Port Guide | Thailand | Worth a Wander
Songkhla
David Nakamura | Editor
Published on 2025-12-30
Pulling into Songkhla, you may feel you've stumbled onto the Southeast Asian town travel writers quietly keep to themselves-delightfully authentic, charmingly offbeat, and refreshingly free of elephant pants and selfie sticks. This southern Thai gem may have fewer neon-lit bars and elephant rides than its noisier sister-cities, but makes up for it with street carts sizzling with seafood skewers, markets vibrant enough to rouse even the most jet-lagged wanderer, and an Old Town that preserves Sino-Portuguese architecture so picturesque it almost seems staged. Fun fact: historically, Songkhla earned a reputation for trading birds' nests-yes, nests-in pungent tonnage, destined to become soup for wealthy palates in China. Today, the city's flavors are thankfully less aerial, and infinitely tastier. Shake off your sea legs, wander down Nang Ngam Road to explore antique shophouses and quirky cafes, or just dive mouth-first into a bowl of spicy khao yam at the nearest streetside stall. Welcome to Songkhla, one of Thailand's best-kept secrets-at least until you spill the beans.
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Notes from the Editor
Songkhla offers a rich cultural experience with local markets and delicious street food. Be sure to visit Songkhla's Old Town for historical architecture and quaint shops.
Where do cruise ships dock in Songkhla?
Port Name Songkhla
Country Thailand
Region Southeast Asia
Ship Terminal Songkhla Port (Port Authority of Thailand)
Port Type Commercial port, capable of handling cruise ships and cargo vessels.
Accessibility The port is approximately 3 kilometers from the city center, accessible by taxi and local transport.
What's the weather like in Songkhla?
Best Season to Visit November to February
Climate Tropical savanna climate with dry and wet seasons, characterized by hot temperatures year-round.
Weather Notes The dry season (November to February) is the best time to visit, avoiding monsoon rains typical in the wet season (May to October).
Temperature Range 70 to 90 F (21 to 32 C)
High Temp 95F
Low Temp 64F
Average Temp 80F
What do I need to know about Songkhla?
Language Thai
Currency Thai Baht (THB)
Card Widely Accepted 1
Population approximately 75,000
Timezone ICT (UTC+7)
How do I get around Songkhla?
Taxis, minivans, and local buses are available for transit to the city center and surrounding areas.
What are The Best Things to do in Songkhla?
Discover what you should do while you're in Songkhla.
Experiences you can't replicate elsewhere
Samila Beach Merlion
Samila Beach, Songkhla, Thailand
A unique seaside statue, similar to the Merlion in Singapore, offering stunning beach views.
Distance from Terminal: 5.6 miles
Floating Market at Khlong Hae
Khlong Hae, Hat Yai, Thailand
Experience vibrant market stalls on water where vendors sell traditional Thai food and goods.
Distance from Terminal: 18.6 miles
Khlong Hae Cultural Village
Khlong Hae, Hat Yai, Thailand
Immerse yourself in the local culture with traditional performances and crafts.
Distance from Terminal: 18.5 miles
Nang Ngam Road Art Street
Nai Muang, Mueang Songkhla District
View captivating street art that portrays the local culture and heritage.
Distance from Terminal: 4.9 miles
The Great Serpent Nag
Laem Son On, Songkhla, Thailand
Witness a colossal serpent statue, believed to offer protection to the town.
Distance from Terminal: 5.8 miles
Historical and cultural landmarks
Songkhla Old Town Walking Tour
N/A
Explore the charming streets filled with historic cafes, art, and Sino-Portuguese architecture.
Distance from Terminal: 4.5 miles
Red Rice Mill Museum
N/A
Visit this unique museum showcasing the history of rice milling in the region with preserved machinery.
Distance from Terminal: 4 miles
Wat Matchimawat (Wat Klang)
Bo Yang, Mueang Songkhla District
Explore this significant temple known for its beautiful architecture and intricate murals.
Distance from Terminal: 4.7 miles
Songkhla National Museum
Wichianchom Rd, Songkhla, Thailand
Discover the history and artifacts of the Songkhla region in this well-preserved museum.
Distance from Terminal: 4.6 miles
Adventure and Outdoor Activities
Khao Tangkuan Hill
Songkhla, Thailand
Climb up to enjoy panoramic views of Songkhla from a historic hilltop pagoda.
Distance from Terminal: 6.2 miles
Thale Noi Waterbird Park
Phatthalung, Thailand
Observe a variety of waterbirds in their natural habitat during a boat ride through this reserve.
Distance from Terminal: 53 miles
Namtok Ton Nga Chang
Songkhla Province
Hike up to this seven-tiered waterfall amidst lush greenery.
Distance from Terminal: 30.2 miles
Laem Samila Viewpoint
Samila Beach, Songkhla
Enjoy panoramic views of the ocean and surrounding landscapes from this scenic viewpoint.
Distance from Terminal: 5.5 miles
A Little Extra
Tang Kuan Hill Cable Car
Bo Yang, Mueang Songkhla District
Take a scenic cable car ride to the top of Tang Kuan Hill for breathtaking views.
Distance from Terminal: 6.2 miles
Sala Nang Pathalung Park
Bo Yang, Mueang Songkhla District
Relax in this scenic park with a recreational atmosphere perfect for picnics.
Distance from Terminal: 4.3 miles
Hat Samila Beach Hawker Night Market
Samila Beach, Songkhla
Enjoy local delicacies at the lively night market by the beach.
Distance from Terminal: 5.3 miles
Tinsulanonda Bridge
Songkhla Lake, Thailand
Drive along this impressive bridge for scenic lake views and photo opportunities.
Distance from Terminal: 8.6 miles
Overnight Trips
Koh Yo Island Day Trip
Koh Yo, Songkhla Lake
Visit this island on Songkhla Lake known for its peaceful ambiance and local seafood.
Distance from Terminal: 12.4 miles
Thailand Regional Tip
Respectful Seating Wait to be guided to your seat, as seating arrangements may reflect respect and status; avoid placing feet on chairs or pointing them towards people, as feet are considered the lowest and least respectful body part.