Hotels in Khao Lak

Khao Lak: Reef, Rainforest and the Similan Islands Gateway

Khao Lak sits on Thailand's Andaman coast in Phang Nga Province, roughly 80 km north of Phuket International Airport. The area spans several distinct beach villages — Nang Thong, Bang Niang, and Khuk Khak — strung along 20 km of dark-sand shoreline backed by forest. That compact geography makes it a quieter alternative to Phuket while still offering serious diving infrastructure. The Similan Islands National Park, rated among Southeast Asia's top dive sites, departs from nearby Tab Lamu Pier, about 10 km south of Nang Thong.

Who Visits and Why

Divers and snorkelers drive much of the traffic, particularly between November and April when the Andaman Sea calms. Families also favor Khao Lak for its lower crowd density compared to Patong or Karon. Khao Sok National Park, with its limestone karsts and Cheow Lan Lake, lies 60 km east and makes a practical day or overnight trip from any Nang Thong hotel.

Practical Tips

• Getting here: Shared minivans from Phuket Airport run roughly 1.5–2 hours; private transfers are available.
• Season: High season runs November–April; the monsoon closes Similan Islands liveaboards May–October.
• Currency: ATMs concentrate along the Nang Thong strip; carry baht for smaller guesthouses.