The Sands Khao Lak was an overall great experience. Here are some of the highlights. Big room, oversize soaking tub, powerful AC, nice deck, comfortable bed and staff was great. The breakfast buffet that was included was very good. Great selection and the food was good. Plenty to choose from for all types of eaters. They have 3 pools. One geared for kids, one for everyone and an adult only. Plenty of lounge chairs at the adult pool and it was quiet. All 3 pools closed at 7:00pm. It would have been great to have them open until 9:00 or 10:00pm. The staff was very friendly and helpful, from the front desk to grounds crew to housekeeping everyone greeted us with a smile and a hello. This hotel-resort is definitely geared towards families and or couples. There were not a lot of people between 18-40 that didn't have kids of their own. While there are plenty of bars to stop by, it was not a "party" environment. The walk to the main strip is less than 1/2 mile and there are plenty of restaurants, bars and shops within easy walking distance. The only negative I really can mention is that there a lot of little steps and bumps around the entire resort. The steps are uneven and in the rooms there is a step down and a "trough" around the tub you have to just be aware of. Not a big deal really. Also the beach is always red flagged because they do not have a lifeguard. Many people swam right out front, I did with no worries. This was a great place to stay.