The warm temperatures continue into May, which signals the official start of the monsoon season in the Similan Islands. The days get shorter, with only six hours of sunshine per day, compared to April's nine hours of daylight. Fortunately, it's only the beginning of the rainy season, so if you visit now, you'll be able to dodge some of the rain and get to enjoy the beautiful national parks on the islands.
Thanks to the winds that blow in the monsoon rains, the temperature and humidity drop a little from the previous months. Like the nearby province of Phang Nga, the average daily temperature sits at 28°C (around 83°F), warm but not too hot. In the early morning and overnight hours, the lows drop down to 25°C (about 77°F), giving you some relief from the heat of the day. The highs jump up to 32°C (about 89°F) during the hottest parts of the day, so plan to spend some time down at the beach or beside the pool in the afternoons in between rain drops.
With an average of 193 mm of rainfall falling this month, you'll want to have an umbrella or poncho handy if you'll be out and about. That amount falls over 19 days in the month, so you'll probably have more rainy days during your stay than you'll have sunny ones. During this time of the year, the rain comes in short and heavy bursts, so your holiday won't end up being a total bust. Each day, check the local forecast to know what to expect during your day out.
If you do get a chance to do some scuba diving or swimming, take advantage with the warm water temperature. This month sees an average sea temperature of 29°C (around 84°F), ideal for enjoying the beautiful waters that surround the islands.
Where to Stay
Situated right on the white sand beaches of Khao Lak, The Sands Khao Lak by Katathani invites guests to enjoy the surrounding natural beauty. All of the guest rooms wrap around the resort's three swimming pools and some of the rooms have direct pool access. Along with standard rooms, guests can choose from the junior, one and two-bedroom suites. The resort also offers family suites with separate sleeping areas for the kids and fun decorations.
The Pullman Khao Lak Katiliya Resort and Spa offers the best of both worldswesome amenities and affordable accommodationsor your May trip. The 229 guest rooms all come with private outdoor balconies, air-conditioning and free Wi-Fi. Upgrade to the Lagoon Villa with indoor and outdoor shower and bathroom. Amenities include five swimming pools, including one family pool, fitness center, tennis courts, video game area and kids' club.
From the quaint villas to the classic Oriental touches, the Khaolak Laguna Resort welcomes you to completely unwind and relax. Spend your days relaxing on the beach or sitting beside the two free-form pools that overlook the pristine blue waters of the Andaman Sea. Indulge in spa treatments at the luxurious spa or re-center yourself with some yoga or Tai chi. All of the rooms come with air-conditioning, satellite television, and beach towels and baskets.
Hit the Beach
One of Khao Lak's longest beaches, Khuk Khak stretches from Bang Niang to Pakarang. The city center of Khao Lak is only 10 minutes away by car, so you can easily reach this beach by taxi or bus. Several resorts sit on the beach, but are spread out so it cuts down on crowding. You'll find several restaurants and bars along the way, as well as natural wonders like lagoons and rivers.Jump on in with an average sea temperature of 29°C (around 84°F) in May.
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Eating and Drinking Out
It's easy to see why Smile Khaolak Restaurant consistently ranks at the top of visitors' lists for dining options. You can get a little bit of everything on the eclectic menu, which pulls from Thai, Asian and French cuisine. You'll also find seafood, fusion and numerous vegetarian dishes. Because of its popularity, you'll want to book a table ahead of time, especially during the high season. Make sure to check out the chef's recommendations each day.
With a romantic setting and amazing food, Elicious is a great place for a date night. Here, you can dine right on the water's edge, with sand between your toes and the sun setting beautifully in front of you. The menu mixes Thai, Asian, seafood and European cuisines, creating fantastic fusion dishes. Along with being delicious, the food and drinks are also affordable, making this a great choice for budget travelers.
If you're craving a little piece of home, head over to the Mars Bar and Café, a traditional English pub right in Khao Lak. During the day, it's a great place to grab some pub grub like bangers and mash, fish and chips, steak pies and jacket potatoes. At night, stop by for a cool drink and a rocking good time, as the bar turns into one of the best nightspots in the area. Mars, the owner and namesake, makes sure the party keeps going with awesome music.
Things to Do
Another fun way to see the sights of Khao Lak is by horseback, with a tour through the Khaolak Horse Club. The tours are open to riders of all experience levels and the company even offers one and five-hour lessons for those with no experience at all or who want to brush up on their skills. You can choose from the mountain or beach tours, which run two to three hours. The tours run all year round, even during the rainy season in May.
Thailand is home to numerous Buddhist temples, including three just outside the Khao Lak area. You can explore these amazing structures on a temple tour with Khao Lak Land Discovery. On the tour, you'll see the Dragon Cave Temple, housed in a limestone cave and still occupied by monks who make medicine. You'll view the Bang Rieng Pagoda Temple, which features Thai, Chinese and Jedi-Pagoda features. Finally, you'll visit Suwanakuha Temple with huge Buddha statue and macaque monkeys.
For a look at amazing natural creations underneath your feet, head to the Pung Chang Cave. Located just off the main road, halfway between Ao Nang and Phuket, the cave is an easy stop if you're traveling between the two cities. Once there, you'll see amazing rock formations, including many that resemble animals. You'll start the cave tour on a canoe and then transfer to a wooden raft as you go deeper and deeper into the cave. You'll finish on foot before you head back out.
