Trifter

Surfing Thailand is a totally different vibe to most places.  Below I will give you the closest experience on how to plan your surf trip and what to expect and not to expect.

Don’t expect great waves, but you are very, very close to some of the best waves on this darn planet.  Well here we go!

Thailand is a number one destination for European surfers that are just starting out. They swarm this place and have in a way created their own surf scene or surf culture for Thailand.  They love to surf and come from places that don’t even have waves.  The island of Phuket has the best and most consistent waves and can at times be really fun.  This place is only a stone throw away from Indonesia and is easily accessed from Malaysia.

There are heaps of breaks to choose from mostly beach breaks and a couple of reefs.  The accommodation is cheap and plenty of it. It’s up to you really.  There is accommodation in Phuket starting from Basic Bungalows from $15.00 a night to the downright dig deep in your pockets.  Also if you search hard you can find a place to stay very close to the beach and surf.

Thailand isn’t as hardcore for travelling as Indonesia and could well be a great family surf trip also, as everything is provided and easily accessed.

Getting around & Surfing in Thailand

Getting around Thailand is simple as there are a lot of great buses and heaps of hire car options. Car hire can start for as little as $50 AUD a day and the roads are fine.  Flying into this country is a snack and if you are going surfing I recommend that you fly straight to Phuket Island.

You can drive from one end of the island in about 2 hours. The west coast is where the waves are and can be found all along this coastline.  Driving to the breaks is a snack and there are plenty of signs.  I do recommend a good map though.

Also, motorbikes are cheap to rent, but beware don’t ride one unless you are very competent on them.  There are many horror stories about accidents and I have lost a friend myself to these forms of transport.

Top tips

The local tooktooks are expensive and are to be avoided of possible.  Also lock your helmet to your bike or keep it with you, as they like to disappear.

Costs

Bloody cheap.  Yep not as cheap as Indo but, quite close.  A budget traveller could easily live like a King for $50-$60 AUD a day and eat out 3 times a day.  This would include a Bungalow, motorbike and three meals a day, and maybe even a few beers.

Thailand Accommodation

There are literally hundreds of places to stay from low to top end and you can also book accommodation before you go. This is a great option if you are taking a family surfing vacation.  If you are travelling on your own or just you’re a friend I recommend just jumping into anything then the next day put your feelers out and find something that is within budget and close to the waves.

Da Bungalows at Kata Beach is highly recommended and is found at the southern end of Kata beach.  There is a little bit of theft in Thailand as work can be scarce, lock your room at all times even when you are sleeping.  It’s very uncommon but it does happen and I was once a victim.

Surfing Thailand Tsunami dangers

Tsunami, Yes unfortunately there is always this chance, but it’s very rare and I recommend not live your life in fear, just go.  They are set up a lot better now with warning systems on the TV radio and yes sirens. 

If you are worried about this get some accommodation up on higher ground.  Kata Beach has some great places up on the hill.

Theft on the beach is another problem and is not only from locals but also from travelling scum looking for easy targets.  When you are going for a surf just take what you need, or keep your stuff with eyes reach.

Some of the reefs you may need booties and if you are using this place as an Indonesian surfing pit stop you will have them anyway.

Always drink the bottled water and keep hydrated.  Also sunscreen and rash vest is a must.  In the beginning of the surf season it can be seriously hot and blinding to the eyes, remember you are just a stone throw away from the equator.

Best time to go to Surfing Thailand

The surf season is from April to October and it seems that the early and late season is the best for winds as the Monsoon has slowly subside or not kicked in yet.  If you want to surf everyday then from May to September is the go.  The southwest trade winds create most of the waves and at times can get up to two meters.

Mostly you will surf onshore waves that resemble your summer home beach break.  Some waves pack a bit of punch, others an extremely soft.

Tip

In-between storms and rain the wind subsides and you can get glassy conditions.  Also it doesn’t rain everyday and can be great for weeks on end. 

Kata beach on Phuket Island has some of the most consistent surf but can get jam packed with everyone from beginners to experienced surfers.  Hire boards are everywhere so if you don’t want to travel with surfboards just hire one straight of the beach at Kata.

Be careful

Thailand is notorious for its nightlife and just because you have had a few beers and she looks hot don’t think it doesn’t have a dangler between the legs.  This is super common and is known as Katoi.  Also, they are notorious for following you on your motorbike and offering certain services. If that’s what you’re looking for a real girl will not be too far away

Enjoy your holiday and surfing Thailand, catch some waves and have a great time.  If you get a little bored, remember Sumatra is not too far away

If you are looking for more information about surfing and would like to meet surfing travellers you can visit http://www.worldboardridersclub.ning.com add make a profile and find like minded travelling surfers

Reference

Surfing Thailand