Originally just a stopover point for backpackers catching the ferry to Koh Tao, Chumphon has, in recent years, started to establish itself as holiday resort in its own right. Approximately 500 kilometres south of Bangkok, Chumphon is considered to be start of Southern Thailand.

The 4km long Hat Thung Wua Laen is the pick of the local beaches and many of the local beauty spots remain largely unspoilt. The area boasts a whole host of small islands just off the coast, Ko Raet, Ko Mattara and Ko Samet (not to be confused with the island of the same name off Thailands north east coast) to name but a few. All the islands can be reached by boat from Chumphon's port at Pak Nam and offer some fantastic reef diving.

A truly relaxing destination Chumphon is ideal for those who want to escape the hustle & bustle of some of Thailands more over crowded resorts.