OVERVIEW
From the neon pulse of Bangkok to the turquoise horizons of Phuket, this journey along the Royal Coastal Road is a cross-country odyssey that bridges two of Thailand’s most magnificent coasts. Starting at the riverside Shangri-La, you’ll have time for a self-guided exploration of the capital’s crown jewels - the majestic Grand Palace and the shimmering Wat Arun - before trading skyscrapers for the lush expanse of Kaeng Krachan National Park. As you pedal south, the route hugs the coast, traversing the dramatic limestone peaks of Sam Roi Yod  and the narrow Isthmus of Kra until the secluded white sands of Baan Grood come into view.
The adventure continues with a snorkeling excursion to the private island of Koh Talu, followed by a ride through ancient mangroves and the 1,500-year-old kingdom of Chaiya. You’ll then head inland to the emerald waters of Cheow Larn Lake to sleep in floating raft houses before navigating the virgin rainforests of Khao Sok. The final leg conquers the winding "snake road" hills, leading to a triumphant beachfront feast on the shores of the Andaman Sea. 

Balancing "big miles" in the saddle with pure boutique bliss, this tour prioritizes early arrivals at high-end accommodations. Whether you’re sinking into a premium pool or indulging in a traditional Thai spa treatment, every detail is managed via seamless  support, a curated culinary program and an immersive cultural experience. Simply settle into the rhythm of the road and surrender to the cinematic magic of the Land of Smiles.

Day 1 (Fri 22nd Jan):  Bangkok’s Sacred River 
Welcome to Bangkok, the "City of Angels." Settle into the riverside Shangri-La Bangkok Hotel relaxing by the pool or exploring nearby icons like the Grand Palace and Wat Arun. The tour starts with a bike fitting at 3:00pm. In the evening, join your guides and fellow riders for a tour briefing and sunset cocktails overlooking the Chao Phraya. We’ll cap off the first day with a celebratory welcome dinner at a favorite local riverside eatery.   Shangri La, Chao Phraya Riverside, Meals: (-/-/D/HH) 

Day 2 (23rd Jan):  Kaeng Krachan Park - Hua Hin, (Ride:45 mi, +1558 ft /-1234') Goodbye Bangkok, Hello Thailand. We transfer past the urban bustle for the lush trails of Kaeng Krachan, Thailand’s largest national park. Pedal through ancient forests and quiet villages to a scenic vineyard lunch and wine tasting before transferring to the royal retreat of Hua Hin with its famed night market. The day concludes with a poolside happy hour and a dinner directly on the sand.  Putahracsa Resort, (B/L/D/HH)  

Day 3 (24th Jan): Hua Hin bike lane to Kui Buri 
(Ride: 51mi, +-1339 ft) 
We cycle the coastal bike lane toward the dramatic limestone spires of Sam Roi Yod National Park with its 300 towering peaks. The route winds through vibrant fishing villages and estuaries teeming with colorful boats, offering fast, flat stretches for those looking to open up the throttle. After checking into our coastal hotel, enjoy a well-earned massage or a dip in the pool before a sunset happy hour and a feast of the day's freshest local seafood. Dhevan Dara Beach Villa Resort, (B/L/D/HH) 

Day 4:  Through the Isthmus of Kra to Baan Grood  (62m, +-1450’)
Cross the Isthmus of Kra, Thailand’s slenderest point, where only 27 miles separate the Gulf of Thailand from the Myanmar border. Along the route, spot the region’s unique "bird condos"—specialized towers designed for harvesting prized nests. The day concludes at a secluded beachfront sanctuary, leaving you plenty of time for a white-sand stroll or a poolside lounge before happy hour and dinner Baan Grood Arcadia, (B/L/D/HH) 

Day 5 (Tue 26th Jan): Private Island Snorkeling Excursion  (Ride: 19 mi, +-551 ft) 
Today offers a well-earned semi-rest day on the private island of Koh Talu. Following a short morning ride to the pier, a speedboat whisks you away for an afternoon of tropical bliss. Whether you choose to snorkel vibrant coral reefs, kayak the azure waters, or simply beachcomb the pristine sands, the day is yours to recharge. As the sun dips, we’ll gather for happy hour and a relaxed dinner at our quaint island resort, soaking in the ultimate "off-the-grid" atmosphere. Koh Talu Island Resort, (B/L/D/HH)


Day 6 (Wed 27th Jan 2027): Coastal road to Saplee  (Ride: 44 mi, +1509 ft/-1811 ft)
Start your morning with the gentle rhythm of the island before a 9 AM boat transfer returns us to the mainland. Back in the saddle, we’ll pedal through coconut groves and shrimp farms toward the sleepy seaside charm of Saplee. After settling into our resort, we’ll trade traditional spices for woodfired pizza and cocktails at a favorite local beach bar—the perfect spot to toast the sunset. 
Nana Beach Resort,(B/L/D/HH)  

Day 7 (28th Jan 2027):  Saplee to Arunothai Beach (Ride: 58 mi,+-2156') 
Enjoy another sun-drenched day on flat, coastal roads winding through mangroves and villages filled with colorful fishing boats. With limestone karsts dotting the horizon, there’s plenty of time for "sea time"—snorkeling among tiny islands or simply floating in the surf. We’ll finish at the secluded Haad Arunothai, the perfect setting to indulge in a traditional Thai massage within a private garden spa pavilion. Tusita Wellness Resort, (B/L/D)  

Day 8 (29th Jan): Tungtako to Chaiya–Laem Sai Beach (Ride: 65 mi,+-1266’) 
Enjoy a final, longer coastal push along endless beaches toward Chaiya, the 1,500-year-old former capital of the Srivijaya Kingdom. Tonight, we embrace an authentic "off-the-map" experience at a quaint mangrove retreat—the most charming stay in this remote region. We’ll dine like locals at a stilted seafood shack perched over the water, enjoying the fresh catch of the day.  
LaemSai Resort , Meals: (B/L/D/HH) 

Day 9: (30th Jan 2027) Floating houses of Cheow Larn Lake  
(Ride: 35 m, +1218'/-915')  
Trade the coastline for the lush interior of Khao Sok National Park. This "semi-rest" day introduces our first few climbs, rewarding you with sweeping views of the emerald Ratchaprapa Dam. Leaving the bikes onshore, we’ll board a boat to reach our floating sanctuary—a village of raft houses tucked among towering limestone karsts. It’s the ultimate "off-grid" experience: dive straight from your private balcony for a swim or paddle to visit your neighbors 
Panvareee Floating Resort (Raft House), (B/L/D/HH) 

Day 10 (31st Jan): Cheow Larn Lake to Khao Sok Jungle Lodge  (34 mi, +-1720’)
Savor a final morning kayaking through the limestone karsts before a boat transfer returns us to the mainland. Back in the saddle, we’ll ride deep into the virgin rainforest of Khao Sok, a biodiversity hotspot home to 5% of the world's species. The day concludes at a boutique jungle lodge, where you can unwind with breathtaking views overlooking the valley's emerald canopy. 
The Magical Mountain Resort,(B/L/D/HH)  

Day 11 (1st Feb): Khao Sok into Khao Lak & the Andaman coast (58 m,+-2293 ft)
Leave the jungle behind and descend toward the Andaman Coast. We’ll pause for coffee in Takua Pa, a town rich with colonial Portuguese architecture, before navigating a winding route through lush palm plantations and river crossings. The journey reaches a milestone as the turquoise West Coast finally comes into view. Celebrate your coast-to-coast crossing with a ceremonial dip of the wheels in the Andaman Sea before settling into our final beachfront resort. 
Apsara Beachfront Villa Resort & Spa (Superior Room),  (B/L/D/-) 

Day 12 (2nd Feb):  Phuket Island  (Ride: 63 mi,+-2513 ft)
Pedal through the palm groves and quiet coastal communities of Southern Thailand as we cross the bridge into the paradise island of Phuket. Leave the main roads behind for undulating back routes that hug the Andaman Sea. We’ll earn our final luxury stay with one last challenge—the short, steep hills of the "Snake Road"—before a surprise finish by the water. Celebrate the journey’s end with a sunset happy hour and final feast on the sand. Dewa Phuket, (B/L/D/HH) 

Day 13 (Wed 3rd Feb): Phuket Departure 
Catch either an international or domestic flight (Phuket to Bangkok flights range from 50-150USD, Bangkok Airways are a good option) from Phuket international airport (HKT), from Bangkok (BKK) or extend your stay and enjoy the sun and sands of Phuket! Meals: (B/-)

RIDE RATING
The ride is rated 2B! with 11 required riding days based on an average daily distance of 48 miles and 1824 feet of climbing. The ride includes 4 days above the 2B* rating, days 3&8 (1C), 7&11 (2C) . The trip covers approx 500 miles over 11 riding days on paved asphalt roads with light traffic. The tour is fully supported including a trailer for luggage. Throughout the ride we will have vehicle support and riding guides on hand. 
Distances are achievable for all with a moderate level of fitness.

BIKES
The ideal machine for this ride is a Road or Hybrid Bike with at least 25mm tires, capable of carrying 2 water bottles. A lightweight Gravel Bike fitted with 32mm tires would also be acceptable. If bringing your own bike, please make sure that you bring sufficient parts to maintain the bike in good order throughout the ride. Tandem bikes permitted upon request. Storage for bike boxes will be available at the first hotel in Bangkok and can be transported to the final hotel in Phuket on advance request (or transported back to Bangkok with the support vehicles). Bike rentals (with helmets) are available from WeAdventure on request per the below rental costs:
  -Road Bike with Shimano 105 Groupset - $380USD
  -Hybrid Bike - $280USD
  -Giant Fastroad Ex+ Pro Ebike - $550USD (limited availability)

WEATHER
January is the coolest time of year in Thailand, but temperatures can still reach up to 85 degrees. Good sun protection is essential, and UV sleeves work best if wetted down occasionally to wick heat away from the body. For riding, light layers to start rides in the morning, and peel off in the warmth of the day with sun protective sleeves available is the best strategy. Carry a light windproof or showerproof jacket. Support vehicles are always on hand to carry day bags which can be accessed easily.

LODGING & MEALS
Accommodation is on a double room basis, with private facilities in comfortable ensuite accommodations. Included in the tour price are 12 hotel nights, 12  breakfasts, 12 lunches and 12 dinners catered to all dietary requirements, as well as daily happy hours (except day 7) with snacks and drinks featuring local wines & craft beers and non-alcoholic drinks. Snacks, water and electrolyte powder are available in the van while riding. 
Thailand is world famous for its cuisine, and this journey will be as much an adventure in food as in culture and nature.  Seafood and fish sauce are very common in the areas we will visit, so if you have allergies please make the ride leader aware in advance so the team can make preparations. Vegetarians and pescetarians are very commonplace in Thailand and can be accommodated easily.

LOGISTICS
The tour will begin on January 22nd at 3:00pm with a bike fitting at our first hotel -The Shangri La Bangkok - and end after Breakfast on February 3rd at The Dewa Phuket Hotel. Transfers to and from the airport are available for extra cost with local  inexpensive taxis.  U.S. citizens visiting Thailand for tourism for 60 days or less do not require a visa, thanks to the Visa Exemption Rule, but they must complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) online 1–3 days before arrival. A passport valid for at least six months and proof of onward travel are required

COST & ADMINISTRATION
Total tour cost is $4350 USD per person, based on sharing a room. Tour Deposit on booking is $1500 USD with the final payment of $2,850 USD due on October 22, 2026. The actual Commercial Operators charge is $4,150 per person. Also included is the tour cost is the BAC payment processing fee of 3% plus contingencies. At the end of the tour, riders will receive a refund of any remaining money in the budget. The cost excludes flights, bike rentals, meals or activities not mentioned in the itinerary, beverages other than breakfast, trailside or happy hour, airport transfers, guide team gratuities (at participant discretion but a standard range: $100-200 USD) and travel cancellation, interruption and delay insurance (highly recommended)

SINGLES & SOLOS POLICY
There are a maximum of two solo supplements available at $1300 per room. 
Solo supplement payments need to be sent to the BAC office by October 22nd, 2026. The solo supplement payment can be paid by Zelle or check. To pay using Zelle: In your bank's website, add BAC as new recipient with the email: treasurer@bicycleadventureclub.org. Then initiate a payment noting in Message block the ride name. If you have questions, contact Nancy Bohnett (nbohnett@bicycleadventureclub.org). Checks should be made out to “BAC” with a notation of the tour name included on the check and mailed to: Bicycle Adventure Club, PO Box 23998, San Diego, CA 92193.
*We encourage single riders who are willing to share a room to sign up. It is recommended that singles who want a roommate try to find their own. There is now an option for singles to sign up in a new category: "I wish to share a room but will pay the single supplement if necessary". The Ride Leader will assist by attempting to match singles who apply for the ride. Singles will be asked to stay on the pending list until they find a roommate.

HEALTH & SAFETY
Participants are expected to come to the tour in good health and ready to ride. Should someone's health become compromised and the group’s health and safety placed in jeopardy, a plan will be developed by the ride leader(s) and communicated to all individuals. The expectation is for the group to work together to mitigate any spread of infection or illness as a means to ensure the tour can continue as planned.

CANCELLATION POLICY
The BAC Ride Registration Fee and Payment Processing Fees are not refundable unless the entire tour is canceled because the number of participants registered is less than the minimum established for the tour. Refunds of tour payments will depend upon whether a replacement rider signs up, and on costs that can be recouped. The amount refunded will be based on the principle that the tour’s remaining participants will not incur any additional cost as a result of cancellations. If the canceling participant is replaced, a refund will be made at that time. If the canceling participant can't be replaced, any refund will be determined after the ride and final expense report are completed. If a single participant cancels and another roommate cannot be found, in addition to other costs that cannot be recouped the canceling roommate may also be liable for the solo supplement fee of the roommate remaining on the tour. We Adventure charges an administration expense of $150  to cover bank fees and administration plus any additional non-recoverable supplier costs. BAC encourages members to purchase trip cancellation insurance.

RIDE PARTICIPANT RESPONSIBILITY
Please remember that BAC Ride Leaders are volunteers, and that successful tours depend on participants providing much of their own support. Participants are expected to come to the ride well trained, in good health and ready to accomplish the required daily riding using well-maintained bicycles. All participants should accept responsibility for a safe and enjoyable tour. We encourage you to read the ride description carefully and respond to requests from the Ride Leader. While on the ride, support your Ride Leader with offers to help with various tasks such as happy hour preparation and cleanup. Please do not interfere with the ride by inviting non-participants onto any portion of the ride or tour. Please inform the Ride Leader  of any special requests and respect the Ride Leader’s decisions.

INSURANCE STATEMENTS
BAC maintains two insurance policies: a) United States, and b) Foreign (all other countries). Both the U.S. and Foreign policies are considered secondary policies to your personal medical insurance policy. They are subject to a $1000 deductible and may not cover all expenses related to an accident. Copies of the current policies are located under the “Docs” tab on the BAC website.
Before participating in any BAC tour, you should assess whether your medical and travel insurance coverage is sufficient. While touring in the U.S, the BAC insurance includes coverage for injuries due to accidents during the bike trip. Members’ personal insurance will need to cover medical emergencies such as sudden and unexpected illness (i.e. treatment for unexpected illnesses, including Covid, are not covered).  While touring internationally, i.e., outside of the U.S., BAC maintains Foreign accident insurance to assist with expenses related to accidents, medical emergencies (including sudden and unexpected sickness), and repatriation. Insurance will apply door-to-door for treatment and travel for a maximum of 90 days overall. Coverage extends to a limited period spanning the published BAC trip dates, allowing for side trips occurring before and after the BAC ride; the limitation period is 7 days before or after the published BAC trip dates. The policy covers the cost of treatment for Covid and other unexpected illnesses, but not quarantine.

SIGN-UP
To register for this ride, use the sign-up links just above the Ride Description. After preliminary acceptance, you will be moved to the pending list and receive an email requesting you to go back to the BAC site to digitally accept the terms of the Release of Liability (ROL), and pay the Tour Deposit and the non-refundable BAC Ride Registration Fee by credit card. There is an $85.00 domestic ride fee and $150.00 international ride fee. As soon as your deposit has been processed, your name(s) will be added to the Participant List. BAC members with questions may contact the Ride Director by "clicking" the name at the top of this Ride Description.