Top 5 Chill Spots in Songkhla & Hat Yai: The Ultimate SEA Games Lifestyle Guide
Hosting the SEA Games 2025? Explore Songkhla's best spots. From Old Town cafes near Tinsulanon Stadium to Hat Yai’s legendary Dim Sum and night markets.
by Thairanked Guide
December 08, 2025 02:08 AM
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Welcome to the Deep South! Songkhla offers a completely different vibe from Bangkok. The main venue, Tinsulanon Stadium, is located in Songkhla Town, a historic area surrounded by water on two sides. However, most travelers will base themselves 30 minutes away in Hat Yai, the commercial capital known for its incredible food and shopping.
If you are crossing the border from Malaysia or flying down from Bangkok, you need to know where to go when the referee blows the final whistle.
thairanked.com has selected the 5 best spots that combine the old-school charm of the coast with the modern energy of the city. Here are the Top 5 places to Cheer & Chill in Songkhla & Hat Yai.
1. Songkhla Old Town & Nang Ngam Road (The Heritage Hub)
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If you only visit one place in Songkhla district, this must be it. Songkhla Old Town is a living museum of Sino-Portuguese architecture, street art, and legendary local food. The heart of the area is Nang Ngam Road, famous for its traditional desserts and old-school noodle shops. It is the most Instagrammable spot in the province, with vibrant murals around every corner.
Highlight: Walk along Nang Ngam Road to try the famous "I-Tim Ong" (Ice cream in a jar) and take photos with the street art on the old city walls.
Opening Time:
General Area: Open 24 Hours (Best visited 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM for photos/cafes).
Walking Street Market: Fri & Sat evenings (5:00 PM – 10:00 PM).
Location: Nang Ngam Road, Nakhon Nai Road, and Nakhon Nok Road, Songkhla.
How to Get There:
From Tinsulanon Stadium: A 5-minute Tuk-Tuk ride.
From Hat Yai: Take the green "Hat Yai - Songkhla" van or bus (approx. 45 mins).
2. Samila Beach (The Iconic Landmark)
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You cannot say you have been to the Songkhla SEA Games without a photo here. Located right next to the stadium, Samila Beach is home to the Golden Mermaid Statue. It’s the perfect spot to walk on the white sand, feel the sea breeze, and watch the locals fly kites. It’s relaxing, iconic, and free.
Highlight: The Golden Mermaid statue and the Cat & Mouse islands view. It is the signature postcard of the province.
Opening Time: Open 24 Hours
Location: Ratchadamnoen Road, Songkhla Town.
How to Get There:
From Tinsulanon Stadium: It is very close less than 5 minutes by car/bike, or a pleasant 20-minute walk along the coast if the weather is nice.
3. Khlong Hae Floating Market (The Cultural Experience)
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This is the first floating market in Southern Thailand and a massive tourist favorite. Vendors dress in traditional Thai costumes and sell food from small rowboats parked along the canal. You stand on the pier and use a basket on a long pole to exchange money and food. It is eco-friendly (using coconut shells and bamboo containers) and culturally vibrant.
Highlight: The "floating food vendors" are the main attraction. Try the floating coconut drinks and grilled seafood.
Opening Time: Friday – Sunday Only, 3:00 PM – 9:00 PM.
Location: Khlong Hae, Hat Yai District.
How to Get There:
From Hat Yai Center: Approx. 15–20 minutes by Tuk-Tuk or Grab. It is slightly outside the city center.
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4. Lyn's The Shanghai Cafe (The Old Town Gem)
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Located in the heart of Songkhla Old Town, just a short ride from Tinsulanon Stadium, this is the most stylish place to escape the heat. Housed in a restored Sino-Portuguese building, Lyn's offers a mix of modern coffee culture and heritage architecture. It is sophisticated, quiet, and perfect for reviewing your match photos while sipping a lychee soda or cold brew coffee.
Highlight: Beautiful interior design that blends Chinese history with modern loft vibes. The backyard garden is a hidden oasis.
Opening Time: Daily, 9:30 AM – 9:00 PM
Location: Nakhon Nai Road, Songkhla Old Town.
How to Get There:
From Tinsulanon Stadium: A quick 10-minute ride by "Tuk-Tuk" or Songthaew into the Old Town area.
5. Alive (The Nature Chill Spot)
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After heading back to Hat Yai for the evening, Alive is the best place to unwind. It is a massive lifestyle restaurant set in a tropical garden. The vibe is "forest in the city," with live acoustic music, bean bags, and hanging nets. It serves excellent Southern Thai food and fusion dishes. It’s popular with locals and arguably the coolest hangout spot in Hat Yai right now.
Highlight: The "Tree House" seating and fairy lights create a magical evening atmosphere. Great for groups and dinner.
Opening Time: Daily, 11:30 AM – 23:30
Location: Punnakan Road, Hat Yai (Near Prince of Songkla University).
How to Get There:
From Lee Gardens Plaza (Hat Yai Center): Approx. 15–20 minutes by Grab or Taxi heading towards the University area.
by Thairanked Guide
December 08, 2025 02:08 AM
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