Positioned where Songkhla Lake opens into the Gulf of Thailand, Songkhla is a seaside city and major port on the Isthmus of Kra. It’s home to excellent museums exploring its cultural heritage and a picturesque stretch of sand, as well as an aquarium with giant catfish.
Things to do in Songkhla
Travel across the bridge that connects Songkhla to the small island of Ko Yo to visit the Institute for Southern Thai Studies, which features comprehensive exhibits on local history, religion and folk traditions. Admire the locally-made handicrafts and artefacts illustrating daily life, then soak up the views overlooking Songkhla Lake and its aquaculture farms.
Don’t miss the Songkhla National Museum, which occupies an opulent Chinese-style residence built in the late-19th century. Wander through its period-furnished rooms decorated with original artefacts as you learn about the lifestyle of the ruling Na Songkhla Family.
Relax on the shores of pretty Samila Beach, a long stretch of sand on the edge of the Gulf of Thailand. It’s home to an iconic golden mermaid statue inspired by Copenhagen’s “Little Mermaid” and is often adorned with flower garlands gifted by locals.
Get up close to the local marine life at the Songkhla Aquarium, which lies at the tip of Samila Beach’s Son On Cape. In addition to its colourful variety of tropical fish and leopard sharks, the aquarium is home to giant catfish that are showcased during daily diver feeding sessions.
Getting around Songkhla
Songkhla is around 45 minutes’ drive from Hat Yai and buses make the 13-hour journey from Bangkok. Songthaews and mototaxis are the main means of getting around Songkhla or you can explore the city’s sights on the Singora Tram Tour.