Thailand’s beaches are on the bucket lists of millions of travelers worldwide. Not only do the south seas boast renowned islands like Koh Samui and Koh Phangan on the Gulf of Thailand or Phuket on the Andaman Sea, but the islands on the east coast of Thailand are just as breathtaking. Situated on the east coast of Trat Province, Koh Kood is the fourth-largest island in the country and an ideal getaway for beach lovers.

Koh Kood offers a stunning turquoise sea surrounded by several charming bays, creating a serene environment perfect for unwinding. The lifestyle of fishing and farming communities is pleasantly uncomplicated. Another delightful attraction is a perennial waterfall that brings a sense of tranquility. To fully embrace and make the most of your experience in Koh Kood, here are some recommended activities that will fulfill all your vacation dreams: 

Indulge in the abundance of Koh Kood, a precious East Coast gem

For those who cannot get enough of the sea, the picturesque islands in the Andaman Sea are a holiday dream. However, the lesser-known islands off Thailand’s east coast are unparalleled. Some have even drawn comparisons between Koh Kood and the renowned islands of the Andaman Sea. The pristine white sandy beaches perfectly complement the crystal-clear turquoise water, while the lush coconut and pine trees add a touch of natural beauty. Aside from lovely beaches and a scenic sea, Koh Kood offers visitors a diverse ecosystem that includes mangrove forests, lush mountains, expansive plains, and rugged hills. These natural wonders give birth to a network of water sources, canals, streams, and waterfalls.

Additionally, the island is surrounded by over fifteen bays and beaches, including Bang Bao Beach, Khlong Chao Beach, Ao Tapao, Khlong Yai Kee Beach, Ao Khlong Tatin, Ao Phrao, Ao Chak, Ao Yai Kerd, Ao Salad, and Ao Kluai. Not only is each location charming in its own way, but it also provides seclusion. And given their width, all beaches are ideal for sunbathing, sitting, sandcastle building, kayaking, and other sports.

Enjoy the year-round water flows from the Khlong Chao Waterfall

When you come to Koh Kood, there is much more to explore beyond the beautiful beaches. Waterfalls are one of the must-see attractions. Among the numerous waterfalls in this area, Khlong Chao Waterfall, located on the western side of Koh Kood and tucked away behind Ao Klong Chao, stands out for its stunning scenery. Along with the amazing views, the water remains clear and cool throughout the entire year. This medium-sized waterfall, which is around 10 meters high, has three tiers and a large, clear lake at its base. The upper floor features a stony brook with flowing water. A big rock in front has the royal initials “W.P.R.”, the initials of King Rama VI, who visited this site in 1922 CE.

With its beauty and accessibility, Khlong Chao Waterfall is an ideal spot to beat the heat. The waterfall is amazing and worth seeing at any time of year, but it comes alive during the rainy season (May to October) when the air is fresh, the water is at its highest, and the trees are at their greenest.

Exploring Klong Chao’s mangrove forest via kayak

After having your fill of the waterfall, another must-do activity at Klong Chao that will put you in touch with nature is kayaking through the still-verdant mangrove forest that lines the canal. Klong Chao is situated in the heart of Koh Kood and spans a length of one kilometer. Optimal times for kayaking include the morning, when the weather is pleasantly cool, or the evening, for a breathtaking sunset experience.

For those who are interested, a boat can be rented from a resort or restaurant situated along the canal. The boat rental fee is 100 baht per boat, which can accommodate one to two people.

Visit Ban Klong Mad Community to observe the simple way of living in Koh Kood

Ban Klong Mad is the oldest community in Koh Kood. A majority of the inhabitants in this area work in agriculture, rubber plantations, coconut plantations, fruit orchards, and coastal fisheries. The neighborhood’s rows of residences line the canal that leads to the beach and are easily accessible on foot. Some houses have taken on the concept of homestays, inviting travelers who appreciate the authentic local ambiance. Others have decorated their walls with eye-catching street art to entice artistic visitors.

There are plenty of restaurants here that serve a wide variety of fresh and delicious seafood for those who love to indulge in it. Alternatively, you could visit the adjacent Ao Salad to purchase raw fish for your own cooking. At Ao Salad, you are not only able to buy high-quality seafood, but you can also roam around and learn about the fishermen’s way of life.

Explore the woodland, admiring the Makha and Giant Banyan trees

Venture to the upper part of the island and immerse yourself in Koh Kood’s lush forest and ecological diversity. Those with an appreciation for nature and plants will adore this site. As you arrive at the parking lot within the forest, a short walk will lead you to a breathtaking sight of two magnificent trees. One of them is the Makha tree, an ancient giant that spans the width of six people and has stood tall for over a century. Nearby, you’ll find a massive Banyan tree adorned with impressively large roots, providing you with an up-close encounter with this remarkable display of nature’s bounty. However, remember to carry mosquito repellent because there will be a lot of mosquitoes in the forest area.

Travel tips

The recommended length of stay: It is suggested to spend three days and two nights to completely absorb the magnificent ambiance of nature.

Best time to travel: Koh Kood is at its best from November to May, when it is the summertime without monsoons; therefore, the seawater and sandy beaches are pure and clean. 

How to get there

Take a private car or public bus to Laem Sok Pier-Koh Kood, which is approximately five hours from Bangkok. Alternatively, take a one-hour flight to Trat Province. Then take a boat to Koh Kood, which takes one and a half hours.