Chumphon

Open-air restaurants on stilts over the water at Thung Makham bay, serving whatever the fishing boats brought in that morning. The steamed sea bass with lime and garlic prawns are exceptional at impossibly low prices.

A humble noodle shop on Tha Tapao Road serving rich boat noodles in small bowls — the tradition is to eat several. The pork-and-herb broth has been simmered for hours and costs just 15-35 baht per bowl.

The best restaurant on Thung Wua Laen Beach, set under a thatched roof with tables in the sand. Fresh grilled squid, papaya salad, and cold beer as the waves lap at your feet. Popular with both locals and the few travelers who find their way here.

Chumphon's evening food market serves classic southern Thai street food — grilled chicken, som tam, fried fish cakes, and sweet coconut desserts. Everything is fresh, cheap, and prepared by vendors who have manned the same stalls for decades.

A popular local seafood restaurant near the Pak Nam fishing port. Known for generous portions of crab fried rice, tom yum goong, and grilled whole fish. The setting is casual and family-friendly with views of the fishing fleet.

The most modern hotel option in Chumphon, located on Thung Wua Laen Beach with a pool, restaurant, and clean rooms with sea views. A comfortable base for beach days and island day trips.

Simple bungalows right on Thung Wua Laen Beach, popular with kitesurfers and backpackers. Basic but clean rooms with fans or air conditioning, just steps from the sand. The beachfront restaurant is a great social hub.

A long-established resort on Thung Wua Laen Beach with tropical gardens, a large pool, and comfortable rooms. Offers diving and snorkeling tours to the nearby islands and has its own PADI dive center.

A quiet, family-run bungalow resort set back from the beach in a coconut grove. Hammocks, garden seating, and a peaceful atmosphere attract long-stay travelers looking for an affordable tropical escape.