When you think of surfing, Thailand might not be the first place that comes to mind, but it should be! With clear waters, soft beaches, and a growing surf culture, it’s becoming a hidden gem for surfers.
The west coast has plenty of breaks from Phuket to Khao Lak, especially during the monsoon season. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, surfing in Thailand offers something for everyone.
After falling in love with Thailand, I have the top tips for exploring Thailand’s surf scene. Grab your board and dive in!
Best Time To Go Surfing In Thailand
The ideal time to surf in Thailand depends on where you plan to catch the waves. The country’s two main surf regions are the Andaman Sea (west coast) and the Gulf of Thailand (east coast). They have different peak seasons.
Andaman Sea Region (Phuket, Khao Lak, Koh Lanta):
The surf season here runs from May to October, thanks to the southwest monsoon. This period brings consistent swells and larger waves, making it the best time for surfing on Thailand’s west coast. Peak surf conditions usually occur from June to September, when the waves are at their best.
I recommend hitting spots like Kata Beach or Kalim Beach in Phuket, or Pakarang Beach in Khao Lak during this time if you’re looking for good, steady breaks.
Gulf of Thailand Region (Koh Samui, Koh Phangan):
The surf season in the Gulf of Thailand is shorter, peaking from November to February. This period aligns with the northeast monsoon, bringing smaller but cleaner swells. The waves here are generally more beginner-friendly compared to the Andaman side. If you’re new to surfing, I enjoyed my time at Chaweng Beach on Koh Samui. The vibe is relaxed and the surf is smooth, perfect for beginners.
So if you’re planning a surf trip, the west coast is your go-to during the rainy season (May–October), while the east coast shines in the dry season (November–February). Just be flexible, as weather patterns can change and conditions might vary. It’s always a good idea to check with local surf schools for up-to-date conditions before you paddle out!
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Is Thailand a Good Place to Go Surfing?
Yes, Thailand is a great place for surfing! The waves are suitable for all levels, from beginners to advanced surfers. The weather is warm year-round and water temperatures stay between 27°C and 30°C, so you won’t need a wetsuit.
Overall, the beaches are beautiful, the surf community is welcoming, and it’s a good place to learn or improve your skills. This makes it one of the best activities on your trip to Thailand alongside trying delicious Thai dishes and much more.
You can aslo go scuba diving in Thailand if you enjoy water-based adventures.
Most Beautiful Surf Spots in Thailand
There are some fantastic beaches for surfing in Thailand, each offering its own unique vibe and wave conditions. Here are some of the best surf spots you should check out:
1. Kata Beach, Phuket
Kata Beach is one of the most popular surfing spots in Thailand. The beach offers consistent waves and is great for both beginners and experienced surfers. During the peak season (May to October), the swells can get larger, making it perfect for more advanced surfers to challenge themselves.
2. Kalim Beach, Phuket
Located just north of Patong Beach, Kalim Beach has a more rugged feel and offers powerful reef breaks that attract seasoned surfers looking for a thrilling ride. It’s less crowded than Kata, making it a great spot if you want to avoid the crowds.
3. Khao Lak
Khao Lak, just north of Phuket, is known for its peaceful beaches and beginner-friendly waves. Pakarang Beach and Memories Beach are two standout spots that offer gentle beach breaks, making them ideal for those who are new to surfing or looking to enjoy a relaxed session.
4. Koh Lanta
Koh Lanta is an emerging surf destination with a laid-back atmosphere. Klong Dao Beach is perfect for beginners and intermediates with its steady, medium-sized waves, while Klong Khong Beach offers a quieter and less crowded experience.
5. Railay Beach and Ton Sai Beach, Krabi
These two beaches, nestled next to each other, offer a unique surf experience. While Railay is more famous for its stunning views and beach bars, Ton Sai has a more relaxed vibe with a mix of surf and rock climbing options. The surf here is best during the low season when you can catch small, manageable waves in a scenic environment
6. Nai Harn Beach, Phuket
Nai Harn Beach is a beautiful spot with clean waves and a quieter atmosphere compared to more popular beaches like Kata. It’s a great option for surfers looking for a more peaceful experience while still enjoying decent waves.
Need more information for your upcoming trip? Find out how to plan your dream trip to Thailand and discover bucket list experiences that you can’t miss! For something a little different, check out these crazy (but adventerous) activities.
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Surf Camps in Thailand Overview
| Surf Camp | Location | Length | Book |
|---|---|---|---|
| eFoil Surf Camp | Kite Boarding Asia, Hua Hin, Thailand | 4-Days | Book Here |
| Kite Surf Camp | Kite Boarding Asia, Hua Hin, Thailand | 8-Days | Book Here |
| Phuket Surfing Lessons | Kata Beach, Phuket, Thailand | 1.5 hours | Book Here |
| Bang Tao Beach Surf Lessons | ang Tao Beach, Phuket, Thailand | 1.5 hours | Book Here |
| Getaway All Levels Surf Camp | SSS Phuket Dive and Surf Center, Kata Beach, Phuket, Thailand | 3-Days | Book Here |
| “Learn to Surf” Surf Camp | Bang Tao Beach, Phuket, Thailand | 6-Days | Book Here |
| All Levels Surf Camp | Phuket, Thailand | 10-Days | Book Here |
Top Surf Camps and Lessons in Thailand
The Adventure in You team has tried some of the best lessons and camps for surfing in Thailand. There’s something here for everyone whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced surfer wanting to refine your skills.
The camps offer personalized instruction in beautiful coastal locations like Phuket and Hua Hin. Let’s take a look at our favorite surf lessons in Thailand:
1. 4-Day eFoil Surf Camp in Hua Hin
Location: Kite Boarding Asia, Hua Hin.
Who It’s For: All levels — beginner, intermediate, and advanced.
Accommodation: Shared or private double rooms, with private bathrooms, balconies, and sea views. Located 20m from the beach.
What’s Included:
- 3 eFoil lessons (1 hour each)
- Free SUP use (1 hour per day)
- 3 nights accommodation
- 1 meal and drink per day
- Optional airport transfers
Highlights:
- Learn cutting-edge eFoil skills from top instructors
- Focused training in small class sizes
- Stunning beachside setting for an immersive experience
Why We Recommend It: Personalized eFoil instruction in a stunning coastal location. You can also relax in comfortable accommodation just steps away from the water. Perfect for thrill-seekers wanting to master this new watersport!
2. 8-Day Kite Surf Camp with IKO Certification in Hua Hin
Location: Kite Boarding Asia, Hua Hin.
Who It’s For: Beginner and intermediate levels.
Accommodation: Shared or private double rooms, with private bathrooms, balconies, and sea views. Located 20m from the beach.
What’s Included:
- 3 days of beginner kitesurf lessons (up to 6 hours)
- 2 days kitesurf equipment rental (2 hours/day)
- 7 nights accommodation
- 1-hour free SUP rental daily
- IKO certification
- Liability insurance
Highlights:
- Comprehensive beginner training with certified instructors
- Top-quality kitesurfing gear included
- Ideal location with safe and consistent winds
Why We Recommend It: If you’re looking to build your kitesurfing skills, you’ll love this structured program with high-quality gear, experienced instructors, and an official IKO certificate. To top it off? It’s based in the most beautiful setting.
3. Phuket Surfing Lessons
Location: Kata Beach, Phuket.
Who It’s For: Beginners and intermediate surfers.
Duration: 1.5 hours.
What’s Included:
- Professional surf instructor
- Surfboard rental
- Transfer to the beach
Highlights: Learn to stand and ride your first wave with expert guidance in a small group setting (max 2 participants). Lessons are available in multiple languages, so there’s no need to worry about communication barriers.
Why We Recommend It: This is great if you’re a beginner and looking for some personalized lessons. It’s a quick session to teach you the basics and enjoy the well-known Phuket surf – perfect!
4. Bang Tao Beach: Group or Private Surf Lessons
Location: Bang Tao Beach, Phuket.
Who It’s For: Beginners and intermediate surfers.
Duration: 1.5 hours per session.
What’s Included:
- One-on-one or group surf lesson
- Surfboard and equipment rental
- English or Thai-speaking instructor
- Bottle of water
- Reef-safe sunscreen
Highlights:
- Private and small-group lessons are available
- Learn surf basics and wave riding techniques step-by-step
- Located at the stunning Bang Tao Beach, close to other popular attractions
Why We Recommend It: We like this because it’s ideal for first-time surfers or those looking to improve their skills with patient instructors. And you can do it all on this beautiful Thai beach. Choose from single, three, or five-day classes for a tailored experience!
5. 3-Day Getaway All Levels Surf Camp in Kata, Phuket
Location: SSS Phuket Dive and Surf Center, Kata Beach, Phuket.
Who It’s For: All levels — beginner, intermediate, and advanced.
Accommodation: Two nights in a guesthouse on Kata Hill with panoramic views, including a scooter for easy beach access.
What’s Included:
- 6 surf sessions (1.5 hours each)
- Board and RashGuard rental
- 2 nights accommodation
Highlights:
- Daily morning and afternoon surf lessons tailored to your skill level
- Beautiful Kata Beach setting with professional instruction
- Try different surfboards to find the right fit for your style
Why We Recommend It: We love this because it’s a short and immersive break in which you can dip your toes to learn how to surf. It’s suitable for all skill levels and offers a chance to learn and enjoy stunning beach views in Phuket.
6. 6-Day “Learn to Surf” Camp in Phuket
Location: Bang Tao Beach, Phuket.
Who It’s For: All levels — beginner, intermediate, and advanced.
Accommodation: Choose between a shared hostel or private hotel room with access to a pool and fitness facilities.
What’s Included:
- 5 x 1.5-hour surf lessons
- 5 nights’ accommodation
- Daily breakfast and water
- 1 Thai massage
- Free use of surf equipment
- Transfers to the beach
- Reef-safe sunscreen
Highlights:
- Structured daily surf lessons tailored to tide conditions
- Explore Thai culture and local spots around Bang Tao Beach
- Includes a relaxing Thai massage to unwind
Why We Recommend It: We love this blend of surf and relaxation in Phuket. You’ll have the flexibility to keep practicing even outside of lessons.
7. 10-Day All Levels Surf Camp in Phuket
Location: SSS Phuket Dive and Surf Center, Kata Beach.
Who It’s For: All levels—beginner, intermediate, and advanced.
Accommodation: 9 nights in a guesthouse on Kata Hill with panoramic views. A scooter is provided for easy beach access.
What’s Included:
- 20 surfing sessions (1.5 hours each)
- Board and RashGuard rental
- 9 nights accommodation
Highlights:
- Two daily sessions tailored to your skill level
- Learn and refine your surfing techniques with professional instructors
- Prime location at one of Phuket’s top surf beaches
Why We Recommend It: This intensive program with daily sessions is designed to help you quickly build your surfing skills. It’s ideal for those looking to learn to surf. The added bonus? You can enjoy the stunning Kata Beach scenery too.
Surf Camps Around the World
Are you looking to expand your surfing journey beyond Thailand? We have some fantastic surf camp options around the globe:
No matter where you go, there’s a perfect camp waiting to help you catch the next wave!
FAQs
The wave size in Thailand varies depending on the location and season. On average, waves range from 1 to 2 meters (3 to 6 feet), making them ideal for beginners and intermediate surfers. During the monsoon season (May–October), the west coast (e.g., Phuket) sees larger, more consistent waves.
Yes, Thailand offers a range of surfing lessons for all levels, especially at popular surf spots like Kata Beach in Phuket and Bang Tao Beach. Surf schools provide professional instruction and equipment rentals.
Bali is known for its world-class waves and diverse surf spots that cater to all levels, making it a top destination for experienced surfers (check out our guide here). Thailand, on the other hand, offers gentler waves, which are ideal for beginners and those looking for a more relaxed surf experience. It depends on your skill level and what type of surf trip you’re seeking.
Conclusion
Thailand may not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking of a surf destination, but it has a growing surf community and plenty of spots to learn or improve your skills. From Phuket’s steady breaks to Koh Lanta’s quieter beaches, the country has something for everyone.
Whether you’re looking for a laid-back surf vacation or a chance to build your skills, Thailand’s warm waters and stunning coastal scenery make it a destination worth exploring.
Looking for more Thailand travel guides? Check out these articles!
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