Khao Lak, was listed in the 2010 TripAdvisor Traveler's Choice Awards as one of the "Top 10 Beach Destinations in Asia." It is a beautiful area with long stretches of beaches, fringed by the mountains of the surrounding national parks and can differentiate itself from neighboring tourist destinations like Phuket. Its nature, secluded coastal resorts, and uncrowned beaches make it an excellent vacation spot for people seeking a family getaway, and for nature-lovers as well. Khao Lak is also well known to be a departure point for scuba diving trips to the Similan Islands.