TAT advances science-based surf therapy as a new wellness tourism concept

Thailand

Pilot programme in Phang-nga combines international expertise with Thailand’s coastal strengths ahead of Thailand Health Excellence 2026

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has taken another step in developing Thailand Surf Therapy as a science-based wellness tourism concept. During a two-day programme in Phang-nga, tourism professionals, wellness operators and media representatives explored how structured surf therapy can support emotional well-being while creating new opportunities for coastal destinations. The initiative will be officially presented at Thailand Health Excellence 2026 on 30 June.

Organised in cooperation with Prince of Songkla University, Phuket Campus, La Vita Sana, Memories Surf House and the South African organisation Waves for Change, the event brought together 36 participants to examine how internationally recognised surf therapy practices can be adapted to Thailand's tourism sector.

Combining wellness science with coastal experiences

Thailand Surf Therapy integrates surfing, ocean-based activities and evidence-based wellness principles into a structured tourism experience. The concept aims to promote emotional and mental well-being through safe, nature-based programmes while generating long-term value for local communities and tourism businesses.

“Thailand Surf Therapy is being developed through co-creation, knowledge exchange, and science-based wellness. By combining international surf therapy knowledge with Thailand’s coastal assets, local identity, and service standards, the model can create meaningful wellness experiences that respond to modern traveller behaviour and generate long-term value for visitors, communities, and tourism businesses,” said Nat Kruthasoot, TAT Deputy Governor for Tourism Products and Business.

International expertise supports pilot programme

The programme began with a workshop on the therapeutic benefits of surfing led by Lian Papier of Waves for Change, followed by practical sessions covering surf therapy techniques, participant preparation and safety.

Participants then took part in guided surf therapy sessions at Memories Beach before continuing with additional wellness activities centred on science-based emotional healing. These included ocean floating exercises and Tibetan singing bowl sound therapy at La Solaya Hotel, broadening the concept beyond surfing alone.

New wellness programmes under development

The Thailand Surf Therapy model is being further developed through the Rise On Wave network with support from Span Global, applying the internationally recognised Take 5 approach to Thailand's tourism environment.

The pilot programme is designed primarily for executives, business owners and travellers seeking stress management and emotional well-being. Three experience formats are currently planned: the three-to-five-day Wave Reset Program, the seven-to-14-day Ocean Balance Program and the 14-day-or-longer Surf & Soul Program.

TAT will officially present the Thailand Surf Therapy concept at Thailand Health Excellence 2026 as part of its broader strategy to strengthen Thailand's position as one of Asia's leading destinations for wellness tourism and science-based wellness experiences.