Temperatures have slightly risen in Khao Lak, Thailand by February, with the resort experiencing temperatures of up to 34°C, although on average it is 29°C. The evenings cool down to around 23°C after sunset, which makes for some wonderful evening strolls along the beach. The water temperature is a very warm 28°C so swimmers will be pleased.
The sunshine hours have also slightly increased to 10 per day, although the length of the day stays essentially constant. The shortest day is February 1 with 11:35 hours of sunlight, and the longest is February 29 with 11:53 hours.
Humidity ranges from mild to very humid, rarely dropping between 48%. Skies above Khao Lak are mostly clear, with precipitation occurring only around 5 days, usually closer to the end of the month. There is 33mm overall, very little compared to the next few months. Wind speeds vary from calm to 4 m/s, and begins to pick up close to February 29th, blowing in from the east or southeast.
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.
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, a private terrace, satellite TV, fridge, safe and bathtub. Available excursions include trekking, elephant riding, snorkelling, scuba, canoe, and golf.
Nang Thong Beach is one of the first developed in the region, and now boasts a healthy number of bungalows and resorts. The area is popular among swimmers and sunbathers due to its gentle shore, and close proximity to shopping and eateries.
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 eat during your stay, make sure you visit the Viking Steakhouse. This eatery offers a range of dishes, including meat, pizza, pasta and international choices. In addition to the extensive menu, there is also a free salad bar with fresh local produce.
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.
On the first full moon, locals celebrate Chinese New Year one of the biggest celebrations in the event calendar. The festivities that take place on this day include parties, plays, traditional food and drink tastings, live music and dancing.
Hikers will be happy to find out that there are many walking opportunities throughout Khao Lak. Guided hikes along the coast can be arranged through agencies when you arrive at the resort, or if you'd prefer something more relaxing, how about a boat trip along the Khlong Thap Liang estuary?
Between Bang Sak and Khao Lak you'll find a series of beach trails which are great to discover on foot or by motorbike. Some of the trails lead to secluded beaches which are ideal for taking it easy and relaxing in peace.
