The 33rd Southeast Asian (SEA) Games in December 2025 are set to mark a historic first for Thailand: a spectacular sporting event split across a triumvirate of dynamic host provinces. From the electrifying energy of the capital to the sun-drenched beaches of the East and the tranquil, cultural charms of the South, the games offer a compelling reason to explore three vastly different sides of the Kingdom of Thailand.
This multi-city approach — combining Bangkok, Chon Buri, and Songkhla — transforms the biennial competition into an unforgettable travel experience. Visitors arriving to cheer on their national heroes won’t just witness world-class athleticism; they’ll embark on a journey that blends ancient tradition, cosmopolitan flair, and stunning natural beauty.
Bangkok is the Heart of the Kingdom
As the country’s central hub and the traditional center for major events, the Bangkok Metropolitan Area will host the majority of the 50 sports, including the grand opening and closing ceremonies at the spectacular Rajamangala Stadium. The capital is the engine of the Games, pulsing with a frenetic energy that perfectly matches the intensity of the track, court, and pool.
Beyond the venues, Bangkok is a city of magnificent, dizzying contrasts. One moment, you’re enveloped in the silent, golden majesty of Wat Arun or the Grand Palace, experiencing centuries of history and traditional Thai craftsmanship. Next, you are riding the sleek Skytrain past towering, futuristic skyscrapers, or bartering for goods in a neon-lit night market.
For the traveling fan, Bangkok is a sensory feast. Between match days, navigate the labyrinthine of alleyways for the best street food experience in the world—from the ever-popular pad thai to rich, creamy massaman curry. Utilize the Chao Phraya Express Boat to explore the city’s historical sites, avoiding the traffic while discovering hidden temples along the river’s edge. The capital ensures that downtime between medal ceremonies is as thrilling and unforgettable as the competitions themselves.
Chon Buri is the Coastal Playground
Just a short drive southeast of Bangkok lies Chon Buri, the coastal jewel of the Eastern Economic Corridor, famous for the bustling resort city of Pattaya. For the SEA Games, Chon Buri is the undisputed hub of water and beach sports, making it the ideal destination for athletes and fans who love the sun and surf.
Chon Buri’s coastal cluster, which includes venues around Jomtien Beach, Bang Lamung, and Sattahip, will host events such as sailing, jet skiing, open-water swimming, and triathlons. Picture yourself watching a dramatic aquathlon finish against the backdrop of the Gulf of Thailand or enjoying the cool sea breeze between sets of beach volleyball.
Tourism here is defined by action and relaxation. Away from the venues, Chon Buri offers more than just the popular Pattaya beachfront. Explore the quieter beaches of Bang Sare or take a day trip to idyllic Ko Lan island for pristine sands and crystal-clear waters, a complete escape from the mainland buzz. Families will find Columbia Pictures Aquaverse great fun, where blockbuster movie characters welcome you to thrilling rides in this world-class water park. Chon Buri is where the spirit of competition meets the ultimate coastal holiday.
Songkhla is the Southern Gem
Traveling south to the Gulf of Thailand’s lower coast brings you to Songkhla, the third host province. This location offers a distinct, tranquil flavor, serving as a cultural bridge between Thai and Malay influences. Songkhla will primarily host key team sports, such as the men’s group stage football at the Tinsulanonda Stadium, as well as regional martial arts, including pencak silat and kabaddi.
Songkhla’s appeal lies in its authentic Southern Thai charm and scenic landscapes. The region’s iconic landmark is the Mermaid Statue on Samila Beach, which captures the serene, almost mythical quality of the coastline. The provincial capital, also known as Songkhla, is a fascinating blend of colonial-era Sino-Portuguese architecture, vibrant street art, and tranquil fishing village life.
Meanwhile, the bustling city of Hat Yai, Songkhla’s commercial heart, offers fantastic night markets and incredible Southern Thai cuisine—think spicy, turmeric-infused seafood curries and regional desserts found nowhere else. It provides a relaxed, warm environment, perfect for unwinding after an intense day of competition, and allows visitors to experience the legendary hospitality of the Thai South.
Your SEA Games Odyssey Awaits
The 2025 SEA Games is not simply a sporting fixture; it is an invitation to explore a kingdom of diversity. From the neon lights and ancient temples of Bangkok to the resort relaxation of Chon Buri and the serene cultural authenticity of Songkhla, Thailand has curated a spectacular travel itinerary alongside its premier regional competition. Whether you’re following the athletes for the full twelve days or sampling one or two host cities, this event promises to be a golden opportunity to see the three beautiful provinces in Thailand. Get ready to cheer, explore, and say Sawadee SEA Games!
About the Author
“Frequent foodie and occasional craftsman of travel stories, Chattan Kunjara Na Ayudhya (Chat) draws on his nearly 4 decades of promoting Thailand’s tourism industry to highlight everything from world-class attractions to hidden gems. When not writing stuff, he makes it a mission to catch rom-coms and DC superheroes whenever they show up in theaters.”
