Khaolak Laguna Resort

Khaolak Laguna Resort is a mid-sized beachfront resort that strikes a comfortable balance between facilities and price. It has 154 individually furnished rooms, a private beach with a beach bar, beachfront dining and two outdoor pools, and it is connected to a shopping centre, which is unusual on this part of the coast and handy for sundries, snacks and rainy-day browsing. For travellers who want a proper resort stay without the scale of the largest brands, it is a sensible option. The setting is on Khuk Khak, close to the southern end of the main strip. Khao Lak-Lam Ru National Park is roughly a nine-minute walk away, and Nang Thong Beach, with its restaurants, bars and small shops, is only a minute or so by car. Khao Lak North Beach and a supermarket are within a short walk or ride, and Bang Niang Beach and its market are a few kilometres up the road. That mix of private beachfront and nearby village life is the resort's chief attraction.

Rooms are air-conditioned and fitted with premium bedding, separate sitting areas, bathrobes, separate tubs and showers with bidets, satellite TV and wardrobes, and they have balconies. Facilities include a spa with body treatments, Thai massage and body wraps, two on-site restaurants, free in-room Wi-Fi, free self parking, a playground, a library and bike rentals, so there is something for most ages. Buffet breakfast is charged separately, and an airport shuttle can be arranged on request for a per-vehicle fee, so ask when you book.

The two pools are open for much of the day, and the beachfront dining option is a good choice at sunset, when the Andaman Sea turns gold and the day boats come in. The beach in front of the resort is quieter than the busiest public stretches, which suits couples and families who prefer a bit of space. Swimming conditions vary with the season, so ask the staff about currents, and follow any red-flag warnings during the green season, when the sea can be rough.

As a base for tours it works well. Boats for the Similan and Surin Islands depart from the coast near Khao Lak, and operators collect guests from hotels in this area for Khao Sok, Phang Nga Bay and elephant sanctuaries. Phuket International Airport is a drive of a little over an hour, which makes arrival and departure easy. If you plan an island day, ask for an early breakfast and a packed option, and keep the following day free for the pool.

Time your visit with the weather. From about November to April the sea is calm, skies are clear and rates are at their highest, especially around Christmas and New Year, so book early. The wetter months from May to October bring lower prices, fewer visitors and a greener landscape, though boat tours to the islands do not run when the sea is rough. Always check cancellation terms and what your rate includes when you book.