Fantastic things to do in Khao Lak with kids

Thailand is one of my favourite countries to visit in Asia with kids, there’s always heaps to do and the natural scenery is stunning. But parts of it can feel a bit overwhelming, it’s popular for good reason but with that comes the crowds. I recently discovered the area of Khao Lak in the South of the country, just over an hour from Phuket. It still feels like the Thailand of 20 years ago, quiet, undisturbed and operating at a deliciously slow pace. Here are some fantastic things to do in Khao Lak with kids.

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If you’re still in the planning stage, start by reading my detailed guide to Khao Lak, Thailand.

Meet the residents at the Sea Turtle Conservation Centre

Probably the most popular thing to do with kids in Khao Lak is a visit to the Sea Turtle conservation centre. Based on a naval base about 20 minutes drive south of Khao Lak this conservation centre rescues sea turtle, allows them a safe space to heal and grow, then releases them back into the sea.

You will see the turtles in their tanks, learn all about the conservation efforts and take in the gorgeous local scenery.

Explore the tropical beaches

Thailand is famous for it’s stunning tropical beaches. I think some of the best can be found in Khao Lak. Many of them have avoided the wave of overtourism that has impacted many of Thailands islands. They are laid back, with soft sand and welcoming beach bars. Kids will love having a splash in the warm shallow water and playing in the sand while you enjoy a cold drink.

For me, Coconut Beach and White Sand beach are the best beaches in Khao Lak. They are relatively hidden away and home to a couple of amazing restaurants and bars. You could also visit popular Bang Niang beach which is close to the centre of town and all the facilities you’ll need for a day playing in the sea. Or Nang Thong beach which is picture postcard pretty, offering gorgeous views out to sea and impressive waves.

Pay your respects at the Tsunami Museum

Definitley not a typical kid friendly adrenaline activity, a visit to the Tsunami Museum is deeply humbling and a great learning opportunity. Dedicated to the 2004 Tsunami that caused huge devastation to Thailand, India Sri Lanka and Myanmar this small museum contains everything you need to know about staying safe and the origins of tsunamis. It contains a few photos from the clean up effort which kids may find upsetting but these can easily be avoided.

This is also where you’ll see a police boat that was washed almost 1.5km inland where it remains to this day. It really does demonstrate the power of the water. Kids will learn so much during a visit and you’ll only need about half an hour.

Visit some stunning Temples

There are several stunning temples to visit in and around Khao Lak. Dragon Cave temple is one of the best in the area. Located just over an hour from Khao Lak, this is a mystical temple housed inside a cave, home to a stunning stalactites and stalagmites. Or you could try Wat Bang Riang located about an hour and a half from Khao Lak. It’s on a hilltop offering gorgeous views of the surrounding Phang Nga Bay. Remember to dress appropriately for your visit. That means cover up shoulders and down to the knees.

Shop till you drop at the vibrant markets

Did you even go to Thailand if you didn’t have a haggle in one of the markets. Bang Niang is the biggest and best in Khao Lak. It’s open on Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays from 4pm. This is the best place in town to pick up your souvenirs, cheap clothes and local crafts. But it’s also a great place for food. You’ll find heaps of street food stalls in the rows of stands near the road. It’s the perfect place to bring the kids for dinner, they’ll love the hustle and bustle and trying new flavours. Satay dishes and grilled sweetcorn are particular favourites with the kids.

If you’re early birds and fancy rubbing shoulders with the locals head to Khuk Khak fresh market. It is open from 5am until mid morning. It’s a great place to pick up tropical fruit and veg if you’re self catering or for an early lunch at great prices.

Take in the views at Samet Nangshe

If you’re looking for one of the best views in Thailand, you must visit Samet Nangshe located above Phang Nga Bay. On arrival at the viewpoint you’ll hop on a songthaew which will take you up to the top of the hill. This is bound to be a hit with kids of all ages. Then you can explore the viewpoint at your leisure. There are manmade photo props, although the natural views are even more breathtaking and a couple of sweet little restaurants for lunch. This one is bound to score you some serious brownie points with any little social media fans. It will take just over an hour to drive from Khao Lak to Samet Nangshe.

Book a Boat Trip to the islands

Khao Lak is the starting point for some of the best boat trips in Thailand. The Similan Islands are just an hour and a half by speed boat from the pier in Khao Lak. Home to deserted sandy beaches, monumentous viewpoints and epic snorkelling. Or try the a day trip to the Surin Islands which is just over an hour and a half speedboat journey from Khao Lak. Again this is an exceptional spot for snorkelling in the tropical reef, lazing on soft white sand and picnicking right on the beach. Kids may even spot a Nemo during their swim!

Hike to a waterfall

If you tire of swimming in the warm, turquoise waters of the Andaman Sea then how about a short hike to a waterfall for a quick dip? Chong Fa Waterfall is the closest to town in Khao Lak-Lam Ru National Park, about 15 minutes drive from Khao Lak. This is a 5 tiered waterfall, and you should be able to take a dip in the bottom few layers. The water is very shallow. The hike to reach the base of the falls is around 1km along a dirt path, it’s not too taxing for little legs. Just be careful after rain, the rocks can be a little slippy.

Hit the skatepark

For something completely kid centric, head to the largest skatepark in Khao Lak at the La Vela Hotel. This super cool park has ramps, obstacles and rails and is perfect for little adrenaline junkies. The Layby Khao Lak is open daily from 9am until 6pm. It’s next to a lovely coffee shop where the adults can enjoy a drink watching the kids zoom around the park.

Enjoy a free fire show

I’m an absolute sucker for a fireshow, they always put me straight into holiday mode. Many of the beach front hotels and bars put on free fireshows on various nights of the week. Memories beach bar located on Pakarang beach puts on a nightly show. We really loved the show at Kokulo Beach Club on Bang Niang Beach in the La Vela hotel.

Read next: Best Thailand islands for families.

Where to stay in Khao Lak with kids

Most hotels in Khao Lak are very kid friendly and have fantastic kids clubs, pools and family friendly activities. Some of my favourites include the Outrigger Resort, a super propery located right on Bangsak Beach. It has a kids pool and huge family sized rooms. We also love the Pullman Khao Lak which has pool slides for the kids, a fantastic kids club and some great restaurants.

Have a look at my post on the Fantastic Khao Lak family resorts for inspiration.

As you can see, there are heaps of fantastic things to do in Khao Lak with kids. Being such a beautiful part of the world, it would be easy to spend the whole time at the beach. But if you can, try to tick off a few activities on this list and you’ll discover even more.

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