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Monday, October 31, 2011

Khao Lak – the jewel of Phang Nga

When planning a beach holiday in Thailand, most people start off by looking at Phuket. While Phuket has an abundance of charms, there is a stunning alternative only one hour’s drive away from Phuket Airport – Khao Lak. The white sands of Khao Lak Beach are breathtakingly beautiful, and stretch out unbroken for over 15 kilometers. There is a wealth of fine Khao Lak hotels to choose from. Yet Khao Lak does not get the same amount of attention from tourists as Phuket – which is great news for those who are looking for a tranquil beach holiday in tropical paradise.

Bang La On is generally considered to be at the heart of Khao Lak – there is a wide range of shops, restaurants and hotels here. People who enjoy a few quiet beers will love the understated nightlife here – Bang La On certainly doesn’t have the super-clubs to rival the nightlife in Phuket’s Patong, just a nice selection of watering-holes with a good mixture of welcoming local Thai people and visitors from overseas. Nang Thong Beach and Sunset Beach are well within walking distance of Bang La On, and are made up of kilometers of incredible unspoiled white sand.

One of Khao Lak’s major attractions is the nearby Similian Islands – 50km out at sea, the Similian Islands have some of the most outstanding beachscapes you are ever likely to see. Part of the Similian National park, the islands can only be visited between November and April, but they are a must see for anyone travelling to Khao Lak at this time of year. As well as deserted tranquil beaches, you may also wish to participate in the scuba diving and snorkeling that brings knowledgeable divers here from all over the world.

The Surin Islands are a little further away from Khao Lak than the Similian Islands, but they are open all year round and offer their own idyllic charms. Like the Similan Islands, they enjoy world-class status for scuba diving enthusiasts. The total lack of development makes it difficult to stay here, but also ensures that the beaches and lagoons are almost untouched by tourism – the Surin Islands are devastatingly beautiful.


There are a number of attractions around Khao Lak that can make a great day out for families and couples. Chong Fah Waterfall is easily accessible and a visit here is a good way to become immersed in Khao Lak’s natural beauty. Khao Lak Lam Ru National Park has a huge variety of flora and fauna that no nature lover will want to miss.

There are plenty of Khao Lak hotels where you can relax and enjoy the surroundings. Phuketbooknow.com offers a great selection of Khao Lak hotels. Currently, you can stay in a modern and clean budget hotel from just $42 a night, and our special rates even extend to five star hotels which start at an incredible $79 a night. We have exclusive deals with all the major hotels in Khao Lak, so why not come to phuketbooknow.com and see for yourself?