BEACH
The beach north of Songkhla is wide and extensive, so long that you could run an entire marathon along this coastline. You will pass small villages, fishermen, rice fields, banana plantations and more beautiful nature. This beach is characterized by soft sand, good swimming waters, and a tranquil atmosphere.
The beach is mostly not developed for Western tourism. The many fishing boats and beautiful rugged long beach really let you experience what Thailand was like before it became touristy.
WHERE TO STAY
Along the coast from Songkhla to Ranot, are only a few locations with overnight accommodations. We noticed about 10 stays during our 4-hour drive along the entire coast. At Sathing Phra, 40 kilometers north of Songkhla, we found some stays near each other.
Ao Thai Resort is our favorite stay along this beach. It is well organized and feels relaxing due to its beautiful garden. They rent out scooters and bicycles making it possible to discover the neighborhood. Close by is the mid-range Sunshine Home Stay. If you’re on a budget, a Thai family next door offers wooden bungalows for 800 baht. Sathing Pura Resort is located 1 kilometer south of Ao Thai Resort. This stay is 100 meters from the beach. Lastly, they don’t clean the beach! You will be the only western tourist.
If you prefer a nice pool, drive 32 kilometer south to Hadd Kaew, a hotel with more than 200 rooms. From here, it is 8 kilometers to Songkhla. If no congress is going on, this hotel is good enough to enjoy beach life and relax at the pool. You need your own transport to get here, and they don’t rent scooters.
Most stays have a restaurant, although you can also go to the food stalls in the surrounding area.
