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Khao Lak (Khaolak)
Destinations Beyond Phuket
Khao Lak is a quiet destination best known for its proximity to world-class dive sites, relaxed atmosphere, long beaches and scenic interior - only an hour's drive north from Phuket International Airport.
The beauty of Khao Lak best reveals itself when approached from the south. The narrow road first winds through virgin forest, and then, as it leads towards Khao Lak centre, it offers an expansive view of an endless stretch of golden sand lapped by the brilliant blue Andaman Sea. Breathtaking.
Development has accelerated in recent years and many parts of the area appear to be under construction, but it's still very easy to get away from it all. Thankfully, local development has remained quite low-key and Khao Lak is so far still a relaxed and natural place. The upside, of course, is that there is now a great range of accommodation available here, from basic bungalows to five-star luxury resorts.
While the wide, empty beaches are the main attractions of Khao Lak, it's also the closest mainland launch point for trips over to Thailand's top dive sites: the Similan and Surin islands, easily reached within a few hours by boat.
Renowned for their colourful marine life, vast coral gardens and clear waters, the Similan group of islands attract many divers and snorkellers on daytrips and liveaboards (closed from May-October). Surin is also a fascinating dive destination, and its lush interior is worth exploring on foot as well. The national parks within or nearby the Khao Lak area are also fantastic places to hike around, take an elephant trek or water rafting trip and enjoy the abundant tropical vegetation, wildlife, waterfalls and streams.
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