Hat Yai School Holiday Trip for Malaysian Families: Nov–Dec 2026 Planner

The year-end school holidays are the busiest time of year in Hat Yai, and for good reason. It’s close, the food is great, shopping is cheap, and there’s enough for kids and grandparents alike. Here’s how to plan a stress-free family trip.

When to go

Weekends and the weeks around Christmas and New Year are the busiest. If you can, arrive on a weekday and stay over a weekend so you catch the Khlong Hae Floating Market, which is only open Friday to Sunday.

A 3-day family itinerary

Day 1: Arrive and settle in

Hotel or Padang Besar pickup, lunch, check in, then spend the evening at a night market.

Day 2: Songkhla day

Samila Beach and the Golden Mermaid, Songkhla Old Town murals, a seafood lunch, then back to Hat Yai for shopping.

Day 3: Floating market and shopping

Start with a dim sum breakfast, then Khlong Hae Floating Market, and Kim Yong Market for snacks to bring home. Then it’s time for your departure transfer.

Book these early

• Your van and driver. December weekends sell out. Book at least 3 days ahead, and earlier for peak dates.
• Hotels near the night markets.
• Restaurants for large groups. Your driver can recommend places that fit everyone.

Why a private van works best for families

• There is room for 10 people and 10 bags, so the whole family travels together.
• You go door-to-door, so grandparents walk less.
• You can stop whenever the kids need a break.

See our Hatyai Fun Trip (3 days 2 nights) and our elderly-friendly Hat Yai tour.