Khao Lak, Thailand Guide

Know Before You Go...®

Why Khao Lak, Thailand?

  • Khao Lak is a pristine beach destination in Thailand known for its lush natural landscape.
  • Khao Lak is known for its stunning national parks including Khao Sok and Similan Islands.
  • Khao Lak is home to an array of marine life including whales, dolphins, sharks, and sea turtles.
  • Khao Lak is a popular spot for scuba diving and snorkeling due to its crystal clear waters.
  • It is home to a variety of luxury resorts, traditional Thai restaurants, and beachside bars.

Transportation on Khao Lak, Thailand

Getting to Khao Lak, Thailand and getting around. Our transportation tips will help make your trip smoother. More good sand advice.

Entry Documents

  • Passport valid for stay.
  • Tourist visa (if required by nationality).
  • Proof of return or onward travel.

Departure Tax

A departure tax of 700 Thai Baht (~$20) is included in most airline tickets. Verify with your airline to confirm.

Driving

  • Driving License: Foreign licenses are valid for short stays; an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended.
  • Driving Side: Left.
  • Roads: Main roads are well-maintained, but rural routes may have varying conditions.
  • Speed Limits: Typically 90-120 km/h (56-75 mph) on highways and 50-80 km/h (31-50 mph) in urban areas.
  • Traffic Rules: Be cautious of motorcycles, pedestrians, and local driving customs. Parking in cities can be limited, especially in tourist areas.

Know Before You Go...® - Khao Lak, Thailand Travel Tips

Before making their way to Khao Lak, Thailand , vacationers like to know a little bit of helpful information to make them feel more at home during their stay. Take a look at our travel tips to make your time in villas in Khao Lak, Thailand even more relaxing.

Capital: Thailand Phang Nga
Population: 2021 "Growing"
Size: 2019 Unknown.
Electric Current: 220
Official Language: The official language of Khao Lak is Thai, with a majority of the population speaking it as their first language. However, due to its popularity as a tourist destination, English is also widely spoken and understood in the area. Other secondary languages
Currency: Khao Lak is a popular tourist destination in Thailand known for its stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and laid-back atmosphere. As a result, it offers a variety of currency and payment options to cater to the needs of its visitors. The official currency of Thailand is the Thai Baht (THB), which is widely accepted throughout Khao Lak. Visitors can easily exchange their currency at banks, exchange offices, and hotels. It is recommended to exchange money at banks or reputable exchange offices to avoid scams. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Khao Lak, especially in major establishments such as hotels, restaurants, and shopping centers. However, it is advisable to carry cash for smaller purchases and when visiting local markets or street vendors. ATMs are also widely available in Khao Lak, making it convenient for visitors to withdraw cash in the local currency. However, it is important to inform your bank about your travel plans to avoid any issues with your card. Travel
Tipping and Taxes: Tipping and taxes in Khao Lak are an important aspect of the local culture and economy. In this popular tourist destination in Thailand, tipping and taxes are expected in most service-related transactions. Tipping, also known as gratuity, is a customary practice in Khao Lak and is usually given to show appreciation for good service. In restaurants, a 10% service charge is often added to the bill, but it is still common to leave an additional 5-10% as a tip for the server. In hotels, it is also customary to tip the housekeeping staff and bellboys. For taxi drivers and tour guides, a small tip is appreciated but not mandatory. In terms of taxes, the value-added tax (VAT) of 7% is included in most purchases in Khao Lak. This includes hotel accommodation, restaurant meals, and shopping. However, some vendors may not include VAT in their prices, so it is important to check before making a purchase. Tourists are eligible for a VAT refund on certain goods purchased in Thailand, but the proc
Dress Code: The dress code in Khao Lak is generally casual and relaxed, with lightweight and comfortable clothing suitable for the warm and humid climate.
Topography: Khao Lak is a coastal region in Thailand characterized by sandy beaches, lush rainforests, and mountainous terrain, with various rivers and waterfalls creating a diverse landscape.
Telephone: Thailand, +66

Khao Lak, Thailand Weddings and Honeymoons

In Thailand, getting married involves a few clear steps and required documents.

Application: Visit a district office (Amphur) in Thailand to register the marriage.

Documents Needed:

  • Valid passports and arrival cards.
  • Affidavits of freedom to marry from your embassy (translated into Thai and certified by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs).
  • A divorce decree or death certificate from a previous marriage (if applicable)

Translation: All non-Thai documents must be officially translated into Thai and certified.
Waiting Period: No official waiting period, but the process may take several days due to documentation and certification requirements.
Ceremony: The civil registration at the Amphur is the legally binding part of the marriage.
Costs: Marriage registration fees are minimal, typically under $10. Additional costs apply for translations, embassy affidavits, and certification.
Optional Religious Ceremony: Can be conducted after the civil marriage but is not legally binding.