Khaolak Laguna Resort

The Khaolak Laguna Resort is a large resort that offers a mostly attractive blend of classic and modern Thai styles. Common spaces embody that only-in-Thailand style that most travelers are seeking. For instance, the lobby holds several stylish Buddha figures and some beautiful lighting pieces beside more traditional artwork and dark wood furniture. Tropical grounds are full of plants and water features. A vine-covered walkway leads from the lobby to the central restaurants, while wooden pathways trail away to the chalet buildings. Of course, the ocean figures largely here, and much of the hotel is oriented directly toward it, including the main restaurant and pools. The Club Lounge bar has a family-friendly vibe, with a pool table and free popcorn machine, plus lots of armchairs and live music. While this is a family-friendly resort, overall you should expect to see mostly couples at this property.

The resort sits off the main road that runs along Thailand's west coast, with its grounds spreading all the way down to the beachfront. There are shops and restaurants along the main road opposite the resort's entrance, and it's a 10-minute walk north to the center of town, where there's a 7-11 and local food spots. Phuket's airport is around a 60-minute drive away and the resort can arrange an airport transfer. It's also about an hour south by car to Phang Nga National Park for trips to James Bond Island. The entrance to Khao Lak Lamru National Park is a five-minute drive from the hotel, with trails of varying lengths, including family-friendly paths to a sandy cove.

Rooms here are finished with traditional Thai style details and include dark wood furniture alongside natural color schemes. Both rooms and villas are available, though the villas have a slightly more romantic feel, with beautifully ornate four-poster beds. Some rooms are starting to look a bit tired, but on the whole previous guests are happy with them. Common amenities include air-conditioning, minibars, safes, electric kettles, free Wi-Fi, and 46-inch TVs, with each room also including beach bags and towels. Chalet Rooms are ideal for families, with up to three beds and connecting rooms available. Rooms and villas all have outdoor terraces with views over the leafy tropical grounds, with the Simian Pearl Villas looking out over the ocean. Bathrooms feature counter-top basins and offer both bathtubs and separate shower stalls in many units.

The resort has two restaurants and a lounge bar. The Oriental Dining Room serves a buffet breakfast, with both American and Asian-style options available. Sundown Beach Terrace offers lunch and dinner, and has a variety of dishes including local and Western options, and a menu that changes daily. Cocktails and live music are available in the Club Lounge. Private dining areas can be arranged, and there are two event rooms catering for up to 120 guests. Wedding packages are also available. Chiva Spa offers a range of treatments including traditional Thai massages. It features both a sauna and steam bath. The resort also has a daily program of activities including yoga, Muay Thai, and Thai cooking, plus cycle rides and excursions. There's a beachfront swimming area with two pools, a whirlpool, and plenty of loungers. While swimming in the ocean here is possible, it can be a little rough and large boulders are embedded in much of the sand, which is common in the Khao Lak region. Wi-Fi is free throughout.