The weather continues to cool down in Khao Lak, Thailand in October, just like it does in Ko Samui. Although temperatures still rise up to around 32°C, averaging 28°C, this can feel hotter due to the high humidity. Cooler lows of 24°C may bring a welcome respite, but staying hydrated is essential. Try a relaxing dip in the sea, which is still 28°C in this month.
October is the wettest month of the year in Khao Lak, bringing some cloud and cooler weather. There is 352mm of rain across 23 days, meaning you are likely to encounter at least one shower on your trip. Pack an umbrella and check the live weather forecast before you leave.
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.
Khaolak Sunset Resort is also perfect for couples and families looking for accommodation in Khao Lak. Surrounded by a tropical forest, this hotel is situated on a private sandy beach. Here you'll find a host of services and facilities, including restaurants, room service, satellite TV and air conditioning in each room. Guest rooms include the deluxe room, located on the first and second floors with a partial or full sea view, classic room, located on the first, second and fourth floors, some with beach access, and the Grand Deluxe Room, which features 38 square metres, not including the balcony and sea view.
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.
Nang Thong Beach is idyllic, with golden sands, casuarina trees and coconut palms. Stay here to be near the best facilities: restaurants, souvenirs shops, photo shops, pharmacies, bookstores, street vendors and diving schools.
The Chinese Vegetarian Festival also falls in October, when devotees eat only vegetarian dishes for 10 days. If you'd like to take part, you'll find various restaurants in the area offering a great selection of vegetarian dishes during this time.
A Thai/Western fusion favourite is Dao Thong (Opposite Bang Niang Market), serving dinner only, and mostly traditional dishes with the occasional attractive international flair. La Roma (Opposite the market) is an Italian pizza trattoria that stylishly mixes Thai with pizza. Another fusion experiment is Victoria Tandoori Night (Opposite Mukhdara Resort, Soi Bang Niang #1), specialising in Thai and Indian set menus with a takeaway option.
After you've spent the morning diving, visit Scuba Groupie, a bar popular with divers which offers a selection of fruity drinks.
October is one of the busiest months for events in Khao Lak. The end of Buddhist lent takes place during this month, when the monks finally emerge from their temples and receive offerings of new robes and food, among many other things. This is a great event the whole family can enjoy.
A trip to Khao Lak isn't complete without at least one diving excursion. Similan Diving Safaris is a PADI 5-Star Dive Centre that offers a range of excursions and courses, with something suitable for all ages, abilities and budgets.
Visitors should check out the Khao Lak National Park, with its impressive collection of sea cliffs, mangrove forests, tall hills, estuaries, valleys and beaches. The area is absolutely thriving with wildlife, with drongos, gibbons, hornbills, tapirs, monkeys and black bears. The visitor centre features a restaurant, providing the perfect place to enjoy a spot of lunch.
Walkers will be thrilled to know that Khao Lak boasts a selection of hiking and walking trails. Guided tours along the coast are easy to arrange at your hotel, or if you'd prefer something a bit more laid-back you can opt for a boat trip along the Khlong Thap Liang estuary.
The Old Takua Pa Sunday market is a fantastic place to visit to enjoy a spot of lunch or a snack. Located several kilometres north of the resort, this market is lined by colourful buildings which provide many photo opportunities.
