By: Heather Keys
Thailand’s Trang Province is an absolutely gorgeous area in the southern part of the country, and a traveler’s dream if you’re into beaches and islands without the usual crowd.
Let’s take a closer look!
Three Must-See Destinations in Trang
Koh Muk
Koh Muk, also known as Pearl Island, is famous for its Emerald Cave. Locally known as Morakot Cave, this is a gorgeous natural lagoon accessible only by swimming or kayaking through a dark, narrow tunnel. Once inside, you’ll see a secluded beach surrounded by high cliffs and lush greenery, with sunlight giving the water its beautiful emerald hue.
Koh Kradan
Koh Kradan is home to some of the most beautiful underwater ecosystems in Thailand, and is a great spot for snorkeling and diving. See the tropical fish, turtles, and other creatures in the coral reefs here, and practice your underwater photography for a wonderfully memorable experience.
Koh Libong
If you’re after some peace and quiet, Koh Libong is a less known spot, making it a great place for relaxation and solitude. You can wander through mangrove forests, visit quaint fishing villages, and maybe even spot a rare dugong.
Snorkeling and Diving in Trang
The Trang Province has made a name for itself in the diving world. The Andaman Sea is warm and welcoming, with visibility that’s hard to beat. Let’s look at three wonderful diving spots:
- Koh Rok: This little island is great for snorkeling in particular.
- Koh Ngai: Koh Ngai has some of the best coral reefs around, great for underwater photography.
- Hin Muang: For the more adventurous divers, Hin Muang is deeper and a bit more challenging, and you might get to see whale sharks.
You can rent gear easily or join a guided tour, and there are ample opportunities for snorkelers and divers of all skill levels.
More to See and Do in Trang
Trang has influences from Malay, Chinese, and Thai communities, and this mix is most evident in the food. Seafood is a staple, and the spices will wake up your taste buds. While you’re here, be sure to try these dishes:
- Dim Sum: Influenced by the Chinese community, Trang is famous for its dim sum breakfasts. These bite-sized dishes range from steamed buns and dumplings to sweet and savory pastries.
- Roti: Reflecting Malay influences, roti (a type of flatbread) is a popular snack in Trang. It’s often served with curry or sweetened condensed milk and sugar, catering to both savory and sweet preferences.
- Tom Yum Goong: This Thai soup is a must-try in Trang. It’s a spicy and sour shrimp soup, loaded with herbs like lemongrass, galangal, and kaffir lime leaves.
- Massaman Curry: A blend of Thai and Muslim influences, Massaman curry is a rich, slightly sweet, and mildly spicy curry. Typically made with chicken, beef, or lamb, it’s flavored with coconut milk, tamarind paste, and a blend of spices.
- Kanom Jeen: These are soft rice noodles served with different types of curry. It’s a common breakfast in Trang, offering a lighter yet flavorful start to the day. The curries often include a mix of Thai herbs and spices.
- Moo Yang (Grilled Pork): Influenced by both Thai and Chinese cooking styles, this grilled pork is marinated in a mixture of garlic, pepper, coriander roots, and soy sauce. It’s often served with a spicy dipping sauce.
- Pak Lieng Pad Kai: A local Trang dish, this is a stir-fry made from a local leafy green (Pak Lieng) cooked with eggs. It’s a simple, home-style dish that’s full of flavor.
- Thai Desserts: Trang is known for its sweets, particularly cakes like Kanom Chun and Kanom Krok. These desserts are a blend of Thai ingredients and Chinese cooking techniques.
A good thing to know: Trang loves a festival! There’s the Underwater Wedding Ceremony each February—as you might guess, people actually get married underwater, and yes, you can sign up to do it if you want to get married in a super memorable way.
And then there’s the Cake Festival, where you can stuff yourself with all kinds of sweet goodies. Most notably, you’ll find the local Trang Cake here, recognizable for the distinctive hole in the middle. Each of these events are a great way to see the fun, vibrant side of Trang when you’re not hanging out on the beach or enjoying a diving adventure.
If you’re thinking about heading to Trang, the best time to visit is between November and April. The weather’s just right for beach activities and island hopping. It does get a bit busier from December to February, so maybe plan ahead to avoid the rush! To get here, you can fly or take a train from Bangkok, and then once you’re in the area, there are taxis and local buses to help you get wherever you need to go.
Ready to Travel?
The Trang Province of Thailand is a fantastic place to visit if you want to enjoy a part of this gorgeous country a little more off the beaten path. The tourists you’re most likely to encounter here are local, meaning the secluded beaches and diving spots aren’t as overrun by international travelers.
What a fantastic way to see a beautiful part of the world!
About the Author
Heather is a freelance writer who loves exploring the intersection of travel and history. Read her other articles on Frayed Passport here.
Featured image by Sittipong Haus on Unsplash