TUI Sensimar Khaolak Beachfront Resort

The Sensimar Khaolak Beachfront Resort is a large, modern complex that's in line with Sensimar's fresh and tranquil all-inclusive ethos. It's an adult-only property, meaning that you won't hear any screaming children here, helping to keep the resort nice and tranquil. Its spacious lobby has a distinct contemporary style, unusual for hotels in Khao Lak, with few influences from local Thai culture. There are seating areas with leather armchairs, dark wood paneling, and splashes of warm orange in the reception area -- a look that's carried throughout the property. Grounds are neat and open, with paths leading between lawns and palm trees down to the sandy beach. The restaurant has both a sophisticated indoor dining room and laid-back beachfront tables for dining throughout the day. While this resort does offer all-inclusive options, don't come here expecting a booze fest. Instead, expect to see couples of all ages looking to escape and unwind in peace and quiet. 

Located at the south end of the Khao Lak's main strip of resorts, Sensimar Khaolak has a great position with easy access to everything. It's a 10-minute walk to Khao Lak's main strip of tourist-friendly shops and restaurants in Bang La On and sits right on a sandy beachfront. A three-minute drive south from the resort brings you to the entrance of the Khao Lak Lam Ru National Park for hikes around the park and down to the sandy cove, and it's a 15-minute drive to Thap Lamu Pier for snorkeling and diving boats to the Similan Islands. It's about a 75-minute drive to Phuket Airport from the resort, and around the same to reach the Phang Nga Islands, such as James Bond Island (though, of course, you'll need to hop on a boat after that drive). 

Rooms here are spread between two wings: the Garden Wing houses rooms and bungalows, some with a sea view, some with direct pool access, and the secluded Mountain Wing is home to the top-end Grand Deluxe rooms and bungalows. All units, regardless of location, have a bright, airy feel with light wood furniture and pale-hued decor accented by pretty floral wall designs. They feature flat-screen TVs, iPod docking stations, safes, minibars, air-conditioning, electric kettles, robes and slippers, and free Wi-Fi. Desks and plenty of storage space -- not a common feature in hotels in this region -- also come standard. Balconies are available in all units, and some have great views of the sea. Deluxe Beachfront Bungalows have a particular charm, set in pretty gardens right on the sand. The Mountain Wing has its own pool and its elevated rooms and bungalows grant superb sea views, however there are many steps down to access the beach. Bathrooms are sleek and modern across the board, with rainfall showers and separate free-standing tubs. Bathrooms in the Garden Wing have glass windows and bungalows have open glass-walled bathrooms which won't suit everyone, but they can be screened with blinds for more privacy. 

Like most Sensimar properties, the features here are quite numerous, though don't write off exploring the surrounding region. In fact, though this is technically an all-inclusive resort, previous guests have found that half-board or bed-and-breakfast rates are often a better bet, so that you can sample the local cuisine in town. The beachfront restaurant has both indoor and outdoor seating, and serves food throughout the day, with a international buffet in the evenings. A la carte options and room service are also available. The beach here is pretty, if small and dotted with scenic boulders at points. There's also a towel station and water sports. Back on dry land, five pools include one main pool with a swim-up bar and massage beds. Others are located directly off the Garden Wing buildings, as well at the Mountain Wing pool. There's a gym with views over the Garden Wing pools. It features a collection of cardio and weight benches, and a library room with several internet stations. Sun Spa offers a range of treatments and beach or poolside massages. There's a lobby lounge and a small cafe/bar plus a mini-market. A program of entertainment and activities is provided weekly. Other useful features include luggage storage and laundry services plus wedding packages. Wi-Fi is free throughout the resort.