16 Best Things to Do in Hat Yai, Thailand (2026 Guide)

We found Hat Yai completely by accident. Our Grab driver in Penang, Malaysia told us, unprompted, that he crosses the border every single month because Hat Yai has "better vibes and way cheaper beer." We'd been traveling Southeast Asia for years at that point, and someone that enthusiastic about a city right on their doorstep is hard to ignore.

So we went. What started as a quick stopover stretched into several weeks between Hat Yai and the nearby old town of Songkhla. And in reality, the things to do in Hat Yai surprised us more than almost anywhere we'd been in the region... not because there's some famous landmark or a postcard beach, but because the city has a feel that's impossible to fake. Thai-Chinese-Malay culture all layered together, incredible street food on every corner, temples that look straight out of a Miyazaki film (like Chongqing's famous Spirited Away-inspired Hongya Cave), and almost zero tourist crowds.

That last part is the whole point. Thailand's fourth-largest city sits in Songkhla Province, and most travelers blast past it on the way to the islands. That's their loss. Here's what makes it worth slowing down for.

Is Hat Yai Worth Visiting?

Hat Yai is more than just a transit hub, its history, cultural diversity, and strategic location make it a fascinating destination. As the largest city in Songkhla Province, Hat Yai developed as a major trading and transportation center, connecting Thailand with Malaysia. This mix of Thai, Chinese, and Malay influences gives the city a unique character, reflected in its food, temples, and markets.

Beyond the city itself, Hat Yai serves as a gateway to Southern Thailand’s famous islands, including Koh Lipe, Koh Tarutao, and the Trang Islands. With an international airport and excellent transport links, it’s an ideal stop before exploring Thailand’s stunning Andaman coast.

So, is Hat Yai worth visiting? We think so! Whether you’re here for the history, food, temples, or as a jumping-off point to the islands, Hat Yai has plenty to offer beyond just being a stopover.

Hat Yai Map

A Quick 2-Day Hat Yai Itinerary

Short on time? Here's how to hit the highlights in two days.

Day 1: Temples, Food & Night Markets

• Morning: Grab breakfast at Kim Yong Market, then snag Hat Yai fried chicken from a nearby stall.
• Afternoon: Head to Wat Chue Chang for the Spirited Away temple vibes, then wander through Chinatown.
• Evening: Khlong Hae Floating Market (weekends only) followed by the Shwedagon Pagoda replica just across the river. End the night grazing at the Asean Night Bazaar.

Day 2: Parks, Sugar & a Day Trip

• Morning: Hike or cable car up Hat Yai Municipal Park for the Golden Buddha and city views.
• Midday: Recover with a quick pandan cake at Moro Fresh Milk Café.
• Afternoon: Drive 45 minutes to Songkhla Old Town & Samila Beach, with an optional stop at Ko Yo Island on the way back.

If you have a third day: Add Ton Nga Chang Waterfall for a nature escape, or Phra Maha Chedi Tripob Trimongkol for one more dramatic viewpoint.

Our Favorite Things to Do in Hat Yai

Although it may seem like Hat Yai is lacking some of the color and vibrancy that Bangkok has at first glance, the more we wandered around, the more we realized how wrong that assumption was.

Here’s a curated list of must-visit spots in and around the city:

1. Get Your Shopping (And Foodie Side) on at the Asean Night Bazaar, Greenway Night Market & Central Festival Mall

These markets are a paradise for street food, shopping, and souvenirs. At Asean Night Bazaar, don’t miss the second-floor food court... try the famous sticky mango rice and fresh seafood (like the massive fish we ate below)! Nearby, Central Festival Mall is the largest shopping center in Southern Thailand, perfect for a modern shopping experience. Not too far from there is also the Greenway Night Market.

2. Try the Famous Hat Yai Fried Chicken

A must-try! This crispy, flavorful fried chicken, topped with golden shallots, is Hat Yai’s signature dish. You’ll find it at local markets, like the ones listed above, and street stalls across the city.

3. Check Out the Khlong Hae Floating Market

Khlong Hae Floating Market is a unique eco-friendly market where vendors sell delicious Thai food from boats, often in eco-friendly containers like bamboo tubes and earthen pots. It’s a must-visit for an authentic local experience. Just going there to people watch was exciting enough for us.

We came here on a Sunday night and there was something so surreal about the experience. The colors, scents, and sights all around us still pop into my head quite often.

4. Marvel at the Replica of Yangon’s Shwedagon Pagoda

Just across the river from the floating market, you’ll find a striking replica of Myanmar’s most famous pagoda (you won't miss it). This golden temple is a beautiful reminder of the region’s deep cultural ties to Burma. When will you have the chance to visit the real one? Better do it now while you are already at the floating market.

When we wandered around there after grabbing dinner at the market, there were quite a few dogs on the premises, but after a bit of barking they tend to go back to doing their own thing.

5. Climb Wat Chue Chang

Wat Chue Chang is one of Hat Yai's most famous Chinese temples, located on Supasarnrangsan Road. Its tall, pagoda-like architecture looks like something straight out of a Miyazaki movie... think Spirited Away, specifically. If you've seen the way Hongya Cave in Chongqing lights up at night, this has that same energy, just in miniature and without the tourist hordes.

6. Visit Chinatown

Hat Yai’s Chinatown is a lively district filled with street food, market stalls, and cultural landmarks. At its heart, Thong Sia Siang Thung Shrine and the Four Faces Buddha attract both locals and visitors. If you’re adventurous, this is also the place to try eating bugs, which of course we had to try! We had the luck to be there during Chinese New Year festivities, and the atmosphere was unforgettable.

7. Hike Around Hat Yai Municipal Park

Home to the Golden Buddha, a scenic cable car, and panoramic viewpoints. Whether you hike or take the cable car, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views over the city. Plan your visit accordingly, as it’s a large area with plenty to explore. We went in the evening to watch the sunset, and there were plenty of locals using this as their base for long evening post-work walks.

8. Shop at Kim Yong Market

Kim Yong Market is a lively local market where you can find fresh produce, snacks, and souvenirs... great for experiencing the fast-paced daily life of Hat Yai.

9. Try Fried Pandan Cake With Ice Cream at Moro Fresh Milk Café and Restaurant

Moro Fresh Milk (มออ นมสด) is a cozy, modern café where you can enjoy delicious pandan cake and Thai milk tea. Located in front of Hasul Korean Restaurant, this spot is great for chilling or working remotely.

We may have gone every day we were there.

10. Reflect at Phra Maha Chedi Tripob Trimongkol

The Phra Maha Chedi Tripob Trimongkol is a unique stainless steel temple, offering stunning mountain views from Kho Hong Hill. A peaceful and photogenic spot worth visiting.

11. Embrace Your Trippy Side at the Magic Eye 3D Museum

The Magic Eye 3D Museum is a fun and interactive trick-eye museum where you can take creative optical illusion photos. Perfect for a lighthearted experience and something a bit different around town.

12. Wander the Grounds of the Wat Hat Yai Nai (Mahattamangkalaram)

This temple complex houses one of Thailand’s largest reclining Buddha statues, an impressive sight showcasing traditional Thai craftsmanship.

Other Things to Do Nearby Hat Yai

13. Explore The Central Mosque of Songkhla

Located north of the floating market on the way to Songkhla, this grand mosque is one of the most beautiful in Thailand. This southeastern area of Thailand has a strong Muslim influence, making it a fascinating cultural stop in a country where Buddhism tends to capitalize.

14. Drive 45 Minutes to Songkhla Old Town & Samila Beach

A charming town with colorful murals, colonial-style buildings, and a relaxed vibe. Between Songkhla Lake and Samila Beach, this area was the perfect spot for us to unwind.

We ended up spending 3 weeks in Songkhla thanks to its laid-back vibes, so seriously recommend it.

15. Hop Over to Ko Yo Island

A short scooter ride from Songkhla, Ko Yo is a hidden gem with stunning lake views from the Tinsulanonda Bridge.

Visit Wat Khao Bo, a hilltop temple with a dramatic serpent staircase, then relax at Good Mountain Café for a coffee with breathtaking scenery. Don’t leave without trying fresh seafood at a waterfront restaurant.

16. Cool Off at Ton Nga Chang Waterfall

Ton Nga Chang Waterfall is a stunning multi-tiered waterfall, ideal for nature lovers and those looking for an escape into the wild. Great for a refreshing dip or a scenic picnic.

How Do I Get to Hat Yai?

Flights to Hat Yai

Hat Yai International Airport (HDY) has frequent flights to Bangkok, Phuket, Krabi, and other Thai cities. It's also well-connected to Malaysia and Singapore, making it a great stop on a Southeast Asia trip. We flew from Hat Yai to Udon Thani in the North to cross into Laos... cheap and fast!

Bangkok to Hat Yai by Train or Bus?

• Train: Hat Yai has direct trains to and from Bangkok, but unless you love slow travel, be warned... it takes around 15 hours.
• Bus: Buses between the two cities are comfortable than the train, but not necessarily faster. Try night buses for a better alternative.

Hat Yai to Langkawi & Koh Lipe?

If you're heading to the islands, Hat Yai is a major transit point:

• Bus + Ferry to Koh Lipe: Minivans run to Pak Bara Pier, where boats leave for Koh Lipe.
• Bus + Ferry to Langkawi: You can take a minivan to Satun Pier and a ferry to Langkawi, Malaysia.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Hat Yai?

• November – March: The best time to visit, characterized by cooler and drier weather. January can still experience some storms, but conditions are generally pleasant. We came in January (into February) and aside from one rainy day at the start of the trip, the rest of the time was perfect.

• April – October: This period is hot and humid, with occasional rain. While not ideal, it is still possible to visit during these months and tourist numbers will be even less than normal.

Where to Stay in Hat Yai

Monkham Village Hat Yai

Monkham Village Hat Yai is a stylish 4-star hotel located 1.2 km from Hat Yai's center, offering modern design, spacious rooms, and excellent service. A great choice for travelers looking for comfort and a peaceful stay, while still being close to the city's attractions. Also, the swim up pool bar will make it very difficult to leave the premises.

U Hatyai Hotel

U Hatyai Hotel is a comfortable 3-star hotel in the heart of Hat Yai, offering modern rooms, great amenities, and easy access to markets, restaurants, and attractions. A perfect mix of affordability and convenience for travelers looking to stay in the city center.

Other Frequently Asked Questions About Hat Yai

Is Hat Yai safe for tourists?

Yes, Hat Yai is generally safe for tourists. The city is well-frequented by visitors and locals alike. As with any destination, take standard precautions with your belongings in busy markets and at night.

How many days do you need in Hat Yai?

Two to three days is enough to cover Hat Yai's highlights... the night markets, temples, floating market, and Municipal Park. Add extra days if you plan to explore nearby Songkhla Old Town or Ko Yo Island.

What is Hat Yai famous for?

Hat Yai is famous for its fried chicken (topped with crispy golden shallots), vibrant night markets, ornate Chinese temples, and its role as a gateway to Southern Thailand's islands including Koh Lipe and the Trang Islands.

How far is Hat Yai from Bangkok?

Hat Yai is around 950 km south of Bangkok. The quickest way to get there is by flight (1.5 hours). You can also take a train (around 15 hours) or an overnight bus.

Hat Yai seriously surprised us with its mix of authentic culture, great food, and unique attractions. Whether you’re just passing through to get over to the islands or staying longer, it’s definitely worth exploring for authentic Thai culture and few tourists!