Chumphon Province is perched on the Malay Peninsula and lures travellers in with its white sandy beaches, colourful coral reefs and swaying palms. Enjoy a relaxing beach getaway or venture inland to discover lush jungles, cascading waterfalls and rugged mountains in one of Thailand's most beautiful national parks.
Things to do in Chumphon
Fringed by sugar-white sand and coconut palms, Hat Thung Wua Laen is Chumphon's signature beach. It backs onto the Gulf of Thailand and offers breezy bungalows, beach bars and water sports rentals.
A paradise for divers, Mu Ko Chumphon National Park is a wonderland of crystalline water and rainbow-coloured tropical fish. On dry land you can bask on white sandy beaches, paddle through mangrove forests and hike through jungle-covered mountains. Don’t miss the Kuan Yai Mon Wildlife Sanctuary, home to a scenic trail to the cascading Heo Lom Waterfall.
Surrounded by forested mountains, Chumphon Town is the province's lively capital. Spend a few days exploring the bustling markets and devouring tasty street food at the night market before boarding a ferry to Ko Tao, one of Thailand's most beautiful tropical islands.
History buffs will love seeing the prehistoric weapons, ancient pottery and antique jewellery at the Chumphon National Museum. You can also check out models of traditional houses and photos showing the aftermath of Typhoon Gay, a tropical cyclone that hit Chumphon Province in 1989.
Getting around Chumphon
Chumphon City is easy to get around on foot or by using local motorbike taxis and tuk-tuks. Motorbike and scooter rentals are a great way to explore Chumphon Province independently and Chumphon Airport is 40 kilometres from the town centre. Ferries to Koh Tao depart from Chumphon Pier, while long-distance buses and minivans run to Bangkok and Chiang Mai.