Songkhla Travel

Best time to visit

In Songkhla (or Singgora), a city in southern Thailand, the climate is tropical, hot and humid all year round. There is a rainy season due to the monsoon, which lasts from May to January, but has a pronounced peak between October and December, ie in the period of the "retreating monsoon", while from June to September, and usually also in January, the rains are not too abundant. In the short dry season, from the middle or the end of January to April, some showers are still possible.

The temperature is high throughout the year, however, it's slightly lower from November to January, when highs hover around 29/30°C (84/86°F). High humidity makes heat annoying, also because, behind the town, there is a plain with some lakes (which are actually lagoons), which provide additional heat and moisture. From March to October, there can be very hot days, with peaks of 35/37°C (95/99°F). Luckily, sea breezes blow.

The best time to visit Songkhla goes from late January to April, since it's normally the least rainy period, with a preference for February because it is, albeit slightly, the least hot. In January, depending on the year, the rains may be more or less abundant, in particular in the first half, when at times, they can still be torrential. In summer (in June, July, and August), there can be long periods without rain and with intense heat, with highs around 35°C (95°F), while at other times, there can be showers, more or less intense, almost every day.

Check the below table for the general idea of Songkhla weather throughout the year.

Songkhla’s current weather and 7-day forecast

SONGKHLA WEATHER

Songkhla is the capital of the Songkhla Province in Southern Thailand. The city is surrounded by beaches and is often called “the great city on two seas”. A visit to Songkhla will transport you to another world - one that you won’t want to leave. So, to narrow down or at least give you a starting point for your sightseeing, check out some of the coolest spots in Songkhla.

1. Learn about the Golden Mermaid

The Golden Mermaid lounges on some rocks on Samila beach just waiting for her fisherman to return her comb. The mermaid statue was inspired by a saga about a mermaid who combed her hair with a golden comb (kind of like Ariel but also not because this mermaid uses a golden comb and not a fork). Well one day a young fisherman came upon her and it was love at first sight - for him. The mermaid was startled and returned to the ocean, but left her golden comb. The fisherman found the comb and waited every day for her to come back for it, but she never did. Now the Songkhla mermaid is an ode to the story and if you want some good luck in the relationship department, you should rub the mermaid’s hair.

2. Walk across Thailand's longest concrete bridge to Ko Yo Island

Ko Yo Island is on the Eastern side of Songkhla Lake and easily accessible by Thailand’s longest concrete bridge, Tinsulanond Bridge. A trip to Ko Yo is definitely not to be missed, as Ko Yo is known for its amazing and extremely fresh foods, including Jampada and Spicy Catfish, which you can enjoy sitting at a waterfront restaurant like Khun Jit Sea View or Rai Thong. Aside from food, Ko Yo also features various museums and temples and a reclining Buddha.

3. Practice your bird calls at Thale Noi Waterbird Park

You can practice your calls and spot hundreds of exotic birds at the Thale Noi Waterbird Park. You’ll be able to take a motorboat out into the lake, filled with waterlilies and lotus flowers, and just enjoy the serenity of nature and birds.

Address: Khaorup Rd., Khao Rup Chang, Muang Songkhla, Songkhla 90000 Thailand

Price: from 13.50 USD for Longtail Boat Ride

Opening Hours: 8 am - 5 pm (But it’s best to go earlier in the day before it gets really hot)

4. Walk (or ride) to the top of Tang Kuan Hill

Tang Kuan translates to Monkey in Thai - so now’s your chance to trek to the top of “Monkey Hill” (there is an elevator for those who are unable to climb, so don’t worry everyone can take part in this activity). The top of Tang Kuan Hill will give you a panoramic view of the entire city. You can see the city sprawling beneath you and the ocean just beyond that - it’s truly breathtaking. Additionally, at the top of the hill you can also visit Dvaravati Chedi Tower, which houses Buddha relics.

5. Try not to get eaten by the Dragon Head Statue

There isn’t actually a threat of being eaten, but you may get sprayed - with water, not fire. The famous Naga Head statue at Song Thale Park was built in 2007, and as such is relatively new to the Songkhla culture. However, its newness hasn’t slowed visitors down, probably due to its unique construction. The dragon head, body, and tail are all found in different locations along Songkhla Lake. The head is by the entrance, the body by the park, and the tail is along the side.

6. Lay down next to a reclining Buddha Statue

You can find the Reclining Buddha as you enter the south side of Ko Yo Island. The Reclining Buddha is a part of Wat Phranon Laem Pho (a Buddhist temple) and just sits (lays?) there in all its gilded spectacular-ness. While it may serve as a popular tourist attraction, many of the locals also visit the temple for regular prayer (so it’s truly an authentic experience).

7. Shop around in the City Pillar

The City Pillar of Songkhla, built around the same time as Songkhla’s founding, is in a Chinese-style building; the shrine itself is also clearly influenced by the city’s Chinese origins. The City Pillar is situated on Nag Ngam Road, which is the heart of local Thai food. You can also shop around on Nag Ngam Road for souvenirs and taste the infamous Thai dessert - Khao Too.

8. Walk around the Songkhla Tae Raek night market

Most of the time outdoor markets are only open during the day, but the Songkhla Tae Raek is specifically a night market. You can find this market across from the National Museum of Songkhla and is a great place to get a bite to eat and enjoy the local flavor. After dinner, you can continue to walk around the market and admire (and buy, if you’re like me) anything from the dozens upon dozens of stalls featuring clothing, trinkets, spices, jewelry and more!

9. Visit Khao Kao Seng and the Hua Nai Raeng Boulder

Khao Kao Seng is one of the most stunning beaches you’ll ever visit. If the glittering ocean wasn’t enough to captivate your interest, the boulders that are spotted around the coastline may convince you. The Hua Nai Raeng Boulder is particularly noteworthy. The legend says that the boulder is actually the head of Nai Raeng, as a punishment for not completing an important task. His head was to be placed on top of the gold and other treasures, so many people believe that below the boulder lies hidden treasure (boulder marks the spot).

Full Legend Legend has it that there was a large boy born in Southern Thailand and because of his size, his parents named him Nai Raeng (raeng translates to strength, energy, or power). While the boy was extremely strong, he also had an appetite to match - eating enough for 10 men instead of just one. His appetite forced his parents to send him away, as they were unable to support his diet. However, the ship he found work on was also unhappy with the amount of food Nai Raeng consumed, and so abandoned him in the ocean. Nai Raeng was strong enough to swim to shore and eventually found his way back home. He found a new job and was able to support his parents and soon became governor of Songkhla. One day, there was to be a festival to honor the placement of some of Lord Buddha’s bones in a nearby temple. Nai Raeng was to bring all the money and gifts sent to him to the temple in time for the festival. Nai Raeng was more than honored to do so and was actually going to donate nearly 1 million Baht in gold. But, on his way to the festival a large storm came in crashed Nai Raeng’s boat into some rocks in the South. He was too far away to fix the boat in time for the festival. He was extremely upset over his failure to deliver, and as such ordered his men to carry the gold onto the beach and bury it somewhere safe. Then he ordered his men decapitate him and place his head above the gold, which ended his honest and good life.

10. Explore the Songkhla Zoo

The Songkhla Zoo is an open-range zoo with the primary goal of nature preservation and conservation. Tourists can drive around the zoo and see a variety of animals including but not limited to camels, birds, tigers, and bantengs. The zoo also features a waterpark, and several shows with tigers, penguins and even the “survival of wildlife”.

Address: Khao Rup Chang, Mueang Songkhla, Songkhla 90000, Thailand

Price: Adult: from 4.50 USD; Child: from 2 USD

Opening Hours: 8:30 am - 5:30 pm (water park opens at 10:30 am)

11. Namtok Ton Nga Chang

Go on an adventure and immerse yourself in nature as you explore Namtok Ton Nga Chang. This waterfall has seven levels and you can climb to different levels with little or no need for equipment, thus perfect for those who do not have training or waterfall climbing experience. On the third level, the stream splits into two, while the water on the waterfall basin is crystal clear and flows into the Songkhla Lake. So if you are longing to be showered with fresh water, and to climb up the mountains, then visit Namtok Ton Nga Chang. This place will undoubtedly give you a full-blown adventure.
Address: 17 Supasarnrangsan Rd, Tambon Thung Tam Sao, Hat Yai District, Songkhla

12. ASEAN Trade Bazaar

This shopping haven is good for a night out to feel the heartbeat of the town as both locals and foreigners flock here. With approximately 100 stalls offering different kinds of products from clothes, bags, watches, accessories, decorations, kids’ toys, and even paintings, this marketplace definitely has something for everybody. Offering various cheap products, you may shop all you want without hurting your budget. Moreover, you can haggle to get discounts, thus allowing you to return home with plenty of souvenirs to bring. Don’t worry about getting hungry while shopping because you’re still in the right place. This market also sells food and drinks that you can enjoy while buying your good finds. This place is definitely worth a visit during your stay in Songkhla.

Address: Thonon Chotevittayakul 5, Tambon Hat Yai, Hat Yai District, Songkhla 90110, Thailand

Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 3pm - 10:30pm (closed on Mon)

13. Hat Yai Municipal Park

Wondering if going up the mountain without trekking is possible? Then try Hat Yai Cable Car, the first cable car in Thailand. It offers a convenient way to climb up the mountains without sweating out. During your swift ride, you will see spectacular views of Hat Yai city. Highlights included in this place are Hat Yai Ice Dome, where ice sculptures created by high-skilled sculptors from Harbin City in China are exhibited. Then, there’s also Hat Yai Science and Astronomy Center (Astronomical Observatory) where you can discover more about astronomy by looking at its technological tools and equipment including exhibition rooms, cinema rooms, and an observatory.

Budget options

สงขลาแต่แรก แอนทีค โฮเท็ล Songkhla Tae Raek Antique Hotel 

Add: 40 Phetchakhiri RD ., Mueang ,Songkhla District, Songkhla , Thailand, 90000 Songkhla, Thailand 

Located 2.2 km from Golden Mermaid Statue, สงขลาแต่แรก แอนทีค โฮเท็ล Songkhla Tae Raek Antique Hotel provides rooms with air conditioning in Songkhla. With free WiFi, this 2-star hotel offers a 24-hour front desk and room service.

Private parking can be arranged at an extra charge.

At the hotel every room comes with a wardrobe, a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom.

A buffet breakfast is available daily at สงขลาแต่แรก แอนทีค โฮเท็ล Songkhla.

Wansiri Mansion 

Add: 22 Soi 11 Ratuthis 1 Road, Muang, Songkla, 90000 Songkhla, Thailand

Set in Songkhla, 6 km from Golden Mermaid Statue, Wansiri Mansion offers accommodation with free WiFi and free private parking. The property is located 6 km from Samila Beach, 8 km from Laem Son On Naga Head and 2.1 km from Songkhla Rajabhat University. The accommodation provides a 24-hour front desk, and currency exchange for guests.

At the hotel all rooms come with a desk, a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom.

Mid-range options

Chop-Mukda Apartment 

Add: 1/3, Srisuda, Bo Yang, Mueang , 90000 Songkhla, Thailand

Located in Songkhla, within 1.3 km of Golden Mermaid Statue and 1.3 km of Samila Beach, Chop-Mukda Apartment provides accommodation with a shared lounge and free WiFi throughout the property as well as free private parking for guests who drive. Popular points of interest nearby include Tangkuan Hill, Songkhla National Museum and Phraphuttha Si Songkhlanakarin. The guest house features family rooms.

Guest rooms at the guest house come with air conditioning, a seating area, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a kitchen, a dining area and a private bathroom with a shower. All rooms will provide guests with a desk and a kettle.

Ban Soi San Sook Homestay 

Add: 36 Saiburi Soi 47 Tambon Bo Yang, 90000 Songkhla, Thailand 

Featuring garden views, Ban Soi San Sook Homestay features accommodation with a patio and a kettle, around 6 km from Samila Beach. Set 6 km from Golden Mermaid Statue, the property offers a garden and free private parking.
This air-conditioned holiday home is fitted with 3 bedrooms, a flat-screen TV, a dining area, and a kitchen with a microwave and a fridge. For added convenience, the property can provide towels and bed linen for an extra charge.

A terrace is available for guests at the holiday home to use.

Green World Palace Hotel 

Add: 99 Samakkeesuk 2 Rd,Muang, Songkhla, 90000 Songkhla, Thailand 

Green World Palace Hotel is a 15-minute drive from Laew Samila Beach. It offers modern air-conditioned rooms with free Wi-Fi and free parking. Guests can relax with massage treatments at the spa or catch some sun by the pool.

The property is a 10-minute drive from Wat Matchimawat. It is a 15-minute drive to Prem Tinsulanonda Museum and Songkhla Bus Terminal. Songkhla Airport is 30 km away.

Rooms are fitted with a cable TV, minibar and electric kettle. Free toiletries and hairdryer are included in an en suite bathroom. Some rooms come with a flat-screen TV and slippers.

The hotel is equipped with a business centre and meeting facilities. Luggage storage and shuttle service can be organised at the front desk. Laundry service is available.

Guests can enjoy Thai, Chinese and international cuisines at Khun Ying Restaurant. Room service can be arranged upon request.

Bo-Yang Guesthouse 

Add: 7/1 Chaiya Road (Behind City Hall), Bo Yang, Mueang, 90000 Songkhla, Thailand

Bo-Yang Guesthouse is located in Songkhla, 3.9 km from Laem Son On Naga Head and 600 m from Mahavajiravudh Changwat Songkhla School. Among the facilities at this property are a shared kitchen and a shared lounge, along with free WiFi throughout the property. The property is close to popular attractions like Phraphuttha Si Songkhlanakarin, Woranari Chaloem Songkhla School and Rajamangala University of Technology Srivijaya.

At the guest house, each room has a desk, a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom. Guest rooms at Bo-Yang Guesthouse include air conditioning and a wardrobe.

Deluxe options

Club Tree Hotel 

Add: 165/8 Thalayluang Road, Bo Yang, Muang, 90000 Songkhla, Thailand

Club Tree Hotel is offers accommodation with a modern colonial touch. The hotel is close to nearby attractions including Simila Beach and Street Art Songkhla. Offering free WiFi in all rooms, Club Tree also provides all day complimentary coffee and has a 24-hour reception desk to ensure a convenient and comfortable stay.

The air-conditioned rooms are fitted with a flat-screen cable TV, DVD player and electric kettle. They have a refrigerator and balcony. Shower facilities are included in an en suite bathroom.

Local restaurants can be found within a short walk.

A.LIST HOTEL 

Add: Na San 1 55 ถ. นาสาร ตำบล บ่อยาง อำเภอ เมือง จ., 90000 Songkhla, Thailand

Boasting a shared lounge, garden and views of garden, A.LIST HOTEL is set in Songkhla, 1.5 km from Golden Mermaid Statue. The property is close to Wat Saket, Rajamangala University of Technology Srivijaya and Songkhla Tinsulanonda Stadium. The accommodation offers a 24-hour front desk, airport transfers, room service and free WiFi throughout the property.

All guest rooms come with air conditioning, a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a fridge, a kettle, a hot tub, a hairdryer and a desk. At the hotel the rooms are equipped with a wardrobe and a private bathroom.

Guests at A.LIST HOTEL can enjoy a à la carte or an American breakfast.

At the accommodation guests are welcome to take advantage of a hot tub.

The Roo Classic Hometel 

Add: 100 ถนนนครใน ตำบลบ่อยาง, 90000 Songkhla, Thailand

Featuring a restaurant, bar, garden and free WiFi, The Roo Classic Hometel is located in Songkhla, 2.8 km from Golden Mermaid Statue and 2.8 km from Samila Beach. Boasting family rooms, this property also provides guests with a terrace. The property is close to popular attractions like Songkhla's Shrine City Pillar, Songkhla National Museum and Old Town Songkhla Gate.

Guest rooms at the hotel are equipped with a seating area and a flat-screen TV with satellite channels. The rooms at The Roo Classic Hometel include air conditioning and a wardrobe.

Guests at the accommodation can enjoy a à la carte or an Asian breakfast.

Montana Hotel Songkhla 

Add: 24/3 Sadao Rd.,Muang, Songkhla 90000 Head Office: Montana Residence Limited Partnership, 90000 Songkhla, Thailand

Located in Songkhla, Montana Hotel Songkhla provides 5-star accommodation with private balconies. Among the facilities of this property are a restaurant, a 24-hour front desk and room service, along with free WiFi throughout the property. The hotel features family rooms.

All units at the hotel come with air conditioning, a seating area, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a kitchenette, a dining area and a private bathroom with a hairdryer, a shower and free toiletries. The rooms will provide guests with a desk and a kettle.

Guests at Montana Hotel Songkhla can enjoy a à la carte breakfast.

The accommodation offers a terrace.

Most restaurants on Songkhla serve a variety of cuisines, including Thai and international foods. Most guesthouse and resorts have restaurants that serve both. The following are some of the restaurants on Songkhla.

Kao-i Khao (White Chair) 

Thai and Seafood, open daily from 10 a.m.-11 p.m.

Cuisine: Thai

Restaurant Type: Supper/Night Dining, Children/Family

Opening Hour: 11.00 – 12.00

Address: Opposite to Tamnak Khao Yoi Sadao Road, Tambon Bo Yang, Amphoe Mueang, Songkhla 90000

Pavilion

Thai food restaurant

Cuisine: Thai, Other

Restaurant Type: Children/Family, Supper/Night Dining

Address: 17 Platha Road, Amphoe Mueang, Songkhla

Songkhla Lake Welfare Restaurant

Thai Foods

Cuisine: Chinese

Restaurant Type: Cheap Eat/Budget, Supper/Night Dining

Address: Tambon Khu Khut, Amphoe Sathing Phra, Songkhla

Lan Dok Kaeo

Seafood opens from 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Cuisine: Thai

Restaurant Type: Supper/Night Dining

Address: Ratchadamnoen Road, Amphoe Mueang, Songkhla

Bun Riam

Seafood opens from 9.30 a.m.-9 p.m.

Cuisine: Thai

Restaurant Type: Children/Family, Supper/Night Dining

Address: Laem Son-on Road, Amphoe Mueang, Songkhla

Coca Suki

Suki Yaki restaurant in Songkhla town.

Cuisine: Thai

Restaurant Type: Children/Family

Address: 224/1 Saiburi Road, Amphoe Mueang, Songkhla

Latda

Thai and Chinese restaurant opens from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. and 5 p.m.-9 p.m.

Cuisine: Thai

Restaurant Type: Children/Family, Supper/Night Dining

Address: 1 Wichian Chom Road, Tambon Bo Yang, Songkhla

Tae Hiang Io

Chinese food open daily from 11.30 a.m.-2 p.m. and 5 p.m.-8 p.m.

Cuisine: Chinese

Restaurant Type: Children/Family, Supper/Night Dining

Address: 85 Nang Ngam Road, Tambon Bo Yang, Amphoe Mueang, Songkhla

Bua Kaeo Seafood

Seafood restaurant opens from 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Cuisine: Seafood

Restaurant Type: Supper/Night Dining

Address: 20 Ratchadamnoen Road, Amphoe Mueang, Songkhla

Get in

By bus

The government bus station has relocated to Nakhon Nok St (ถนน นครนอก), a few metres from Viva Hotel.

To/from Bangkok

Air-con buses by The Transport Co. Ltd (บริษัท ขนส่ง จำกัด (บขส.), bor-kor-sor) run between Bangkok southern bus terminal (สายใต้, sai-tai) and Songkhla bus terminal daily. The distance is ~984 km and normally takes 12.5 hours.
24 seats VIP bus (พิเศษ, piset) costs 1,125 baht, departs from Bangkok at 18:00. On the reverse, the departure is at 16:45.

47 seats Class 2 bus (ม2) costs 563 baht, departs from Bangkok at 08:00, 14:30 and 19:00, Songkhla at 07:30, 11:30 and 14:00.

To/from Chumphon

Class 2 bus (ม2) costs 290 baht, departs daily.

To/from Nakhon Si Thammarat

Class 2 bus (ม2) costs 125 baht, departs daily.

To/from Surat Thani

Class 2 bus (ม2) costs 125 baht, departs daily.

To/from Hat Yai

Minivans leave from Hat Yai Bus Station, and cost 34 baht one way. Ordinary buses (big green buses) depart to Hat Yai from Ramwithi Rd (ถนนรามวิถี) for 20 baht. From Hat Yai, you need to catch one at any bus stop along Phetkasem Rd (ถนน เพชรเกษม), at the intersection close to Montri Rd 1 (ถนน มนตรี 1) or catch the bus at the clock tower near the train station. In Thai you say Haw Naa ree gaa ("clocktower" in English) and the friendly locals will point you in the right direction. From Hat Yai last bus at 19:30. A songthaew (green pickup truck with two bench seats) may run as late as 20:00 if you are lucky. Usually price 20 baht, but for this late-night service they will charge 25 to 30 baht.

We recommend you check the latest bus schedule and price via rome2rio.com

By minivan

Minivans depart from Hat Yai Bus Station and cost 34 baht one-way. (Jan 2019)

Minivans depart to Hat Yai from the Th Ramwithi (ถนน รามวิถี) opposite a flyover at Ramvithi Soi 3 for 28 baht. On the other hand, minivans leave for Yala and Pattani for 120 baht from the southern end of Th Ramwithi (ถนน รามวิถี), at the intersection close to Th Chaimongkol (ถนน ชัยมงคล). You can also get a songthaew from the clock tower in Hat Yai, 20 baht.

Get around

Songthaews orbit around the city for 12 baht. Motorcycle taxis do the same for 20 baht. Expect rates to double at night.
For first time visitors to Songkhla the Singora Tram Tour is a great way to see the city.The tour is free and starts outside the Prem Tinsulanonda Museum on Saiburi Road. The tour times are 9am, 1030am, 12noon, 130pm, and 3pm and takes about 1 hour. The tram tour around all the major sights of Songkhla like Old Town, Samila Beache,Tang Kuan hill, Serpent (Nag) on the promenade etc. The tour is free but it's optional if you would want to leave with a tip.

Contact us for more information