Thailand island-hopping: Jungle meets beach

The long wait is over. Thailand's calling! You give your luggage a once-over. Sense of adventure? Check! Spirit of discovery? Check! Curiosity? Check! And it's time to go. You grab your bags, make your way through the airport and before you know it, the sound of your trolley rolling to the check-in desk is replaced by the rush of turbines as your plane speeds off into the night sky. Street food, temples, dream beaches – one last time, you dream of all the adventures that await you before they finally come true.

Thailand and a stay by the beach – it's a match made in heaven. And there could hardly be a better place for this perfect pair than Khao Lak, a wonderland of endless sandy shores, turquoise sea and green palm trees. In what seems like a flash, you're already in Phuket, and as you get closer and closer to your beach paradise, the grin on your face grows wider and wider.

Khao Lak hits different! When you arrive, you immediately notice that in this part of Thailand, the clocks tick slower. So you take all the time you need, check in for your stay and explore the resort. No stress, no plans – you just settle in and feel at ease. As the sun slowly turns the sky golden, you follow the sound of the waves to the beach and watch the deep red sun sink into the glittering sea until the moon finally reflects in the peaceful water – true Thailand vibes!

It's beach day, baby! Twelve and a half miles of coastline are just waiting to be discovered. And the best way to go beach-hopping in Khao Lak is by motor scooter (optional, payable on site). So pop on your swimwear and sunglasses, grab a towel and get to it! If you're looking for some peace and quiet, then Bang Sak Beach is the place to be. Ride over, kick back under towering palm trees, listen to the sound of waves and enjoy the feeling of being on your very own private beach. If you're the type that can't say 'beach' without the thought of surfing, then you'll want to head to Memories Beach. At the beach bar of the same name, you can watch the wild surfers catch sets or hop on a board yourself (optional, payable on site) and carve up some waves. And if you're looking for a seemingly endless, picture-perfect coastal view, you'll be sure to find it at Pak Weep Beach. Find your favourite!

If you're ready to spend your whole day chillin’ on the beach, then you've hit the jackpot! From coconut beach bars to bamboo beach swings, there's plenty to discover in Khao Lak. And dream beaches aren't the only thing you'll find here. How'd you like to feel some real jungle vibes? Hidden in the dense rainforest of Lam Ru National Park lies its highlight, the rushing Ton Chong Fa waterfall, which courses down five separate levels into the pool at its base. Book a tour on site (optional, payable on site) or set off on your own and follow the hiking trails over sticks and stones through the green thicket as you keep a lookout for exotic plants and colourful birds. After a successful hike, you can cool off in one of the natural pools or on one of the national park's many small beaches. So don't forget your cozzie or trunks!