According to forum posts, Christmas and New Year are popular holidays for visiting Khao Lak, as these dates coincide with peak season in Thailand. Travelers have mentioned that this period is very busy due to it being a popular vacation time for people from various regions, including Australia, New Zealand, Europe, and the US.

Some users noted that the weather during Christmas and New Year is generally favorable, making it an attractive time for tourists. However, they also cautioned that it is the most expensive time of the year to visit, often accompanied by overpriced mandatory dinners during the festive season.

According to forum posts, the Surin and Similan Islands are highly recommended for snorkeling day trips from Khao Lak. Travelers have praised the Surin Islands for having better snorkeling experiences, less crowded conditions, and stunning scenery. The Similan Islands are also popular, offering chances to see diverse marine life, possibly including whale sharks.

Some travelers have suggested using local tour operators such as Khao Lak Guru and Khao Lak Land Discovery for organizing these trips. These operators are noted for their reliability and good service. Eco Khao Lak and Lara at Dior Travel are also mentioned favorably for their eco-friendly practices and detailed organization of snorkeling tours.

For many users, the journey to the snorkeling sites starts with a short drive to the docks from Khao Lak, followed by a boat ride. The boat trip to Surin Islands usually lasts around 90 minutes, while the trip to Similan can vary but offers substantial rewards in terms of marine sightings and water clarity.

According to forum posts, credit cards are widely accepted in mid-level and higher hotels, bigger restaurants, and some stores in Khao Lak. However, many smaller restaurants and some places may not accept credit cards or might charge a fee, often around 3%.

Travelers have called out that cash is preferred for many transactions in Khao Lak. It is advisable to carry cash, especially for smaller purchases or in places where credit cards are not accepted.

Some travelers said that there are plenty of exchange booths available in Khao Lak, suggesting that exchanging currency locally might be beneficial. It's recommended to exchange currency in Thailand rather than in your home country for better rates.

For many users, ATMs are available but might charge high fees, making cash exchanges at booths a more favorable option.

Several users recommended various elephant sanctuaries near Khao Lak, highlighting places like Phuket Elephant Sanctuary, Hidden Forest Elephant Reserve, and Khao Sok Elephant Sanctuary. These sanctuaries emphasize ethical treatment, focusing on observing elephants in their natural habitats without engaging in activities like bathing or riding them.

Some travelers are specifically looking for sanctuaries that do not involve elephant riding or bathing with tourists. For example, the Khao Sok Elephant Sanctuary is noted for allowing only observation of elephants, which aligns with preferences for minimal interaction and more ethical treatment.

Other mentioned locations include the Khao Lak Elephant Home, which some users have criticized for less ethical practices, such as elephant bathing and performances. It is recommended to research carefully and consider sanctuaries that prioritize animal welfare and provide natural living conditions for the elephants.

According to forum posts, public bus services operate between Phuket and Khao Lak. Travelers can catch a bus with a Phuket sign from Khao Lak and disembark at the end of the runway in Phuket, where taxis are readily available. Additionally, a small bus or van service (No. 444) runs from Krabi to Khao Lak, although this might not be suitable for those with large luggage due to space constraints.

Some users have recommended private car transfers for comfortable and reliable transportation. Private transfers are available for various routes, including from Khao Lak to Phuket airport and from Khao Lak to the Khao Sok Tree House Resort. Prices for these services are mentioned to be reasonable, with a specific example of a 1200 THB charge for a transfer to the Khao Sok Tree House Resort.

For local transportation within Khao Lak, travelers mentioned the use of songthaews, which operate similarly to taxis. These local vehicles cover various villages in the Khao Lak district. Prices typically start from 100 THB and can go up depending on the distance.

Khao Laks weather varies throughout the year. According to forum posts, the end of January is described as the best time to visit, featuring mainly sunny days with little to no rain and moderate temperatures. May sees a mix of rain, sunshine, and clouds, with occasional afternoon downpours that pass quickly.

During the rainy season, particularly from June to October, the weather is unpredictable. Some travelers experienced heavy rain followed by sunny days in August, while others noted moderate rain that lasted for short periods. September typically includes cloudy days and heavy rain on some days but also perfect weather towards the end.

Travelers have noted that even during the monsoon or low season, the weather can be quite pleasant with brief heavy rains followed by sunshine. This season also offers lower rates at hotels, making it a worthwhile risk for some visitors despite the less predictable weather.

Long-term residents and frequent visitors mention that while heavy rainfall can occur, it usually lasts no longer than 30 minutes, transitioning quickly back to sunny or cloudy conditions. This pattern is typical as the monsoon season winds down.