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Khao Lak Dive Sites Information
 Thirty-two
kilometres south from Takua Pa, and less than two hours from Phuket
International Airport, Khao Lak is becoming increasingly popular
with both domestic and overseas visitors. The combination of long
stretches of unspoiled beach and virgin mountain wilderness make
this area particularly attractive to tourists looking for a peaceful
vacation in the Land of Smiles. Much of the tourist accommodation
available is built in traditional Southern Thai style, with many
rustic bungalows spread along the coastline.
Located on the west coast of Phang Nga province, only 1 hour north
of Phuket International Airport, this unique headland and beach
springs up out of nowhere as you cross a rather flat stretch of
rice paddies and gently undulating hills on your way north from
Phuket.
Khao Lak’s close proximity to the Similan Islands guarantees
it’s continuing popularity with liveaboard and day trips from
both Khao Lak and Phuket operators departing from the local harbour
at Thap Lamu.
The recent tsunami affected most of the beachfront resorts, many of
which were the domain of overseas package tour operators. However,
the main road through Khao Lak was not affected, and this rural village
now appears as it was 10 years ago, with small, friendly guesthouses,
locally run Thai style restaurants and bars, and a small selection
of shops, banks and tour operators. As 10 years ago, Khao Lak is again
the haunt of the independent traveller and diver.
A wide range of accommodation is available – more than 500
rooms – ranging from budget guesthouses to international standard
resorts. As Khao Lak is not the location for an extended beach holiday
at the moment, visitors should be prepared to enjoy the company
of the local Khao Lak residents, who are very friendly and eager
to receive tourists again, so a warm welcome is guaranteed to all
future divers who come to support this community and enjoy the great
diving on offer.
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