Koh Kood, also known as Ko Kut, stands as a remarkable, unspoiled island paradise in Thailand, often celebrated for its unparalleled natural beauty. It boasts some of the clearest waters and most pristine white sand beaches in the country, earning it the moniker “the Maldives of Thailand”. Despite the effort required to reach its remote location, Koh Kood remains refreshingly uncrowded, offering a serene escape from the bustling tourist hubs.
This comprehensive guide is designed to assist travelers in selecting the ideal accommodation, catering to diverse preferences and financial plans. Whether you envision a luxurious retreat in a private beachfront villa or a budget-conscious stay that maximizes your travel funds, Koh Kood provides exceptional options across all categories. The island’s inherent remoteness and absence of extensive commercialization create an idyllic setting for those seeking to disconnect, unwind, and embrace a slower pace of island life.
Why Visit Koh Kood?
Koh Kood’s allure lies in its captivating natural charm. The island features stunning beaches with fine white sand and crystal-clear, shallow waters, perfect for swimming and relaxation. Unlike more crowded destinations such as Phuket or Koh Samui, Koh Kood maintains a peaceful atmosphere, allowing visitors to feel as though they are on an uninhabited island at times. It is particularly recommended for those prioritizing beautiful scenery and tranquility.
Best Time to Visit Koh Kood
The optimal period to visit Koh Kood is from November to January. During these months, the weather is driest, with minimal rainfall, making it the peak season for tourism. While resort prices may increase during this busy period, visitors can expect pleasant conditions and excellent visibility for water activities.
The shoulder season, from March to May, marks the hottest time of the year. While temperatures can be warm, this period sees fewer international tourists, though many Thai families visit for their summer vacations.
The off-season, or wet season, spans from June to mid-October. These months experience the most precipitation, with frequent rain showers. Despite the rain, some visitors find July and August to be excellent times to visit, as beaches are often empty, offering enhanced privacy. Prices for accommodation and activities are typically lower during the off-season, though ferry services may be less frequent.
How to Get to Koh Kood
Reaching Koh Kood primarily involves traveling to Trat province on the mainland, followed by a boat transfer to the island.
- From Bangkok by Bus and Ferry/Speedboat: This is a common and cost-effective method. Package deals combining bus travel from Bangkok (e.g., Khao San Road or Suvarnabhumi Airport area) to Laem Sok Ferry Pier in Trat and a subsequent ferry or speedboat ticket to Koh Kood are available. The bus journey takes approximately 4-5.5 hours, and the speedboat takes about 1 hour to reach the island. Services like Smartenplus facilitate advance bookings for combined tickets, offering convenience and reliability. Boat tickets typically include a land transfer from Koh Kood Pier to your accommodation on the island.
- From Bangkok by Plane and Ferry/Speedboat: For a quicker option, Bangkok Airways offers direct flights from Bangkok to Trat Airport (approximately 1 hour). From Trat Airport, a taxi can be hired to Laem Sok Pier (around 1 hour, 500 THB), where you can board a ferry or speedboat to Koh Kood.
- Ferry Companies: Several companies operate services from Laem Sok Pier, including Koh Kood Express, Boonsiri Ferry, and Seudamgo, with fares generally around 600 THB per person each way.
- From Koh Chang: If traveling from Koh Chang, a ferry from Bang Sao Pier to Koh Kood takes approximately 1.5 hours and costs around 900 THB per person.
- Luxury Transfer (Soneva Kiri): Guests staying at the ultra-luxury Soneva Kiri resort can arrange private plane transfers directly from Bangkok to the resort’s private airstrip (Koh Mai Si Airport), followed by a short speedboat ride to the resort.
How to Get Around Koh Kood
Given its size as Thailand’s fifth-largest island, Koh Kood is best explored by renting a motorbike. Motorbikes can be rented at most accommodations for approximately 300 THB per day, with an additional 100 THB for a full tank of gas. The island’s roads, while sometimes steep and hilly, are generally well-maintained and have low traffic, making it a suitable environment even for beginner riders.
Songthaew taxis are another option, though they can be quite expensive for island tours. However, they are often shared for transfers to the pier or other hotels, which makes them more affordable for specific journeys.
10 Best Resorts in Koh Kood for All Budgets
Koh Kood offers a range of accommodations that cater to various budgets, from opulent five-star resorts to charming, eco-friendly bungalows and budget-friendly hostels.
Luxury Resorts
- Soneva Kiri Soneva Kiri is the epitome of luxury in Koh Kood, accessible via private plane. This eco-conscious resort features awe-inspiring villas with private pools, outdoor bathrooms, and expansive living spaces, often with stunning sea views. Guests enjoy unparalleled privacy and can benefit from a personal butler service. Unique experiences include treepod dining, where dishes are delivered by zipline, and an open-air Cinema Paradiso. The resort also offers a Six Senses Spa and unlimited snacks in its chocolate and ice cream rooms. It is known to be a preferred destination for celebrities.
- High Season Pool Villa & Spa Located on Klong Chao Beach, considered one of the most beautiful beaches on the island, High Season Pool Villa & Spa is a highly-rated option. The resort features modern villas with Thai design elements, some offering private pools and spacious decks. Its tropical landscape includes beautiful gardens, water features, and a vast infinity pool. The High Moon Bar directly on the beach provides a perfect setting for sunset cocktails. It is praised as the best hotel on Klong Chao Beach.
- Hideout Koh Kood Hideout Koh Kood presents itself as a boutique resort with a simple yet stylish aesthetic, blending Balinese design with its natural surroundings. Situated on a rocky outcrop in the southwest, it offers a small beach and beautiful sea views. The resort emphasizes eco-friendly living through bamboo bungalows and solar energy. It is an all-villa property, ranging from cozy one-bedroom bungalows to larger family suites and pool villas. Guests can enjoy an intimate atmosphere, a central pool, an open-air restaurant, a cocktail bar, and activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, and yoga. Its private pool villas are available from 5,900 THB.
- Cham’s House Cham’s House is described as a “dream-like hotel” offering a serene atmosphere with its crystal-clear sea and white sandy beach. With 21 rooms and 32 villas, the resort provides a unique experience through its extraordinary lighting concept, creating a physically and mentally soothing environment. It aims to be an escape from the chaos of modern life.
Mid-Range Resorts
- Siam Beach Resort Koh Kood Located on Bang Bao Beach, Siam Beach Resort Koh Kood offers a peaceful and relaxing stay. It provides direct access to a beautiful beachfront, with restaurants and bars on-site, allowing guests to relax without needing to leave the property. The resort is known for its quiet ambiance and natural beauty, making it ideal for unwinding. It also features a new pool villa zone.
- Rest Sea Resort Koh Kood Positioned at Ao Phrao Beach, Rest Sea Resort Koh Kood is a recommended mid-range option. Ao Phrao Beach is one of the longest and most spacious beaches on Koh Kood, known for its remote location and less crowded feel. The resort provides access to crystal-clear, shallow waters surrounded by coconut trees, perfect for swimming and relaxation. It also features pool villas.
- Jungle Kohkood Resort Jungle Kohkood Resort offers good value, with packages for 3 days and 2 nights starting around 1,999 THB per person. These packages often include boat transfers to and from Koh Kood, pier-to-resort transfers, and motorbike rental. The resort is described as having a Balinese style with a good atmosphere and cleanliness. Guests should note that the location can be a bit deep, but the resort offers comprehensive facilities eliminating the need to venture out.
Budget-Friendly Options
- Escape Life Koh Kood Escape Life Koh Kood provides affordable riverside accommodation, with prices starting from 960-999 THB per night, or as low as 600 THB per person. Located near a mangrove forest, it offers activities like kayaking and provides conveniences such as motorbike rentals and pier transfers. It’s also known for offering Moo Krata (BBQ).
- Janzo House As a hostel, Janzo House offers budget accommodation starting at £11 per night for a 10-bed dorm, with private rooms also available. While dorm beds may be creaky, the hostel provides a good variety of breakfast for 120 THB and a nice local Thai restaurant nearby. The staff are friendly, and bathrooms are frequently cleaned with good pressure. Although its location is not central, it’s manageable with a rented bike, and the hostel maintains a very chilled, social vibe.
- Rim Lay Resort Rim Lay Resort offers an authentic, laid-back beachfront experience on Koh Kood’s southern shore. Its traditional Thai bungalows are basic yet comfortable, with some offering air conditioning and private balconies. Guests enjoy direct beach access for swimming, kayaking, or lounging on the white sand. The resort’s beachfront restaurant serves fresh, flavorful, and reasonably priced Thai dishes, with an emphasis on local seafood. It is an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers seeking a serene coastal retreat without luxury frills.
Other notable budget accommodations include Coco Camping (£10/night), Ta Yai Homestay (rural wooden bungalows by the river with free kayaks), Klongmad Hostel Kohkood (vintage-style riverside accommodation in a fishing community, 1,300 THB with breakfast), and Kama Siri (hotel/tent option for backpackers at 30€/night).
Conclusion
Koh Kood truly lives up to its reputation as Thailand’s most beautiful island, offering an escape to crystal-clear waters and pristine beaches that rival more famous destinations. Whether you seek ultimate luxury or an authentic budget-friendly experience, the island’s diverse range of resorts ensures a memorable stay tailored to your preferences. Planning your trip with these recommendations will allow you to fully immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty and laid-back charm of this hidden gem in Southeast Asia.