Takolaburi Cultural Resort

I'm back again, mainly because my 'little ones' are now old enough to surf and this location works perfectly. The pool is great, rooms are spacious and very clean, and the staff are incredibly helpful. We can walk to several restaurants, including Salt Surf and memories beach. I first stayed here about ten years ago with my young children. It was busy and clean, in a perfect spot. When we returned four years ago, COVID had been hard on the place and it needed a serious revamp. Even so, the rooms were immaculate and the staff just as helpful as ever. This hotel gets a very unfair rating.

The staff made us feel at home with their warmth and attention, without ever making it feel forced or stuffy. The hotel is well placed for exploring, but quiet enough to get proper rest. We loved the classic elegance and easy seaside atmosphere at The Grand Southsea. The coast views are stunning, especially at sunrise from the room, and breakfast was one of the best spreads in the area. I'll definitely come back.

The beach right outside and decent rooms are about the only things in its favor. This is nowhere near a five star hotel. The gym is just a few dumbbells, the pool was dirty, the spa wasn't working during our stay, and breakfast isn't worth bothering with. It's seriously overpriced, so if you do stay, make sure you get a good deal. They charge 80-100baht per kg for laundry and even charge for basics like bottled water. For a hotel in the middle of nowhere, I'd expect a free shuttle to the main town, but they charge customers 300-400baht each way.

We had a delightful stay at Grand Southsea Resort Khao Lak. The peaceful beachfront setting is steps from Bang Niang Beach, with lovely sunsets and room for long walks. Our spacious, clean room was comfortable, with a furnished balcony, premium bedding, AC, a fridge and free WiFi. Staff were exceptionally friendly, from check-in through to help with tours and shuttles. There’s an outdoor pool with a kids' area, a full-service Maya Spa offering Thai massages, a gym and two restaurants with fresh Thai and international food. We also enjoyed the private beach access, loungers, garden terrace and activities like volleyball. The peaceful vibe made it easy to unwind. Highly recommend, 9/10.