Koh Kood

Ao Phrao Beach, Sunset, Koh Kood

Koh Kood, also known as Koh Kud or Koh Kut, is a hidden gem among Thailand’s numerous islands. Located in the Trat Province, near the Cambodian border.

Koh Kood is renowned for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, lush jungles, and tranquil atmosphere. It offers a perfect escape for travelers seeking natural beauty and serenity away from busy tourist hotspots like Phuket or Krabi.

Beaches of Koh Kood

Koh Kood boasts several stunning beaches, each with its unique charm:

Klong Chao Beach – Often considered the most popular beach on the island, Klong Chao features soft white sand, shallow turquoise waters, and calm conditions suitable for swimming and sunbathing. It’s lined with resorts, restaurants, and bars, making it a lively yet relaxing spot.

Ao Taphao Beach – Known for its pristine environment, Ao Taphao is less crowded and offers clear waters perfect for snorkelling. Its peaceful ambiance makes it ideal for a quiet retreat.

Saengchan Beach – A more secluded beach, Saengchan is perfect for those seeking privacy and tranquillity. The surrounding jungle and rocky outcrops add to its natural beauty.

Bang Bao Bay – A favourite among boaters, this bay provides gorgeous scenery and excellent opportunities for snorkelling and exploring nearby islands.

Klong Yai Kee Beach — less developed and less crowded — is great for a peaceful day out, with snorkelling spots near the rocks.

Secret Beach — Secret Sunset Beach on Koh Kood is a hidden paradise featuring pristine sands, vivid sunsets, crystal-clear waters, tranquilly, and lush surroundings, perfect for relaxation, snorkelling, and unforgettable scenic views.

Klong Hin Beach – Klong Hin Beach in Koh Kood is known for its pristine white sands, clear turquoise waters, and peaceful atmosphere. Perfect for relaxation, swimming, and snorkelling amidst natural beauty.

Ao Jark Beach – Ao Jark Beach Koh Kood is a stunning, secluded paradise featuring pristine white sands, crystal-clear waters, scenic waterfalls, lush jungle surroundings, and excellent snorkelling and diving opportunities.

Ao Phrao Beach – Ao Phrao Beach on Koh Kood is a tranquil, unspoiled paradise with crystal-clear waters, soft white sands, vibrant coral reefs, and lush greenery, perfect for relaxation, snorkelling, and escaping busy crowds.

Ngam Kho Beach and Resort – Ngamkho Beach on Koh Kood is a pristine, tranquil paradise with white sands, crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, lush greenery, and a perfect escape for relaxation and snorkelling adventures. The small, stunning resort allows outside guests to use the beachfront if purchasing food or drinks.

Sunrise and Sunset Views

Koh Kood’s natural beauty is particularly spectacular during sunrise and sunset. Here are the best spots to witness these stunning moments:

Sunset at Ao Taphao Beach — Wake up early and head to Ao Taphao, where the eastern horizon offers breathtaking views of the sun rising over the Andaman Sea. The calm, clear waters amplify the scene’s tranquillity, making it a perfect spot for meditation or photography.

Klong Mad Fisherman Village – Klong Mad Fishing Village on Koh Kood is a charming, traditional waterfront community. It features rustic boats, local fishermen, and scenic views. Visitors experience authentic island life, fresh seafood, and peaceful beaches, making it a perfect destination for tranquillity and cultural immersion.

Accommodation is highly recommended:  The Canale Boutique Hotel

Viewpoints – For panoramic views of sunrise and sunset, head to the Khao Leam Kut viewpoint or the Koh Kood Viewpoint. These elevated spots provide sweeping vistas of the island and are accessible by hiking or driving.

Things to Do on Koh Kood

1. Snorkelling and Diving – The coral reefs and marine life around Koh Kood are vibrant and diverse. Popular spots include Ao Tapao, Klong Yai Kee, and the surrounding islands like Koh Mak and Koh Rang.
2. Kayaking and Canoeing – Explore the tranquil bays and mangroves along the coast by renting a kayak.
3. Jungle trekking — Trek through the island’s lush forests to discover waterfalls, wildlife, and scenic views. The Khao Laem trail offers an adventurous hike with rewarding vistas.
4. Visit Waterfalls – The two main waterfalls are Klong Chao Waterfall and Haad Sai Khao (White Sand Beach) Waterfall. Although not very tall, they are refreshingly cool spots to swim and relax.

5. Watch sunset at Klong Mad Fishing Village.
6. Relaxing on the Beach – Simply enjoy the peaceful beaches, sunbathe, or indulge in a massage at one of the beachfront resorts.
7. Local Village Klong Mad — explore local fishing villages to experience the traditional way of life and sample fresh seafood.
8. Island Hopping – Take boat trips to nearby islands, like Koh Mak, Koh Rang, or even Cambodia’s Koh Rong.

Accommodation ideas for Koh Kood

Here is a list of accommodations on Koh Kood, ranked from budget to high-end options:

Budget Options:

  1. Koh Kood Backpackers — basic dorms and private rooms at affordable rates.
  2. Good Days Hostel — budget-friendly, clean, and simple accommodations.
  3. Ban Phu Tara Resort — affordable bungalows with basic amenities.

Mid-Range Options:

  1. Koh Kood Sunset Beach —comfortable bungalows, good facilities, and beachfront access.
  2. Makayla Kood — a Cosy beach resort with private villas and pools.
  3. Siam Garden Beach Resort —attractive rooms and local Kamselfish-style bungalows.

Luxury/High-End Options:

  1. High Season Pool Villas — exclusive villas with private pools and premium services.
  2. Soneva Kiri — a luxury resort with private villas, extensive amenities, and personalised service.
  3. Peter Pan Resort — upscale accommodations with private beachfront villas and top-tier facilities.
  4. The Jungle Koh Kood — a luxury eco-resort nestled in nature, offering premium amenities and privacy.

The best time to visit Koh Kood

The ideal time to visit Koh Kood is during the dry season, from November to April. During this period, the weather is sunny, and rainfall is minimal, providing perfect conditions for beach activities, snorkelling, and sightseeing. The monsoon season (May to October) brings heavier rains, which can lead to rough seas and fewer outdoor activities, although it’s less crowded and can be a good time for travellers seeking solitude.

Getting Around Koh Kood

Transport options are limited but sufficient for exploring the island:

  • Motorcycle rentals are the most popular and convenient form of transport, offering flexibility and ease of access to different beaches and viewpoints.
  • Tuk-Tuks and Songthaews: shared vehicles are available in some villages and suitable for shorter distances.
  • Private cars — available through resorts or local operators for guided tours or full-day excursions.
Local Taxi Koh Kood

How to Get to Koh Kood from Bangkok

Getting to Koh Kood from Bangkok requires a combination of travel modes:

Bangkok to Koh Kood:

  • Travel to Trat:
    Take a bus or minivan from Bangkok’s Eastern Bus Terminal (Ekkamai or Mo Chit) to Trat. The journey takes about 5-6 hours.
    Alternatively, flight options are available from Bangkok to Trat Airport, reducing travel time.
  • From Trat to Koh Kood:
    From Trat town or Trat Airport, you can take a shared or private taxi to the pier (usually Klong Yai or Laem Ngop pier).
    From the pier, take a speedboat or ferry to Koh Kood. The boat ride takes about 1-2 hours.

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!