As spring continues in the Similan Islands, the rainfall chances jump up, signaling the end of the dry season and the transition into the monsoon season. Compared to March's 50 mm of rain, April gets almost twice that amount, with 89 mm falling across the month. That amount of rain falls over 10 days in the month, so you'll probably want to have an umbrella handy. More than likely, you'll get at least one rainy day during your stay.
These islands, which are a part of Thailand, have an average daily temperature of 29°C (about 83°F), nice and warm for being outside and enjoying all that the islands have to offer. When the temperatures peak in the middle of the day, you can expect highs that reach all the way up to 33°C (around 91°F). The humidity stays at a comfortable level, thanks to the breezes that blow in from the southwest. At night, the lows drop down to 25°C (about 76°F), feeling pretty good after a hot afternoon.
Bring along the warm-weather clothing to stay cool during the day, making sure to have plenty of short-sleeved shirts, shorts and tank tops. You'll want a cool pair of sandals for the beach and a sturdy pair of walking shoes for exploring the national park on the islands. The UV index is high in this part of southeast Asia, so you'll also want sunglasses and sunscreen. With nine hours of sunshine each day, you'll get plenty of exposure to the sun.
Not only is this the warmest month, it's also the month with the longest days and the warmest water temperatures. Save some time for swimming, water sports and scuba diving in the waters surrounding the island. The water is plenty warm, with an average sea temperature of 29°C (around 84°F), feeling almost like bath water. The chance of having rain on any given day is 20 percent, and you'll also have a 20 percent chance of a cloudy day.
Where to Stay
At the Apsara Beachfront Resort and Villa, you'll be treated to amazing scenery ranging from the blue waters of the Andaman Sea to the lush green forests that line the shore. The 195 guest rooms and suites come with garden, pool or sea views, and some have direct access to the gardens and the pool to cool off in the April sun. You can upgrade to the spacious villas with a private pool or Jacuzzi. Resort amenities include spa, gym, kids' game room, library and on-site restaurants.
The Ramada Khao Lak Resort is part of the Ramada family of hotels and resorts and offers the same level of service you'd expect with that line. The accommodations include large rooms and suites, as well as beachfront villas with private pools. Most rooms have sweeping views of the ocean. As a guest, you'll enjoy amazing amenities like a kids' club for the little ones, huge free-form swimming pool, and luxurious on-site spa. You can even take Thai cooking classes!
Offering guests impeccable service in an incredible setting, The Sarojin is the perfect place to call home during your stay near the Similan Islands in Thailand. More than just rooms, all the accommodations are "residences" and include private gardens, swimming pools or spas. Really splurge and go for the two-bedroom residence with both a private pool and garden. Several packages are available to complete your stay, including romance and honeymoon options.
Hit the Beach
Another one of Khao Lak's quietest and most remote beaches, Pak Weep Beach is home to several large resorts. Despite the resorts and hotels that line the sand, you'll still find plenty of peace and quiet to enjoy the warm Thai sun and water of the Andaman Sea, which averages 29°C (around 84°F) in April. The beach is also home to several restaurants to grab a bite to eat between fun in the sun.
Eating and Drinking Out
Located in the southern part of Khao Lak, the Everyday Lasy House Restaurant and Bar makes everyone feel like family when they eat there. The menu is extensive and affordable and offers various Thai dishes. Specialties include massaman curry, prawn cakes, banana fritters and red snapper. The full bar serves cold drinks to complement your meal. During the high season, the restaurant also offers Thai cooking classes.
At Krua Rim Tang, you'll be treated to Thai cuisine with some European influences. The menu includes dishes like grilled pork neck, barbeque chicken, papaya salad, salted crab and sticky rice. The restaurant consistently ranks as one of the top choices in Khao Lak thanks to its large portions and amazing flavours. You'll also get great value with inexpensive prices. Along with food, the restaurant also serves cocktails, beer and wine to go with your meal.
Memories Beach Bar is one of the top-rated restaurants in the whole Khao Lak area thanks to its romantic and ideal location right on the beach and the Andaman Sea. You can dine in the sand, right next to the water, or head up to the rooftop patio for a candlelit dinner for two. Along with traditional Thai food, you'll find sandwiches, burgers, pasta and fresh salads for lunch and dinner. The bar serves up local beers as well, including Chang and Tiger beer.
Things to Do
One of the most famous dive sites in the world, Elephant Head Rock sits just southwest of the main Ko Similan island. It's named for its large shape, which resembles an elephant rising out of the water. Beneath the surface, Elephant Head Rock offers a twisting series of tunnels, caverns, and swim-throughs. Because of the strong currents in this part of the Andaman Sea, the dive site can get treacherous, so be sure to visit with a reputable dive company.
A unique way to see the natural forests and jungles of Khao Lak, the Bamboo Rafting tour with Khaolak Vista Tours and Travel is fun for all ages. The half-day tour takes visitors to the Kiangkoo Creek, where they'll float down the water in bamboo rafts, led by an experienced guide. During the tour, you'll also get to visit the Sea Turtle Conservation Center, swim at a waterfall and hike through the dense jungle.
The Ton Chong Fa Waterfall runs all year long and is a must-see when in the Khao Lak area. You can reach the falls by car or by bus from Khao Lak. Originating from the Bang Niana Canal, the waterfall features numerous levels of water cascading down to a pond where you can cool off from the April heat. As you make your way to the waterfall, you'll see all kinds of birds and wildlife in the surrounding forests and get to enjoy a scenic hike through the jungles.
