Things to Know When Travelling to Hatyai, Thailand  

If you plan a trip to Hatyai, our neighboring city, here are some essential tips and insights from my three-day adventure there. Whether you are a seasoned traveler or a first-timer, these details will help you make the most of your visit:

1. Driving in Hatyai is a breeze

Despite initial skepticism due to immigration queues, driving into Hatyai is manageable, so long you choose the right timing. Avoid public holidays and school breaks.

We left Kuala Lumpur at 7am and reached the border at Bukit Katu Hitam around 1.30pm. Before crossing, do make sure you have the car insurance sorted and you can find lots of them available along the way. I got mine here:

At the Malaysia immigration, driver and passengers must show their passports to the officer. Then, drive over to the Thai immigration border. Here, passengers have to walk down to the building to get their passports stamped while the driver drives to the immigration box and pays the entrance fee (25 baht for the driver, and 5 baht per passenger).

After that, the driver would drive to another area to get the car clearance and voila, you are ready to explore Hatyai. Check the steps here.

2. Cafe hopping is a big scene

Hatyai surprised me with its abundance of cafes. During my stay, I visited several places, including those listed here, here, and here. Expect good coffee, delicious pastries, and a relaxed ambiance — perfect for lazy strolls.

Cafe Sirene, Hatyai (https://www.tiktok.com/@foodiestravelblog/photo/7372061215641603346?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc&web_id=7252212898420229639) 

Locals.hdy in Hatyai (https://www.tiktok.com/@foodiestravelblog/photo/7372497096726957319?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc&web_id=7252212898420229639) 

Cheevit CHeeva in Hatyai, Thailand (https://www.tiktok.com/@foodiestravelblog/photo/7371297744331296007?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc&web_id=7252212898420229639) 

3. The weather is extremely hot in Hatyai

Hatyai’s weather is scorching! As soon as we stepped out of the hotel, we were sweating. So, dress comfortably and apply sunblock to beat the heat.

Mermaid at the Songkhla Beach

Songkhla Beach in Hatyai, Thailand

4. Massage and massage

A trip to Thailand isn’t complete without a massage. In Hatyai, Thai massage costs around 250 baht per hour. For a premium experience, opt for the 350 baht — I tried both and preferred the latter.

Massage in Baan Iyara Massage & Cafe

5. Big C supermarket!

There are plenty of convenience stores in Hatyai including Lotus’s, Big C, and mini–Big C. Certainly when you are in Thailand, you must visit Big C. And voila, snacks paradise for everyone!

Common sights in convenience store

6. Thai food adventures

Surprisingly, Hatyai lacks classic Thai dishes like MooPin, Green Curry, and PadThai. However, I discovered two dining spots (here and here) that didn’t disappoint.

Lunch in Sirada Koyo, Hatyai, Thailand

7. Zebra store

Lastly, Zebra store! The Zebra store is a hidden gem. My friend raved about it, and the selection is extensive. Prices are reasonable, and some say it’s cheaper than in Malaysia.

Now you see, Hatyai is a beautiful place. Would I go there again? Yes, if I have a company.

Written by

FoodiesTravelblog