Chaweng Beach, Samui
https://www.thaiwaysmagazine.com/thailand/tourist-regions/the-south.html#sigProIdea0bd8746f
The 14 provinces in the South stretch along the narrow peninsula of Thailand from Chumphon to Malaysian border. The Andaman Sea coast on the west with numerous offshore islands and a beautiful underwater world offers many fascinating travel opportunities to the sea loving tourists. The most prominent tourist attraction in the South is inevitably Phuket (862 km), the biggest island of Thailand located in the Andaman Sea. It has rapidly become one of the best known seaside resorts of the world.
But if you find Phuket a little too crowded in the peak tourist season, then Samui Island of Surat Thani (644 km) will be another choice. Its tranquillity and unpolluted environment will refresh you. Pha-ngan Island, which is a famous diving centre, is also an interesting destination.
Ranong (568 km), Thailand's rainiest province, is well known for its hot mineral springs. Visitors can enjoy mineral bath in many hotels here. The offshore Surin Island is stunning with abundant coral reefs and colourful fishes. Phatthalung (840 km) is believed to be in the realm of the ancient Sri Vijaya Kingdom, which has long been forgotten leaving only a few hallowed hills today. Songkhla (950 km) is a famous seaside resort in the far South where a cruise on Songkhla Lake is fascinating. Another famous place in this province is Hat Yai, the big bustling city widely known for the low priced imported goods.
Phang-nga (788 km), adjoining Phuket, is full of magnificent seascape and beautiful lime-stone caves. Those who love diving may visit Krabi (814 km) to explore its Phi Phi, Lanta, and Hong Island Groups. At Rai Le Beach, you can enjoy the exciting rock climbing. Krabi and Phang-nga are two stars besides Phuket. They are becoming popular with tourists because there are interesting attractions both on land and in the sea.
Trang (828 km) With plentiful picturesque islands, this province has many fine beaches and beautiful scenery waiting to be explored such as Chao Mai National Park, and Ko Muk and its Morakot Cave. Tarutao Island off Satun (973 km), being the remotest, will provide you with the most marvelous underwater life and most tranquil atmosphere. Nakhon Si Thammarat (780 km), the land of predominant Buddhism during the Sri Vijaya period, is famous for its Talumpuk Cape and Hat Khanom-Mu Ko Thaletai National Park.