Surat Thani, the southern Thai province usually dwarfed by its more well-known neighbors such as Phuket or Koh Samui, is slowly emerging as a destination for environmentally aware travelers. Famous for its dense jungles, peaceful beaches, and gateway access to islands such as Koh Tao and Koh Phangan, Surat Thani also has a variety of eco-resorts that marry luxury with sustainability. These resorts provide an opportunity to reconnect with nature while having a low impact on the environment.
No matter what type of escape you’re dreaming of, jungle fantasy, peaceful beachside haven, or immersion into local culture, Surat Thani promises to deliver some green and lovely waiting. And for visitors committed to making the most environmentally-friendly travel choices possible, taking a train from Bangkok to Surat Thani offers a great start. It is a beautiful lower-emission flight option and a wonderful way for those into slow traveling to set foot off on lower-carbon steps.
Let’s discover five of the most encouraging eco-retreats in Surat Thani that are revolutionizing responsible tourism in Thailand.
Eco-Friendly Retreats in Surat Thani
Big Trees Village – Eco-Friendly Resort
Location: Phanom District, close to Khao Sok
Highlights: Immersion in forests, natural building practices, wellness emphasis
Another jewel near Khao Sok, Big Trees Village, is an intimate-scale eco-resort thoroughly immersed in nature. With a mere few artisanal cottages nestled among high trees and songbirds, the retreat provides an intensely serene and intimate experience.
The resort practices permaculture and uses natural materials and construction methods that blend seamlessly into the environment. They also offer yoga, meditation, and herbal steam sessions—all powered by clean energy. Waste reduction and recycling are taken seriously here, and the staff actively supports local reforestation projects.
If you’re seeking a soul-soothing escape into nature, Big Trees Village offers the tranquility and eco-values you’ll appreciate.
Our Jungle Camp – Eco Resort (Khao Sok National Park)
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Location: Khao Sok
Highlights: Bamboo huts, wildlife, sustainability education
Set deep within the Khao Sok National Park, Our Jungle Camp is an award-winning eco-resort that proves sustainability can be as luxurious as it gets. The resort itself is constructed entirely from nature-based materials such as bamboo, earth, and reclaimed wood, giving it a minimalist yet magical ambiance.
What makes this retreat unique is its strong dedication to environmental stewardship and community involvement. From organic farming to natural water purification systems and the use of solar power, all aspects are geared to reduce impact. They also operate educational programs for visitors and local schools to promote awareness of conservation.
Wake up to the cacophony of hornbills and gibbons, kayak down the Sok River, or embark on guided treks through the jungle. Living here is being part of something worthwhile—an eco-experience that benefits.
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Koh Phaluai Eco Resort
Location: Koh Phaluai (within the Ang Thong Marine National Park)
Highlights: Island sustainability, fishing village culture, off-grid experience
Koh Phaluai Eco Resort is a secret gem for like-minded tourists wanting to disconnect from the madness of the modern world and dive headlong into island living. This isolated resort is located on Koh Phaluai, one of the less populated islands in the Ang Thong archipelago, and maintains firm eco-principles.
The resort is powered by solar energy, composting toilets, and rainwater harvesting systems. It also helps the local fishing community, with most of the meals coming from the waters around the island or the island’s own gardens. There are no cars and little infrastructure on the island, so the experience is truly rustic and serene.
Anticipate days of snorkeling, kayaking, hiking in nature, and discovering sustainable fishing practices. If “back to basics” appeals to your idea of luxury, Koh Phaluai Eco Resort provides it in a sustainable and picturesque manner.
Tanoshi Glamping & Eco Retreat
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Location: Surat Thani countryside
Highlights: Glamping, farm-to-table dining, low-impact travel
For visitors seeking a mix of country beauty and luxury convenience, Tanoshi Glamping & Eco Retreat offers a novel solution for experiencing Surat Thani’s rural scenery. Featuring chic canvas tents with a view over rice fields and palm forests, this intimate-scale retreat is living proof that eco-savvy does not equal compromising style.
The retreat is completely off-grid, fueled by solar power, with composting toilets and an organic farm onsite. Freshly prepared meals using locally sourced produce are served to guests, and Thai farm-to-table cooking classes reveal the secrets of the cuisine.
Tanoshi also values wellness—yoga, forest bathing, and herbal workshops are included in the program. It’s a perfect starting point for those wishing to relax, self-reflect, and travel more slowly.
Last Thoughts
Surat Thani might not be as flashy as some of Thailand’s better-known spots, but that is half the charm. For thoughtful travelers, the province provides an immersive, genuine, and sustainable getaway that few destinations can. With environmentally friendly retreats that conserve the environment, empower the local people, and provide memorable experiences, Surat Thani is establishing a hard-won reputation as a green travel treasure.
So go ahead, pack your green gear, catch the train, and find the slow, eco-friendly side of southern Thailand—one retreat at a time.
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