Khao Lak, located just 80 km north of Phuket is known as one of Thailand’s most tranquil resort destinations and a perfect oasis for family, group and solo travelers. Its three national parks, beautiful surrounding hills, and long stretching beaches are all making Khao Lak more and more famous among the travelers visiting Thailand. Unlike the busy Phuket, Khao Lak offers a relaxing retreat, with its azure waters, white sand beaches, lush tropical forest and lovely beachfront accommodation.
Taking into consideration the 4 factors, we created a simple guide on how to get from Phuket Airport to Khao Lak for all those planning a visit.
1. Time: How many hours do I have to spend to get from Phuket Airport
to my Khao Lak destination?
2. Convenience: How many transit switches and different modes of transport will I have to make?
3. Comfort: How comfortable am I sharing a full vehicle, and walking with all my luggage for varying distances at different points in the journey?
4. Cost: What is my budget for this journey? Am I willing to spend more for a reduced time, increased convenience, and comfort?
In this guide, we are going to explore the various transportation options from Phuket Airport to Khao Lak.
Option 1: Phuket to Khao Lak by Bus
Time: 2-3 hours
Comfort: Low
Convenience: Low
Cost: $
Summary & Recommendation:
Taking a bus is by far the most economical way to get from Phuket HKT Airport to Khao Lak. It is also a great option for those traveling alone or with one other person, and carrying a small piece of luggage.
The bus timings are fixed, so you will have to schedule your travel around the bus service timetable.
Once at the bus station in Phuket, take a bus towards Takuapa, Ranong or Surat Thani. The bus fare is around 90 THB and the journey to Khao Lak will last about 2.5 hours. The Phuket Airport bus service is available between 6:30 AM – 8:00 PM, and the buses depart approximately every one hour. Keep in mind that the buses are not available 24/7, so for those arriving outside of the bus schedule, they can opt for other Phuket Airport to Khao Lak transfer options, such as a reliable car service.
Travel Steps:
Step 1: Exit the Arrival Hall
Step 2: Follow the signs and reach the bus station
Step 3: Buy a ticket
Step 4: Wait for your bus
Step 5: Board the bus and travel to Khao Lak
Step 6: Find a transfer to reach your final destination
Option 2: Phuket to Khao Lak by Taxi
Time: Around 1 -2 hours
Comfort: Moderate
Convenience: Moderate
Cost: $$
Summary & Recommendation
If you’re in a hurry to reach your destination in Khao Lak, then hiring a shared or private taxi is the recommended mode of transportation. A direct Phuket taxi to Khao Lak hotel will be available outside the airport. The official taxis have red and yellow color mainly with a yellow “Taxi” sign on the top.
It is a common occurrence that some taxi drivers will not want to turn on their taxi meter and give you a fixed, often higher than usual fare amount. In that case it is advisable to leave the vehicle and look for another one. Also, keep your map on hand and track your ride to make sure the route traveled is not made longer.
Taxis undoubtedly offer more convenience and comfort than the buses, however some drivers drive erratically and speak little to no English language. Make sure you are satisfied with the driver before leaving on a 2 hour long taxi drive to Khao Lak.
Travel Steps:
Step 1: Exit the terminal
Step 2: Locate the Taxi Service counter
Step 3: Get in line to purchase the ticket
Step 4: Queue the taxi line
Step 5: Store your luggage and board the vehicle
Step 6: Begin your journey to Khao Lak
If thinking about public transport or taxi, you may want to consider an upgrade to private car. Affordable and vastly more convenient, a professional car service lets you enjoy the start of your trip comfortably with peace of mind.
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Option 3: Phuket to Khao Lak by Car Service
Time: 1-2 hours
Comfort: High
Convenience: High
Cost: Get a Quote
Summary & Recommendation:
Car service is recommended for those looking for a premium level of comfort and convenience on their travel from Phuket Airport Transfer to Khao Lak. Unlike the public transport option, car service is available 24 hours. Moreover, it is a single step door-to-door service that has no stops along the way.
Unlike Airport taxi service, you don’t have to stand in a line since booking is done beforehand in a quick and easy manner. You can simply meet your professional English speaking driver upon your arrival. The driver will have the complete information about your flight arrival at Phuket Airport, wait for you at the arrival gate, store your luggage securely and drive you to your hotel or resort.
If you want to reach Khao Lak as smooth, comfortable and hassle-free as possible, then the Airport transfer to Khao Lak inside a private, modern and air-conditioned car is by far the best option.
Travel Steps:
Step 1: Exit the Arrival Hall
Step 2: Meet your driver holding a personalized name-sign
Step 3: Board the car and enjoy the ride
Final Words
As Khao Lak is a popular beachfront destination for locals and visitors alike, there are many options for getting there from Phuket Airport. It really depends on which is the most suitable for you and those you are traveling with. For those traveling internationally and are not familiar with the local language, having a private car and an English speaking driver all the way to the hotel or resort can be extremely useful.
On the other hand, if you’re looking to save a little on transport costs and don’t mind spending a long time to arrive, there are public transport routes than can prove more suitable. For those who value a more flexible and convenient service, tailored to your specific requirements, a private car hire is better. Whichever service you decide to take, we hope you have a wonderful time in the paradise that is Khao Lak.
Asia Car Service provides private limousine transfers. If you are interested in private car service for your Phuket Airport to Khao Lak journey, please don’t hesitate to contact us: bookings@asiacarservice.com.
We’re also excited to offer you a $10 discount on your first service with our company, redeemable with this promo code 10CARBLOG. Just click the image below and get your discounted quote!
