Khao Lak Laguna Resort

Khao Lak Laguna Resort sits on the Andaman coast of Khao Lak, with the Khaolak-Lamru National Park rainforest behind it. You will find oriental-style architecture drawing on the old town of Ta Kua Pa, and over half the grounds are tropical garden and grass, home to Myna and other local birds. Rooms are spacious and airy with a porch or terrace, and Khaolak Center, with shops, restaurants and souvenir stalls, is a five-minute walk away.

Three room styles are available. Similan Pearl Villa sits on the beach in the style of a traditional Thai house on stilts, decorated with Thai mudmee silk, and you can expect a king bed for up to two adults and one child. Oriental Villa is set in a lush garden with wooden furniture, also with a king bed. Siam Chalet Room occupies a low-rise building with a balcony or terrace and wood flooring, sleeping up to two adults and two children in a king or twin bed. All three rooms measure around 52 to 55 square metres.

You can join the Cooking Class on weekday afternoons to learn the basics of Thai cuisine from the resort's own chef. Children can explore the Ocean Voyager playground, while the whole family can play petanque or ping pong together. Paddle the calm waters of the Andaman by kayak, keep up a fitness routine in the fitness room, or try a basic Thai boxing class alongside yoga sessions with the sports and activities team.

A seaside swimming pool invites you to relax with a drink under the sun, while the fitness room stays open from early morning into the evening. Chiva Spa runs daily from 10am to 7pm, with body, facial and herbal massage from professional masseuses, plus set packages such as the Lovers Couple Package and the Queen of Gold Package for a longer treatment.

The Oriental Restaurant serves breakfast with a sea view, and you can choose between buffet, set menu or a la carte depending on occupancy. Sundowners Restaurant serves lunch and dinner under the coconut trees with a sea breeze. Club Lounge pours fine drinks under a chandelier with music to match, open daily until midnight, while Wine Bar offers a classy selection through the afternoon and evening. For something more private, Moonlight Lawn hosts a beachside barbecue under the stars by reservation only, a romantic setting for a sunset drink.

Beyond the resort, you will find some of Thailand's best diving and surf spots. Boat trips reach the Similan Islands, rated among the world's top diving destinations, as well as Surin Islands and the unmistakable Koh Tapu, known as James Bond Island. Inland, Khaosok National Park holds Southern Thailand's largest rainforest, and a Khaolak Safari explores the wildlife of Khaolak-Lamru National Park. Surfers can try Memories Beach for beginners, Khuk Khak Beach at intermediate level, or Nang Thong Beach for a professional challenge.