Khao Lak High Season 2026/27: Beaches, Resorts and Similan Islands
Khao Lak’s high season starts in November. The Similan Islands are open from 15 October 2026 to 15 May 2027. Beaches, resorts and the drive from Phuket Airport.
When the high season starts in Khao Lak
Khao Lak, on the Andaman coast of Phang Nga province north of Phuket, enters its high season in November. As the southwest monsoon fades, the sea usually becomes calmer, sunny days become the norm and the resorts that closed or scaled down during the rainy months reopen fully.
The neighbouring Mu Ko Similan National Park opened for the 2026/27 season on 15 October 2026 and is scheduled to stay open until 15 May 2027, set by Thailand’s Department of National Parks. Mu Ko Surin National Park further north opened on the same day. In October and early November, rough seas can still cancel some boat trips, so plan Similan excursions with a spare day if your stay falls early in the season.
From December to February Khao Lak is at its busiest, especially around Christmas and New Year. November is a good compromise: the dry season has begun, but hotels are calmer and easier to book.
Similan Islands: day trips and diving
The Similan Islands are famous for clear water, granite boulders and coral reefs, and Khao Lak is the closest mainland base. Speedboat day trips and dive liveaboards usually depart from Thap Lamu pier, a short drive south of the main beach area, and most tour operators include hotel pick-up.
The national park limits daily visitor numbers and uses e-tickets, and overnight stays on the islands are not currently permitted. Rules can change from season to season, so book through a licensed operator who handles the permits, and confirm the latest regulations before you go. Liveaboard and day-trip places can sell out in December and January, so reserve early if diving is the main reason for your trip.
Best beaches and areas
- Nang Thong
- The central beach near the main road with restaurants and shops. Convenient if you want to walk to dinner.
- Bang Niang
- A relaxed beach with a local market area nearby and the Police Boat 813 tsunami memorial, a quiet place of remembrance.
- Khuk Khak and Pakarang
- Long, quieter beaches further north with large resorts. Pakarang Cape is known for sunsets and its rocky point.
- Natai
- A secluded beach close to Phuket, about 35 minutes from Phuket Airport, with a small number of upmarket resorts and villas.
From Phuket Airport to Khao Lak
There is no airport in Khao Lak itself; most visitors fly into Phuket International Airport (HKT). The drive to Khao Lak takes about 1 hour 15 minutes, crossing the Sarasin Bridge to the mainland and following the coast road north through Phang Nga. Natai, just across the bridge, is only about 35 minutes away.
Because Khao Lak resorts are spread along many kilometres of coast, a private transfer saves time compared with shared shuttles that stop at several hotels. With HotelTaxi you get the whole vehicle, the price is agreed before you travel and the driver meets you in the arrivals area with a name sign. Declare dive gear when booking so the right vehicle is sent, and request child seats in advance.
For your return, plan to leave Khao Lak at least 3 hours 45 minutes before an international departure, allowing for the drive and check-in.
Khao Lak checklist
Choose your dates
November for the start of the dry season, December–February for peak conditions and crowds.
Book Similan trips early
The park is open from 15 October 2026 to 15 May 2027; places are limited per day.
Pick your beach
Nang Thong for restaurants, Khuk Khak or Pakarang for quiet, Natai for a short transfer.
Arrange the airport transfer
Share your flight number and declare dive gear when booking.
Pack reef-friendly
Reef-safe sunscreen, a rash vest and a dry bag for boat days.
Frequently asked questions
When do the Similan Islands open for the 2026/27 season?
Mu Ko Similan National Park opened on 15 October 2026 and is scheduled to close on 15 May 2027. Boat trips can still be cancelled in rough weather early in the season.
How long is the drive from Phuket Airport to Khao Lak?
About 1 hour 15 minutes by road. Natai beach is closer, at about 35 minutes.
Is November a good time to visit Khao Lak?
Yes. The dry season usually begins in November, resorts reopen and it is quieter than the December–February peak. Occasional showers are still possible early in the month.