Why I Fell in Love with Koh Kood

Koh kood
Koh kood

Hey there, fellow travel enthusiasts! Ever stumbled upon a place that just feels right? That’s how I felt about Koh Kood, an island tucked away in Thailand’s Trat province. It’s often called “The Andaman of the East” because of its stunning, clear blue waters and peaceful atmosphere. While many travelers flock to places like Phuket or Koh Chang, some sources describe Koh Kood as a bit of a hideout haven.

Based on personal accounts shared in the sources, visiting Koh Kood was described as stepping into a pure, untouched paradise. It wasn’t necessarily the easiest island to fit into a travel route, sometimes requiring careful planning to coordinate flights and ferries. But, as one traveler put it, they knew it was going to be worth it – and it absolutely was.

Getting There and First Impressions

Getting to Koh Kood usually involves making your way to Trat, either by bus, minivan, or flying into Trat Airport. From Laem Sok Pier on the mainland, you catch a ferry or speedboat over to the island. Ferry fees start from 400 baht. The boat ride itself can take around an hour to 75 minutes. Some travelers even chose to island-hop their way there via the Koh Chang island chain.

First impressions of Koh Kood, as shared in one account, were a bit mixed due to sharing a songthaew (a shared taxi) with noisy fellow travelers. However, this quickly faded upon reaching accommodation and experiencing the island’s true vibe. The peaceful atmosphere and stunning surroundings immediately made a strong positive impression.

Discovering the Island’s Magic

What makes Koh Kood so special? According to various accounts, it’s a combination of incredible natural beauty and a wonderfully relaxed pace of life.

  • Beaches: Oh, the beaches! They are consistently described as stunning, with crystal-clear waters, soft white sand, and very few tourists. One traveler felt they had found the best beach in Thailand at Klong Hin Beach, amazed it wasn’t overrun with people. Ao Tapao Beach was another favorite, noted for its long, soft sandy stretch and calm, blue-green waves. Klong Chao is the most popular beach but even it wasn’t crowded. Other gems mentioned include Bang Bao Beach, Ao Phrao Beach with its secluded feel, and the tiny Ao Noi. Many beaches even feature fun rope swings, perfect for golden hour sunsets.
  • Getting Around: Renting a scooter is widely recommended as the best way to explore the island, offering freedom and making the most of your time. Despite being the fifth largest island in Thailand, Koh Kood has minimal traffic, with one traveler even seeing more monkeys than humans on the road. The roads are described as chill and in good condition in the central and northern parts. However, public transportation is generally non-existent, so having your own transport or arranging taxis/songthaews is necessary.
  • Island Activities: Beyond the beaches, Koh Kood offers exploration opportunities in its interior. Travelers can visit waterfalls like Klong Chao Waterfall (which has historical significance), Klong Yai Kee Waterfall, and Huang Nam Khieo Waterfall. There are also ancient trees, Sai Yai and Makayuk, hidden in the forest, and a rock formation called Khao Ruearab or Battleship Mountain. Kayaking along the coast or waterways is another option, especially through the dense mangrove forest areas. Snorkeling and diving are popular activities, with sites around Koh Kood and the protected Koh Rang National Park. You can sometimes even combine snorkeling or diving with island hopping transfers between Koh Kood and Koh Chang during peak season.
  • Local Culture and Cuisine: Koh Kood has a rich culture shaped by its history and geography, with a blend of traditions, customs, and beliefs. Its cuisine is a highlight, using fresh, local ingredients and a variety of flavors and spices. Popular dishes include tom yum goong, pad thai, and chicken with cashew nuts, along with fresh seafood like grilled fish, crab, and squid caught from surrounding waters. Travelers enjoyed trying traditional Thai dishes like Pad Thai and Mango Sticky Rice. The island also has a growing number of restaurants, offering everything from cheap Thai diners scattered around to Western options like pizza and pasta and seafood specialists in fishing villages like Ao Yai. Coffee shops and cafes are also available. The island has traditional folk music played on instruments like the khaen and khlui, and vibrant dance culture like ramwong and khon. Festivals like the Koh Kood Beach Festival and Loy Krathong are also part of the culture.

The Secret’s Out (Or Is It?)

There’s a fun debate in the sources about whether Koh Kood is a “secret paradise” or if it’s already well-known. Some visitors wished others wouldn’t post about it to keep it quiet and avoid mass tourism. However, others argue it’s hardly a secret, appearing in guidebooks and already seeing visitors from various countries, including Russians and Chinese. Some believe its remoteness and lack of public transport will help it remain quieter than islands like Phuket or Koh Chang. Despite some opinions, the sources generally portray Koh Kood as significantly less crowded and developed than many other Thai islands.

Where to Stay

Accommodation options on Koh Kood range widely, from bungalows to five-star hotels. While some high-end resorts can be quite expensive (like Soneva Kiri), there are also plenty of budget-friendly choices available, including tents and cheap private rooms with excellent reviews. Personal accounts highlighted stays at places like Gumm Lonely Club, an old fishing house converted into a guesthouse, praised for its relaxed vibe, friendly owners, and unique location by the river. Other recommended places based on sources include resorts near specific beaches or villages. Booking accommodation, especially popular spots, far in advance is a good idea.

Wrapping It Up

Based on the experiences shared in the sources, Koh Kood offers an escape to a place of natural beauty and tranquility. It’s a destination where you can enjoy pristine beaches, explore waterfalls and forests, savor delicious Thai food, and relax in a peaceful environment. Despite some opinions about its growing popularity, it still seems to offer a more laid-back and less crowded experience compared to Thailand’s more famous islands.

It’s a place that captures hearts, leaving visitors with unforgettable memories and a relaxed spirit. So, if you’re looking for stunning beaches and a peaceful vibe, Koh Kood sounds like it’s calling your name!

Plan Your Trip from or to Ao Salat Pier (koh kood)