Family Adventure in Khao Sok National Park, Thailand

Day 8: ATV Adventures and Sunset Serenity: A Day of Thrills and Relaxation in Khao Sok

Experience the best of Khao Sok with thrilling ATV rides, serene beach relaxation, and delightful local cuisine. Family fun awaits!

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Riding Through Khao Sok's Heart


Today was a day of contrasts, a perfect blend of adrenaline-pumping adventure and tranquil relaxation. It’s amazing how Khao Sok National Park manages to offer both extremes, and we were eager to dive into everything it had to offer. This morning promised roaring engines and muddy trails, while the afternoon hinted at sun-kissed sands and the soothing sound of waves.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Bamboo Bistro Khaosok. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and sizzling Thai spices filled the air, setting the perfect tone for our adventures. Sophie was particularly excited, her little eyes sparkling with anticipation for the day ahead. Jean-Pierre and I enjoyed some coffee while Sophie devoured a stack of pancakes. It's become our little tradition to start our days with a good breakfast; it fuels us for whatever adventures lie ahead. The owner spoke very good English, making us feel welcome and at home.

Experience authentic Thai cuisine surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of Khao Sok National Park at Bamboo Bistro.
Experience authentic Thai cuisine surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of Khao Sok National Park at Bamboo Bistro.

Fuelled up, we headed straight for our much-anticipated ATV adventure. Kitted out with helmets and ready to roll, we embarked on the KHAO SOK ATV ADVENTURE, a thrilling ride through the heart of Khao Sok's stunning landscapes. The experience was nothing short of exhilarating! We navigated winding dirt paths, dense jungles, and verdant rubber plantations. Sophie, riding with Jean-Pierre, squealed with delight as we splashed through muddy puddles, her laughter echoing through the forest. I trailed behind them, carefully maneuvering my ATV while trying to capture the stunning scenery with my camera. It was challenging, but incredibly rewarding.

Experience the thrill of Khao Sok ATV Adventure, where adrenaline meets stunning natural beauty in Thailand's oldest rainforest.
Experience the thrill of Khao Sok ATV Adventure, where adrenaline meets stunning natural beauty in Thailand's oldest rainforest.

The best journeys answer questions that in the beginning, you didn't even think to ask.


There were a few rocky moments, literally! At one point, I nearly veered off the path, but managed to regain control just in time. Jean-Pierre, ever the supportive husband, gave me a thumbs-up and a reassuring smile. Sophie, of course, found the whole thing hilarious. We stopped a couple of times to take photos of the breathtaking views of towering limestone cliffs and tranquil rivers. The staff was very welcoming and gave us a safety briefing to make sure we were safe.

After our thrilling morning, we were ready for a change of pace. We cleaned ourselves up and drove towards Bang Sak Beach. The drive itself was scenic, with glimpses of local life and lush greenery along the way. Bang Sak Beach is known as one of the quietest beaches in Khao Lak.

Experience the tranquil beauty of Bang Sak Beach in Phang Nga, where golden sands meet crystal-clear waters for the ultimate relaxation.
Experience the tranquil beauty of Bang Sak Beach in Phang Nga, where golden sands meet crystal-clear waters for the ultimate relaxation.

Arriving at Bang Sak Beach, we were greeted by a serene and tranquil atmosphere. The beach was lined with Casuarina trees, providing plenty of shade and a perfect spot for a relaxing afternoon. We found a nice spot under the trees, spread out our towels, and soaked in the peaceful ambiance. Sophie immediately started building sandcastles, while Jean-Pierre and I took a leisurely walk along the shore. The water was crystal clear, and the sand was soft and powdery beneath our feet.

I couldn't resist taking a dip in the sea, the cool water a welcome contrast to the warm sun. Sophie joined me, splashing and giggling as the waves gently lapped against the shore. Jean-Pierre, ever the photographer, captured the moment with his camera, preserving the memory of our idyllic afternoon. Bang Sak Beach is popular with locals, especially during the weekends, so we enjoyed watching families picnicking and children playing. It gave us a glimpse into the local culture and added to the charm of the place.

As the sun began to set, we decided to treat ourselves to a delicious dinner at Chao Pizzeria 2 by chef Nu. The pizzeria is nestled amidst the stunning scenery of Khao Sok National Park. The aroma of wood-fired pizza filled the air, making our mouths water in anticipation. We ordered a Margherita pizza for Sophie and a local specialty pizza topped with fresh herbs and seasonal vegetables for ourselves. The pizzas were cooked to perfection, with a crispy thin crust and flavorful toppings. Sophie devoured her pizza, declaring it the best she had ever tasted. I must admit, it was pretty amazing.

Experience authentic Italian cuisine surrounded by the natural beauty of Khao Sok National Park at Chao Pizzeria 2.
Experience authentic Italian cuisine surrounded by the natural beauty of Khao Sok National Park at Chao Pizzeria 2.

After dinner, as the day drew to a close, we decided to check out Moose's Pub. I nursed a beer while Jean-Pierre enjoyed a glass of local Thai whiskey. Sophie, tired from her day of adventures, snuggled up in my lap, dozing off to sleep. The pub had a lively atmosphere, with locals and tourists mingling and chatting. It was the perfect way to end our day, soaking in the local vibe and enjoying each other's company.

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Moose's Pub in Khuk Khak, where great drinks and live entertainment come together for an unforgettable evening.
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Moose's Pub in Khuk Khak, where great drinks and live entertainment come together for an unforgettable evening.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Ban Ko Kho Khao and Khao Sam Kloe. I’m looking forward to more serene landscapes and cultural discoveries, and perhaps a bit of shopping at Khao Sok CenterTour. It’s hard to believe our trip is drawing to a close, but I'm excited for the new experiences that await us.

As I reflect on today, I'm filled with gratitude for the opportunity to experience the beauty and adventure of Khao Sok National Park with my family. It's moments like these that make our travels so special, creating memories that we will cherish for a lifetime.

Another day, another set of unforgettable memories made in this beautiful corner of Thailand. The blend of adventure and relaxation was just what we needed, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. Goodnight from Khao Sok!

Go to day 7 Encountering Khao Sok's Wild Side: Turtles, Bungalows, and Jungle Delights
Go to day 9 Exploring Khao Sok's Hidden Gems: Islands, Karsts, and Culinary Delights
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Family Adventure in Khao Sok National Park, Thailand

Experience the adventure and natural beauty of Khao Sok National Park with family, exploring hidden gems and local culture in Thailand.

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Meet this Featured Explorer

Emily Smith
  • Occupation icon Occupation: Freelance Translator
  • Country icon Country: France
  • Age icon Age: 38

Bonjour, fellow wanderers! I'm Emily, a New Yorker living in the beautiful city of Lyon, France. As a freelance translator, I have the flexibility to indulge my passion for travel and explore the world with my wonderful husband, Jean-Pierre, and our daughter, Sophie. Join me as I share our family's adventures, hidden gems, and practical tips for creating authentic and affordable travel experiences. From exploring the French countryside to discovering far-flung corners of the globe, I'm here to inspire you to pack your bags and embrace the journey!

Interests:
  • Photography
  • Hiking
  • Trying new cuisines
  • Learning about different cultures
  • Sustainable living
More about Emily Smith

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