Firstly, let’s address the obvious question: yes, it is possible to surf in Thailand! Does it compare to the world-class breaks of Indonesia or the sweet swell of Sri Lanka? Well, no. But what the surf in Thailand does offer is fun waves that are great for learners in one of the region’s cheapest and easiest countries to travel.
For the more seasoned surfer – fear not. There are waves for experienced riders too and with relatively few crowds. While surfing my way around Southeast Asia, Thailand unexpectedly became one of my favourite places to hit the waves.
Wondering where to find the best breaks? You’re in the right place! Here’s a guide to Thailand’s surf season and swells.
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A Surfer’s Guide to Thailand’s Waves 🌊
Where to Surf in Thailand 🏄🏻♀️
In a country famous for its serene beaches with soft lapping waters, it might come as a surprise to learn that the Land of Smiles boasts rideable waves. The best surf to be found in Thailand is along the west coast, also known as the Andaman Coast (as it faces the Andaman Sea).
This shoreline is hit by wind swells formed during the southwest monsoon season. While most groundswell travelling up from the Indian Ocean is blocked by the huge island of Sumatra, some does manage to reach Thailand’s exposed western coastline forming clean waves.
There are some waves on Thailand’s east coast, although these are usually small and inconsistent. The surf on the Gulf Coast is produced solely by wind swell and this area is more popular for windsurfing and kitesurfing.
ANDAMAN COAST
Phuket
Thailand’s largest island and most popular travel destination is also home to the country’s biggest surf scene. Phuket receives some of the best swell in the country and with excellent travel links and multiple surf spots it is one of the most accessible places in Thailand to catch a wave. Phuket is also home to several surf schools and surf camps (for budget travellers we recommend Talay Surf) so finding somewhere to rent a board or take a lesson will be a breeze.
Bang Tao Beach
The most popular surfing beach is Bang Tao, a line of white sand that extends for 8 km. This beach break is suitable for beginners and intermediates. The southern end of the beach is particularly good for learners as the headland protects this area from the biggest swells. Intermediates can enjoy the bigger waves in the middle of the bay.
- Located on the most popular surf beach, Bang Tao
- Stay at a sociable hostel with swimming pool
- Food, drink and sunbed voucher included
- Unlimited use of surfboards outside lessons
Patong
Patong is Phuket’s nightlife hub with plenty of bars and entertainment to keep you busy until the early hours. During daylight hours, Patong Beach beckons beginner surfers with small waves breaking over a soft beachy bottom.
At the far northern end of the bay is Kalim Beach. With bigger waves breaking over the reef, this spot is more suitable for intermediate surfers. There are a handful of surf schools in the area and even a surf park at Surf House where you can test your skills on an artificial wave.
Nai Harn Beach
A good spot for intermediate surfers, Nai Harn is one of the least crowded breaks in Phuket. There is both a reef and a beach break here and the waves can be strong and powerful. The vibe is a little more local around here and you can find some great street food.
Kata Beach
Kata Beach (split between Kata Yai in the north and Kata Noi in the south), was one of the first spots to gain popularity as surfing in Thailand took off in the 1990s. Quiksilver organised a surf contest here in 1999 (to 2003) putting Kata Beach firmly on the surf map. Its popularity means that the breaks at Kata are the most crowded in Thailand.
Intermediate to advanced surfers can enjoy the peaks at the southern end of Kata Yai, whereas the smaller breaks further north are better for the less experienced. There’s a wealth of surf schools and surf bars along this stretch of sand so you’ll have no problem renting a board or finding a guide.
Kata Noi also offers some fun waves for seasoned surfers, including a fast right-hander reef break found near the beach’s northern end.

Surin Beach
Once listed among the World’s 50 best surf spots by CNN Travel, Surin is a laid-back spot and one of Phuket’s most picturesque beaches. With fast and heavy waves, the break here is suitable for advanced surfers. Riders should be aware that there are strong currents at Surin Beach and a group of large rocks in the middle, visible at low tide.
Also read: The best hostels on Phuket
Koh Phayam
This tiny island and hidden gem is one of the best places to catch a wave in Thailand. Located in the province of Ranong, close to the border of Myanmar, Koh Phayam is not the easiest spot to reach, but this is part of its charm! Some of the country’s best waves and a relatively uncrowded lineup? Yes please!
The swell hits the island’s west coast at Aow Yai (Long Beach). A soft beach break, this spot is perfect for beginners and intermediates. During the dry season (December to March) small, clean waves make the ideal playground for learners (although there are some flat days), while the monsoon season (May to October) brings bigger waves for the more experienced surfer. However, the wet season waves can be inconsistent and unpredictable. It’s also worth noting that some places on the island shut down during this time.
If you’re looking to take lessons, check out Phayam Surfers. Boards can also be rented on the beach from Bamboo Bungalows.
“Some of my fondest surfing memories are from Koh Phayam. The small gentle waves in dry season were perfect for me as a learner and surfing at sunset here was just magical!” Lisa Barham, Writer at South East Asia Backpacker

Khao Lak
On the mainland, the coastline in Khao Lak, Phang Nga Province is buffeted by some decent swells. Once devastated by the 2004 tsunami, the area is now recovered and positioning itself as a surfer spot.
Just west of Khao Lak Village is a long length of sandy shoreline, which is open and exposed to the Andaman Sea and Indian Ocean beyond. At the northern end is Pakarang Beach, which is the centre of the action. Here you will find small rideable waves and a clutch of surf schools and surf cafes and bars (Memories Beach Cafe is a popular place).
The main spot here is a soft beach break suitable for beginners, but rumour has it there are several relatively unexplored reef breaks around Cape Pakarang (the headland at the northern end of the beach) for advanced surfers.
Koh Lanta
Khlong Dao Beach on the west coast of the island of Koh Lanta receives some swell, albeit fairly small and inconsistent. The 2 km stretch of sandy beach has a shallow sandy bottom, which makes it ideal for beginners. It’s also a good spot for longboarders and SUP surfing.
Also read: Best beaches on Koh Lanta
GULF OF THAILAND
Koh Samui
Thailand’s second largest island and one of its most popular, Koh Samui sits just off the mainland’s east coast in the Gulf of Thailand. Most people come here for the typical Thai beaches – think golden sands fringed by calm, clear waters. As such, many people (me included!) are surprised to discover that there are some surfable waves buffeting these shores.
During Koh Samui’s wet season (October to December) there is wind swell created by the monsoon. Chaweng Beach is at the heart of the action where you can find several breaks, including the rarely ridden left-hander reef break, aptly named Left Alone.

Northern Gulf
Although not much to speak of, there are some waves suitable for beginners along the coast of Thailand’s southeastern corner, including:
- Mae Ramphueng Beach in Rayong. Boards can be rented at Laem Ya Surf Club.
- Chao Lao Beach in Chanthaburi. Boards are available to rent from Chanthaburi Surf Tribe.
Southern Gulf
Also on the mainland, there are a couple of spots suitable for beginners along Thailand’s southern Gulf Coast:
- Khao Takiab Beach in Hua Hin is better known for kitesurfing and SUP but learners can try the small waves. Rent surfboards at Pineapple Surf Club.
- Hin Ngam Beach and Sichon Beach in Nakhon Si Thammarat. Boards and lessons are available at Sichon Cabana.
- Samila Beach in Songkhla.
When is the Best Time to Surf in Thailand? 🌧️
Generally speaking, the best time to surf in Thailand is May to October as this is when the best spots (those along the Andaman Coast) are working. June to September are typically the best months. The wet season is the best time to hit the waves wherever you are in the country, but the rains hit different coasts at different times.
Andaman Coast and Northern Gulf
The southwest monsoon season (May to October) brings wind swells to the Andaman Coast (Phuket, Koh Phayam, Khao Lak and Koh Lanta) and the northern coast of the Gulf of Thailand (Rayong and Chanthaburi).
During this time of year there is also the chance of some groundswell travelling from the Indian Ocean up to Phuket and Koh Phayam. More experienced surfers can catch some decent rides during the monsoon season with waves reaching up to 3 metres.
Southern Gulf
The southern Gulf of Thailand is affected by the northeast monsoon (November to March), which brings the wet season to the far southeast coast and more southerly Gulf islands. This is when the breaks in Koh Samui, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Songkla and Hua Hin are working.
Cost of Surfing in Thailand 💵
Below is a rough guide to the cost of surfing in Thailand. Prices may vary from location to location and season to season.
1-hour surfboard rental: 200–300THB (approx. $5.80–8.70USD)
Full-day surfboard rental: 800–1,000THB (approx. $23–29USD)
1-hour surf lesson: 1,000–1,300THB (approx. $29–$37.50USD)
5-day surf camp 11,200–15,000THB (approx. $323–433USD)

Why You Should Surf in Thailand 🤙🏼
There are plenty of reasons to consider the Land of Smiles for a surf holiday! We won’t pretend the waves in Thailand are world-class. Yes, they can be small and inconsistent, but when they are working, the spots here provide something for surfers of all levels. And with dual monsoons, there are waves somewhere in Thailand at any time of year.
Many of Thailand’s surf sports are sandy beach breaks, which are safe for beginners. Plus, they are relatively quiet, which is great news for all surfers and particularly learners. The crowded waves of more popular surf destinations can be intimidating and dangerous for newbies (I’m looking at you, Bali). And more seasoned surfers will enjoy the smaller lineups too.
Thailand is also home to some of the best beaches in Southeast Asia so you’re sure to enjoy the vibes and scenery in and out of the water. When you’re not surfing, there’s plenty to explore in the region’s most visited country and you won’t break the bank as Thailand is one of Asia’s cheapest countries.
If you’re looking for uncrowded breaks and beautiful beaches on a budget, Thailand might just be the surf destination you never knew you needed.
Have you surfed in Thailand? Let us know about your experience in the comments.