Surat Thani, historically known as a center of the Srivijaya Kingdom, has ancient roots tied to trade, religion, and settlement. Archaeological evidence indicates that the area, especially around Bandon Bay, was a bustling trade hub and possibly part of the ancient Silk Road. During the 13th century, Srivijaya thrived in the region, with the city of Chaiya as one of its significant centers. Later, as the Kingdom of Tambralinga (now Nakhon Si Thammarat) rose to prominence, Chaiya became one of its “twelve zodiac cities,” named “Ban Thai Samo.”

Other notable ancient settlements in the Tapi River basin included Wiang Sa, Khiri Rat Nikhom, and Tha Thong. The ruler of Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phra Sri Dhammasok, is believed to have migrated from Wiang Sa due to epidemics and the lack of access to the sea. When Nakhon Si Thammarat grew into a powerful kingdom, both Chaiya and Tha Thong were integrated as significant cities under its governance.

During King Rama III’s reign, Bandon Bay became a strategic location, with the establishment of royal shipyards for building royal and war vessels. Under King Rama IV, the city of Tha Thong was moved to Bandon Bay and elevated to a fourth-class city named “Kanchanadit.”

In King Chulalongkorn’s reign, Kanchanadit, Khiri Rat Nikhom, and Chaiya were unified under Chumphon's administrative monthon system as “Mueang Chaiya.” The city continued to grow, prompting further administrative changes, including the establishment of a new city at Bandon Bay, known as "Amphoe Chaiya," with the former Chaiya city renamed "Amphoe Phumriang." However, to resolve public confusion between the old and new names, King Rama VI renamed the city at Bandon Bay to "Surat Thani," or "City of Good People," after the Indian city of Surat. He also named the Tapi River, inspired by India’s Tapti River.