Take a boat trip out to Phang Nga Bay and be amazed at the magical scenery of hundreds of limestone karsts emerging from the emerald-green water. Discover the hidden caves and beaches inside the karsts by foot, boat or sea canoe. Sail past Koh Panyi - a Gypsy village built on stilts over the water, Wat Sawan Kuha – the monkey temple, and Koh Tapu - brought to the world’s attention through its starring role in the James Bond movie, The Man with the Golden Gun.

Spend the day exploring Khao Lak Lam Ru National Park by hiking the forests with its trailing jungle vines and giant ferns, discover hidden white-sand beaches and be amazed by local wildlife, including hornbills, monitor lizards, and the Malyan Tapir. Right in the centre of the forest is the impressive Ton Chong Fa Waterfall, picnic on the rocks here and swim in the cold clear water. 

Home to nine stunning jungle-topped islands with long coral sand beaches and crystal-clear waters, the Similan Islands offer a myriad of marine life under the sparkling turquoise waters. Put walking boots on and hike to the famous Sail Rock to enjoy the amazing views, step into dive gear and explore the waters around Coral Bay searching for sea turtles and clown fish, complete the day at sunset on the breathtaking island of Honeymoon Bay and Princess Bay.

Open from 15 October – 15 May

There are thousands of Buddhist temples in Thailand, many dating back hundreds of years, and Khao Lak has its fair share. ‘Wats’ in Thai have traditionally been at the centre of community life and are visited by Buddhists on special occasions, to make merit, to worship, and to pray for peace and prosperity.

You don’t have to be a Buddhist to visit a wat, tourists are very welcome. Worth it for the views alone is Wat Bang Riang, a sacred temple sat atop the great Khao Lan Mountain. Or take a scenic drive along mountain roads and limestone cliffs where, hidden inside a cave, is Tham Suwan Kuha Temple and a gold reclining Buddha. Make sure to take some treats for the cheeky monkeys hanging around the cave.

Local markets in Thailand are an important part of Thai culture, especially the night markets as the temperatures are cooler once the sun sets. They are a fun evening out for everyone, and they are a great place to try delicious cheap street food and snacks.

Bang Niang market is the largest in Khao Lak with hundreds of stalls selling traditional Thai textiles, handmade souvenirs, sunglasses and bags, t-shirts, paintings and a lot more. They also have plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables and a wonderful selection of street food, anything from deep fried chicken, barbecued squid and spring rolls to bananas sweetened with coconut milk.

Every Monday, Wednesday and Saturday

There are several international golf courses around Khao Lak with first-class facilities and club houses. Appreciate the cool sea breeze at the 18 Hole Tublamu Navy Golf Course, one of the most beautiful courses with play extending to Son Ngam Beach. Or tee off as the sun rises over the mountains at Kirinara Golf Course, a challenging 9-hole course offering a combination of long and short holes amongst dense palm trees, water hazards, tough greens and mountainous slopes.