Tucked away on Thailand\u2019s Andaman Coast, Trang is the kind of place that rewards those willing to travel beyond the tourist trail. While Phuket and Krabi draw the crowds, this coastal province quietly hosts some of the best beaches, breakfasts and boat trips in Thailand.<\/p>\n
From savoury dim sum at 6 am to swimming through a pitch-black sea cave, my holiday in Trang was full of surprises. I\u2019ve compiled everything you need to know to plan your own unforgettable stay. This includes the best things to do in Trang, how to get there, and where to eat and stay.<\/p>\n
Disclosure:<\/strong> This trip was paid for in collaboration with the Thailand Tourism Board<\/a>. However, all views and opinions are my own. This post contains affiliate links through which I may make a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps with the costs of running my website so I can keep my content free for you. Thanks as always for your support! See my disclosure policy here<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n Trang is a coastal province in southern Thailand, situated on the Andaman Sea. It is home to around 40 islands and islets, mostly protected within the Hat Chao Mai National Park. The region lies south of popular destinations like Phuket and Krabi, yet receives only a fraction of the tourist traffic.\u00a0<\/p>\n Trang\u2019s history as a maritime trading hub dates back at least 900 years. As a key port, it drew many merchants and settlers, many of whom were Hokkien Chinese migrants.\u00a0<\/p>\n These migrants arrived to work in the tin mines and rubber plantations during the early 20th century. With rising global demand for rubber, this quickly became one of Trang\u2019s largest economic drivers.<\/p>\n Fun Fact:<\/strong> The first rubber tree in Thailand was planted by industry pioneer Phraya Ratsadanupradit in 1899. Situated in Kantang (a small town in Trang province), the rubber tree is a living monument of Thailand\u2019s booming rubber industry.<\/em><\/p>\n Trang is one of southern Thailand\u2019s best-kept secrets, and keeping it that way starts with how you travel. As a less-visited alternative to Phuket and Krabi, your tourist spend here goes directly to the local communities who need it most. A few simple choices can make a real difference in supporting sustainable tourism<\/a> in Thailand.<\/p>\n There are no direct flights from the UK to Trang. However, multiple airlines offer direct international flights to Bangkok\u2019s Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK). My trip from London to Bangkok took roughly 11\u201312 hours. From there, you\u2019ll have to take a 40-minute taxi to Bangkok Don Mueang Airport (DMK) for a 1.5-hour domestic flight to Trang.<\/p>\n Trang has a tropical monsoon climate, with average temperatures ranging between 23\u00b0C and 35\u00b0C. To prepare for the hot, humid weather:\u00a0<\/p>\n From peaceful boat tours to island-hopping adventures, here\u2019s my list of the top things to do in Trang.<\/p>\n Support local livelihoods with a long-tail boat tour through the beautiful mangrove forests of Ban Nam Rab. This eco-tourism community cares for the forest and runs carbon-neutral adventures<\/a> focused on conservation and local life.<\/p>\n The tour includes so many meaningful highlights:\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n The hike up Khao Jom Pa mountain has some tricky parts, including clambering and climbing over rocks and tree roots. But that panoramic view made it well worth the climb.<\/p>\n Trang has over 40 islands and islets, making it the perfect jumping-off point for a day of island hopping. There are many day tours on offer, usually departing from Trang\u2019s Pak Meng Pier. Four of the most popular Trang islands included in these tours are:\u00a0<\/p>\n Some tours cover all the islands in a day, but you can also choose which islands appeal most to you. I visited Koh Kradan and Koh Mook.<\/p>\n Accessed via long-tail boat from Trang\u2019s mainland, Koh Kradan is one of the most popular islands in Trang Province. Its main beach, aptly named Paradise Beach, was voted \u201cBest Beach 2023<\/a>\u201d by the UK-based World Beach Guide. It also featured in the 2025 Jurassic World: Rebirth film.\u00a0<\/p>\n While Koh Kradan has seen an influx of visitors since, it is still quieter than Thailand\u2019s more popular beaches. Its soft, flour-like sand meets shallow, crystal clear waters teeming with coral and fish. Take your pick of snorkelling, kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding. Or, take a peaceful jungle walk around to the west-facing Sunset Beach to bid the sun goodnight. Sunset Beach is a short walk from where the boats arrive and is less frequented by visitors.<\/p>\n Tip:<\/strong> There are no roads or stores on Koh Kradan. There is an ATM, but it\u2019s not always stocked up. So be sure to bring along some cash.<\/em><\/p>\n I checked in for a stay at Koh Mook Sivalai Beach Resort<\/a>, a tranquil haven literally steps from the beach.\u00a0<\/p>\n Koh Mook is famous for its Emerald Cave<\/a> (Tham Morakot), which conceals a magical lagoon beach. To enter, you have to swim through a 100-metre pitch-black, narrow sea cave. On the other side of the passage, you\u2019re greeted by a magical hidden beach surrounded by towering limestone cliffs.<\/p>\n Some parts of the passage are low and narrow. So if you\u2019re not too keen on tight spaces, this may be uncomfortable.\u00a0<\/p>\n Tip:<\/strong> Most day tours end at Koh Mook. So get there early (before 10 am) to enjoy this slice of paradise before the crowds arrive. You can get to the island via a 15-30-minute boat ride from Trang to Koh Mook.<\/em><\/p>\n Hop aboard an iconic frog-head tuk-tuk <\/a>to explore the city\u2019s charming Old Town. Trang is one of the few places in Thailand where you can still ride these frog-like three-wheelers.\u00a0<\/p>\n Imported from Japan in the 50s and 60s, these brightly coloured tuk-tuks are often stationed near the Trang Railway Station. Tours average 250 THB (roughly \u00a36) per hour, and they\u2019re a great introduction to the city\u2019s key sights.\u00a0<\/p>\n The Old Town is a melting pot of Thai, Chinese and European (specifically Portuguese) architectural influence. Here, you can spot Sino-Portuguese buildings standing alongside local-style Pan Ya houses, Chinese shrines, Christian churches and Buddhist temples.<\/p>\n Some key sights to look out for include the Dugong Statue, Kantang Railway Station and Trang Clock Tower. There\u2019s also plenty of street art to explore, especially around Ratchadamnoen Alley. The murals feature themes of local culture, history and rubber production, offering beautiful insight into the heart of the city.<\/p>\n Tip:<\/strong> Looking for more quirky transport systems? Check out some of my other <\/em>amazing global transport experiences<\/em><\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n Trang\u2019s cultural diversity is as present in its food as in its architecture, reflecting a blend of Thai, Chinese and Malay influence. It is perhaps most famous for its breakfast dim sum and Trang roast pork (Moo Yang), a legacy of Hokkien Chinese immigration.\u00a0<\/p>\n The buns are handmade, pre-cooked and steamed to order. Popular fillings include vegetables, ground pork or shrimp. The dim sum is often served with a side of Trang\u2019s famous crispy-skinned roast pork, which is marinated for eight hours.<\/p>\n A full dim sum breakfast for two typically costs around 150\u2013250 THB (\u00a33\u2013\u00a36). Many restaurants open as early as 5\u20136 am, quickly filling up and selling out. Be sure to arrive before 8 am for the best variety.\u00a0<\/p>\n There are countless dim sum restaurants to choose from in Trang\u2019s city centre, just follow your nose! I also came across many quaint cafes and veggie-friendly restaurants.<\/p>\n Since you\u2019ll be travelling via Bangkok, why not spend a few days here before or after your Trang trip? I stayed at The Salil Hotel Riverside<\/a>, a stylish riverside retreat perched on the banks of the Chao Phraya River.<\/p>\n After spending time in Trang\u2019s laid-back islands and quiet communities, Bangkok provides a complete contrast. The city is energetic, chaotic, fascinating and endlessly rewarding, and The Salil Hotel Riverside proved to be the perfect place to experience it all from.<\/p>\n Set along one of Bangkok\u2019s most historic waterways, the hotel combines contemporary design with a relaxed resort-like atmosphere. The riverside setting means you can watch long-tail boats and ferries glide past while enjoying breakfast or an evening drink, yet you\u2019re still within easy reach of many of the city\u2019s biggest attractions.<\/p>\n The rooms are spacious and thoughtfully designed, blending modern comforts with playful artistic touches. Throughout the property you\u2019ll find colourful murals, creative installations and beautifully designed communal spaces that make the hotel feel more like a boutique gallery than a traditional city hotel. There\u2019s also a large swimming pool, spa, fitness centre and a choice of restaurants, making it easy to recharge between sightseeing adventures.<\/p>\n One of the things I loved most was how well connected the hotel is. Bangkok traffic is legendary, so being located on the river is a real advantage. The complimentary shuttle boat links guests to nearby transport hubs and ICONSIAM, allowing you to explore the city using a combination of river boats and the BTS Skytrain. It\u2019s not only quicker than sitting in traffic, but a far more scenic way to travel.<\/p>\n The location also puts you within easy reach of many of Bangkok\u2019s most famous sights. Grand temples, bustling markets, rooftop bars and neighbourhoods packed with street food are all easily accessible. Yet at the end of the day, returning to the calmer atmosphere of the riverside felt like a welcome escape from the city\u2019s constant buzz.<\/p>\n Bangkok is a city that rewards curiosity. Wander down a side street and you\u2019ll discover hidden shrines, family-run eateries and neighbourhood cafes tucked between gleaming skyscrapers. Spend the morning temple hopping, the afternoon exploring creative districts like Talat Noi and Song Wat Road, and the evening cruising along the river as the city lights begin to sparkle.<\/p>\n Whether you\u2019re visiting Thailand for the first time or returning for another trip, Bangkok deserves more than just a quick overnight stop. Give yourself a few extra days and you\u2019ll discover a city packed with culture, incredible food, fascinating history and some of the most memorable experiences Thailand has to offer.<\/p>\n I\u2019ve listed some of my Bangkok highlights below.<\/p>\n Escape the city bustle with a canal tour of Bangkok\u2019s Thonburi Canals<\/a> (khlongs), often referred to as the \u201cVenice of the East.\u201d These canals are lined with colourful wooden houses right on the water, offering a glimpse into traditional canal life.\u00a0<\/p>\n The tour weaves through the Thonburi Canals, passing some key sights:\u00a0<\/p>\n Few souvenirs come close to the joy of taking home a new skill, and a Thai cooking class<\/a> offers just that. Learn how to prepare traditional Thai dishes from a local. These classes offer insight into common Thai ingredients and teach you how to prepare classic dishes. Expect to cook popular favourites like tom yum, green curry, pad Thai and mango sticky rice.<\/p>\n Wat Arun is one of Thailand\u2019s most iconic temples, featuring five main spires and an intricate facade. Each spire is decorated in tropical sea shells and Chinese porcelain, originally used as ship ballast. This creates an iridescent glow as the shells and porcelain catch the morning light.<\/p>\n Situated on the Chao Phraya River, it is one of the few Bangkok temples where visitors may climb the main staircase. The steep stairways lead to panoramic views of the river. For about 500 THB (\u00a311), you can also hire a Chut Thai (traditional Thai dress) for a photoshoot in front of the temple.<\/p>\n Tip:<\/strong> Learn more about the city\u2019s famous temples with a <\/em>guided Bangkok temples tour<\/em><\/a>. The tour includes Wat Arun, Wat Pho and the Grand Palace.<\/em><\/p>\n Hop on a Grab motorbike (Thailand\u2019s ride-hailing option) to Chinatown. Established in 1782, Bangkok\u2019s Chinatown is one of the oldest in Asia and the perfect place to sample street food delights. By night, Yaowarat Road comes to life as a street food hub. Neon-lit carts serve up classic bites like grilled seafood, dim sum and roasted duck in an energetic and chaotic atmosphere.<\/p>\n Tip: <\/em><\/strong>For more exciting adventures in Southeast Asia, take a look at my guide to the best <\/em>things to do in Singapore<\/em><\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n Take a look at my answers to some frequently asked questions to help you plan your trip to Trang.<\/p>\n The best time to visit Trang is between December and April, during the dry season. <\/strong>This is when skies are clear, seas are calm, and island hopping is at its best. December to February offers the most reliably comfortable temperatures.<\/p>\n The monsoon season runs from May to October, bringing heavy rainfall and tougher seas. This can make ferry crossings to the islands difficult or impossible, and some island resorts close entirely.<\/p>\n Allow at least three to four days to see both the mainland and the islands.\u00a0<\/p>\n There are three ways to get to Trang from Bangkok:\u00a0<\/p>\n No, UK passport holders can enter Thailand visa-free for tourism purposes.<\/strong> As of 2025, UK travellers qualify for a 60-day visa exemption; no advance application needed. However, you must complete a Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC)<\/a> online at least three days before arrival.<\/p>\n Always check the UK Government\u2019s foreign travel advice<\/a> for the latest entry requirements, as policies can change.\u00a0<\/p>\n No. Trang is one of the most affordable destinations in southern Thailand. <\/strong>As a city with relatively few foreign tourists, prices for food, accommodation and transport reflect local rather than tourist rates.<\/p>\n Budget travellers can get by comfortably on \u00a330\u2013\u00a340 per day. Higher-end travel typically costs around \u00a350\u2013\u00a370 a day.<\/p>\n Trang is an authentic slice of southern Thailand that\u2019s well worth the detour. With its incredible food, postcard-worthy architecture and crystal-clear beaches, it\u2019s a tiny paradise not yet overrun by tourists. So pack light, arrive hungry, and let Trang do the rest.<\/p>\n Looking for unique island adventures closer to home? How about island-hopping around the Stockholm Archipelago<\/a>? Or, take a look at my guide to the best activities in Malta<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\nA Little About Trang<\/h2>\n
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Trang\u2019s History<\/h3>\n
Sustainable Travel in Trang<\/h3>\n
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How to Get to Trang<\/h3>\n
Trang Packing Guide: What to Wear<\/h2>\n
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What to Do in Trang, Thailand<\/h2>\n
Explore Ban Nam Rab\u2019s Mangrove Forests<\/h3>\n
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Go Island Hopping<\/h3>\n
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Admire Koh Kradan\u2019s Stunning Beaches<\/h4>\n
Explore Koh Mook\u2019s Emerald Cave<\/h4>\n
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Explore Trang\u2019s Old Town by Tuk Tuk<\/h3>\n
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Sample Trang\u2019s Local Cuisine<\/h3>\n
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Beyond Trang: Exploring Bangkok<\/h2>\n
Take a Canal Boat Tour\u00a0<\/h3>\n
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Join a Thai Cooking Class<\/h3>\n
Visit Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)<\/h3>\n
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Explore Bangkok\u2019s Chinatown<\/h3>\n
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Trang<\/h2>\n
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What is the Best Time to Visit Trang?<\/h3>\n
How Many Days Should I Spend in Trang?<\/h3>\n
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How Do I Get from Bangkok to Trang?<\/h3>\n
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Do UK Passport Holders Need a Visa for Thailand?<\/h3>\n
Is Trang Expensive to Visit?<\/h3>\n
Final Tips for Visiting Trang, Thailand<\/h2>\n
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