Travel to Khao Lak, Phang Nga
One of Thailand’s best kept travel secrets is Khao Lak in Phang Nga. Most travelers will be more familiar with Phang Nga’s southernly neighbor, Phuket. When visitors arrive at Phuket International Airport, all they need to do is make a left at the main highway. 10 minutes later they will be crossing the Sarasin Bridge and entering Phang Nga. Another 60 minutes and visitors will be greeted by the majestic view of Khao Lak’s coastline. If Khao Lak, Phang Nga is a new destination for you, we have compiled frequently asked questions (FAQs) to help get you familiarized before you travel to Khao Lak.
How far is Khao Lak from the airport?
Khao Lak is approximately 60-80 minutes from Phuket International (HKT). Located directly north of Phuket, guests enjoy a drive over the Sarasin Bridge, through local towns, bucolic landscapes and mesmerizing sea views before reaching Khao Lak.
What is the closest airport to Khao Lak?
Phuket International Airport (HKT) is the nearest airport to Khao Lak, at a distance of approximately 80 kilometers.
Is Khao Lak an island?
Khao Lak is located on the Thailand mainland in Phang Nga province. It is a coastal city, with a number of beautiful beaches offering stunning sunset vistas. Many islands are easily accessible from Khao Lak, such as Similan Islands, Surin Islands and Phuket.
Which islands are near Khao Lak?
Khao Lak is the departure point for Similan Islands and Surin Islands. Both groups of islands are reached by speedboat. Most tours will include stops at popular snorkeling spots and secluded beaches. The local name for the islands are Koh Similan and Koh Surin. “Koh” means island in Thai. The islands are open from about mid-October to April. Please check local information to ensure the islands are open during your desired travel dates. The island of Phuket is also nearby, accessible by road, only an hour drive to the south.
Can I drive from Bangkok to Khao Lak?
Driving to Khao Lak from Bangkok is possible. The interprovincial highway is well maintained. At a distance of 770 kilometers, it could be a very long day or a multiple day journey. Stops between Bangkok and Khao Lak could include Hua Hin, Pranburi, Chumpon, Ranong, and Khao Sok.
Does Khao Lak have luxury beachfront villas?
Khao Lak has some of the best 5 star hotels and resorts in Thailand, with most providing luxury ocean view or beachfront villas as a premium offering. Luxury beachfront villas make Khao Lak an ideal honeymoon destination. Here is a glimpse of some of ours: Devasom Beachfront Pool Villa
What are the best surf months in Khao Lak?
The best time to surf in Khao Lak is during the green season, from approximately May to October. Surfers come from all over the world to experience the waves, the local Thai culture and the local Thai food. The most popular surf spot is Memories Beach.
When is the best time to travel to Khao Lak?
It is always a good time to travel to Khao Lak. The best time to travel depends on the type of holiday or vacation you are looking for. The green season, running from May to October, has the best waves for surfers. Waterfalls and rivers are usually full during this time of year as well. From November to April, or the high season, Khao Lak has very little rain and lots of blue skies and sunshine. The sea is clear and calm with very little waves and the beautiful Similan Islands and Surin Islands are open for both day and overnight trips.
Can I go to the Similan Islands from Khao Lak?
Yes, Khao Lak is the departure point for speedboats heading to Similan Islands for day and overnight trips. Visitors can book tours through their hotel or local tour companies.
Can I go to the Surin Islands from Khao Lak?
Just as for the Similan Islands, Khao Lak is also the departure point for visiting the Surin Islands on day or overnight trips. Tours can be booked through the hotel or local tour companies.
Can I go to Phang Nga Bay from Khao Lak?
Phang Nga Bay is a short drive south from Khao Lak. Usually guests to Khao Lak will book a tour including transport from the hotel to the pier, plus a boat, food, snorkeling gear and transport back to the hotel.
Can I go to James Bond Island from Khao Lak?
James Bond Island located in the awe-inspiring Phang Nga Bay is a short drive away from Khao Lak. When guests book their tour of Phang Nga Bay, it will usually include James Bond Island. Tours will also include transport from the hotel to the pier, boat, food, snorkeling gear and transport back to the hotel.
Do I need to rent a car in Khao Lak?
Exploring Khao Lak at your own pace with your own itinerary requires your own transportation. Most hotels will offer transport to and from the Khao Lak city center only. Car rentals can be arranged through most international rental brands at the airport, or with local car rental companies in Khao Lak.
How many golf courses are near Khao Lak?
Thailand is very well known for its golf courses. Khao Lak boasts four golf courses within easy driving distance, Katathong Golf Resort and Spa, Kirinara Golf Course, Tublamu Navy Golf Course and Aquella Golf & Country Club. Each course offers golfers beautiful views and varying degrees of difficulty.
Is Khao Lak a good honeymoon destination?
Khao Lak is an amazing honeymoon destination. Firstly, honeymooners have their pick when it comes to luxurious beachfront accommodation. From local boutique resorts to global hotel brands, couples can choose the perfect setting for their special occasion. Secondly, when honeymoon couples are ready to leave their rooms for some outdoor adventures, Khao Lak offers a number of options, from jungle treks to stand-up paddle boarding to bike rides. For romance, there are few things more romantic than a private sunset dinner on the beach, in-room bubble baths, and couples spa massages. Khao Lak is an ideal destination for honeymoon couples.
Which waterfalls are near Khao Lak?
There are many waterfalls near Khao Lak. Some of the more popular waterfalls include Namtok Sai Rung, Ton Pling and Lampi Waterfall.
Is there a national park near Khao Lak?
The largest national park near Khao Lak is Khao Sok National Park. Located north of Khao Lak, at a distance of approximately 70 kilometers. Visitors will be treated to stunning vistas as they drive over Ratchaprapa Dam. A boat ride on Cheow Larn Lake will make the journey truly memorable. Visitors to Khao Lak can either drive themselves or book a tour through their hotel to visit Khao Sok.
Are there Michelin restaurants in Khao Lak, Phang Nga?
There are a few restaurants in Khao Lak that have been featured in the Michelin Guide for Phang Nga in Thailand. Devasom Khao Lak is fortunate to have 2 restaurants featured in the 2022 Michelin Guide, TAKOLA Thai Restaurant and Devasom Beach Grill and Bar. Offering authentic Southern Thai cuisine, TAKOLA has the distinction of Bib Gourmand by Michelin Guide 2021 and 2022. Devasom Beach Grill and Bar has been featured in the Michelin Guide in 2021 and 2022 (pictured below). For a list of all the Phang Nga restaurants in the Michelin Guide, follow this link: https://guide.michelin.com/th/en/th-phang-nga-region/th-phang-nga/restaurants
Where is Khao Lak?
Khao Lak is located on the west coast of Phang Nga Province, approximately 60 minutes directly north of Phuket Province. It is serviced by Phuket International Airport. Khao Lak is west of another popular destination, Krabi Province and west of Surat Thani Province (where Koh Samui is located).
Are there 5-star resorts on the beach in Khao Lak?
Khao Lak has a large number of 5-star hotels all along the west coast, offering guests some of the best beachfront accommodation options Thailand has to offer. Khao Lak has emerged as one of Thailand’s most alluring beach destinations because of the charming boutique luxury hotels owned and managed by Thais. Guests coveting unique experiences filled with local culture, authentic flavors and genuine Thai hospitality in a world-class luxury hotel will be delighted to stay in Khao Lak.
