Tucked away on Thailand’s 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.
From savoury dim sum at 6 am to swimming through a pitch-black sea cave, my holiday in Trang was full of surprises. I’ve 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.
Disclosure: This trip was paid for in collaboration with the Thailand Tourism Board. 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 Little About Trang
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.
Trang’s History
Trang’s 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.
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’s largest economic drivers.
Fun Fact: 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’s booming rubber industry.
Sustainable Travel in Trang
Trang is one of southern Thailand’s 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 in Thailand.
- Look out for the STAR rating: Thailand’s official Sustainable Tourism Acceleration Rating awards three to five stars to attractions that meet the country’s 17 Sustainable Tourism Goals.
- Eat local: Support family-owned restaurants and market stalls to keep the money in the community. It’s where you’ll find Trang’s best food, after all.
- Protect the dugongs: Trang is home to one of the world’s last significant dugong (sea cow) populations, concentrated around Koh Libong. Do your research to find slow-boat operators who respect the five-metre rule and turn off engines in designated marine zones.
- Carry a reusable bottle: Plastic waste in the Andaman Sea is one of the leading threats to local dugongs and sea turtles.
- Use the frog-head tuk-tuks: Perhaps the best way to get around town, Trang’s tuk-tuks are the most local and low-impact option.
How to Get to Trang
There are no direct flights from the UK to Trang. However, multiple airlines offer direct international flights to Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK). My trip from London to Bangkok took roughly 11–12 hours. From there, you’ll have to take a 40-minute taxi to Bangkok Don Mueang Airport (DMK) for a 1.5-hour domestic flight to Trang.
Trang Packing Guide: What to Wear
Trang has a tropical monsoon climate, with average temperatures ranging between 23°C and 35°C. To prepare for the hot, humid weather:
- Pack light: Many local markets sell affordable sarongs, loose trousers and temple-appropriate clothing.
- Choose breathable fabrics: Opt for light, loose layers made of cotton or linen.
- Bring sun protection: Pack reef-safe sunscreen, coverups and UV-protective clothing for those island-hopping days.
- Pack temple-appropriate attire: If you’re visiting any temples, you may need to cover your shoulders, knees and, in stricter temples, your ankles. Be sure to remove your shoes, hat and sunglasses before entering a temple, to show your respect.
- Stock up on mosquito repellent: You may need to ward off the mosquitoes during outdoor dinners or mangrove tours.
What to Do in Trang, Thailand
From peaceful boat tours to island-hopping adventures, here’s my list of the top things to do in Trang.
Explore Ban Nam Rab’s Mangrove Forests
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 focused on conservation and local life.
The tour includes so many meaningful highlights:
- Enjoy a serene boat trip through scenic, tree-lined mangrove channels.
- Contribute to the restoration and maintenance of the forest through mangrove planting on Heart Island.
- Earn stunning vistas of the 512-hectare expanse of greenery by hiking up Khao Jom Pa mountain.
- Experience the Separated Sea as a sandbank emerges during low tide.
- Savour a fresh seafood lunch to round off a spectacular tour.
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.
Go Island Hopping
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’s Pak Meng Pier. Four of the most popular Trang islands included in these tours are:
- Koh Libong: Trang’s largest island, home to one of Thailand’s last remaining dugong (sea cow) herds.
- Koh Ngai (Koh Hai): Officially part of Krabi province, but easily reached from Trang. This more luxury-focused island is a popular paradise for honeymooners.
- Koh Kradan: A scenic island known for its powdery soft beaches and clear waters, ideal for snorkelling.
- Koh Mook (Koh Muk): Famous for its Emerald Cave, a hidden lagoon beach.
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.
Admire Koh Kradan’s Stunning Beaches
Accessed via long-tail boat from Trang’s mainland, Koh Kradan is one of the most popular islands in Trang Province. Its main beach, aptly named Paradise Beach, was voted “Best Beach 2023” by the UK-based World Beach Guide. It also featured in the 2025 Jurassic World: Rebirth film.
While Koh Kradan has seen an influx of visitors since, it is still quieter than Thailand’s 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.
Tip: There are no roads or stores on Koh Kradan. There is an ATM, but it’s not always stocked up. So be sure to bring along some cash.
Explore Koh Mook’s Emerald Cave
I checked in for a stay at Koh Mook Sivalai Beach Resort, a tranquil haven literally steps from the beach.
Koh Mook is famous for its Emerald Cave (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’re greeted by a magical hidden beach surrounded by towering limestone cliffs.
Some parts of the passage are low and narrow. So if you’re not too keen on tight spaces, this may be uncomfortable.
Tip: 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.
Explore Trang’s Old Town by Tuk Tuk
Hop aboard an iconic frog-head tuk-tuk to explore the city’s charming Old Town. Trang is one of the few places in Thailand where you can still ride these frog-like three-wheelers.
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 £6) per hour, and they’re a great introduction to the city’s key sights.
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.
Some key sights to look out for include the Dugong Statue, Kantang Railway Station and Trang Clock Tower. There’s 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.
Tip: Looking for more quirky transport systems? Check out some of my other amazing global transport experiences.
Sample Trang’s Local Cuisine
Trang’s 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.
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’s famous crispy-skinned roast pork, which is marinated for eight hours.
A full dim sum breakfast for two typically costs around 150–250 THB (£3–£6). Many restaurants open as early as 5–6 am, quickly filling up and selling out. Be sure to arrive before 8 am for the best variety.
There are countless dim sum restaurants to choose from in Trang’s city centre, just follow your nose! I also came across many quaint cafes and veggie-friendly restaurants.
- Asian Cafe: A characterful vintage coffee shop decorated like an old wooden house. Perfect for your morning pick-me-up.
- Seefar Lifestyle Food: A vibrant Thai-Chinese restaurant with loads of veggie and vegan-friendly menu options.
Beyond Trang: Exploring Bangkok
Since you’ll be travelling via Bangkok, why not spend a few days here before or after your Trang trip? I stayed at The Salil Hotel Riverside, conveniently located overlooking the Chao Phraya River. There’s truly so much to do in Bangkok. I’ve listed some of my highlights below.
Take a Canal Boat Tour
Escape the city bustle with a canal tour of Bangkok’s Thonburi Canals (khlongs), often referred to as the “Venice of the East.” These canals are lined with colourful wooden houses right on the water, offering a glimpse into traditional canal life.
The tour weaves through the Thonburi Canals, passing some key sights:
- Wat Paknam (Giant Buddha): A royal temple home to Bangkok’s largest Buddha statue, towering 69 metres tall and visible from multiple points on the canals.
- Baan Silapin (Artist House): Established in 2010 by Thai artist and environmentalist Chumphon Akhpantanond, who bought and restored several 200-year-old wooden houses along the canal. The Artist House hosts a traditional Thai puppet show and is free to enter, although donations are welcome.
- Poomjai Garden: A serene, family-owned garden with a sustainability-focused cafe. This quiet retreat is home to Bangkok’s last 100-year-old lychee orchard and offers various canal boat tours.
Join a Thai Cooking Class
Few souvenirs come close to the joy of taking home a new skill, and a Thai cooking class 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.
Visit Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)
Wat Arun is one of Thailand’s 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.
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 (£11), you can also hire a Chut Thai (traditional Thai dress) for a photoshoot in front of the temple.
Tip: Learn more about the city’s famous temples with a guided Bangkok temples tour. The tour includes Wat Arun, Wat Pho and the Grand Palace.
Explore Bangkok’s Chinatown
Hop on a Grab motorbike (Thailand’s ride-hailing option) to Chinatown. Established in 1782, Bangkok’s 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.
Tip: For more exciting adventures in Southeast Asia, take a look at my guide to the best things to do in Singapore.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Trang
Take a look at my answers to some frequently asked questions to help you plan your trip to Trang.
What is the Best Time to Visit Trang?
The best time to visit Trang is between December and April, during the dry season. 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.
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.
How Many Days Should I Spend in Trang?
Allow at least three to four days to see both the mainland and the islands.
- Days 1–2: Trang City – Explore the Old Town’s unique architecture, ride the iconic frog tuk-tuks and taste your way through the local food scene.
- Days 3–4: The Islands – Book a stay on Koh Mook, Koh Kradan or Ko Libong to fully immerse yourself in island life. Alternatively, take a day tour from the mainland if you’re short on time.
How Do I Get from Bangkok to Trang?
There are three ways to get to Trang from Bangkok:
- By plane: Taking around 1.5 hours, a domestic flight is the best option if you’re short on time.
- By train: Take a roughly 15-hour overnight train from Bangkok to Trang. Sleeper trains are a comfortable, affordable and more sustainable option.
- By bus: Overnight coaches run from Bangkok’s Southern Bus Terminal, taking around 12–13 hours. Although less comfortable, it’s a great option if you’re on a tight budget.
Do UK Passport Holders Need a Visa for Thailand?
No, UK passport holders can enter Thailand visa-free for tourism purposes. 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) online at least three days before arrival.
Always check the UK Government’s foreign travel advice for the latest entry requirements, as policies can change.
Is Trang Expensive to Visit?
No. Trang is one of the most affordable destinations in southern Thailand. As a city with relatively few foreign tourists, prices for food, accommodation and transport reflect local rather than tourist rates.
Budget travellers can get by comfortably on £30–£40 per day. Higher-end travel typically costs around £50–£70 a day.
Final Tips for Visiting Trang, Thailand
Trang is an authentic slice of southern Thailand that’s well worth the detour. With its incredible food, postcard-worthy architecture and crystal-clear beaches, it’s a tiny paradise not yet overrun by tourists. So pack light, arrive hungry, and let Trang do the rest.
Looking for unique island adventures closer to home? How about island-hopping around the Stockholm Archipelago? Or, take a look at my guide to the best activities in Malta.
