Island Tours from Khao Lak (Not Just Similans)
Khao Lak: Gateway to the Similans
Khao Lak is a beach resort area in Phang Nga province, about 80 kilometers north of Phuket. It is best known as the departure point for Similan Islands tours, since Tap Lamu Pier (the Similan departure pier) is just 20 minutes south of central Khao Lak. But there is more to explore from here.
Tours from Khao Lak
Similan Islands
The obvious choice. From Khao Lak, you save about 1.5 hours of road travel compared to visitors coming from Phuket. Pickup is around 7:00 to 7:30 AM (versus 5:30 AM from Phuket), and you return earlier in the evening. The Similan Islands are available from mid-October to mid-May.
Surin Islands
Another archipelago north of the Similans, the Surin Islands offer excellent snorkeling, particularly around the Moken (sea gypsy) village. Also seasonal (November to May). Departure from Kuraburi Pier, about 1 to 1.5 hours north of Khao Lak.
Phang Nga Bay / James Bond Island
Yes, you can do Phang Nga Bay tours from Khao Lak. Some operators in Khao Lak offer James Bond Island tours. The drive to the departure pier is about 1 to 1.5 hours south. It is longer than from Phuket, but doable.
Khao Sok National Park
Not an island tour, but one of the best day trips from Khao Lak. Khao Sok is a stunning rainforest national park with a lake, limestone formations, and diverse wildlife. About 1.5 hours from Khao Lak. Full-day tours include longtail boat on Cheow Lan Lake, jungle walks, and wildlife spotting.
Local Khao Lak Activities
- Khao Lak-Lam Ru National Park: Coastal national park with hiking trails, beaches, and a waterfall
- Ton Chong Fa Waterfall: A beautiful jungle waterfall about 20 minutes from Khao Lak
- Tsunami Memorial: Police Boat 813, a patrol boat carried 2 kilometers inland by the 2004 tsunami
- Local markets: Bang Niang Market (Monday and Thursday evenings)
Can You Do Phuket Tours from Khao Lak?
Theoretically yes, but the distance (80 km) makes it impractical for most day tours that depart from Phuket's piers. You would spend 3 to 4 hours driving round trip. If you want to do Phi Phi Islands or Coral Island, it is better to plan those tours during your time in Phuket itself.
Tips for Khao Lak Visitors
- Do Similan Islands from Khao Lak (much easier than from Phuket).
- Consider Surin Islands if you want a quieter, less touristy alternative to the Similans.
- Combine with Khao Sok for a great inland experience.
- Book early in peak season. Similan tours from Khao Lak sell out in December to February.
Browse our available tours or contact us for Khao Lak tour options.
