Phuket International Airport (HKT) → Khao Lak transfer
The private transfer from Phuket Airport to Khao Lak covers 80 km and usually takes about 73–92 minutes, with typical prices of around €45–60 for a car and €55–75 for a minivan. The exact price is shown before you book.
- From
- Phuket International Airport (HKT)
- To
- Khao Lak
- Distance
- 80 km
- Typical drive
- 73–92 min
Khao Lak is not on Phuket island. It lies north on the Phang Nga coast of the mainland, so the drive leaves the island over the bridges and continues on a main highway rather than through Phuket's hilly resort traffic.
The drive north to Khao Lak, step by step
Airport to the bridges
From the airport in the north of Phuket it is a short run to the bridges at Tha Chatchai that connect the island to the mainland.
Into Phang Nga
On the mainland the road follows Highway 4 north through Khok Kloi and Thai Mueang, past rubber and palm plantations with the hills of Phang Nga inland.
Along the Khao Lak coast
The last part runs through a chain of beach areas. The road crosses some forested hills before reaching the resorts.
To your hotel
The driver takes you directly to your hotel. Resorts are spread along many kilometres of coast, which explains much of the range in drive time.
Where in Khao Lak are you staying?
Khao Lak is a name for a long stretch of coast rather than one town. Hotels sit in several beach areas, including Nang Thong, Bang Niang, Khuk Khak and Pakarang further north. A hotel in the south of Khao Lak can be noticeably closer than one at the northern end.
Many resorts sit directly on the beach on large grounds, away from the main road. Giving the full hotel name when you book helps the driver plan the right approach.
Who travels to Khao Lak
- Divers and snorkellers
- Khao Lak is the main base for day trips and liveaboards to the Similan Islands, which are usually open to visitors from mid-October to mid-May. Declare dive bags when booking so there is space for them.
- Families
- Long, quiet beaches and spacious resorts make Khao Lak popular with families. A minivan with child seats is often the practical choice.
- Couples and long stays
- Many guests come for one or two weeks of calm beach time, far from Phuket's nightlife.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the drive from Phuket Airport to Khao Lak?
The distance is 80 km and the drive usually takes about 73–92 minutes. The time depends mainly on where along the Khao Lak coast your hotel is.
Is Khao Lak on Phuket island?
No. Khao Lak is on the mainland in Phang Nga province, north of Phuket. The transfer crosses the bridges from the island and then follows the main highway north.
How much does a transfer from Phuket Airport to Khao Lak cost?
Typically around €45–60 for a private car with up to three passengers and €55–75 for a minivan for up to about seven. The exact price is shown and agreed before you book.
Can I bring diving equipment in the car?
Yes, if you declare it when booking. For several dive bags or a group, a minivan is the safer choice.
Is Khao Lak worth visiting in the rainy season?
From roughly May to October the south-west monsoon brings rougher seas and the Similan Islands are usually closed. Some resorts stay open with lower occupancy, but the main beach and diving season is November to April.