Beauty and the beach
Holidays in Khao Lak showcase some of the best attractions Thailand has to offer. Featuring unspoilt beaches, first rate scuba diving and dramatic scenery, you’ll be captivated by this perfect area.
Khao Lak is bordered by three stunning national parks, boasting waterfalls, rich jungle and soaring hills - a haven for keen hikers and wildlife lovers. Those who wish to partake in river activities should head to Khao Sok National Park, where canoeing and water rafting are waiting to be enjoyed.
Khao Lak is the gateway to the Similan and Surin Islands, where you’ll find some of the best diving sites in the world. There are three shipwrecks which are home to a diverse range of marine life, as well as coral reefs which feature some rare species. Diving and snorkelling enthusiasts will be enchanted by the marine life here, as the crystal clear water allows for up to 30 metres of visibility.
Luxury holidays in Khao Lak promise to provide the ultimate setting for a relaxing holiday in the sun. Many of the hotels here are designed to suit the surroundings, allowing you to relax in a wooden villa surrounded by lush greenery, accompanied by awe-inspiring sea views. Spend your days relaxing on the beach with a fresh coconut or choose to explore the magnificent snorkelling sites in the area. Alternatively, head into the town centre of Bang La On, where you’ll find restaurants and bars offering a range of mouth watering cuisine.
Khao Lak is home to a range of fabulous hotels, but Sovereign recommends a stay at JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort and Spa. This resort boasts the largest swimming pool in Southeast Asia, making it the perfect location for a relaxing holiday. As the name would suggest, it also offers a spa complete with steam rooms, massages and therapy baths. Alternatively, choose to stay at The Sarojin, a gorgeous five star hotel located on a pristine white sand beach. Rooms are decorated in a contemporary Asian style and boast views over the hotel’s tropical gardens.
Flight time from the UK to Thailand is approximately 11 hours 30 minutes.
Transfer time from Phuket airport to Khao Lak is approximately 1 hour 30 minutes.
Thailand has a tropical climate, which means it’s hot and humid for most of the year. Rainy months vary depending on where you are in Thailand: in south-western areas like Phuket, the monsoon season starts around April and finishes in October, while south-east destinations like Koh Samui see more rain between September and December (there’s still plenty of sunshine between showers, though). The hottest months are March to June, although humidity is high and average temperatures can push 40°C. Wait until after the rainy season if you prefer slightly cooler temperatures – between December and February, averages stick to the high 20s and early 30s.
British passport holders do not require a visa for stays of up to 30 days.
Tipping is not expected in Thailand, although most hotels and restaurants will include a 10% service charge.
The official language of Thailand is Thai. English is widely spoken too.
