Southern Thailand is holiday riding at its finest. Coastal roads that hug limestone cliffs, jungle tracks that cut between beaches, and island circuits that reward anyone willing to get off the tourist trail and explore on their own terms. The shops listed on this page have been selected based on reputation, reliability and quality of bikes and service. We only recommend shops we would rent from ourselves.
Phuket
Phuket is Thailand's largest island and one of its most popular destinations. Taxis are expensive, public transport is limited, and a motorbike gives you access to the hidden beaches, quiet viewpoints and local neighbourhoods that most visitors never see.
1. Bikago Phuket
Bikago has set a new standard for motorbike rental in Phuket — professional, well-organised and genuinely visitor-friendly. The fleet is one of the widest available on the island, covering automatic scooters through to manual motorbikes. Free delivery and collection available anywhere in Phuket on bookings of three days or more. Roadside assistance available island-wide. Comprehensive motorbike insurance included — one of the few shops on the island that genuinely covers you. Online booking available. Airport pickup and drop-off available.
Website: bikago.com/phuket
Specialty: Wide fleet, free island-wide delivery, comprehensive insurance, airport service
2. Motorbike Rental Station Phuket
Consistently praised for honest pricing, no passport deposit policy, cash bond only, and deposits returned without dispute. In a city where rental scams and damage disputes are a known problem, this shop is the kind that gives riders genuine peace of mind.
Website: motorbike-rental-station-phuket.com
Specialty: Honest service, no passport deposit, cash bond only, transparent pricing
3. Phuket Scooter Rental
One of the island's longest-established rental operations with over 600 verified five-star reviews. European-owned and operated, particularly popular with European visitors. Known for clear communication, well-maintained scooters and a straightforward rental process.
Website: phuketscooterrental.com
Specialty: Long-established, European-owned, 600+ five-star reviews, popular with European visitors
Krabi
Krabi rewards riders. The roads that wind between Ao Nang, Krabi Town and the quieter southern beaches offer some of the most scenic riding in the south, with limestone karsts rising above the treeline and the Andaman Sea appearing around almost every corner.
1. MotoKrabi
One of Krabi's most reputable rental companies, popular with long-stay visitors and digital nomads. No passport deposit policy, broad insurance coverage and clear responsive communication.
Website: motoKrabi.com
Specialty: No passport deposit, insurance coverage, popular with long-stay visitors and digital nomads
2. Krabi Moto Rentals
Well regarded for flexibility and convenience — bikes delivered throughout the Ao Nang area, with delivery to Krabi Town and the airport available for a small fee. Offers basic motorbike lessons for first-time riders. Communication via WhatsApp.
Specialty: Island-wide delivery including airport, motorbike lessons available, great for first-time riders
Koh Samui
Koh Samui is best explored on two wheels. The ring road that circles the island is easy and enjoyable, the inland roads that cut through jungle and past waterfalls are worth every kilometre, and the beaches on the quieter northern and eastern coasts are far more rewarding when you arrive under your own steam.
Safety Warning — Koh Samui
Koh Samui has one of the highest motorbike accident rates of any destination in Thailand. The centre of the island is entirely mountainous with steep, winding roads that demand real riding experience. This is compounded by poorly maintained bikes from less reputable rental shops. Always rent from a trusted shop. Stick to the ring road if you are new to riding and avoid the mountain interior until your experience level matches the terrain.
1. Peace of Mind Motorbike Rental Samui
Bikes delivered and collected directly from your accommodation. Fleet is well-maintained and regularly updated including the Honda ADV 160. Cash deposits returned in full without dispute. The team is genuinely helpful, offering practical tips and local knowledge.
Specialty: Delivery and pickup from accommodation, honest service, full deposits returned, local riding advice
2. CHANG Samui Rentals
Perfect 5.0 rating across 637 verified reviews. No deposit required — just a copy of your passport. Bikes delivered and collected from your hotel free of charge. Communication via WhatsApp. Fleet includes Honda PCX 160cc.
Specialty: Perfect 5.0 rating, no deposit required, free hotel delivery and pickup, easy WhatsApp booking
Heading south and planning your route?
Check our Weather by Region guide to find the best time of year to ride — or visit our Routes section for road tips across the south.