How to Travel Around Khao Lak on a Budget

Khao Lak is thought to be one of Thailand's most beautiful and peaceful beach destinations. It is located about 80 kilometres north of Phuket along Thailand's Andaman Coast. It has long stretches of quiet shoreline, national parks, and offers a refreshing contrast to the busier resort towns in the south. What really makes Khao Lak shine, though, is how you can easily enjoy its natural beauty and local culture without breaking the bank, if you know how to get around affordably. This guide explains the best budget-friendly ways to travel around Khao Lak and make the most of your trip.

Using Local Songthaews

Getting around Khao Lak does not get much cheaper than using the local songthaews. These are shared pickup trucks fitted with bench seating. These are common along the main street that encircles Bang La On, Bang Niang, and Khuk Khak.

Songthaews work well for shorter journeys and guarantee a far more Thai travel experience while keeping costs low. Since prices may not always be posted, it is best to ask the driver for the fare up front. For budget travellers, this is a great way to travel from beaches to markets and major tourist areas without having to use a taxi.

Renting a Scooter

The best option for travellers who want the most flexibility at the lowest cost is renting a scooter. Most scooters will rent between 250 and 350 THB per day, with fuel costs adding only about 100–150 THB for a full day of exploration. You can comfortably visit waterfalls, viewpoints, beach cafés, and nearby villages at your own pace with a scooter. This also eliminates the need for expensive long-distance rides by taxi. Just remember to wear a helmet, drive cautiously, and make sure your rental includes proper insurance.

Exploring on Foot

The town centres of Khao Lak, especially Bang La On and Bang Niang, are surprisingly walkable. Restaurants, massage shops, cafes, supermarkets, and markets are often within easy walking distance of hotels. Not only does walking save money, but you might come across some obscure local places you could otherwise miss.

Choosing to stay in Khao Lak hotels near areas you will want to see also helps reduce transport costs. This makes walking one of the easiest, cheapest options available.

Choosing Shared Transfers

If you're coming from Phuket Airport, transfers into Khao Lak can be one of your first significant expenses. While private taxis range from 1,000 and 1,400 THB, shared minivan transfers are a more budget-friendly alternative at around 300–400 THB per person. These air-conditioned vans are comfortable and convenient.

Many hotels in Khao Lak such as Avani+ Khao Lak Resort can book them on request. You can save quite a bit of money in travel costs when you consider shared transfers well before arriving.

Enjoying Free and Low-Cost Attractions

Khao Lak boasts natural beauty, and some of the more enjoyable attractions do not have any entrance fees. Beaches like Nang Thong, Bang Niang, Khuk Khak, and Coconut Beach give kilometres of coastline to explore absolutely free. The Tsunami Memorial Boat 813 and various viewpoints along the coast are also free to visit.

For low-cost activities, you can visit waterfalls like Ton Chong Fa for a small fee, take in scenic trails in Khao Lak-Lam Ru National Park, or browse vibrant night markets filled with food, crafts, and local produce. Find a balance between the free attractions and some paid tours.

Eating Local and Saving More

Food is another area where you can easily stretch your budget. Delicious meals in local Thai eateries, food stalls, and night markets go for 60–120 THB, way cheaper compared to Western restaurants or hotel dining. You should try seafood, noodles, grilled meats, fruit shakes, and desserts at the night markets in Bang Niang and Khuk Khak. You can have really low daily expenses by avoiding imported drinks and only consuming Thai dishes to allow yourself to enjoy the flavors of the locals.

Final Budget-Friendly Tips

Save more by considering a trip during the shoulder seasons: April to June or September to October, when the prices for accommodation and tours are low. Booking directly through local operators, rather than through third-party websites will give you better prices.

Group tours, like those around the Similan Islands, have lower per-person costs and can also help keep the average expenditure down.