Khao Lak

Khao Lak is a very scenic beach area on the mainland of Phang Nga province, close to the Similan Islands. It was one of the hardest-hit areas of Thailand by the 2005 tsunami, but is now more or less fully recovered. The resort area has numerous accommodations to chose from, and makes a good base if you don't like liveaboards, or want to spend some time relaxing before or after your cruise.

There are several dive shops in the area, where you can get kitted up, book a tour, or even learn to dive.

While most divers head out to the Similan Islands or beyond, there are a few good dive sites closer to shore. One that seems especially worth noting is the Boonsung wreck. Sunk in 1984, the tin ore processor lies about 12 to 18 meters down.