Khao Lak is an upscale beach resort area along Thailand’s Andaman Sea coast just north of Phuket. Although it was razed during the 2004 tsunami, it is back and snazzier than ever.
Claiming there is an actual town in Khao Lak is overstating the clutch of tour shops, minimarts and restaurants scattered along the main coastal road above Khao Lak Beach. This is a beach resort destination pure and simple. But the beach is long, clean and great for swimming.
Since the tsunami, Khao Lak has gone upscale. Most beach resorts here are a bit pricey, but it’s a nice area considered ripe for development. The beach is the main attraction. It has soft sand studded by granite boulders.
Nearby are some excellent national parks if you want to get off the beach for a day. Lam Ru National Park is the closest, combining a remote cape with jungle hikes, waterfalls and stunning viewpoints.
Khao Lak is also the jumping off point for boats to the beautiful Similan Islands, a national marine park with arguably the best scuba diving in Thailand.
Getting There & Away
The easiest way to reach Khao Lak is to fly to the nearest airport, Phuket International, and catch a direct taxi or minivan shuttle north to the beach; approximately 90 minute away. There are daily flights to Phuket from most major cities in Thailand. Otherwise, you can take the bus from Bangkok to Phuket which runs right past Khao Lak.
Things to Do
Khao Lak Attractions
- Khao Lak Beach
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This extremely long stretch of soft sand is ideal for walks, swims, shell collecting and working on that tan.
- Lam Ru National Park
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Just down the road you can follow trails through the jungle that lead to isolated beaches, waterfalls and scenic viewpoints.
- Similan Islands
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If you scuba dive, don’t miss the chance to explore thailand’s finest reefs.