of water, some walking shoes, and a sun hat.

Things To Do in Surat Thani

Rajjaprabha Dam (เขื่อนรัชชประภา)

It is a fantastic lake with lovely green water situated in the centre of a sumptuous forest with astounding hills on all sides. Rajjaprabha Dami, formerly known as Chiao Lan, is located in Tambon Khao Phang, Amphoe Ban Ta Khun, Surat Thani. The hydroelectric plant and the dam were both formally opened on September 30, 1987, by King Rama IX, who also gave them the name Rajjaprabha meaning “Light of the Kingdom”.

The reservoir, also known as Chiao Lan Lake, has stunning scenery inside, with a range of undulating limestone mountains rising from the emerald sea and indigo sky, with the mist occasionally drifting along the mountaintops. The Dam can offer a wide range of activities within the lake, such as boat tours, overnight raft stays, kayaking, wildlife spotting, etc. On the mainland Surat Thani region, this dam is arguably the top attraction and a once-in-a-lifetime destination for travellers.

Khao Sok National Park (อุทยานแห่งชาติเขาสก)

This is one of Thailand’s tropical rainforests with the greatest density. The Park is home to various habitats and wildlife species, including rare and nearly extinct birds like the Hooded Pitta and Malayan Banded Pitta, as well as wild animals like the marbled cat, Malayan tapir, Fea’s muntjac, and serow. The White Elephant Palm, Maxburretiafurtadoana, and Rafflesiakerrii, a parasite plant with a blossom with a vast diameter of about 70–80 cm, are just a few examples of the unusual unique plants that call this area home.

The Park serves as a hub for travel between the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand and attracts hikers worldwide. They frequently fall in love with this woodland and return. Other thrilling activities besides trekking include kayaking, riding elephants, and canal tubing in Khlong Sok. One of the intriguing features of this place is the widespread availability of tree houses designed for habitation. They are all situated in the middle of a jungle.

Khao Na NiLuang Dhamma Park (อุทยานธรรมเขานาในหลวง)

PhraAchanPhrai, a monk, established Khao Na Nailuang Dhamma Park in Tambon Thon Yuan, AmphoePhanom, Surat Thani. He collaborated with the locals to construct the stupa, a hemispherical building housing artefacts, on top of a limestone plateau surrounded by beautiful scenery.

Early in the morning, a sea of mist will surround the place, giving the impression that a stupa is floating in the sky. The goal is to have seven stupas overall, each with a unique name and architectural style, and local residents who have free time will volunteer to assist build them.

Ko Raet (เกาะแรด)

About 500 metres from the coast lies “The Ban Ko Raet Community,” which is situated on a tiny island in Mu 3, Tambon Don Sak, Amphoe Don Sak, Surat Thani. The neighbourhood is a town of Thai-Hainanese fishermen who have lived there for approximately 200 years.

It provides dolphin-watching and island-hopping sightseeing tours. Seven homestays are open to visitors who want to spend the night and learn about local culture. With the use of the walkways, visitors may stroll around the island and view a variety of islands, including Ko Samui, Ko Nok Phao, Ko Phaluai, Ko Lak, and Chedi Wat Khao SuwanPradit (Wat Pholuang Choi). Observing the sun, moon, and other celestial bodies as they rise and set is also breathtaking in this location.

Phrathat Si Surat (พระธาตุศรีสุราษฎร์)

Phrathat Si Surat, the first sacred site in the district, was constructed in 1957 on top of KhaoThaPhet, six kilometres south of the city centre. It has a tall shape, like a large candle or the Pillar of Ashoka and is embellished with stucco decorations. This stupa is regarded as the best example of Srivijaya architecture that has been modified. King Rama IX and Queen Sirikit visited Surat Thani on March 27, 1959, and while there, they paid respects to the stupa and planted Phayom (Shorearoxburghii) trees as a sign of good fortune.

During her visit, Princess Sirindhorn performed a ceremony to place the Buddha’s relics and planted Khiam, or Cotylelobiumlanceolatum, the Surat Thani provincial tree. Thus, for the locals, Khao ThaPhet is a sacred and historic location. The Hae Pha Hom Phrathat Si Surat Lae Thammachat Khao Tha Phet Fair is conducted every year on March 26–27 to honour King Rama IX, demonstrate allegiance, and recognise this holy site amidst a bounty of nature. The Phrathat wrapping cloth procession symbolises a belief in Buddhism that is similar to the robe gifts made to the Lord Buddha.

Best Tours in Surat Thani

Koh Samui ATV Quad Tour

Visit magnificent waterfalls (seasonal) while on tour to experience the off-road lifestyle. On an off-road all-terrain vehicle safari, rev up the excitement and discover a different side of Samui. You can choose between a quick taster excursion and a longer journey via rivers, coconut groves, rubber plantations, mountain viewpoints, and seasonal waterfalls.

Angthong Marine Park Sunset Tour

On a full-day excursion, unwind with a peaceful sail to the limestone islands of Ang Thong Marine Park, dive in hidden lagoons, kayak along the coast and through tunnels, and finish with the final views at the Blue Lagoon viewpoint. Take a stroll to Emerald Lake (Talay Nai), where you can even eat a catered meal and a light breakfast. Join a small-group trip that offers individualised treatment and an opportunity to avoid the crowds by boarding a yacht with a sun deck, inside bar, and hot tub.

Dining Out in Surat Thani

Best Restaurants & Bars in Surat Thani

Vanilla Café & bistro

Trying Thai and Chinese food is fantastic here. Roti, seafood, and cordon bleu are available to sample in this restaurant as specials. Start your dinner with some delicious Thai tea.

Most visitors comment on how kind the staff is. One of Vanilla Café & Bistro’s greatest advantages is a quick service. Here, you may get good food for a reasonable price. This location’s interior is appropriate for the elegant decor. Customers have given this a 4.5 rating on Google.

Sweet Kitchen

Stop by Sweet Kitchen for some deliciously prepared pizza, pork, and seafood when you’re in the area. The best drink option is a delicious wine. However, you may also get amazing milkshakes or excellent coffee here.

The placement of this place makes it simple to find. The accommodating staff reflects the atmosphere and personality of this place. Customers comment on prompt service in their reviews. Prices are reasonable from the perspective of the visitors. Customers may unwind in this location because of the excellent decor and ambience.

Cafeteria Surat Thani

Enjoy deliciously prepared ham and cheese sandwiches. This location is well-known for its great wine and good beer. The comments indicate that customers frequently suggest coming here for fantastic coffee.

This café is renowned for its excellent customer service and helpful personnel who are always willing to assist you. From the perspective of the visitors, pricing is fair. Most of the time, Cafeteria Suratthani gives you a cosy environment.

The Grounds café & hang out

Customers at this eatery can sample excellent Thai food. You can also try expertly cooked burgers, steaks, and soft-shell crabs. You can sample fantastic smoothies or a satisfying espresso at The Grounds café & hang out.

The friendly personnel always welcomes visitors. This establishment offers excellent service, according to many clients. You will be charged an average price for your meal. At this location, visitors can enjoy the superb ambience and modern furnishings.

Sarang Korean Grill & Sushi Bar

Visit this eatery if the rain caught you off guard while strolling around the Surat Thani City Pillar Shrine. Sarang Korean Grill & Sushi Bar offers a selection of Japanese and Korean dishes. Many customers claim that the sushi served here is expertly prepared. With excellent ice cream, this location will probably make you happy.

The kind crew makes this location outstanding by working hard and remaining upbeat. The excellent service at this establishment indicates its high calibre.

Food Markets in Surat Thani

San Chao Market

A well-known night market in the province of Surat Thani is San Chao Market (also known as the Surat Thani night market). It is well known that it is a popular nightlife area in Surat Thani. Both sidewalks are lined with numerous distinctive stores that sell tourists local cuisine.

This town has a well-known late-night food market. Tourists must come here to get delectable food when they have the chance to explore the region of Surat Thani. Surat Thani has a renowned food market with affordable pricing despite being a province that lacks light and activity like other cities on the island. Due to its proximity to the shrine, this market’s name originates there. The market is a narrow alley with businesses and trolleys positioned on either side of the street. There are local specialities along the entire trip. One of the many food markets in the city is this one.

There are numerous regional specialities, including the well-known Pad Thai, incomparable grilled and fried fish balls, hot-fried crispy mushrooms, and a variety of flavoured rice noodles.

Fisherman’s Village Walking Street

Every Friday from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m., Fisherman’s Village Walking Street brings the quiet, sleepy town of Bophut to life. The congested Beach Road and neighbouring lanes are jammed with market booths and customers from all around Koh Samui, offering a wide variety of goods at incredibly low costs.

The majority of the booths offer similar things to those found in markets across Thailand, such as 100-baht T-shirts, basic jewellery, handbags, sunglasses, beer cosies, souvenirs, beachwear, and basic electrical items. As with any market shopping in Thailand, choosing your items requires some discernment and realistic expectations.

Panthip Market Thong Sala

This is the first and most well-known food market on the island. There are many different food vendors, so there is something for every taste. The vendors are experts in making authentic Thai cuisine, including Pad Thai, Green Curries, vegan fare, and shellfish dishes. They have a dining space inside with a few little restaurants with chairs and tables. On Koh Phangan, it’s a terrific spot to socialise, have a conversation, and have fun with other travellers and locals. The market is a popular gathering spot for tourists and draws a sizable gathering.

Phangan Food Court

The more recent version is excellent and offers additional options for nutritious, vegan, and vegetarian eating. All of your favourite Thai cuisine booths are still available at Phangan Food Court, along with a spacious dining area for the whole family to enjoy. This location is special since it is completely covered, making it suitable for all weather conditions while maintaining the same philosophy as a conventional food market. Everything is available, including pizza stands, salad bars, bread stations and Thai food.

Chaweng Walking Street

The Chaweng Walking Street is a kaleidoscope of hues, noises, and aromas. T-shirts, sunglasses, jewellery, beach dresses, lamps, flip-flops, bags of all shapes and sizes, carved wooden souvenirs, children’s apparel, and cosmetics are just a few of the products you can bargain for here.

There is a lot to eat and drink nearby as well. It’s difficult to picture consumers in the West sipping drinks while they shop, but that’s exactly what you can do at Chaweng Walking Street Market—and for a very low cost, too.