In August on the Similan Islands, the monsoon season continues on with heavy rains and strong winds. The national park on the islands is still closed this time of the year because of the monsoon rains, but you can still find other activities to fill your time if you visit now. While the rainfall may be a dampener, you'll still get awesome temperatures, with a daily average of 28°C (around 82°F).
During the heat of the day, the highs get up to 31°C (about 87°F), feeling pretty steamy with all the rain that is falling too. At night, you'll get some relief from the heat, with lows that drop down to 25°C (around 77°F). Most people won't need a sweater or jacket to spend time outdoors in the evenings. When you start packing for your holiday away to this part of southeast Asia, bring along shorts, short-sleeved shirts and tank tops.
You'll also want to pack the umbrella, rain coat or poncho. The rainfall totals jump up from those seen in July, with 241mm of rain falling this month, compared to the 203mm that fell in the previous month. That amount of rain comes over 17 days in the month, so expect to have at least several rainy days during your stay. With seven hours of daylight each day, you'll have plenty of time for sightseeing and exploring, in between dodging the rain drops.
The monsoon rains tend to make the seas choppy and rough, so if you want to try scuba diving at one of the areas famous dive sites, be sure to choose a trusted and reputable dive company that understands the conditions. The average sea temperature this time of the year is 28°C (around 82°F), warm enough if you do get a chance to get down to the beach and in the water.
Where to Stay
Catering to all different kinds of travellers, the Khaolak Bayfront Resort Hotel in Khao Lak offers special packages for honeymooners, families and even elderly guests. The 74 guest rooms include beachfront, sea view and mountain view options. All of the rooms have beautiful hardwood floors and tasteful neutral décor, and some come with Jacuzzis and private balconies. The resort boasts a restaurant, pool bar, spa, library and two outdoor pools.
The Khaolak Paradise Resort invites guests to wander through its lush garden setting, taking in the beautiful blue waters of the Andaman Sea on one side and the gorgeous mountains of Thailand on the other. You'll be treated to an outdoor swimming pool, Jacuzzi, 24-hour front desk, laundry and dry cleaning, and a concierge desk for tour and area information. With only 38 guest rooms, you'll get personalised attention and service from the helpful staff.
If you're looking for excellent value in accommodations, you'll want to stay at Rakkawan Residence. The hotel is conveniently located near the town centre of Khao Lak, giving you easy access to restaurants, bars and attractions to explore in August. Choose from a standard twin or double room, family suite, or superior double with a king bed. All the rooms come with air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, private bathrooms, tea and coffee makers, and breakfast each morning.
Eating and Drinking Out
If you have a hankering for something other than Thai or Asian, check out Pizzeria Ristorante Bella Italia in Khao Lak. All of the pizzas are cooked in a wood-fired stove and topped with both traditional and unusual ingredients. The chefs import all the Italian ingredients they can, so your meal tastes just like what you'd get in Italy. Other menu items include osso bucco, puttanesca and gelato for dessert.
A Khao Lak nightlife hotspot, located right on the beach, Blue Mist is a fun place to party the night away with friends. It's a great place to stop for a pre- or post-dinner drink and enjoy the stunning views of the water. The menu includes Thai and Asian dishes and the drinks look as pretty as they are yummy, topped with gorgeous flowers and colourful fruit. Open for lunch and dinner, the restaurant is an easy walk from many resorts.
The Rabeang Restaurant and Bar serves up fresh seafood, with some of the fish and seafood caught from the nearby Andaman Sea. As you're enjoying your Thai meal, you'll be treated to traditional Thai music. Sip on a glass of wine or cold beer to complement your meal, with menu favourites like barbeque squid, spicy beef salad and tempura prawns. Don't miss the hot pots and curries as well.
Things to Do
On a rainy August night, head over to the Moo Moo Cabaret, with daily shows. The beautifully-costumed performers dance, sing and entertain in an exciting show that is sure to keep you riveted. From the makeup to the costumes to the props, an evening at the cabaret will be one you won't soon forget. As you watch the show, sip on your favourite cocktail, beer or wine from the cabaret's full bar.
Made famous by the James Bond movie, "The Man with the Golden Gun", aptly-named James Bond Island is only an hour's drive from Khao Lak. The island is an impressive display of limestone cliffs that hang precariously and look like they might fall at any time. The beautiful waters surrounding the island are a gorgeous bright green colour. You can view the island on a local boat charter or from the beach on Koh Ping Ghan.
