White Sandy Beach lies to the north of Khao Lak. It is one of the most famous beaches in the Khao Lak area. It as a popular place to spend some quality beach time during the day. Around sunset it is great to dine there. There is also some Khao Lak accommodation at White Sandy Beach too.
About White Sandy Beach
Over time White Sandy Beach has been known by several names. Going back over 20 years this stretch of Khao Lak coastline was covered in dense mangrove forests. As well as many other exotic animals, there were plenty of monkeys inhabiting the mangroves. The bay we now call white sandy beach was known then as Ao Ling, which means Monkey Bay. There were several shrimp farms in the area.
Around 1977 tourists slowly started to discover this secluded beach. Small bars and restaurants began to open to cater for guests staying at the Similana Resort nearby. It was the perfect spot to soak up the sun, enjoy a cocktail and dine on delicious Thai cuisine. A couple of years later five bamboo bungalows were built next to the beach. These simple bungalows were equipped with mosquito nets with power supplied from a generator. A new era for Khao Lak accommodation. At this time the name was changed to it’s current official name, Ao Thong Beach which means Golden Bay in English.
The named seemed more fitting for the beautiful golden sands lying next to the clear, warm Andaman Sea. In 2003 a new high end resort was built at Ao Thong Beach. This brought with it an influx of guests to the local rustic restaurants and bars. It also brought in an electricity supply, essential to the further development of the beach. Nowadays Ao Thong Beach is commonly known as White Sandy Beach, a much more tourist friendly name.
Khao Lak Accommodation at White Sandy Beach
Khao Lak Beach Bungalows
There are three modest beach side bungalow resorts at White Sandy Beach. Ao Thong Beach Bungalows and Restaurant sits in the middle of the three. It is noticeable for the bright blue umbrellas on the beach. Where as Ao Thong Beach Bungalows takes it’s name from the official beach name, the aptly named White Sandy Beach Resort lies next door. On the other side of is Owthong Goon and Gib Bungalows, a slightly different spelling of the official name.
Check availability for Ao Thong Beach Bungalows on Booking.comAll three beach bungalow resorts offer beach side dinning, both shaded and open air. Fresh seafood is served upon request. The bungalows are set back slightly from the beach, in the shade of trees. Since the Tsunami of 2004 all bungalows are of a clean, modern construction with basic amenities. Ao Thong Beach Bungalows also features a hot shower, air conditioning and WiFi. Guests can enjoy the use of sun loungers on the beach. Thai massage is available as well as a frequent taxi service to Khao Lak centre. There is also an established tailor at White Sandy Beach.
High End Khao Lak Accommodation
The Sarojin
The Sarojin is Khao Lak’s award winning 5 star boutique hotel at White Sandy Beach. Since 2005 the Sarojin has become famous for it’s hospitality and comfort. The resort features two restaurants, one in the heart of the resort and one by the beach. There is an open air bar and chilled wine cooler. The Sarojin also offers private dining at various private secluded locations.
Check availability for The Sarojin on Booking.comAs well as a pool and spa there are many other leisure and adventure activities available. The Sarojin also has amenities to host meetings and team building events.
Kantary Beach Hotel Villas & Suites
Kantary Beach Hotel is a relatively new resort at White Sandy Beach. Here you will find suite and villa Khao Lak accommodation set between two beautiful lakes next to a large private beach. There is a restaurant, cafe and three swimming pools as well as a fitness centre, mini-mart and business centre with conference and meeting facilities.
Check availability for Kantary Beach Hotel on Booking.comOther facilities include a library, free WiFi, room service, transportation service and 24-hour front desk, concierge security and maintenance.
How to get to White Sandy Beach
From Khao Lak head north on Highway 4. Continue north through Bang Niang and Khuk Khak. When you reach a 7-11 on the left side of the road, turn left. The turn is signposted to the Sarojin and Pakarang Cape. Follow this small road heading towards the beach. Turn right where you see the sign for White Sandy Beach. Follow this road, pass the Sarojin then take the second left sign posted to Ao Thong Beach.
