5 of the Best Things to do in Khao Lak
5 of the best things to do in Khao Lak
Khao Lak is a series of villages in Phang Nga Province, which has become popular in recent years among tourists looking for something a little different to the more developed island of Phuket located 60 kilometres (37 miles) South of Khao Lak. Unlike Phuket there are strict laws that prohibit buildings being built taller than a palm tree which means it feels a lot more low key and quieter. There is plenty to keep you occupied in Khao Lak, from hot springs, to scuba diving to waterfall chasing in the surrounding mountains. Here we look at 5 of the best things to do in Khao Lak.
Scuba Diving in Khao Lak
Khao Lak is perhaps best know for being a jumping off point for some world class scuba diving at the Similan Islands and further North, the Surin Islands. Please note that the Similan Island National Park closes from May to October. Therefore, diving in Khao Lak is only possible from November to April. There are some lesser known diving sites in Khao Lak such as The Boonsung wreck, a former tin dredger which is now home to vast numbers of fish which is open year round. Sea Bees is one of the most established diving operators in the region offering diving trips around the region.

Hiking Trails in Khao Lak and Beyond
Beyond the town of Khao Lak is a network of mountains, forests, mountains and waterfalls, part of which being protected by Lamru National Park which makes for an interesting place to spend hiking and exploring. The park is rich in rattan trees, giant ferns, orchids, dense jungle and mangroves and there are a couple of popular trails which can be explored in half a day at 5km and 7km in length. The trails are signposted and the trails are dotted with streams and waterfalls. For those who are seeking even more hiking and trekking opportunities, Phang Nga National Park located 65km further North is spread over an area of 240sqm. This park is richer in wildlife and is home to deer, tapir’s, gibbons, macaques and many species of birds. There are several hiking trails accessible from the National Park headquarters.

Muay Thai and Fitness Camps in Khao Lak
Students of all levels visit Khao Lak to train in Muay Thai, MMA, Boxing and other martial arts. Khao Lak is a perfect location for those looking to focus on their training, close enough to the hustle and bustle of Phuket but far enough away to be surrounded by the tranquility of the seaside town of Khao Lak. Combat 360X is unique in that it specializes in small group classes with an emphasis on high quality training and techniques. Combat 360X offers a wide range of programs, packages and classes for all requirements and can help booking numerous other tours around Khao Lak. All of the trainers are fully qualified in their specific field with many years of experience and being further from Phuket means prices are far more cost effective.

Beach Hopping
Khao Lak is blessed with having long unbroken stretches of golden sandy beaches with the main strips of Nang Thong beach and La On village being the most popular due to their proximity to the town as well as main shopping, dining and nightlife areas. For those looking for a bit more peace and quiet, Khao Lak beach is located 5km further north and Bang Sak beach is 4km North of Pakarang Cape. Here you will find empty stretches of beach and stunning white sand and clear water. The latter is popular among locals who will relax under the shade of the casuarina trees which line the beach. Several 5 star hotels and resorts such as Pullman Khao Lak Katiliya are located at Pak Wip beach, 1km north of Pakarang Cape. This is a 5km stretch of beach which leads into Bang Sak beach. Sunset beach is located at the Southern end of Nang Thong beach and is a pretty and peaceful beach. Sunset beach has a few restaurants and is within walking distance of shops and other dining options. Various accommodation dots the hillside behind Sunset beach.
Tsunami Museum
This understated museum located along Phet Kasem Road allows visitors an opportunity to reflect on the impact of the devastating 2004 tsunami. The collection is mostly made of up photos of the devastation caused by the tsunami as well as a collection of stories of survivors. The museum is open from 9am to 7pm and costs 100 THB for adults and 50 THB for children to enter.
