Car Rental in Don Sak

Where to drive

• Drive to Khao Sok National Park: Approximately 100 km (1.5-2 hours drive) from Don Sak, this park offers breathtaking limestone karsts, emerald lakes, and jungle trekking opportunities. Perfect for a day trip or an overnight stay.
• Explore Khanom Beach: Just a short drive, around 30 km (30-40 minutes), Khanom is famous for its pink dolphins and tranquil, uncrowded beaches, offering a peaceful escape from busier tourist spots.
• Visit Surat Thani City: About 60 km (1 hour drive) inland, the provincial capital provides a glimpse into local Thai life with its bustling markets, temples, and riverside dining, a stark contrast to the coastal vibe.
• Discover Sichon Beach: Located south of Don Sak, approximately 50 km (45-60 minutes), Sichon offers a long, quiet stretch of sand, ideal for relaxation, swimming, and enjoying fresh seafood at local eateries.
• Ferry connections to Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, and Koh Tao: While you can't take your rental car to these islands, having a car in Don Sak allows for convenient transport to the ferry terminals and exploring the mainland surrounding the port before departure or after arrival.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Thailand, you will generally need a valid passport, a national driving license from your home country, and an International Driving Permit (IDP). The minimum age for renting is typically 21 years, with some companies requiring drivers to be 23 or 25, and often requiring at least one year of driving experience. Always carry your documents while driving.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Don Sak vary significantly by vehicle class and season. Economy cars typically start from around 700-1000 THB per day, while SUVs and larger family cars might range from 1200-2000 THB. Premium vehicles can go upwards of 2500 THB. Prices tend to be higher during the peak tourist season from November to February and during major Thai holidays.

Demand by month

Traffic rules and fines

In Thailand, you drive on the left-hand side of the road. Speed limits are generally 50-60 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h on rural roads, and 120 km/h on motorways. The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05%. Headlights must be used at night and in poor visibility. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants, and child seats are legally required for children under 6 years old, though availability may vary with rental companies.

Parking

Parking in Don Sak is generally straightforward. There are usually free parking spaces available near the ferry terminals and at most attractions. In smaller towns and villages, street parking is common and rarely metered. Always park responsibly and avoid blocking entrances or traffic flow.

Fuel stations

Fuel stations are readily available along major roads in and around Don Sak. Most stations offer Gasoline 91, Gasoline 95, Gasohol (E10, E22, E85), and Diesel. Payment is typically made in cash, though larger stations may accept credit cards. Fuel prices are regulated by the government and are generally consistent across the region, typically ranging from approximately 30-40 THB per liter, varying by fuel type.

Which car to choose

For exploring Don Sak and the surrounding Surat Thani province, an economy or compact car with an automatic transmission is usually sufficient and offers good fuel efficiency for shorter trips. If you plan to venture into more remote areas or carry more luggage, a mid-size sedan or a small SUV would provide more comfort and ground clearance. Manual transmission cars are less common for rentals in Thailand.

Frequently asked questions