In our humble judgment, Khao Lak is what a beach town should be. It's not an "off the beaten track" destination to be sure, but it has a quietly pleasant and wholesome atmosphere, a wide range of places to stay across all budgets, and is easily accessible for those who are simply looking to get away for a beach holiday.
The devastating December 2004 tsunami hit the Khao Lak area harder than anywhere else in Thailand, with the coast of Phang Nga province enduring 80% of all lives lost in the whole country. Though the events of that day are still etched into the memories of locals and foreigners who frequent the area, it's now safe to say that Khao Lak has fully recovered. Resorts have been rebuilt, tourists have returned in consistent droves, and Khao Lak is effectively looking towards a bright future, which in itself may be seen as a tribute to those lost in 2004.