Where to stay in Khao Lak: the beaches compared

Khao Lak is not a single town but a run of beaches along the Phang Nga coast, and the choice of where to stay is really a choice of beach. The Tourism Authority of Thailand names the most popular ones in the Khao Lak area as Nang Thong, Bang Niang, Pakarang, Khuk Khak, Pak Wip and Bang Sak.⁶ The map above places them from the busier centre to the quiet north, with Thap Lamu pier at the southern end.

As we sell no hotels, nothing here ranks a property. It describes the places the properties sit in, using only what the tourism authority says about each beach, and then links the choice to the tours that start from there. Hotel names in other guides change often, and a beach changes far more slowly, so picking the beach first is the better habit.

Phang Nga province as a whole has a family-friendly atmosphere, and its beaches suit quiet holidays and peaceful relaxation.⁷ That sets the tone for every area on this page: nothing here is a party strip. Big nightlife is not what the tourism authority describes, while sleep, sand and a few day tours fit the picture well.

Khuk Khak beach lies 4 km north of Bang Niang, with white sand, palm trees and panoramic views that are not blocked by resort development.⁹ It suits travelers who want open horizons more than a busy promenade. Staying here means a longer ride to the centre for dinner, so plan a few evenings in the room or at the beachside tables.

Pakarang Beach and nearby Cape Pakarang are the centre of the region surf culture, with waves that pick up in the annual monsoon, beach breaks for beginners and reef and point breaks for experts.³ TAT calls Khao Lak one of the most established surf destinations in Thailand.¹⁰ If you surf, this is your base, though the rainy months that bring waves also bring weather that stops island trips.⁸

Pak Wip Beach, 1 km north of Pakarang Cape, has gently sloping water for swimming all year and feels isolated, which suits those who want a corner to themselves.⁵ Inland from it are Sai Rai Rung and Bor Hin Waterfalls, which TAT describes as a good afternoon excursion.⁵ Check red flags on the sand before swimming at any of these beaches, since a red flag means do not swim.¹¹

The answer from the tourism authority is yes, in the sense that the province has a family-friendly atmosphere and plenty of quiet beaches.⁷ Bang Niang offers calm, clear water in high season, and Pak Wip has gentle sloping water all year, both useful for small children.^2,5 Check the sea state each morning, because the monsoon brings large waves and rip-currents that can make swimming dangerous.¹¹

Family-friendly days out are easy to find. A short bamboo raft ride, listed at about 45 minutes, is described as suitable for all ages, from families with children to seniors, at a slow and safe pace. The main rafting day includes elephants fed with bananas, a waterfall and turtles, which may suit curious children.

Practical points for parents: the minivan transfer provides a baby seat free on request, and the airport transfer is wheelchair accessible. Box jellyfish and other stingers come closer to shore in the monsoon months, so the dry season avoids the worst of that.¹⁹ Ask your hotel about a pool, since a calm place to swim helps on rough-sea days.