Temperatures in Khao Lak during April are hot and humid, with the resort experiencing similar weather conditions to that of Koh Tao. During this time of year, temperatures can soar up to highs of 34°C, so it's best to avoid the sun during the hottest part of the day to lower your risk of heatstroke and sunburn. Even in the evenings temperatures do not drop below 24°C, although this can be a welcome relief compared to the daytime.
If you need to cool off stay in the shade, keep hydrated and dive into the sea which is 29°C at this time of year. There are also 8 hours of sun per day, so pack light layers.
Luckily, the Thai New Year, known as Songkran, is celebrated in April, when huge water fights take place throughout every resort. Not only is this a great way to cool down, it's also a fantastic way to have fun with the whole family.
Rainfall is higher than March with 115mm across 14 wet days so you are likely to encounter the odd shower, but the day brightens up quickly afterwards.
When it comes to accommodation, The Andamania Beach Resort is ideal for families and couples looking for somewhere to stay during their holiday in Khao Lak. Enjoying a wonderful beachfront location, this complex features a swimming pool, pool bar, internet, Thai massages and a game room. Located just one hour from the international airport, the Thai/Bali-style resort features private access to the sandy beach and Khuk Khak Bay. Each one of its 51 guest residences include A/C, minibar, private terrace, satellite TV, fridge, safe and bathtub. Available excursions include trekking, elephant riding, snorkelling, scuba, canoe, and golf.
Families and couples looking for somewhere to stay during their holiday in Khao Lak should consider the Baan Krating Khao Lak. Nestled in a tall cliff, the complex offers fantastic views across the resort and is found close to many shops, bars and restaurants. This charming, boutique village is secluded and private, just one hour from Phuket Intl Airport. Relaxing facilities include a refreshing swimming pool, Spa Pamper, Wana Dalah restaurant and Wana Beach Bar. Nearby adventures include the Sicilian Islands, Phang Nga Bay, and Buddhist caves. Couples can find enjoy a Thai or Western Wedding on the romantic beach. Guest rooms include 14 deluxe rooms and 18 pavilion rooms, ranging from 27- to 40-sq metres.
Bang Niang Beach is located just north of Khao Lak, about 10 minutes' drive. The beach is not as centrally located as other beaches like Nang Thong, but is near some of the top resorts--La Flora, Ramada, Ayara, Sudala and more. While you're in the neighbourhood, be sure to check out the impressive tsunami museum.
Khuk Khak Beach is wide and long, with a few lagoons and rivers here and there. It's a quiet beach with just a handful of restaurants, supermarkets and massage huts. Another great spot is South Beach, with its shady casuarina trees and tropical flora. It's a quiet beach spot with massage huts here and there. Here you'll find only a handful of hotels: Merlin, Emerald, Diamond and The Briza Hotel.
If you're looking for somewhere to dine surrounded by beautiful scenery, visit the Phu Khao Lak resort's restaurant. Here you'll find a huge selection of cuisine, including traditional Thai dishes and fresh seafood.
La On Village on Khao Lak is popular with the modern crowd. Try 9 Restaurant & Bar (Central La On), which serves three meals a day in a quiet and classy atmosphere. Or the wildly popular Muan Lai (Highway 4 between Khao Lak Beach and La On Village), a bright, yellow restaurant specialising in north-eastern Thai cuisinerilled meats adorned in sticky rice and spicy sauces.
Kinnaree Bakery (Central La On) serves sandwiches, patisseries, ice cream and cakes on a laid-back terrace. Opens at 9AM, so be sure to head there for breakfast. Those staying at Khao Lak Seaview and Suwan Palm Resort will find a chill home at La Piccola Maria (Nangthong Road), complete with outdoor chairs, an Italian menu and free use of a laptop.
If you're ever tired of run of the mill Thai food, try O'Connor's Irish Pub (Northern La On, Opposite Chusak Clinic), a German-run Irish waterhole that serves Korean barbecue and a selection of single malt whiskies. The atmosphere here is fun, chaotic and livelyheck the schedule for live music or even Thai cooking classes.
Khao Lak is a superb destination for those who enjoy scuba diving. Similan Diving Safaris is a PADI 5-Star Dive Centre which offers a selection of courses and excursions, with something to suit everyone. Whether you're a professional diver with years of experience or this is your first time donning a scuba suit, Similan Diving Safaris will take care of you and make sure you have an amazing day out.
