Chumphon is located on the mainland coast of the Gulf of Thailand. Chumphon is the gateway to Koh Tao with regular ferry servies operatong between Chumphon and Koh Tao. There are also ferries from Chumphon to Koh Phangan and Koh Samui. Chumphon is also a major stop on the Thai railways line that runs from Bangkok south to the Malaysia border. Chumphon has several hotels, restaurants and shopping with budget accomodation and travel agency at the Farang Bar, close to the train station. There are beach areas north of Chumphon and onwards to Bang Saphan and Ban Krut. The town is also close to the North to South main highway.