NEARBY

Khao Lak is home to palm-fringed beaches, clear skies, verdant forests, sapphire waters, and immaculate islands, yet there are creature comforts, shopping, and plenty of facilities, too. Khao Lak city center is just a 20-minute drive. Here you can be as adventurous or chilled as you wish. If you are a nature lover, map out your tropical forays into Khao Lak’s abundant natural setting.

The Similan islands marine national park, for instance, is what you can’t afford to miss. Its smooth granite islands are as impressive above water as below, topped with a rainforest, edged with white-sand beaches and fringed with coral reefs. Recently, the park has expanded to include Ko Bon and Ko Tachai, both of which have remained unscathed by coral bleaching, making them perfect spots for diving and snorkeling.