Tucked along Thailand’s Andaman coastline just north of Phuket, Khao Lak is the kind of place that makes you pause, breathe, and wonder why you didn’t visit sooner. With 25 kilometers of golden sand beaches, tropical forests spilling down to the shore, and sunsets that ignite the horizon, it’s not hard to see the appeal. Yet, for years, Khao Lak remained a quiet alternative to its more famous neighbor. That’s changing—fast.
Originally a sleepy string of fishing villages, Khao Lak has transformed into a premium travel destination without losing its soul. It’s still peaceful. Still spacious. Still real. But now, it’s also home to some of Thailand’s finest beachfront resorts, a vibrant food scene, and a growing reputation as one of the country’s most promising wedding destinations.
Why Weddings Are Moving North
More and more wedding couples are choosing Khao Lak—and it’s easy to see why.
First, the beaches. Long, wide, and wonderfully quiet, they offer the kind of privacy that’s hard to come by in busier destinations. Many stretches still feel untouched, perfect for intimate ceremonies with nothing but the ocean breeze and a line of palms for company.
Second, the atmosphere. Khao Lak is serene, wrapped in nature, and feels far from the party crowds. It’s a place where couples can actually unwind and soak in the moment with their guests.
Third, access. Despite its tranquility, Khao Lak is just over an hour’s drive from Phuket International Airport via smooth, well-maintained roads. On most days, the drive to Khao Lak is actually quicker than reaching the southern end of Phuket—making it both relaxing and practical for destination weddings.
And finally, the venues. Over the past few years, several world-class resorts have opened or revamped in Khao Lak, making it a serious contender in the wedding scene.
Our Favorite Resorts for a Dream Wedding in Khao Lak
- Kalima Khao Lak. A hidden gem surrounded by mangroves, rivers, and forest, Kalima Khao Lak feels like your own private retreat. A short bridge connects the resort to the quiet beach, where ceremonies feel wonderfully secluded. Add to that a freshwater stream flowing into a lagoon and a stylish open-air restaurant for the reception, and you have a setting that’s natural, romantic, and visually unique.
- Devasom Khao Lak. Nestled between a lagoon and one of the most scenic sections of Khao Lak Beach, Devasom is an architectural gem. Every room and villa faces the sea, and the wedding ceremony can take place either right on the spacious beach or tucked into a quieter corner beneath the shade of a large tree. The atmosphere is luxurious yet deeply serene, with thoughtful design elements that blend Thai and Southeast Asian inspirations.
- Le Méridien Khao Lak. With the largest ocean-view lawn in the area, Le Méridien is ideal for grand celebrations, including multi-day Indian weddings. The resort offers seven restaurants, three massive pools, and a sweeping beachfront that can host up to 400 guests. Its indoor ballroom also provides a reliable Plan B in case of rain.
- Avani+ Khao Lak. Designed with destination weddings in mind, Avani+ is a large, family-friendly resort that’s become a favorite for Indian weddings in particular. It offers an expansive beachfront, several event areas, and one of the largest indoor ballrooms in the region. While it shines in hosting big celebrations, it also has quieter corners that are perfect for smaller celebrations.
- Pullman Khao Lak Resort. Pullman brings contemporary flair to the beachfront, with one of the most meticulously kept lawns in Khao Lak. It’s also a great choice for couples wanting a seamless indoor-outdoor experience, thanks to its stunning all-glass ballroom. The resort offers all-inclusive options, making it easier to host large groups without the stress of unpredictable costs.
A Quiet Rise to Prominence
It’s clear that Khao Lak is no longer just a side trip from Phuket. With world-class resorts, postcard-worthy beaches, and a growing infrastructure for weddings and events, it’s emerging as a top destination in its own right.
At Phuket Romance, we’ve seen a noticeable increase in wedding inquiries for Khao Lak in recent months—especially from couples looking for something different, intimate, and naturally beautiful. It may still fly under the radar for now, but Khao Lak’s star is definitely rising.
Photographs: Kalima Khao Lak, Devasom Khao Lak, Le Meridien Khao Lak, Avani+ Khao Lak, Pullman Khao Lak
