Khao Sok Smiley Lakehouse
8.4
Excellent(443 reviews)
2JFW+93G Rajjaprabha Dam, Tambon Khao Phang, Phanom, Surat Thani 84250, Thailand
+66 89 871 5744
+2
Hotel Description
Nestled on the tranquil shores of Ratchaprapha Lake within Khao Sok National Park, Khao Sok Smiley Lakehouse offers a unique retreat characterized by its basic yet charming accommodations. Located at 2JFW+93G Rajjaprabha Dam, Tambon Khao Phang, Phanom, Surat Thani 84250, Thailand, this remote resort is accessible only by boat, providing an immersive experience surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of nature. The journey to the hotel begins at a pier located 16 kilometers from Route 401, allowing guests to enjoy the serene waters and lush landscapes that define this extraordinary location.
The resort features 11 utilitarian floating bungalows, each designed with wood-paneled walls that exude a warm and rustic atmosphere. These bungalows offer direct access to the lake and come equipped with private bathrooms, ensuring a comfortable and relaxing stay. Guests have praised the attentive service, which complements the cozy ambiance and enhances the overall experience.
Dining at Khao Sok Smiley Lakehouse is a delight, with meals served in a casual restaurant/bar that invites guests to unwind and savor local flavors. Breakfast is particularly popular, with guests frequently mentioning its quality and variety. In addition to delicious meals, the resort offers a selection of amenities including Wi-Fi and kid-friendly options, making it suitable for families and travelers seeking a peaceful getaway.
For those looking to explore the stunning surroundings, a variety of activities can be arranged. Guests can embark on jungle treks within Khao Sok National Park, where ancient rainforests, towering limestone cliffs, and hidden waterfalls await discovery. Canoeing and tubing on the lake provide additional opportunities for adventure, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area. The nearby Khao Sok National Park is renowned for its rich biodiversity, while Cheow Lan Lake, created by the Rajjaprabha Dam, offers picturesque views and tranquil experiences. Additionally, visitors can explore intriguing points of interest like Khao Sam Kloe and Nam Talu Cave, both of which promise unforgettable adventures.
Despite the absence of certain amenities like a fitness center, spa, pools, or air conditioning, the resort remains a favorite among guests seeking an authentic connection with nature. The combination of friendly service, scenic beauty, and engaging activities makes Khao Sok Smiley Lakehouse a perfect destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. We warmly invite you to experience the unique charm and serene surroundings of our lakehouse, where unforgettable memories await you.
The resort features 11 utilitarian floating bungalows, each designed with wood-paneled walls that exude a warm and rustic atmosphere. These bungalows offer direct access to the lake and come equipped with private bathrooms, ensuring a comfortable and relaxing stay. Guests have praised the attentive service, which complements the cozy ambiance and enhances the overall experience.
Dining at Khao Sok Smiley Lakehouse is a delight, with meals served in a casual restaurant/bar that invites guests to unwind and savor local flavors. Breakfast is particularly popular, with guests frequently mentioning its quality and variety. In addition to delicious meals, the resort offers a selection of amenities including Wi-Fi and kid-friendly options, making it suitable for families and travelers seeking a peaceful getaway.
For those looking to explore the stunning surroundings, a variety of activities can be arranged. Guests can embark on jungle treks within Khao Sok National Park, where ancient rainforests, towering limestone cliffs, and hidden waterfalls await discovery. Canoeing and tubing on the lake provide additional opportunities for adventure, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area. The nearby Khao Sok National Park is renowned for its rich biodiversity, while Cheow Lan Lake, created by the Rajjaprabha Dam, offers picturesque views and tranquil experiences. Additionally, visitors can explore intriguing points of interest like Khao Sam Kloe and Nam Talu Cave, both of which promise unforgettable adventures.
Despite the absence of certain amenities like a fitness center, spa, pools, or air conditioning, the resort remains a favorite among guests seeking an authentic connection with nature. The combination of friendly service, scenic beauty, and engaging activities makes Khao Sok Smiley Lakehouse a perfect destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. We warmly invite you to experience the unique charm and serene surroundings of our lakehouse, where unforgettable memories await you.
The Most Outstanding Trait
1. Stunning floating bungalows with lake access
2. Delicious meals served in a casual restaurant
3. Surrounded by the breathtaking Khao Sok National Park
4. Engaging activities like canoeing and jungle treks
5. Unique opportunity to explore ancient caves and landscapes
7.8 Very Good
Location rating
Top sights
Khao Sok National Park
Cheow Lan Lake
Khao Sam Kloe
Rajjaprabha Dam
Nam Talu Cave
See more Interesting locations
Good to know
| Location rating | 7.8 |
Recommended properties nearby
Location
2JFW+93G Rajjaprabha Dam, Tambon Khao Phang, Phanom, Surat Thani 84250, Thailand
Nearby locations
7.8
Very Good Location
Set on Ratchaprapha Lake in Khao Sok National Park, this basic, remote resort is accessed by boat from a pier that's 16 km from Route 401.
Top Attractions
Amenities and Facilities
Pets
No pets
Food & drink
Restaurant
Breakfast
Wellness
No fitness center
No spa
Children
Kid-friendly
Internet
Wi-Fi
Pools
No pools
No hot tub
Rooms
No air conditioning
Reviews
100% reviews from partners and customers booking on Dinogo
8.0
252 reviews
Wonderful
138
Excellent
52
Good
15
Below Average
15
Not Good
32
Mr Marti
4/5
Had a great 2 day tour at Smiley. The food was good, the excursions very nice and very friendly staff. Unfortunately, it rained continuously during the 2 days we were there, so everything in the room was damp and there is no hot shower in the room. Rooms are minimal, but the price-quality ratio is certainly good.
kris
4/5
The boat ride to the lake house was about 45 minutes. The national park is beautiful, the lake house is in the perfect spot! The rooms were very standard, no aircon, but had fans but as expected really. Back to simplicity. Had a brilliant time
Room 3
Service 3
Location5
Lies Blancke
1/5
!!! JUST DON'T DO THE ELEPHANT FEEDING AND BATHING!!!Our experience with smileys was very nice except for the activity on the first day: we chose the elephant experience but it is very unclear where exactly you will end up (Buathong elephant home) and this is mainly a tourist trap. Preparing and feeding food is fun, but afterwards the elephant has to go into the mud bath and the water and do all kinds of tricks to take beautiful photos that you can then buy. The elephants are shouted at all the time.Other than that the tour was really fun. We also did the night safari activity and that is highly recommended, although you have to be able to tolerate spiders ðThen we went to the lake. The activities there are really fun and there is good guidance. The guide speaks good English and always gives a clear explanation about the upcoming activities. Lunch and dinner is a buffet, breakfast you get a nice plate. I would recommend bringing some snacks with you because you can only get water, beer or Coke on site.The rooms in the village are really lovely, equipped with air conditioning. On the lake they could use an upgrade and small adjustments (suitable curtains, sheet instead of fleece blanket) would make everything a little more comfortable, but it has everything you need and a great adventurous experience.
Dana Zorina
5/5
Thank you ð
Room 5
Service 5
Location5
Pedro Calvino NÃšÃąez
5/5
Fearing the comments we read, we decided to upgrade to the new bungalows. These bungalows are not bad, you know you are going to an area in the middle of nowhere. The only thing I would point out is the lack of cleaning of the pillows. Because even though they cover them with two covers, they have mold inside. The food was acceptable and the excursions were fun, especially the waterfall climb. It is an unforgettable experience in a unique environment.
Marie Martin
5/5
This is a must go to place absolutely amazing staff so helpful , food was okay but just the national park was like being in a Jurassic movie , jungle tour not for the faint hearted climbing up the waterfalls in the jungle but a great experience , breath taking views and lovely to swim in the lake
Room 5
Service 5
Location5
bas houtkamp
5/5
Price quality good. Basic, but that's exactly what we wanted. We are a family and knew that we were only with back packers. But it was great to see how that works for my kids. Food was tasty. Really really beautiful location.
Melissa Krijns
4/5
Very nice location. If you go here well prepared you will have a nice experience. We also had rain but that is to be expected and can be solved quickly with a poncho.Guides show beautiful places and animals and are very friendly. Enough free time in between, which is also indicated in the itinerary, to do your own thing such as swimming and kayaking. You must bring your own towel.The food was fine.
Cris S
4/5
A cool excursion!The guide Kit Kat, the best of all!!!
Pablo
1/5
Our experience at this place was really disappointing. Upon arriving at the room, we found a rather unpleasant situation: there was dirt in both the room and the bathroom, and it was full of insects, from mosquitoes to spiders, ants and even worms all over the bed. We understand that being in a natural environment there may be bugs, but this was already exaggerated.The towels, although well presented in the shape of a flower, were wet, and the bed had stains. The bathroom was in such bad shape that we couldn't even use it due to the amount of insects. As if that were not enough, there was a loose dog hanging around near the room, which made us feel even more uncomfortable.We had planned to stay two nights, but we really couldn't handle the conditions. This was a trip we had worked hard for and looked forward to, but it ended up being a huge disappointment. We had no choice but to find a taxi and go somewhere else.I wouldn't recommend this place to anyone.
Nicole Ware
4/5
Great tour and value for money! The food was surprisingly good based on the recent reviews I have seen. Everywhere you go in Thailand you run the risk of food poisoning so we were aware, but also what else can you do? It was big quantities and a big vegetarian option if you want to avoid meat.The staff were happy and friendly. A little education was shared about the animals we saw and the landmarks we went to. We did the diamond dry cave walk as only a week ago a tour guide and tourists had got swept away in the main cave they go in (it is not recommended to do during rainy season). I was happy we only went in the dry cave. Saw bats and spiders. The next day was a walk/hike up a waterfall. Quite steep, a little sketchy. But just watch your step and wear bug spray!It was so cool to swim outside our room and enjoy the kayaking. Rooms were pretty basic and average, a little smelly and had fans. But it was only a base to sleep and use bathroom anyway - no biggie.Overall a great tour for the lower price compared to other ones available. Just go with the flow and enjoy the beautiful national park!!
Leroy Poos
5/5
What a wonderful experience! Indescribably beautiful and intensely enjoy the surroundings! The food is also tasty and there is more than enough
Loezz
1/5
DO NOT GO TO THE ELEPHANTS FEEDING AND BATHING!!We also had a good tour with smiley tours. We could choose an extra activity on the first day of the tour where you could choose elephant feeding and bathing. There was no further name given as to what the organization was called. The place is called Buathong elephant home. The animals are not treated well here, as can also be read in the Google reviews of the elephants. Please do not choose this activity. I very much regret that I helped finance this
Renske van Leeuwen
5/5
Had a great experience! After the long journey of an hour over the water you arrive at the location of the bungalows. They are great little houses, there is no air conditioning and the shower does not get hot, but this is of course part of the experience. The food was great and the tours were great! The tour guides were also very nice and it seemed like they were having a great time themselves. Even though it is the rainy season and certain activities could not take place, the guides made it a lot of fun! You can swim and sunbathe on the mats in front of your house! There are also kayaks available that you can take with you.
Lilas Akhamlich
5/5
The most magical experience of our stay in Thailand, a must do!We spent a night on the lake with Smiley Lakehouse, and it was fantastic. The equipment is relatively basic, but well thought out, but it is above all the adorable team that makes the difference. The excursions (visit to a cave, short hike in the jungle, and boat safari) were very pleasant and suitable for everyone. The guides are enthusiastic and friendly.The time spent at the resort is also pleasant: kayaking available, swimming in the lake, and hearty and tasty meals.We thank the entire team for their great welcome, and recommend that any hesitant traveler try the experience. In terms of value for money, itâs unbeatable! And spending a night on the lake gives a completely different impression compared to a simple day trip.
SW
S W
4/5
3 day tour: all the staff are very nice, the food was very good. The rooms are simple but sufficient. Very well organized with multiple activities. You get soaking wet on the Jin and return journey to the lake. âĶ
Rachel Kirby
4/5
We had a very memorable experience on the floating bungalows. The location of them is perfect with beautiful scenery all around. It took about an hour and a half to get from the pier to them and it was a squished journey but the views definitely made up for that. Food was delicious and always plenty of it. Rooms were definitely basic with a strong musty smell but we didnât spend much time in there so it didnât matter. The boat safaris were brilliant, the guides had great knowledge and were experts at spotting animals from a distance. Although it was rainy season, we also did the jungle hike and went 200m into the cave. The hike it quite hard at places, with narrow ledges and trees and rocks to climb over; however, itâs well worth it. Our guide, Kitkat, was very helpful and great at keeping us all laughing! The lake it so refreshing to swim in and there were plenty of kayaks. Overall, weâre very glad we went, just be aware itâs basic.
Elisabeth Hausegger
1/5
Do not book the elephant feeding and bathing! They send you to Buathong Elephant Home. This is one of the elephant homes one should not support. One elephant was chained up. And the elephantkeeper explained to us that the elephants are bathed, mudded and fed three times a day by tourists. It is a little bit unethical.
Ricard Catlla
5/5
An unforgettable experience!
Room 4
Service 5
Location5
TL
Tamara L
5/5
Very nice experience, the national park is beautiful and the lagoon is spectacular, the food is very good | We had a medical emergency and their response was great | They changed our itinerary so as not to miss the âĶ