Small Sandy Beach
Nestled within the Khao Lak coastline of Phang Nga Province, Small Sandy Beach lives up to its name as an intimate stretch of shoreline away from the larger, busier beaches in the region. Its appeal lies in its quieter atmosphere, making it a draw for those seeking a more unhurried coastal experience without the crowds typically found at more prominent destinations along Thailand's Andaman coast. Visitors can expect soft sand, relatively calm waters, and a setting that encourages relaxed swimming, wading, and simply taking in the natural surroundings. The beach is modest in scale, which contributes to its laid-back character and sense of seclusion. The consistent visitor rating reflects a genuine appreciation for the spot's simplicity and natural charm rather than any elaborate facilities or services. Good to know: Small Sandy Beach is open daily from 08:30 to 16:30, so visitors should plan accordingly and avoid arriving late in the day. Given the limited infrastructure, it is advisable to bring water, sunscreen, and any refreshments needed for the visit. The Khao Lak area experiences its best beach weather between November and April during the dry season, while the monsoon months from May to October can bring rough seas and reduced visibility, making a dry-season visit strongly preferable.
Book tours & tickets in Khao Lak
Day trips, skip-the-line entry, and guided experiences around Small Sandy Beach — book ahead and skip the on-the-ground markup.
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Small Sandy Beach, round out your day in Khao Lak with contrasting stops nearby.
Also Popular in Khao Lak
Mu Ko Similan National Park
A remote national park archipelago off Phuket's coast, famed for turquoise waters, white sand, and world-class diving.
Bang Niang Market
A popular open-air night market in Khao Lak offering local street food, handicrafts, and a relaxed evening atmosphere.
JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort & Spa
Upscale beachfront resort in Khao Lak offering spacious rooms, villas, a lagoon pool, and a full-service spa.
The Sands Khao Lak by Katathani
A well-regarded beachfront resort in Khao Lak offering a relaxed tropical escape on Thailand's Andaman coast.
Small Sandy Beach: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Small Sandy Beach worth visiting?
Small Sandy Beach holds a 4.7★ rating from 504 Google reviews, placing it among the highest-rated activities & tours in Khao Lak.
What are the opening hours of Small Sandy Beach?
Small Sandy Beach is typically open 08:30-16:30 — see the full day-by-day schedule in the location info on this page. Hours can change on Thai public holidays, so check ahead for holiday visits.
When is the best time to visit Small Sandy Beach?
The best months to visit Khao Lak are November – April (Similan season Oct 15 – May 15), with the most reliable weather. Crowds peak in December – February (strong European family season) — going early in the day usually means fewer people. Months to think twice about: May – October (rough seas, Similans closed).
Where is Small Sandy Beach located?
Small Sandy Beach is at J6FM+55J, Khuekkhak, Takua Pa District, Phang Nga 82190, Thailand, in Khao Lak. Getting around Khao Lak: Songthaews along the main coastal road (Phetkasem highway); Motorbike rental (฿250–300/day; the resort areas string along one road).
Location Info
J6FM+55J, Khuekkhak, Takua Pa District, Phang Nga 82190, ThailandVisitor Information
Best time to visit
November – April (Similan season Oct 15 – May 15)
Avoid: May – October (rough seas, Similans closed)
Rainy season
May – October
Avg. temperature
24°C – 33°C(75°F – 91°F)
Crowds
Peak: December – February (strong European family season)
Getting there
Phuket International Airport (HKT) is 60–75 minutes south by taxi or shared minivan (฿700–1,500). Buses from Bangkok's Southern Terminal reach Khao Lak town in 10–12 hours; most stop on request along the resort strip.
Getting around
- •Songthaews along the main coastal road (Phetkasem highway)
- •Motorbike rental (฿250–300/day; the resort areas string along one road)
- •Hotel shuttles and taxis — no Grab coverage to speak of
- •Tour transfers to Khao Sok and the Similan piers are hotel-pickup based
Where to stay near Small Sandy Beach
Find hotels in Khao Lak on the booking sites travellers trust most.
- Compare prices across sites
- Filter for free cancellation
- Secure checkout on the partner site
Compare rates on Booking.com
Largest selection
Compare rates on Agoda
Asia-focused selection
Compare rates on Hotels.com
Member prices
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
Tips for Visiting Activities & Tours
Vet Elephant Sanctuaries
Only visit sanctuaries that prohibit riding, use no chains or bullhooks, and let elephants roam freely. Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai set the standard. If a place offers painting shows or circus tricks, walk away.
Book Popular Activities Online
Booking platforms like GetYourGuide give you instant confirmation and, on many activities, free cancellation — and you can read recent reviews before committing. Compare with local agencies for multi-day trips where negotiation might save more.
Do Outdoor Activities in the Morning
Heat and humidity peak from noon to 3 PM. Schedule jungle treks, cycling tours, and outdoor cooking classes for early morning. Water activities are more flexible since you're in and out of the sea.
Nearby Places
Khao Lak-Lam Ru National Park
A tropical national park near Khao Lak offering jungle trails, wildlife, and secluded beaches.
Mr. Moo Tours
A well-rated tour operator in Khao Lak offering guided excursions across the Phang Nga region.
K&P Khaolak tour and taxi service
A reliable local tour and taxi service operating daily across the Khao Lak region.
Elephant Sanctuary by ECO KHAO LAK ADVENTURE
An ethical elephant sanctuary in Khao Lak offering hands-on wildlife experiences in a natural setting.
Similar Activities & Tours Across Thailand
Elephant Jungle Sanctuary Phuket
An ethical elephant sanctuary in Kathu where rescued elephants roam freely and visitors connect with them through feeding and bathing.
Elephant Jungle Sanctuary Chiang Mai
Elephant Jungle Sanctuary is Chiang Mai's best-known ethical elephant operation — a network of small camps in the Karen hill country of Mae Wang, about 60 kilometres southwest of the city, where rescued elephants live in semi-wild family groups.
Elephant Jungle Sanctuary Pattaya Camp 1
An ethical elephant sanctuary in Pattaya's jungle offering hands-on feeding, mud baths, and close wildlife encounters.
Elephant Jungle Sanctuary Samui (Soi 1 Branch)
Ethical elephant sanctuary in Maenam offering daily hands-on encounters with rescued elephants in a jungle setting.
Where to stay near Small Sandy Beach
Find hotels in Khao Lak on the booking sites travellers trust most.
- Compare prices across sites
- Filter for free cancellation
- Secure checkout on the partner site
Compare rates on Booking.com
Largest selection
Compare rates on Agoda
Asia-focused selection
Compare rates on Hotels.com
Member prices
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
Location Info
Visitor Information
Best time to visit
November – April (Similan season Oct 15 – May 15)
Avoid: May – October (rough seas, Similans closed)
Rainy season
May – October
Avg. temperature
24°C – 33°C(75°F – 91°F)
Crowds
Peak: December – February (strong European family season)
Getting there
Phuket International Airport (HKT) is 60–75 minutes south by taxi or shared minivan (฿700–1,500). Buses from Bangkok's Southern Terminal reach Khao Lak town in 10–12 hours; most stop on request along the resort strip.
Getting around
- •Songthaews along the main coastal road (Phetkasem highway)
- •Motorbike rental (฿250–300/day; the resort areas string along one road)
- •Hotel shuttles and taxis — no Grab coverage to speak of
- •Tour transfers to Khao Sok and the Similan piers are hotel-pickup based