Car Rental in Phang Nga

Where to drive

• Drive to Khao Lak: Approximately 60 km north, about a 1-hour drive, offering beautiful beaches and laid-back resorts.
• Explore Phang Nga Bay National Park: While many tours depart from Phuket, driving to the various piers in Phang Nga allows for more flexibility and potentially avoiding crowds. For example, driving to Surakul Pier is about 30 km, a 40-minute drive.
• Visit Krabi: Roughly 80 km southeast, a scenic 1.5-hour drive to Ao Nang or Krabi Town, opening up more island hopping opportunities.
• Discover Samet Nangshe Viewpoint: About 40 km from Phang Nga town, a 1-hour drive, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Phang Nga Bay.
• Journey to Phuket Island: Approximately 60 km south, about a 1-hour drive across Sarasin Bridge, providing access to Phuket's diverse attractions and beaches.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Thailand, you will generally need your passport, a valid national driving license from your home country, and an International Driving Permit (IDP). Some rental companies may accept a national license if it's in English and includes a photo. The minimum age for car rental is typically 21 years, and some companies may require you to have held your license for at least one year.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Phang Nga vary by season and vehicle class. You can expect to find economy cars starting from around 800-1200 THB per day during the low season. Mid-range sedans might be 1200-1800 THB, while SUVs or larger family cars could range from 1800-2500+ THB. Prices generally increase by 20-40% during the peak tourist season, which aligns with the dry, cooler months.

Demand by month

Traffic rules and fines

In Thailand, you drive on the left 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. Always wear seatbelts; children under 6 years or less than 135 cm tall must use appropriate child restraints. The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05%. Headlights should be used at night and during heavy rain. Be prepared for motorbikes to appear from any direction.

Parking

In Phang Nga town and surrounding areas, parking is generally easier to find than in larger cities. Many hotels offer free parking for guests. Public parking areas might be available, often free or with a small, approximate fee (e.g., 20-40 THB) in designated zones. Always look for clear signage or ask locals if unsure. Avoid parking in front of driveways or blocking traffic.

Fuel stations

Fuel stations are widely available throughout Phang Nga province, including in smaller towns and along main routes. Most stations offer Gasoline (E10, E20, E85) and Diesel. Payment is usually made in cash, though larger stations may accept credit cards. Fuel prices fluctuate but are generally comparable across the country. An approximate price for Gasoline 95 is around 40-45 THB per liter in 2026.

Which car to choose

For driving in Phang Nga, a compact sedan or a small SUV is often the most practical choice. Automatic transmission cars are prevalent and recommended for ease of driving. While roads are generally well-maintained, some rural routes to viewpoints or beaches can be a bit winding or have occasional potholes. An SUV offers better ground clearance for such excursions, while a compact car is fuel-efficient and easy to maneuver in towns.

Frequently asked questions