Phuket

Phuket

Phuket is Thailand’s largest island and its most-visited province, offering a remarkable spread of destinations in one place: the buzzing nightlife of Patong, the tranquil bays of Kata and Karon, the luxury resort corridor of Bang Tao and Surin, the historical shop-houses of Phuket Old Town, and multiple ferry piers connecting onward to the Phi Phi Islands, Koh Lanta, and Krabi. For travellers staying in Khao Lak, Phuket is both a major transport hub and a natural side-trip destination.

Transfer from Khao Lak to Phuket

Phuket is 80 km south of Khao Lak by road — a journey of 75–90 minutes along Highway 4 (Route Phetkasem) across the Sarasin Bridge. Khao Lak Land Discovery offers private transfers to Phuket Town from ฿2,700 and to Phuket Beach hotels (Kata, Karon, Patong) from ฿3,300 one-way. Round-trip bookings receive a 3% discount.

Getting Around Phuket

Phuket has limited public transport; Songthaew (shared pick-up trucks) run fixed beach-to-beach routes during daylight hours, but tuk-tuks and ride-hailing apps (Grab) are the practical choice for most visitors. A scooter rental (฿200–300/day) gives full flexibility, though the hilly, fast-moving roads suit experienced riders only. For airport connections and inter-beach transfers, a pre-booked private car or minivan is the most reliable option.

Day Trips from Phuket to Khao Lak

Khao Lak is Phuket’s closest departure point for the Similan Islands (October–May) and Surin Islands — day trips and liveaboards that are not accessible from Phuket itself because the journey is too far by speedboat. Travellers staying in Phuket who want a Similan Islands snorkelling day trip typically transfer north to Khao Lak the night before and join a Khao Lak Land Discovery departure early morning.

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