Laid-back and less developed than other resorts on Thailand’s Andaman coastline, Khao Lak combines long stretches of white sand with jungle scenery. It’s also the gateway to the Similan Islands archipelago, one of Asia's top scuba diving destinations, where underwater wonderlands brim with colorful coral, sea turtles, and tropical fish. Things to do in Khao Lak include exploring Khao Lak-Lam Ru National Park, with its secluded beaches and rugged hiking trails, and feasting on street food at Bang Niang Market, where tom yum goong (spicy shrimp soup) is the dish of the day.
Khao Lak’s tropical climate means it experiences distinct wet and dry seasons. The rainy period stretches from March through July, but you’ll still experience plenty of sunny days if you visit from June—downpours are usually limited to the afternoon. The driest and most expensive months are from December through February, when you’ll likely find Khao Lak’s already expensive accommodation prices rise further.
The Khao Lak area covers 18 miles (30 kilometers) of coastline; if you want to explore the local area, a tuk-tuk is the easiest way to get around. Many of Kaho Lak's high-end hotels and resorts offer a shuttle service to the best beaches, but if you want a taste of local life, catch a songthaew—a shared taxi service in a customized pickup truck.
Every March, Khao Lak hosts the Turtle Conservation Festival, when baby turtles are released into the ocean from Hat Thai Mueang Beach. The 10-day celebration also features traditional dances and local vendors selling handicrafts and food. You can learn more about the process at the Sea Turtle Conservation Center in Khao Lak; if you want to release a turtle, you’ll need to reserve a spot up to two months in advance by contacting the center.
