Khao Lak is often considered a secondary destination for beach tourists in Thailand. It doesn’t have the fame of Phuket or Koh Samui, nor is it as remote as Koh Kood. However, this is not necessarily a disadvantage. In fact, it’s quite the opposite. Khao Lak boasts beautiful beaches that rival, and in some cases surpass, those of popular spots like Ao Nang in Krabi. Additionally, it serves as a gateway to some of the best natural paradises in the region. In this guide to Khao Lak, we will explain the benefits of visiting this charming destination.
We’ve mentioned that this lesser-known spot can lead you to breathtaking locations. This is because Khao Lak is the gateway to visiting the Similan Islands and traveling to Koh Surin. If you’re interested in diving or snorkeling in these natural wonders, we recommend spending at least one or two nights in Khao Lak.
Khao Lak strikes a perfect balance between a developed tourist industry, with good restaurants and shops, and the tranquility of a place that is never overcrowded. Hotels are more affordable, the beaches are less crowded, and there are fewer people trying to sell you things you don’t want. Although there is no vibrant nightlife, you can still enjoy a few drinks if you wish.
Khao Lak is located in the province of Phang Nga, just north of Phuket, and is relatively unknown to Western travelers, although it is a popular vacation spot among Thais.
Currently, there is no airport in Phang Nga, though one is planned. However, this is not a major inconvenience as Khao Lak is only 80 kilometers from Phuket Airport, making it easy to reach.
In summary, if you’re looking for a beach destination with ample services and a relaxing atmosphere, away from the crowds of Phuket or Koh Samui, Khao Lak is an excellent choice. It is also the best option if you plan to visit the Similan Islands or Koh Surin.
Khao Lak is located in the Andaman Sea and experiences the same climate patterns as Phuket. The best time to visit is from mid-November to the end of February, when the weather is sunny, rain-free, and temperatures are comfortable. If you dislike rain, traveling from the latter half of December onwards is advisable.
From February to May, the weather can be extremely hot, though there will be no rain. Between June and the end of October, the skies may be cloudy, and rain is more frequent. However, resorts offer fantastic prices during this period.
Note that if you wish to visit Koh Surin or the Similan Islands, you should avoid the rainy season, as these destinations close during the wettest months.
The cheapest way to reach Khao Lak is by bus. Buses depart from Bangkok‘s South Station (map) every afternoon for Phuket and make stops in Khao Lak. Prices range from 25 to 35 Euros, depending on the company. Tickets can be purchased at 12GoAsia.
If you are in a capital city with an airport, such as Bangkok or Chiang Mai, it’s best to fly to Phuket Airport. There are no regular direct lines from the airport to Khao Lak. You can either ask a taxi driver to take you to the nearest bus stop or drive directly to Khao Lak. Since taxis can be expensive, it’s better to use the Bolt app to keep the fare under a thousand baht. The trip takes about an hour.
Although there is a bus service from Phuket to Khao Lak, it departs from the southern part of the island, which is an hour away from the airport, so it’s not a convenient option. Phuket is a large island, and if you’re heading to Khao Lak, it’s to avoid the issues associated with the so-called “Pearl of Asia.”
There are a few taxis in Khao Lak, and you can use the Bolt and Grab apps to get around. However, if you’re comfortable riding a motorbike, renting one is a better option. Prices range from 200 to 250 baht per day, allowing you to explore the area more freely. Just remember to have medical insurance in case of unforeseen events. Khao Lak doesn’t have heavy traffic and is manageable, but it’s always wise to be covered.
The beaches in Khao Lak may not be as stunning as the best ones in Phuket, such as Freedom Beach or Yanui Beach, but they are certainly more appealing than the crowded Patong Beach. When compared to Krabi, Khao Lak’s beaches are preferable to Ao Nang Beach, although Railay Peninsula remains more beautiful.
The main beach in Khao Lak is Nang Thong Beach, which is perhaps the least attractive. However, it offers beautiful sunrises and sunsets from the lighthouse area and is a convenient place to stay due to its numerous night markets, restaurants, and bars.
Pak Weep Beach is possibly the most picturesque, though it is a bit farther away. It is quite large and features several restaurants worth visiting. The waters here are also quite beautiful.
Khuk Khak Beach, where some of the main resorts are located, is much more serene and even somewhat private.
If you rent a motorbike and explore Khao Lak (which is highly recommended if you’re comfortable riding) there are several interesting spots you can visit in a day. For example, you can check out the Pivat, Sai Rung, and Chong Fa waterfalls, with Chong Fa being the most famous. They have an entrance fee of less than three euros and offer swimming opportunities. These waterfalls are also close to town, so you can visit them independently instead of booking a tour.
A few islands near the mainland can be reached by motorized platforms, where you can even bring your motorbike for less than a euro. However, they are about 40 kilometers from Khao Lak’s center. The trip is worthwhile if you’re adventurous and want to explore relatively deserted beaches.
As we previously mentioned, the highlight of Khao Lak is its proximity to the Similan Islands and Koh Surin. However, there are other attractions worth exploring. So, how many days should you spend in this tranquil destination?
Khao Lak is perfect for a few days of adventure and relaxation, including island exploration, diving, and snorkeling. We recommend spending at least two days in Khao Lak to fully explore the area. There are enough beaches to occupy two days of motorbike travel from one location to another.
If you also want to enjoy a peaceful beachfront resort holiday, Khao Lak is ideal for couples, families, and solo travelers alike. This could extend your stay.
It is almost a must to visit at least one of the nearby marine parks when in Khao Lak. Therefore, in addition to the minimum of two days to explore Khao Lak, we suggest an extra day for a tour to the Similan Islands, or two if you want to spend the night at sea diving. Consider adding another two days if possible, to stay overnight at Koh Surin, which is great for snorkeling.
If you can’t visit both marine national parks, choose the Similan Islands if you’re a diving enthusiast. On the other hand, if you prefer snorkeling and waking up on a beautiful beach, opt for Koh Surin.
If you don’t have private transportation, such as a motorbike or car, many people choose to stay in Nang Thong due to its wide variety of food options at sunset and its limited number of bars. However, consider staying in Khuk Khak or Pak Weep for a more relaxed experience. While there isn’t much to do at night, these areas feature some excellent hotels. For example, Robinson Khao Lak has a private beach and offers all-inclusive options for those seeking complete seclusion.
Given that most of Khao Lak’s tourist industry is concentrated in Nang Thong, it makes sense to look for restaurants there. However, prices can be high, and the night markets tend to be quite touristy. It’s best to visit for small bites and drinks.
There are also some excellent beachside restaurants. Our top recommendation is Boom Boom Restaurant at Pak Weep Beach. It offers beachfront dining with fresh fish at affordable prices.
For a taste of southern Thai cuisine, we recommend Nai Mueang, a highly regarded restaurant where you can sample some of the region’s most characteristic dishes.
Finally, for a drink, try Qyūri in Nang Thong, where you can enjoy local gins in some excellent and reasonably priced mixed drinks
