Koh Kood, also known as Koh Kood, is one of Thailand’s most beautiful and less-visited islands, located in the Trat Province near the Cambodian border. With its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush jungles, Koh Kood offers a tranquil escape for travelers seeking relaxation and natural beauty. This blog will explore the island’s best sunrise and sunset beaches, accommodation options, and how to reach this idyllic destination from Bangkok.
Local life on Koh Kood
In particular I loved the community vibe around Koh Kood, the warm local Thai people just going about their day, living life. Dotted around are local shops selling fruits and funky shops and cafes, luring you in with their funky designs.
A great place to hang out
Ngam Kho beach & Resort – This is a tranquil setting with a stunning beach location. The owners allow outside guests to use the facilities if purchasing food and drinks.
You find Ngam Kho beach & Resort here on Google Maps
Seafood Dishes
We had some of the best seafood and fish whilst on Koh Kood, and both were at Klong Mad Fishing Village.
We just randomly stopped to fill up the fuel in the scooter, and noticed that they shop also had a variety of Thai food. We were presented with a whole white and snapper, and agreed. Shortly after the most delicious fresh white snapper was served with Mango Salad.
Our favorite was this little family run business, mum and dad cooking, grandmother sweeping around and their little daughter (approx. 10 years old) was clearing away tables. We ordered three dishes and each one as delicious as the other.
You find เจ๊แตง ครัวในคลอง(Krua Nai Khlong) here on Google Maps
Best Sunrise and Sunset Beaches
Best Sunrise Beach: Ao Phra
Ao Phra Ang is famed for its stunning sunrises that paint the sky in hues of orange, pink, and purple. This serene beach, located on the eastern side of the island, is relatively secluded and offers a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for witnessing the first light of the day.
Visitors can sit on the soft white sand with a cup of coffee and enjoy the gentle lapping of waves against the shoreline as the sun rises over the horizon. The calm waters are ideal for swimming or snorkeling, allowing you to appreciate the marine life as the day begins.
The beach is flanked by lush greenery, providing a picturesque backdrop for those morning moments. Early risers can also take a peaceful stroll along the beach, making it an excellent spot for photography enthusiasts.
Best Sunset Beach: Ao Taphao
When the day comes to a close, Ao Yai shines as the perfect location to catch breathtaking sunsets. Located on the western coast of Koh Kood, Ao Yai is known for its long stretches of sand and vibrant sunsets that transform the sky into a canvas of fiery reds and oranges.
This beach offers several cozy beach bars and restaurants where you can sip on a cocktail or enjoy a delicious meal while watching the sun dip below the horizon. The atmosphere is laid-back, and the scene is perfect for both couples and families. As the sky darkens, the beach becomes an ideal spot for stargazing, making it a memorable experience.
Accommodation Options on Koh Kood
Koh Kood caters to a variety of travelers, offering a range of accommodation styles to suit every budget and preference.
Luxury Resorts
For those seeking a luxurious experience, Koh Kood boasts several high-end resorts located along the beachfront. These resorts often feature spacious villas with stunning ocean views, private pools, and top-notch amenities. Properties like Soneva Kiri and The Beach Club Koh Kood provide guests with exquisite dining options, spa services, and personalized experiences, ensuring a lavish stay.
Mid Range
Koh Kood offers a variety of mid-range accommodations, perfect for budget-conscious travelers seeking comfort. Options include charming bungalows, beachfront resorts, and guesthouses, often featuring facilities such as pools, and restaurants. Visitors can enjoy stunning natural surroundings, serene beaches, and local dining, providing an enriching experience without breaking the bank.
We highly recommend Seafar beach resort on Ao Taphao beach. Sunset is an amazing this was the delight of our stay. It has a modern beach bar serving excellently poured drinks.
There is avariety of bungalow options to choose from. Beach from to bungalows set back. The bungalows are comfortable, but the main attraction to this resort is the location.
Boutique Hotels
Boutique hotels on the island offer a blend of comfort, charm, and local character. The unique design and personalized service found at places like The Canale Boutique Hotel, Koh Kood Resort and Ahsari Resort cater to those who prefer a more intimate atmosphere. These establishments often have direct access to the beach, providing guests with a more communal feel while still maintaining privacy.
Highly recommend The Canale Boutique Hotel – We stayed in the awesome hotel; I truly didn’t want to leave. The accommodation is a haven for photography lovers. It’s situated in Klong Mad Fishing Village.
Budget Accommodations
Travelers on a budget will find numerous guesthouses, bungalows, and hostels scattered throughout the island. These options provide basic yet comfortable accommodations, often set in beautiful natural surroundings. Places like Peter Pan Resort and The Chill Resort & Spa offer affordable rates without compromising on quality, making them perfect for backpackers and budget-conscious travelers.
Beaches around Koh Kood
For information about beaches around Koh Kood, follow this link Travel Planning Around Thailand for Koh Kood.
How to Get to Koh Kood from Bangkok
Getting to Koh Kood from Bangkok requires a bit of planning, but the journey is relatively straightforward and offers stunning views along the way.
- Travel to Trat
Start your journey by taking a flight or a bus from Bangkok to Trat. The quickest option is to fly, with domestic flights operated by Bangkok Airways connecting Suvarnabhumi Airport to Trat Airport, taking about an hour. Advanced booking is recommended, especially during peak season.
Alternatively, you can take a bus from Bangkok’s Eastern Bus Terminal (Ekkamai) to Trat, which takes around 5-6 hours. Buses run frequently throughout the day. - Transfer to Koh Kood
Once you arrive in Trat, the next step is to catch a ferry to Koh Kood. There are several ferry companies that operate services from Trat to Koh Kood, including T Ferry and Koh Kood Princess. The ferry ride takes approximately 1 to 2 hours, depending on the weather and the type of service. Ferries typically run multiple times a day, but it’s advisable to check the schedules in advance.
A convenient way to book is by using 12Go’s booking platform for shared transfers via buses, trains, flights, ferries, and speedboats. Click this link here to book now!
Conclusion
Koh Kood is undoubtedly one of Thailand’s most beautiful hidden gems, offering stunning natural beauty, serene beaches for sunrises and sunsets, and a range of accommodations to suit various tastes and budgets. Whether you’re looking to unwind on a stunning beach, explore the local culture, or simply enjoy the tranquility of island life, Koh Kood is the perfect destination.
