How to Get to Khao Lak: From Phuket, Bangkok, Krabi or Surat Thani

Khao Lak is one of southern Thailand’s most popular beach destinations, yet it has neither an airport nor a railway station. Fortunately, getting there is straightforward thanks to Phuket International Airport, located just over an hour away. Whether you’re arriving from Bangkok, Phuket, Krabi, Surat Thani or Khao Sok, this guide explains the fastest, easiest and most convenient ways to reach Khao Lak.

Where is Khao Lak?

Located in Phang Nga Province along Thailand’s Andaman Coast, Khao Lak lies about 75 km north of Phuket International Airport. Unlike Phuket, Khao Lak is not an island but a peaceful stretch of coastline famous for its beaches, national parks and easy access to some of Thailand’s most spectacular natural attractions.

Its strategic location makes it an ideal base for exploring the Similan Islands, Phang Nga Bay, Khao Sok National Park, Takua Pa and several quieter beaches along the Andaman coast.

What is the nearest airport to Khao Lak?

Khao Lak does not have its own airport.

The nearest airport is Phuket International Airport(HKT)**, which serves dozens of domestic and international flights every day.

Direct flights connect Phuket with:

Seasonal direct flights from several European cities are also available during the high season.

Once you arrive in Phuket, reaching Khao Lak takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes by road.

For almost every international visitor, flying to Phuket and continuing by road is by far the fastest and easiest option.

How to get from Phuket Airport to Khao Lak

Most visitors begin their journey at Phuket International Airport.

Several transportation options are available depending on your budget and travel style.
For the vast majority of international travellers, flying to Phuket followed by a road transfer is the quickest and most comfortable option.

Phuket Airport Guide: Transport, Rentals, and Tips

All the practical information about Phuket International Airport to make your departure and arrival easier and to avoid wasting time! Transport info, rentals and all the little tips for a smooth trip.

Quick Facts

• Nearest airport: Phuket International Airport (HKT)
• Distance: 75 km (47 miles)
• Average transfer time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Best options: private transfer, taxi or rental car
• Direct buses available from Phuket, Bangkok and several southern destinations

Taxi

Official airport taxis are available outside the arrivals terminal.

Taxis are a convenient choice for couples or small groups, especially after a long international flight.

Private transfer

For families, groups or travellers carrying several suitcases, a private transfer is usually the most comfortable option.

Your driver meets you inside the arrivals hall before taking you directly to your hotel without additional stops.

Prices are often similar to airport taxis while offering a more convenient experience.

Bus or shared minivan

Budget travellers can choose public buses or shared minivans between Phuket and Khao Lak.

Although considerably cheaper, they usually take longer because of multiple hotel stops along the way.

Rental car

Most international rental companies operate directly from Phuket Airport.

Driving to Khao Lak is easy thanks to wide, well-maintained roads.

If you’re planning to explore Khao Sok, Takua Pa, Samet Nangshe or nearby beaches, renting a car offers excellent flexibility.

How to get to Khao Lak from Bangkok

Travelling from Bangkok to Khao Lak is straightforward.

Flight + road transfer

This is by far the quickest option.

• Bangkok → Phuket: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Phuket → Khao Lak: 1 hour 30 minutes

Including airport procedures, expect a total journey of around 4 to 5 hours.

Overnight bus

Several overnight buses connect Bangkok with Khao Lak.

Travel time ranges from 14 to 17 hours, depending on the operator.

Although inexpensive, buses are significantly less comfortable than flying.

Can you take the train?

Not directly.

The closest railway station is Surat Thani, meaning you’ll still need several hours of road transport afterwards.

Unless you specifically enjoy train travel, flying remains the better option.

How to get from Phuket to Khao Lak

Already staying in Phuket?

Reaching Khao Lak is easy from: Patong, Kata, Karon, Kamala, Rawai, Phuket Town.

Available transport options include:

Travel time generally ranges between 1½ and 2½ hours, depending on traffic.

Many visitors combine a few days in Phuket with a more relaxing stay in Khao Lak.

How to get from Krabi to Khao Lak

Krabi lies approximately 155 km from Khao Lak.

Average travel time is 1½ to 3½ hours.

Available options include:

If you’re driving around southern Thailand, this route is both easy and scenic.

How to get from Khao Sok to Khao Lak

Located only 70 km away, Khao Sok National Park is one of the easiest destinations to combine with Khao Lak.

The journey usually takes around 2 hours.

Many hotels arrange transfers, while shared minivans also operate between the two destinations.

Combining Khao Lak with a stay on Cheow Lan Lake is one of southern Thailand’s classic itineraries.

How to get to Khao Lak from Surat Thani

Surat Thani serves as a major transport hub for southern Thailand.

It has:

The drive to Khao Lak takes approximately 3 hours.

This route is particularly useful if you’re travelling from Koh Samui, Koh Phangan or Koh Tao.

Should you rent a car in Khao Lak?

Many visitors wonder whether renting a car is worthwhile.

The answer depends entirely on your travel plans.

Advantages

A rental car makes it easy to visit:

You’ll enjoy complete flexibility without depending on organised tours.

Disadvantages

A car is less useful if:

Many tours include hotel pick-up, while taxis are widely available.

Our recommendation

For most travellers spending five to seven days in Khao Lak, renting a car for two or three days offers the best balance.

You can join organised tours to destinations such as the Similan Islands while exploring beaches, Takua Pa and nearby attractions independently.

Which transport option should you choose?

Where to stop between Phuket and Khao Lak

If you’re driving, don’t rush straight to your hotel.

Several worthwhile stops lie along the route:

These places turn a simple transfer into an enjoyable sightseeing journey.

Travel times

FAQ – How to Get to Khao Lak

Does Khao Lak have an airport?

No. The nearest airport is Phuket International Airport (HKT).

How long does it take to get from Phuket Airport to Khao Lak?

Around 1 hour and 15 minutes by taxi, private transfer or rental car.

Is there a bus to Khao Lak?

Yes. Regular buses and shared minivans connect Khao Lak with Phuket, Bangkok, Krabi and Surat Thani.

Does Grab operate in Khao Lak?

Grab is available but less widespread than in Bangkok or Phuket. Pre-booked private transfers are often the most reliable option.

Can you reach Khao Lak by train?

No. The nearest railway station is Surat Thani, from where you’ll need to continue by road.

How much is a taxi from Phuket Airport to Khao Lak?

Expect to pay approximately 1,500 to 2,000 THB, depending on the vehicle and time of day.

Is driving to Khao Lak easy?

Yes. Roads are generally well maintained, traffic is lighter than in Phuket, and driving conditions are straightforward.

What is the best way to get to Khao Lak?

For most visitors, the combination of a flight to Phuket followed by a private transfer is the fastest, easiest and most comfortable solution.

Everything you need to know about Khao Lak

Khao Lak Guide: Beaches, Excursions and Practical Tips

Long sandy beaches, day trips to the Similan Islands, boat rides in Phang Nga Bay and easy access to Khao Sok: Khao Lak is one of southern Thailand’s most appealing seaside destinations, but also a very practical base for exploring the Andaman coast without the pace and density of Phuket. Here is our complete Khao Lak guide to help you plan your stay.