Khao Lak is a long strip of beaches in Phang Nga province, north of Phuket. It has a calmer pace than Phuket's busy resort areas, with wide sand, forested hills behind the coast and a mix of family resorts and small guesthouses. For many visitors the main reason to come is the Similan Islands, which are reached by boat from the Khao Lak coast during the park's open season.
How to get to Khao Lak
From Phuket airport (HKT). Khao Lak is roughly 60-100 km north of the airport depending on the beach, which usually means about 1 to 1.5 hours by road. Options include pre-booked private transfers, taxis and shared minivans. Prices vary by season and vehicle, so ask for the total fare before you leave the arrival hall and compare with the transfer prices posted by the airport.
By bus. Long-distance buses from Bangkok to Phang Nga or Takua Pa can drop you on Highway 4 close to Khao Lak. From there local songthaews or taxis connect to the beaches. Timetables change, so check with the bus operator.
From Krabi. Road transfers take around 2.5 to 3 hours. This is a common add-on for travellers combining Khao Lak with Krabi.
Within Khao Lak. The area is spread out along the main highway. Renting a scooter is common but comes with risk. A taxi or a pre-arranged driver is safer if you are not experienced.
Best time to visit
| Period | Weather | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Nov-Apr | Dry season, calm sea | Best time for beach days and Similan trips |
| Mid-Oct to mid-May | Similan National Park open (approx.) | Check the Department of National Parks for exact dates |
| May-Oct | Rainy season | Rough seas, red-flag beaches, cheaper rooms |
The Similan Islands close to visitors for part of the year for the monsoon season and for ecosystem recovery. As of 2026, the season is roughly mid-October or November to mid-May, but dates are announced by the park, so check the official site. The full guide is in Similan Islands guide.
Where to stay
Khao Lak is made of several beach zones, each with its own character. A detailed comparison is in where to stay in Khao Lak.
- Nang Thong: The most built-up part, with restaurants, shops and the main beach road. Good for first-timers who want choice.
- Bang Niang: A wider beach with a local market and more mid-range hotels, a bit quieter than Nang Thong.
- Khuk Khak: Quieter and more resort-focused, with long stretches of sand.
- Bang Sak and Pakarang: Farther north or south, with large resorts and the feeling of being away from it all.
Top things to do
- Similan Islands day trip or liveaboard. Snorkelling and diving among granite boulders and white sand. Season and entry rules are managed by the national park.
- Beach days. Long, uncrowded beaches especially in the morning.
- Khao Lak-Lam Ru National Park. Walks and waterfalls in the forested hills behind the coast. Check opening and entry on the official site.
- Tsunami memorials and museums. There are memorials in the area for the 2004 tsunami. Visit them respectfully.
- Diving and snorkelling. Day trips, courses and liveaboards operate from the local piers.
- Cooking classes and markets. Local markets and cooking schools offer a break from the sun.
If Similan is your main reason to visit, book your hotel and boat trip for the middle of the park season, and keep a spare day in case weather cancels sailings.
Sample budget
| Item | Budget | Mid-range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Room per night | THB 700-1,500 | THB 2,000-5,000 | Higher in Dec-Jan |
| Meals per day | THB 350-600 | THB 700-1,300 | Local restaurants vs resort dining |
| Similan day trip | THB 2,500-4,500 | THB 4,500-7,000 | Often excludes park fee, check inclusions |
| Airport transfer (one way) | THB 700-1,200 shared | THB 1,300-2,500 private | Approx., check operator |
All figures are approximate as of 2026. Check the current price on the operator's own page.
Plan your trip
- Read the Similan Islands guide.
- Compare beach areas in where to stay in Khao Lak.
- Thai readers: see Similan Islands in Thai.
Nearby destinations
- Phuket is the main airport gateway and base for Phang Nga Bay tours.
- Krabi is a few hours south-east, with Railay and island-hopping.
- Koh Lanta and Koh Lipe continue the Andaman route to the south.
- Thailand overview for country-wide planning.
Safety: observe beach flags, avoid swimming in the rainy season when rip currents are common, and keep your travel insurance valid for water activities. In Thailand dial 1669 for medical emergencies, 191 for police and 1155 for the Tourist Police.
FAQ
Is Khao Lak good for first-time visitors to Thailand?
It suits visitors who want quiet beaches and nature. If you prefer nightlife and a large choice of restaurants, Phuket or Krabi may fit better.
Can I visit the Similan Islands all year?
No. The park is closed for part of the year, roughly mid-May to mid-October or November (as of 2026). Check the Department of National Parks for the exact dates.
How far is Khao Lak from Phuket airport?
Roughly 1 to 1.5 hours by road, depending on traffic and the beach you are heading to.
Do I need a car or scooter?
Many visitors rely on taxis or pre-booked drivers. A scooter is convenient but increases accident risk, and you need a valid licence and insurance.
What should I bring?
Reef-safe sun protection, a rash guard, quick-dry clothes, a waterproof bag for boat trips and some cash, as small businesses may not take cards.
Official sources and further reading
Prices, schedules and entry rules change. Figures here are approximate as of 2026; always confirm on the official or operator page before you book. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.
