24 Oct. 2019

Koh Kood, also known as Koh Kut, has all the hallmarks of a paradise island: endless white sand beaches, translucent waters, coconut palms stretching as far as the eye can see, and barely a soul in sight. Yes, you read that right—this still little-known destination attracts only a handful of travelers seeking calm and serenity. Discover more about this Thai island you absolutely must visit to decompress far from the tourist masses…

A paradise still sheltered from mass tourism

In Trat province, in the southeast of Bangkok within the Gulf of Thailand, lies Koh Kood, Thailand's fourth-largest island. Positioned close to the Cambodian border, it remained isolated for years due to conflicts between Cambodia and Thailand. It wasn't until the 1990s that the island opened to tourism. And precisely because it took so long to welcome visitors, Koh Kood remains authentically intact with its nature still unspoiled! Especially since in its early days as a tourist destination, the island catered exclusively to luxury resort complexes for the elite.

Rest assured, while Koh Kood was long branded as luxury tourism, it's gradually democratizing, and today you'll find modest hotels and guesthouses for every budget. That said, don't expect shopping or nightlife! Here, you'll find neither boutiques nor bars nor nightclubs—just a single road and near-virgin nature… Today, the island still lives primarily off fishing, coconut cultivation and rubber plantations (for rubber production). You'll find just one ATM, so remember to bring enough cash just in case…

What to do on Koh Kood?

Of course, the best way to experience Koh Kood is to explore all the beaches by renting a scooter, on foot for the more adventurous, or by taxi for the less bold. Each more stunning than the last, they each have their own character: hammocks suspended right in the water, coconut groves lining the shore, rocks and wooden piers worthy of postcard images… Among them, we recommend visiting Hat Klong Chao, Neverland Beach, Ao Noi Beach, Ao Prao Beach, Away Beach, and Secret Beach. If you're a snorkeling enthusiast, don't forget your mask. For the more active, you can rent a kayak to paddle along the beaches or venture into the mangrove forests!

Beyond the beaches, Koh Kood boasts 3 waterfalls perfect for those seeking a refreshing plunge: the Khlong Yai Kee, Khlong Chao and Khlong Nam Kaew cascades. On the way to the latter waterfalls, we highly recommend stopping on a dirt track leading to two centuries-old trees. One is said to be 700 years old (the Chai tree) and the other 500 years old (the Makka tree)! You'll recognize them by the orange fabric wrapped around their bases, which honors their sacred significance.

Finally, visiting the fishing villages ranks among Koh Kood's must-do experiences! There are 4 in total, but we especially recommend Ao Yai and the Ao Salat village. The first is a floating village on the island's east side where you can stroll along wooden piers and taste local catches! The second draws us in for its colors and unique history. Located in the north, this village was, just a few years ago, a pirate hideout! You'll also see a large golden Buddha seated facing the sea… Enough to inspire moments of quiet contemplation!

Florine Dergelet

ROGES

03 April 2021

Planning a Thailand trip in November-December away from mass tourism, ideally with a small inter-island cruise for a couple Snorkeling and diving enthusiasts (not beginners)

Reply

Comment *

Name *

Email address *

Submit

Florine Dergelet

A web writer for over 10 years, Florine Dergelet is a traveler driven by the desire to explore the world with an open heart. Each of her articles is an invitation to slow down, listen, and understand. Because for her, travel isn't about ticking countries off a map—it's about forging connections (often invisible but always powerful) with places, peoples, and all manner of creatures in the animal kingdom. Her philosophy? Advise travelers with integrity, awaken their awareness of animal welfare, cultural respect, and the importance of humble, sustainable tourism. Because the most beautiful memories are often born far from the spotlight, in the shadow of a trail, during a quiet conversation, or in the gentle whisper of a world we finally take time to truly hear…