Khao Lak

About this place

Khao Lak stretches along 20 km of Andaman coastline about 80 km north of Phuket. It was devastated by the 2004 tsunami and rebuilt as a quieter, more upscale destination than its southern neighbor. The main draw is long, wide beaches without the crowds or nightlife of Phuket. It's also the primary departure point for Similan Islands liveaboards and day trips. Several excellent national parks are nearby, including Khao Sok (accessible as a day trip). The town has a good selection of Thai and international restaurants, family resorts, and dive operators.