The Sands Khao Lak by Katathani

Had a family swim up room (glad we did) and really enjoyed our stay. It's a bit westernised/basic in the sense that it's clearly designed for the package holiday maker. Its not the resorts fault but lots of people out grabbing sunbeds and drinking all day at the swim up bar, each to their own. The swim up room gives you more privacy as you get a semi private pool, the room was immaculate and towels etc were generously provided every day even if you haven't returned them all. Brealfast is a bit busy and mad, but very well provisioned, did want a bit more fruit variety but local sellers were cheap so we bought our own mango and guava. Staff were kind and efficient. The area is incredible, we drove to Little Sandy Beach and Pak Weep, took out a longtail boat for snorkeling but the hotel is also just a quick walk to fab local restaurants, a roti seller, 7/11, fruit sellers etc. We ate out every night and it was always fab! Great stay, if you want more privacy and don't want to battle crouds by the pool then get a swim up...

Our third visit to The Sands, so we had high expectations. However the hotel has now become focused on a family and child friendly vibe. My guess is that about 70%+ of the adults were with a young family, a large proportion of the children under 5. Just something to be aware of if you have heard about the tranquillity of the hotel. There is an adult’s only breakfast area, but other than that it’s pot luck if a baby (or a few) sit next to you whilst sunbathing or eating dinner. The beds are super comfortable and food very good, both the buffet and the beachside restaurant had some incredible dishes. The location is ideal, with many restaurants and laundry places just at the top of the drive. The staff in the restaurants and the mango bar were also very attentive and service was always prompt and polite. Good gym with both cardio and weights available which was open 24/7. The rooms were well maintained and it’s a lovely setting. Massage’s at the beach side were super relaxing and some of the staff excellent. Drinks in the Tin Lounge next door at Little Shore were excellent as was the service. I’d say if you are coming for relaxation and quality, check out Little Shore which was beautiful. Overall a great hotel, but only now suitable if you have children or are happy to share your holiday with lots and lots of other peoples children

This is a beautiful resort. The staff are beautiful and friendly. The rooms (we had beach side junior suite) are amazing! Nothing is a problem for the staff (you can even request they make your bed softer/harder!) Its right on the beach. My only complaints (if that's what you want to call them) would be there is zero shade on the pools. The adults only pool has shade over the jacuzzi and that's the only place. So it was too hot to enjoy the pools unless you want to get burnt, even with sunscreen. It is also a long walk to anywhere you want to go even within the resort as the resort is massive, So for my elderly mother that made things a little difficult. I would recommend this place though they need to consider some type of shade for the pools.

This is one of those hotels where you're more than happy to return to relive the experience. It's suitable for children and adults, with separate swimming pools and breakfast restaurants to aid the enjoyment of a peaceful holiday. The staff are so friendly and helpful and the guest liaison manager, (Jane), couldn't have been more efficient and likeable. The hotel is right on the beach, so you can walk along the sandy coastline for some exercise, and close enough to numerous restaurants that a gentle stroll in the evening will provide you with plenty of choice, if not eating in the hotel.

While popular with families (the aqua park is a success), there are calm adults-only breakfast and spa areas. Beautiful long sandy beach with lifeguards and a tropical beachfront garden with plenty of sunbeds, so no “towel rush.” Beach massages are an affordable highlight with the sound of waves and a gentle ocean breeze. Great activities (yoga, cooking classes and - my favourite - Muay Thai). Don’t miss the library and games in the activity room. Lovely buffet breakfast and dinner, à la carte restaurant by the sea (try the softshell crab!) Live entertainment in the evenings, relaxed and not too loud. A romantic candlelight dinner by the beach can be arranged. Staff are friendly and attentive, but don’t count on calling the reception if you wish to be understood. Special thanks to Jane for her daily tips and genuine interest in feedback. Would happily return.