Hidden Gems of Chumphon, Thailand

Josh Wicks

Chumphon is a small city known as the "Gateway to the South" of Thailand. It is a very common stopover point for travelers arriving on the bus or train from Bangkok before catching a boat to one of the many islands in the Gulf of Thailand. If you're seeking a less-touristy adventure off the beaten path, you'll find it here. Consider sticking around for a few days, renting a scooter and checking out these hidden gems. You'll be glad you did.

Aeki's Bar & Aeksiam Muaythai, Khao Matsee Viewpoint จุดชมวิวเขามัทรี, Chumphon Night Bazaar, Maliblues Bed & Dinner, Thung Wua Laen Beach

  • Aeki's Bar & Aeksiam Muaythai, Thailand

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    • the.vagrant.optimist

      Aeki's is top of the list for a reason. It's located on a little corner just across from the train station, and the BKK buses will often stop there too if you ask the bus people nicely. This restaurant bar has everything- even a Muay Thai boxing ring. The owner, Aeki (eck-key) is a fun-loving guy who speaks great English and can provide you with nearly anything you're looking for. Buy a drink, ask for Aeki and he'll usually show up like the genie from Aladdin. Tell him Josh sent you.

  • Khao Matsee Viewpoint จุดชมวิวเขามัทรี, Thailand

    Image of Khao Matsee Viewpoint จุดชมวิวเขามัทรี on Seeker
    • the.vagrant.optimist

      You'll need to rent a scooter to get here. The viewpoint of Khao Matsee is worth every Baht you spend and mile you ride. Riding a scooter through the paved jungle roads of Chumphon is bliss. It's also a great way to get comfortable driving scooters if you don't have much experience. From Chumphon to Khao Matsee is about a 20-minute ride, but expect to make periodic stops to take in other sites and things you've never seen before. Upon arrival, enjoy a coffee and snack at the cafe while you take in a mesmerizing panoramic view of Chumphon and surrounding area. Bring a book or a yoga mat and enjoy!

  • Chumphon Night Bazaar, Thailand

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    • the.vagrant.optimist

      Hungry for some legit Thai street food? You're not on Khao San Road anymore. The Chumphon night Bazaar is where the locals go to eat the good stuff. Most of the vendors don't speak English so make sure you brush up on your basic Thai words for beef, pork, chicken, fish, veggie, and spicy. Just point and ask.

  • Maliblues Bed & Dinner, Thailand

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    • the.vagrant.optimist

      The best live music in all of Chumphon is here. Maliblues is the getaway atmosphere people dream of; A relaxed tiki-hut bar on Thung Wua Laen beach where the owner- a master blues musician plays guitar and sings his heart out right in front of you. It's such a captivating vibe that you won't want to leave. That's why Maliblues has beds to crash on for the night. It's nothing fancy, just a small room and a bed with the sound of the ocean right outside. Blues paradise.

  • Thung Wua Laen Beach, Thailand

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    • the.vagrant.optimist

      Thung Wua Laen Beach is ideal for those seeking a peaceful oasis to relax on. It's a beautiful beach with warm blue water and lots of delicious little restaurants to try out after sunning and swimming. It's also known to be a great spot for kite-surfing depending on the season. You can take a song-tao taxi to get here from Chumphon but renting a scooter is more fun. Don't worry about getting lost while searching for this beach. It's pretty much a straight shot from Chumphon.