Many travellers struggle to see all the best parts of Thailand’s coast by sticking to tours or public buses. They often miss quiet beaches, secret viewpoints, and scenic roads that lie away from busy tourist spots.
Thailand has over 3,000 kilometres of beautiful coastline with many hidden gems only reached by car. Renting a vehicle opens up these places at your own pace.
This guide on “Coastal Thailand By Car Hire: Sun, Sand & Scenic Highways” will help you plan an easy road trip. You will find practical tips for hiring a car, driving safe, and picking top routes along the coast.
Discover where to stop for stunning views and fun activities.
Start planning your drive now for sun-filled days on the open road!
Reasons to Explore Coastal Thailand by Car Hire
Hiring a car gives you the freedom to stop where you want and enjoy hidden beaches. Explore scenic highways at your own pace for an unforgettable journey.
How does hiring a car offer flexibility and freedom?
Car hire lets you explore coastal Thailand at your own pace. You can stop for fresh coconut juice along the road or take a swim at quiet beaches that buses do not reach. Pick any starting time and choose when to rest or eat without sticking to set schedules.
A car gives easy access to scenic drives, mountain roads, and coastal routes far from crowded tourist spots. “Freedom on the road means going where you wish and discovering new sights each day.” Island hopping becomes simple because you drive straight to ferry points with ease.
This control over your trip is hard to match with public transport in Thailand.
Where can you find hidden gems along the coast?
A car gives access to places often missed by tour buses or public transport. Small fishing villages in Eastern Thailand, such as Chanthaburi and Trat, offer quiet beaches and fresh seafood.
The coastal highway between Chumphon and Ranong passes through national parks filled with waterfalls and tropical forests.
Some scenic drives lead to hidden coves near Khao Lak where you can see sea turtles at Thai Mueang Beach. In Krabi province, the road heading south from Ao Nang guides drivers to empty stretches of sand along Klong Muang and Tubkaek Beaches.
Road trips beyond main tourist attractions highlight real local life and peaceful views of Thailand’s coastlines.
What are the most scenic coastal routes to drive?
Exploring the coast opens up stunning views and new experiences. The Gulf Coast Road is a top choice for its beautiful beaches and calm waters. It runs from Hua Hin to Chumphon, with plenty of places to stop.
The Andaman Coast route offers breathtaking scenery too. From Krabi to Phuket, you will drive past limestone cliffs and clear blue seas. Each turn reveals more of Thailand’s natural beauty, making it perfect for road trips along coastal highways.
Top Car Hire Providers in Thailand
Finding the right car hire provider is key for your trip, SPS Car Hire is also a solid choice, providing competitive prices and easy booking options.
Tips for Renting a Car in Thailand
Renting a car in Thailand requires some key documents and knowledge of local driving laws. Choosing the right vehicle for coastal drives is essential too. Find out more tips to make your rental smooth and enjoyable.
What documents do you need to rent a car in Thailand?
You need a few important documents to rent a car in Thailand. Be prepared to present the following items:
- A valid driving licence from your home country. It should be in English or have an International Driving Permit (IDP) with it.
- A credit card in your name. This is for the deposit and payment. Cash may not be accepted.
- Your passport for identification. Rental companies need this to verify your identity.
- Proof of insurance coverage. Some companies require this before you can rent their vehicles.
- An additional form of identification, like a utility bill or hotel reservation, might be needed by some rental agencies.
Having these documents ready helps ensure a smooth car rental experience in Thailand’s scenic drives.
How do you choose the right vehicle for coastal driving?
Choosing the right vehicle for coastal driving in Thailand is key. Opt for a car with good fuel efficiency, as distances can be long. A compact or midsize car works well on scenic routes and saves you money on petrol.
If you’re travelling with family or friends, consider an SUV for extra space and comfort.
Road conditions can vary. Some areas have narrow roads while others are more rugged. Check if your rental offers off-road options if needed. Always ensure the vehicle has air conditioning; it will keep you cool under the sun.
Now let’s explore local driving laws that you should know before hitting the road.
What local driving laws should you know before driving?
Driving in Thailand has its own rules. Knowing these can help you stay safe and avoid trouble.
- Drive on the left side of the road. This is different from some countries where you drive on the right.
- Seat belts are a must for all passengers. It’s a law to wear them while driving.
- Using a mobile phone while driving is illegal unless you have a hands-free device. Focus on the road, not your phone.
- Speed limits are generally 60 km/h in cities and 90 km/h on highways. Always pay attention to signs as they may vary.
- Drink-driving laws are strict. The legal blood alcohol limit is very low, and penalties for exceeding it can be severe.
- Traffic lights control intersections, just like in many other places. Always stop at red lights and follow signals carefully.
- Pedestrians have the right of way at crossings. Watch out for people crossing the street.
- Motorbike riders must wear helmets at all times; this rule helps reduce injuries in accidents.
- Make sure your vehicle has insurance before driving; this is required by law in Thailand.
- Local drivers can be unpredictable; always stay alert and ready to react quickly.
Understanding these laws will make your car hire experience in coastal Thailand more enjoyable and safe!
Must-Visit Coastal Destinations in Thailand
Phuket offers stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife. You can relax on the sand or explore local markets.
Krabi is famous for its cliffs and clear waters. Enjoy outdoor activities like rock climbing or island hopping.
Hua Hin boasts beautiful resorts and a long beach. Spend time at night markets for food and shopping fun.
What attractions make Phuket a must-visit?
Beaches in Phuket are stunning. Patong Beach is famous for its lively atmosphere and nightlife. Karon Beach offers a quieter spot with beautiful views. Those seeking adventure can try water sports or go island hopping to nearby spots like Phi Phi Islands.
The Big Buddha is an iconic landmark worth visiting. It stands at 45 metres tall and overlooks the island’s landscape. Old Phuket Town displays colourful Sino-Portuguese architecture, shops, and cafés that tell the history of the area.
These attractions make it clear why many people choose Phuket as a top travel destination in Thailand.
Why should you visit Krabi on a coastal road trip?
Phuket is a great start, but Krabi offers its own charm. This coastal destination is famous for stunning beaches and clear waters. You can explore Railay Beach, known for its rock climbing and beautiful scenery.
The Four Islands Tour allows you to visit nearby islands easily.
Krabi also features lush jungles and impressive limestone cliffs. Ao Nang serves as a perfect base with plenty of restaurants and shops. Nature lovers will enjoy the hot springs at Klong Thom or hiking in the national parks.
Scenic drives along the coastline enhance your road trip experience here in Thailand.
What can you see and do in Hua Hin?
Hua Hin is a lovely coastal town in Thailand. It boasts beautiful beaches and clear waters. Visitors can relax on the sand or swim in the sea. Water sports like jet skiing and paddleboarding are also available.
The night market offers tasty local food and unique souvenirs. Tourists enjoy visiting Hua Hin’s famous railway station, known for its Thai architecture. The nearby national parks provide great trails for hiking and exploring nature.
Scenic drives along coastal routes lead to stunning views of the landscape.
Exploring Thailand By Car Hire
Exploring coastal Thailand by car hire offers great freedom and adventure. You can discover hidden gems along scenic routes at your own pace. Renting a car is easy with the right documents and choosing a suitable vehicle.
Visiting places like Phuket, Krabi, and Hua Hin adds to the excitement of your trip. Take action now; plan that road trip for stunning views and unforgettable memories in Thailand!
Renting a car is ideal to explore Thailand by car hire. SPS Car Hire Pattaya is the ideal company to rent cars for exploring the Kingdom. Please click on the button below to rent cars to explore Thailand.
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