Samila Beach is an important beach in Songkhla Province, located within Songkhla City Municipality. It is a cape that extends into the Gulf of Thailand on the eastern side of southern Thailand. The beach features fine white sand known locally as “glass sand,” and is lined with pine trees along the shoreline, creating a shady and relaxing atmosphere throughout the day.

The highlight of this area is not only its natural beauty but also its cultural significance and symbolic value to Songkhla. The most notable landmark is the Golden Mermaid statue, which represents a local legend about a mermaid who sat combing her hair on the beach and left behind a golden comb before returning to the sea. This story has become deeply rooted in local identity and makes Samila Beach one of Thailand’s most iconic photo spots.

Another key feature is the Cat and Mouse statues, which are connected to the legend of Ko Nu and Ko Maeo (Mouse Island and Cat Island) located offshore. The tale describes a mouse, a cat, and a dog escaping from a merchant ship and swimming ashore, eventually becoming islands and nearby landmarks. This legend has become an important part of Songkhla’s cultural identity, and Ko Nu and Ko Maeo can be clearly seen from the beach.

In terms of geography, Samila Beach has a gentle slope and relatively calm waters, making it safe for walking along the shore and enjoying recreational activities. The surrounding area has been developed into a public park with seaside walkways, resting pavilions, and green spaces for both tourists and locals.

Beyond its natural and cultural appeal, Samila Beach also serves as a tourism hub for Songkhla. It is surrounded by local seafood restaurants, souvenir shops, and occasional water activities such as jet skiing or beach boating. This makes the area an important contributor to the province’s tourism economy.

With its combination of natural beauty, local legends, and coastal lifestyle, Samila Beach is regarded as a symbolic landmark of Songkhla that clearly reflects the beauty and cultural roots of southern Thailand.

• Go in the early morning (06:00–08:00) for cool weather, beautiful light, and fewer people.

• Visit in the late afternoon (16:00–18:30) for sunset views and great photos with the Golden Mermaid statue.

• Avoid weekends and holidays if you prefer a quiet atmosphere, as it can get crowded.

• Bring a hat and sunscreen because the sun is quite strong during midday.

• Allow extra time to walk along the beach and through the park to fully enjoy the atmosphere.