Koh Kood Island is one of the best places for a romantic getaway! Koh Kood Island in Thailand Shops and fruits
Basic moments
The first people sailed to the island in 1905. These were Cambodians forced to leave their homes due to the French conquerors. Today, about 2,000 people permanently live on Koh Kood, and most of them are engaged in serving tourists. Like almost all Thais, local residents lead a measured and calm lifestyle. They live in six villages. In addition to tourism, the islanders earn income from fishing, growing coconut palms, and also from collecting raw materials from rubber-bearing Hevea trees.
The island of Koh Kood is famous for its beautiful beaches, near which the main tourist infrastructure is concentrated - hotels, restaurants and shops. In addition, the island has a public school, a hospital, a bank, administrative offices and a police station.
Due to its remote location, a holiday on the island of Koh Kood costs 1.5 times more than at other Thai resorts. Prices for accommodation, food and rental vehicles are usually higher than in other places. And food in island stores is more expensive than on the mainland.
Lovers of leisurely beach time and swimming in warm sea water come to Ko Kood. There are no discos or nightclubs on the island, so people come here for the silence, contemplation of beautiful sunsets and secluded relaxation in nature.
The island of Ko Kood is considered an excellent place to relax, take a break from the crazy life in the metropolis and recuperate. Newlyweds, couples with children and older tourists feel good here, for whom convenience, lack of noise and the opportunity to spend a lot of time outdoors, enjoying the colors of the jungle, the sea surf and fresh breezes are important.
However, the island of Koh Kood is attractive not only for this - the Gulf of Thailand around it is full of life. The rich underwater world gives many vivid impressions to fans of diving and snorkeling. In addition, while relaxing on Ko Kood, it is interesting to go sea fishing, swim along the shore in a kayak, or hike deep into the island to beautiful waterfalls and giant trees.
Geographical location and climate
Koh Kood Island is part of the Mu Koh Chang archipelago, which includes about 50 islands. It is the farthest from the Thai mainland (79 km from the city of Trat) and, like all the islands of the archipelago, is part of the National Marine Park.
The island of Koh Kood stretches from north to south for 22 km and has a width of up to 8 km. In size - 131 km² - it is considered the fourth island of the kingdom in the Gulf of Thailand.
The entire land is covered by dense jungle, and in the depths of it there are giant trees that are more than 500 years old. The terrain here is slightly hilly, and the highest point of Koh Kuda reaches 315 m above sea level.
The islands of the Koh Chang archipelago are considered year-round resorts. They are always warm and sunny. The swimming season in Thailand also has no breaks, and the sea water around the island is always very warm +27...+30 °C.
The low tourist season in Koh Kood is the monsoon period, which lasts from March to October. During these months it often rains on the islands, and strong storms can arise in the Gulf of Thailand. The monsoons are especially strong from June to October. And April and May are characterized by high temperatures and high humidity, which not everyone can easily tolerate.
Most tourists come to the island of Koh Kood from November to February, when there is no sweltering heat, the sun shines every day, and there is very little precipitation. During the high season, all island hotels, massage parlors, restaurants and travel agencies are open.
Beaches of Koh Kood island
Excellent beaches have become the hallmark of the island of Koh Kood. They are all very clean and covered with snow-white, fine coral sand, which is a pleasure to walk on! Almost everywhere the descent into the water is very gentle, and the sea water is crystal clear. On maps of the island, you can often see the word “hut” in front of the names of the beaches, which means “beach” in Thai.
Coconut palms and spreading casuarina pines grow right next to the shore. Their crowns create shade, which is impossible to do without on hot days. Further, in the depths of the island, mangroves and jungles begin.
One of the most popular beaches in Koh Kuda is Klong Chao. It is located on the western coast of the island, known for its large size (about 800 m) and well-developed infrastructure. A holiday on Klong Chao Beach turns out to be quite budget-friendly, since food in restaurants and cafes located along the shore is cheaper than food in hotel restaurants.
To the south lies the small Bang Bao Beach, surrounded by hills. It is valued as a clean and secluded place, protected from bad weather and strong winds. Boats from Trat come to the wooden pier in Bang Bao Bay. When planning a vacation on this beach, you need to take into account that there are no restaurants or cafes on it, but the local coast is not so susceptible to the influence of ebb and flow.
Even further south there are several clean beaches - the long Ao Prao and the small Ao Jark and Ao Khlong Hin, connected to each other along the seashore. The downside of these beaches is that they are often visited by tourists, and the coast can be quite crowded. True, those who do not like noisy companies can always go to the neighboring beach and enjoy a secluded holiday. There is an additional bonus - low prices for alcohol in the beach restaurant.
One of the most isolated and least crowded beaches on the island of Koh Kood is Ao Yai Koet. You can only get to it by sea by boat. This is where the resort history of the island began, but these days there are no hotels, entertainment, restaurants or cafes on the beach.
Sights of Koh Kood Island
In 2012, the Buddhist Temple of the Golden Bell was built in the island village of Ao Salad. This is a wat where locals perform Buddhist ceremonies throughout the year. Tourists can enter the wat territory freely. Thais are very tolerant of different religions, so they allow people of any religion into their temples. Several monkeys live near the temple, and these animals are happy to take tasty treats from tourists.
The Temple of the Golden Bell is permanently inhabited by male monks, who are easily distinguished by their saffron-colored clothes. When visiting a wat, you need to know a few simple rules of conduct. It is customary here to leave offerings of money. Women are not allowed to touch monks. If the temple doors are open, you are allowed to go inside, but you must take off your shoes before doing so. You cannot talk loudly inside, nor turn your back to statues and images of Buddha.
The Koh Kood Princess ferry from Trat arrives at Ao Salad Pier, and you can drive across the island to the village along a paved road. There is no beach in the village, but there is a restaurant where they cook delicious seafood and fish dishes, and there is also a souvenir shop “Kraten Souvenirs”.
On the southeastern coast of Koh Kood is the small fishing village of Ao Yai, whose residents engage in fishing and live in houses built on stilts over the water. It’s worth coming to Ao Yai to see the life of local fishermen. Here you can also have a cheap snack in small eateries, buy food at the market and admire the coast from a good observation deck. There is an asphalt road leading to the settlement through the island.
If you get the idea to look for giant old trees in the jungle, it’s worth stocking up on water and a map of the island, as well as wearing sturdy shoes. When traveling through the jungle, the main dangers are snakes and poisonous insects.
Waterfalls
In the central part of Koh Kood there are three beautiful waterfalls. The largest of them, Klong Chao, is located on the river of the same name, which flows into the sea on the west coast of Koh Kood. Almost all tourists coming to the island come to admire this picturesque waterfall and swim under the cascading streams of fresh water. Klong Chao is famous for the fact that King Rama VI of Thailand came here in 1911.
During the dry season, when there is practically no rain, the waterfall dries up to a small trickle. However, the bowl underneath is still pleasant to dip into. They get to the waterfall on foot or by kayaking up the river. From the coast to Klong Chao it is about 2.5 km.
The smaller Khlong Yai Kee Falls also has a bathing bowl washed by jets of water. It is located north of Klong Chao, 1.5 km from the mouth of the river that flows into the sea near the Captain Hook resort. It’s easy to walk from the coast to the waterfall or take any transport.
Huang Nam Kaew Waterfall is less famous than the other two. It is located in a small picturesque gorge, and the water flows down several rock ledges blocking the river bed. All three waterfalls can be visited for free at any time.
Where to stay
On the island of Koh Kood it is not difficult to find accommodation for every taste and budget - from simple guesthouses and bungalows to comfortable 3-4* hotels. Most hotels are built along the western shore of Koh Kood. Wi-Fi is not available everywhere, but only in large hotels. The fastest connection exists on desktop computers at the tourist office near Klong Chao Beach.
By Thai resort standards, accommodation on Koh Kood is expensive. During the high tourist season, it is almost impossible to find a room with air conditioning for less than 1000 TNV per day, and prices for rooms with a fan that are less comfortable in the heat start from 800 TNV per night, and even then such hotels are located quite far from the beaches, in the interior of the island.
When planning a trip from November to February, it is worth booking accommodation in advance, as the demand for it is quite high. And for those traveling around Koh Kood during the low tourist season, you don’t have to worry too much. Even without a reservation, you can always find rooms of suitable quality upon arrival.
Please note that it is customary to pay in cash on the island of Koh Kood, since only a few large hotels accept credit cards.
Restaurants and cafes
Many resorts offer bed and breakfast accommodation to their guests. However, eating in hotel restaurants is not cheap, so tourists prefer to solve the issue of food on the island on their own.
In the central village, next to the stadium, there are several Thai eateries where they prepare dishes starting at 40 baht. The advantages of such establishments are that the products here are always fresh. At the eateries you can order boiled and fried rice, salads, fried chicken and pork, omelettes, soups, seafood and fish dishes, as well as delicious Thai desserts. Thais are known for their love of spicy food. To make the dish less spicy, just tell the hostess “but spicy.”
Inexpensive Thai establishments are also open near Klong Chao Beach and on the way to the waterfall of the same name. Along the main road there are several small grocery stores and shops selling cheap fruit.
Transport
Koh Kood does not have public transport and there are no taxis available. There is also no motorbike transportation service here, so you should rely only on the help of neighbors or rent a vehicle yourself. Rental services exist at almost every island hotel. Daily car rental costs from 1200 TNV, a motorbike - from 350 TNV, and a mountain bike - from 200 TNV.
There is no ring road around the island. The main transport artery is a paved road connecting the north of Koh Kood and its southern coast. It has a length of about 25 km, starts from the Ao Salad pier, leads to the west coast, then goes south and then turns to the east coast. Several side roads branch off from the main road towards villages and hotels. You won’t find the kind of steep serpentines you find on Koh Chang here, since the island’s topography is only slightly hilly.
The only gas station is located next to the Khlong Hin Dam pier, in the western part of Koh Kood. In addition, you can purchase gasoline at small improvised stations near shops and markets. True, it will cost more - 40 TNV/liter.
For a long period of time, it is beneficial to come to Koh Kood with your own motorbike. The cost of transporting him on the ferry will cost the price of an adult ticket.
How to get there
Most travelers come to Koh Kood as part of organized excursions. Such tours are conducted from Pattaya and from the larger island of the archipelago - Koh Chang. Those who have purchased an excursion to Ko Kood do not have to worry about anything. They are brought to the island and back by minivans, buses and boats.
For those who want to organize an independent trip, it is beneficial to take advantage of the offers of island hotels and travel agencies for delivery to the island of Koh Kood. Transfer to Laem Sok Pier from Bangkok (from the city itself or from Suvarnabhumi Airport) will cost 3,800 TNV for a passenger car and 4,500 TNV for a minivan. Transfer to Laem Sok Pier from Pattaya costs 900 TNV per person, 2900 TNV for a passenger car and 3500 TNV for a minivan. It is better to immediately purchase a transfer in both directions, since purchasing a return transfer on the island will cost more.
Some tourists get to Koh Kuda on their own. From Suvarnabhumi International Airport in the capital of Thailand, you can take a taxi to Laem Sok Pier. Another option is to fly from Bangkok to Trat Airport. Airplanes fly there 2-3 times a day, and the journey takes about an hour.
The third option is to come to Trat from Bangkok by bus, and then take a taxi to Laem Sok Pier. It is best to travel on overnight flights that depart from Bangkok in the evening and arrive in Trat early in the morning. Buses to Trat run from Suvarnabhumi Airport, Ekkamai East Bus Terminal, Mochit North Bus Terminal and Koasan Road, a tourist street located in the center of Bangkok. The journey to the provincial capital takes about 5 hours.
From Laem Sok Pier to Koh Kood island you can take a speed boat. It takes about two hours and costs 600 TNV. The price includes transfer from the Trat bus station or from any local hotel. For children under 5 years old, the speed boat ride is free, and for children from 5 to 10 years old you need to pay 50% of the adult ticket price.
High-speed ferries also go to the island. The road to Koh Kuda takes 1.30-1.40 hours and costs 350 TNV. One ferry drops off tourists on the western side of the island - at the Khlong Hin Dam pier, and the other docks at the Ao Salad pier in the north of Ko Kood. Children under 6 years old are allowed to travel on ferries for free, and children from 6 to 9 years old can purchase a ticket for 50% of the cost.
A small boat runs daily from the main island of the Koh Chang archipelago to Koh Kood. It departs at 9.00 from Kai Bae Pier and takes passengers to Bang Bao Pier in two hours. The journey costs 900 TNV.
This material is not quite ordinary. In it I will try to combine my personal impressions of the trip to Koh Kood and useful information for travelers and tourists.
Three weekends loomed ahead and we urgently needed to occupy them with something. She went to a neighboring state to inspect Angkor Wat, and I was promised solitude in front of the monitor, but a call to management with the selfish goal of getting an excursion to the island of Koh Kood was a success and I went to relax on the white sand and swim in the clear and clean sea. I am not in the mood for organized excursions; I have never traveled as a tourist in a big bus, but have always preferred to travel on my own. But if there is an opportunity to go to a distant island, why not go there and relax? ;)
The departure was very early and before the first stop we slept for an hour and a half; a small snack at a road cafe brought back the desire to go somewhere. Our next stop was near a Buddhist monastery, where we fed the monkeys. I will not dwell on feeding these creatures, because... My communication with these animals increasingly makes me think of picking up a bow and arrow and explaining who is here... hmm.. I digress. Let's continue.
A more interesting and informative stop was a visit to Namtokphlio national park. The guide allowed us to walk for about an hour and a half and that was basically enough.
We reached the pier quite quickly, looking at the fruit plantations outside the window. We loaded into the speedboat and the warm sea wind hit our faces! Unaccustomed to the bright sun and headwind, I couldn’t open my eyes, but after ten minutes I adapted. Well, I'm not a waterfowl...
Our path lay past the island of Koh Chang. We stopped for a swim in a cozy bay. The guide read the instructions, handed out masks and snorkels, and our team started snorkeling. I swim like an axe, so I put on a vest so as not to be distracted by the struggle for life, but to feel comfortable and study the local inhabitants of the deep sea. It must be said that the inhabitants are very different - colored and striped, black and white, long and short. They let the fish get very close to them, and we even managed to touch some of them. At the bottom, bristling with needles, lay sea urchins; stepping on such a urchin would doom oneself to an operation to remove the needles. The operation is carried out without anesthesia, using the old-fashioned method: they take a bottle and tap on the place where the needle remains, the needle in your body crumbles into small pieces and subsequently dissolves. XXI Century! The swim was not long, as hunger made itself felt and we again rushed to the island of Koh Kood. The journey took about 1.5 hours including swimming.
Upon arrival on the island, there was immediately lunch, and then check-in, which is logical in my opinion, since my, and not only my, feeling of hunger overshadowed the impressions of the trip.
Geography
Koh Kood Island this is the fourth largest island in Thailand (area 131 sq. km.), but the highlight of this island is not its size and ratings, but its uninhabitability, its originality. Kood Island administratively belongs to Trat Province and forms Amphyo "Koh Kood". The island's population is approximately 1,715 people (2007 data). Koh Kood Island belongs to the Koh Chang Marine National Park.
Accommodation
There are not so many hotels on the island of Koh Kood, and they are located far from each other. Some hotels can only be reached by sea. In high season it is better to book in advance; in low season I will have a place anyway, but some hotels close during low season!!!
- All hotels in Koh Kood
Beaches
The beaches on Ko Kut are some of the most beautiful in the Gulf of Thailand. Tapao Beach is good for snorkeling. Klong Chao Bay is ideal for kayaking. Known for its fine white sand, Kluai Beach is one of the most popular beaches on the island. There are other small beaches, some of which can only be accessed by boat.
Entertainment
The island of Koh Kood has not yet been greatly touched by man and especially by tourists. Yes, there are luxury hotels, bungalows, and dive centers, but this is still not Koh Chang and there is not much entertainment here. Ko Kood is ideal for a beach holiday, but nevertheless, there is something to do in your free time. For example, why not experience the island lifestyle for yourself and visit the fishing village of Salad Ao? I think you can come to an agreement with the local fishermen and go with them to the sea and fish. In the village you can buy seafood inexpensively. Koo Kood Island even has its own Khlong Chao waterfall. One of the interesting adventures will be a kayaking trip from Klong Chao Bai beach almost to the foot of the waterfall, where you must take a swim in the cool water.
Transport
There is an asphalt road across the island; in some places the asphalt disappears, but this only adds to the emotions. We rented a motorbike, the prices are steep compared to Pattaya, in our hotel this pleasure cost 200 baht per hour and 50 baht for fuel. But I didn’t need the motorbike to ride, but to go to the shore and photograph the sunset. Which I successfully did.
Description of the island
There are several villages on Kood Island, where residents grow and collect coconuts and fruits, extract the sap of the Giveya tree, work in local hotels and, of course, fish. Their fragile boats appeared on the horizon every now and then; not far from our hotel there was a fishing village and you could go there by canoe. By the way, a pleasant moment - the canoe was provided free of charge by the hotel.
Fishing boat.
Dinner at a local hotel exceeded all my expectations. Fish and large shrimps were brought to the table, the feeling of the first and last hunger was satisfied and, when it got dark, the local fire tamers showed us what they are capable of. It’s beautiful, of course, but in Russia, at our cycling party, the guys rock it just as well... Eh... Nostalgia.
How to get there on your own?
A ready-made transfer package is organized from Pattaya, including a ticket for a minivan and a speedboat. Ticket price is 900 baht. The transfer is organized by Pattaya Group 35. When purchasing a transfer, please indicate your hotel address and telephone number. In the morning you are picked up from the hotel.
- Address: If you stand on the street facing the sea, then the office of Pattaya Group 35 will be on the right, about 150 meters from the intersection with Sukhkumvit.
Impressions about the excursion
And finally, a short summary. What I liked most about this excursion to the island of Koh Kood was the lack of rush, you don’t have to rush anywhere, or you don’t have to get up early. A lot of free time that everyone can spend usefully. You can swim in a canoe, you can dive with a mask and snorkel, exploring the underwater inhabitants of the island of Koh Kood, you can rent a motorbike and travel around the island, or you can just lounge on a sun lounger and contemplate the passing schooners, slowly but surely getting a tan. On the way back we stopped at a fruit market, where there was almost no fruit, but there was a large amount of dried and dried seafood. For some reason I bought fish with a smell, took it home and threw it away. Mine was satisfied, thank you.
Excursion to Koh Kood Island It will be useful at the end of your vacation, when you just need to take a break from all the excursions and running around, get a tan and relax before returning to your homeland.
You can ask questions about visiting the island of Koh Kood on our forum in a special section.
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▣ Koh Kood Island.
Koh Kood Island - Thailand's coconut lagoon - is located in the Gulf of Thailand, near the borders of Cambodia. Administratively it belongs to the province of Trat, 79 km from the city of Trat, southeast of the island of Koh Chang.
The total area is 131 km². The island is the fourth largest in Thailand, the second largest island in the Koh Chang archipelago and part of the Mu Koh Chang Marine National Park.
Ko Kood on the map of Thailand
The landscape is dominated by hilly terrain, the highest point being 315 meters. The number of local residents does not exceed 2000 people. These are descendants of Cambodians who fled to Thailand from French colonists. They settled on a desert island in 1905. Their main activities: serving tourists, fishing, collecting rubber and coconuts.
How to get to the island
Please note that there is no airport on the island. Therefore, you can get there by sea: by ferry or speedboat from the piers of the city of Trat and the neighboring island of Koh Chang.
From Bangkok. By plane from Bangkok to Trat Airport - located 30 kilometers from Laem Ngob Pier and Dan Khao Pier, about 60 kilometers from Laem Sork Pier. The air carrier company Bangkok Airways operates 3 flights daily, 55 min. ways. Approximate ticket price 2550 baht.
Take a bus to the bus station in Trat. Travel time is 5 hours. Bus routes depart from the Ekamai Bus Terminal every hour from 6:00 to 24:00. From the northern terminal "New Morchit", less often, at 08:30, 09:30, 12:30, 15:30, 17:30, 23:00. The average ticket price is 250-300 baht. If finances allow, you can take a taxi, the estimated cost is 4,000 baht.
From Pattaya. Get to the pier of Trat province by minivan, and from here go to Ko Kood. Estimated cost 500 baht. Or use the services of the carrier 35 Group Pattaya. Please note that ferries to Ko Kood leave in the morning. You must arrive at the pier before 10:00 am.
Ferries to Koh Kood
Company | Price | Schedule |
Laem Sok - Koh Kood | Koh Kood - Laem Sok | Travel time | ||
KoKut Express | 350 ฿ | 12:30 | 10:00 | 90 minutes |
Koh Kood Princess | 350 ฿ | 12:30 | 10:00 | 110 minutes |
Boonsiri | 450 ฿ | 10:45; 14:00* | 09:00; 12:00* | 90; 130* minutes |
Speedboats to Koh Kood Island
Route | Price | Schedule | Route | Price | Schedule | Travel time |
Laem Sok - Koh Kood | 600 ฿ | 9:00 | Koh Kood - Laem Sok | 600 ฿ | 12:00 | 90 minutes |
Koh Chang - Koh Kood | 900 ฿ | 9:00; 12:00 | Koh Kood - Koh Chang | 900 ฿ | 9:00; 11:00 | 90 minutes |
Koh Mak - Koh Kood | 400 ฿ | 9:30; 12:30 | Koh Kood - Koh Mak | 400 ฿ | 9:00; 11:00 | 30 minutes |
Koh Wai - Koh Kood | 700 ฿ | 9:30; 12:30 | Koh Kood - Koh Wai | 700 ฿ | 9:00; 11:00 | 60 minutes |
From the neighboring island of Koh Chang, ferries depart to Koh Kood from Bang Bao Pier, speedboats from Kai Bay Beach and Bang Bao Pier. The good thing about boats is that they take passengers along the beaches, having previously specified landing on the island of Ko Kood.
Transport
When you get off the ferry at Ao Yai or Ao Salad piers, you may only see the occasional local tuk-tuk. You will have to get to the beaches on your own.
There is no public or commercial transport on Ko Kood. Local residents do not provide transport services either.
The main means of transportation around the island are traditional Thai motorbikes. You can rent a vehicle at any hotel. There are no specialized rental services. You will also be offered bicycles and cars, but the mountainous terrain will make their use difficult; it is better to use a bike.
There are roads on Ko Kood, but not many.
Renting a bike on Koh Kood costs approximately 250-400 baht, which is significantly more expensive than on Koh Chang. The island has several large gas stations located north of Khlong Chao. Don’t be surprised when you see a gas station along the way - gasoline in bottles, this is a type of business in Thailand.
Where to stay
The tourist history of Ko Kood goes back only a few years. Therefore, the infrastructure on the island is in the process of development.
Hotels are located along the coastline
Mostly hotels are located along the coastline, right on the beach, representing bungalow-type housing. Their photos are presented on most tourist brochures in Thailand. These can be either traditional houses on stilts, thatched buildings, or wooden bungalows with a thatched roof. Overnight stay on the beach in a bungalow with air conditioning from 400-700 baht.
And only on Klong Chao several resort centers have been built, hotels with an average of 8-10 rooms. Some of them are shown in the photo below.
For lovers of comfort, there is a wide selection of hotels. They are located in cozy corners of the island. These are separate villas or bungalows with open terraces and balconies. All of them are equipped with air conditioning. Guests have access to the Internet, cable TV, minibar, and safe. The bathrooms have all the necessary cosmetics and toiletries. The complex has a swimming pool, spa, bars and restaurants.
As a budget option, you can consider a dorm room. They are worth looking for on Klong Chao. They are located near the river, but the sea is only a 5-minute walk away. Please note that you will have a toilet and shower outside. It costs 200-250 baht per day. If you prefer to have amenities in your room, you can rent a separate wooden house with a TV and refrigerator for a little more. Although for the same price you can find housing on the coast.
Wooden house on Koh Kood
There are significantly fewer tourists in Ko Kood than in other resorts in Thailand. But hotels in high season should be booked in advance to have a choice. Please also note that during the low season some hotels close. Since their use becomes not rational.
Climate
Koh Kood is dominated by tropical humidity. The sea water temperature does not depend on the seasons and is +27… +29 degrees all year round. The rainy season occurs from late May to October. The temperature during this period is +30 degrees. The ideal time to visit the island is November - March. Air temperature + 28…+30. From April to May the air warms up to +34…+36 degrees.
Beaches
The west coast of the island has the widest beaches, while the east coast is characterized by rocky coves. Many of them are uninhabited, and you have the opportunity to become their discoverers.
Most popular beaches:
Klong Chao is 600m long. The size of the beach makes it possible to organize football and volleyball competitions. The beach has the most developed infrastructure. Some parts of it are illuminated at night. There are both expensive hotels and guesthouse rooms here.
Bang Bao is another popular beach in the west of the island, surrounded by hills. The sea is always calm here, and stone boulders look picturesque on the white sand.
Taphao Beach is the largest beach on the island. Palm trees that grow right on the white sand give it an exotic feel. In their shade you can hide from the heat. The island's beach is located near the seaport and is ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
Taphao Beach is the largest beach on the island
Klong Yai Kee is located north of Ta Phao. And just a few meters from the sea coast there is a waterfall of the same name. Among other beaches, it is necessary to note Ao Chak, Klong Ta Tin and Yai Ki, Ai Noi, Klong Quen, Ta-U. Each of them has its own hotels and resorts.
Attractions
The main attractions of Koh Kood are coral reefs, numerous beaches, Nam Tok National Park with an area of 500 sq.m., fishing villages and beautiful waterfalls.
Khlonq Chao Falls and Khlonq Yaiki Falls are worth a visit, even just looking at the photos will take your breath away. Khlong Chao is located in the jungle and is the largest waterfall on the island. The Thais associate it with the name of King Rama VI, who stayed here during his travels.
Klong Chao
The second waterfall, Klong Yai Kee, is located next to the beach of the same name. At its foot there is also a freshwater pool. You can get there on foot or by kayak.
Descent to Khlong Yai Kee waterfall
In the village of Ao Salad you will be offered a mini excursion to the statue of the Big Buddha. It is worth visiting the coconut and rubber plantations. The village on stilts of Ao Yai also attracts attention. Most of it is on the water. This is a Thai fishing village where you can watch the lives of fishermen. Many locals can offer overnight accommodation in their hut for as little as 300 baht. For lovers of ancient Buddhist temples, you can go to the Klong Mat Buddhist Temple.
Until recently, tourist brochures on the neighboring island of Koh Chang listed the entire island of Koh Kood as a tourist attraction. And to this day it is an organizational place for two or three day excursions to Ko Kood.
The main types of entertainment on the island: snorkeling, kayaking, fishing, diving, beach holidays. For lovers of active recreation: jet skis and skis, boat rides, etc.
There are many small shops on the island that offer a wide range of souvenirs. The markets sell a variety of exotic fruits, fresh fish and other seafood, a huge selection of spices and seasonings, as well as a variety of dried fruits. Today the island's cultural program is not extensive. It is just beginning to become a tourist center.
Ko Kut (or Koh Kood) is an island in the Gulf of Thailand, which is located near Cambodia. Administratively, it belongs to the province of Trat. Together with Mak Island (which is located to the north) and some uninhabited islets of Amphe, Ko Kut (territorial unit) is the smallest Amphe in Thailand in terms of the number of people living. A little more than 1,700 people live on Kuta. In total, the island has an area of about 130 sq. km. - six villages.
Like the other Amphet islands, Koh Kut is part of the Mu Koh Chang Marine National Park. The island is about 17 kilometers long and about 7.5 kilometers wide (at its widest point). Mak Island is about 5 kilometers away, and land is about 25 kilometers away.
One can easily declare Ko Kut to be the most beautiful island in Thailand. He really is just drop dead gorgeous.
Ko Kut is a fairly large, mountainous island, with its central area largely covered by jungle. The west and south coasts are dotted with glorious white sand beaches. The waters surrounding the island are crystal clear. I think this is what heaven should look like.
There is an excellent road across the island - from Ao Salad in the north to Ao Yai in the south, so almost all hotels can be reached along this road (although expensive and flat, in general, sometimes quite hilly and broken in places).
Ko Kut is primarily visited by organized tours, although in recent years "individual" tourists have been coming here. To get around the island, rent a motorcycle or bicycle or ride a songthaew (songthaew, a mini-truck), however, exploring the beaches and beauties of the island with this transport is a little more tiring, but believe me, it is worth the effort.
There will be no problems with accommodation on the island. There are plenty of budget options - check out hotels near Khlong Chao Beach. But, of course, not a beach bungalow for 250 baht. If you still want to live right on the beach, you will have to pay, perhaps a little more, but that's the point - to live on the beach, in this little paradise. Hotels here, in general, are still inexpensive “bedrooms” for tourist groups, although for those who are used to spending more and living in greater comfort, there are very nice places on the island.
Can we recommend the bungalow at the top of the hill, complex "Duplex Bungalows", - amazing value for money, plus a luxurious sea view from the terrace.
Most of the eateries, cafes, bars and shops of interest to tourists are located in the Klong Chao area, but most hotels have their own restaurant, so this should not be a problem. Ko Kut is definitely not a party place. There is no nightlife here - although several places on the island (bars, I mean) are open until late, although there are not very many people there, and it is likely that you will sit there in splendid isolation. That's not why people come here, though.
Like most of its neighboring islands, Ko Kut is a seasonal destination. And, although many hotels have been open all year round in recent years, most cafes, restaurants and bars are closing. Besides, why go there at this time? The weather may not be pleasant at all; the terrible monsoons from May to October can ruin the whole impression of the paradise island.
During the high season, especially Christmas, New Year and Songkran (Thai New Year, celebrated from 13 April to 19 April), the island becomes very busy - for these weeks it is better to book a hotel in advance if you do not want to wander around the island from bungalow to bungalow in looking for available housing.
By the way, as far as I know, there are no ATMs on the island (although you can still pay by card in hotels), so come with cash to avoid getting into trouble.
Internet access via 3G is quite possible, although with some difficulties. Some hotels have free Wi-Fi, but, unfortunately, it often simply does not work there. There is an internet cafe on the north side of Klong Chao at the Tourist Office.
Southern beaches (Ao Jak, Ao Phrao and Khlong Hin) They are primarily popular among Russian tourist groups from Pattaya. And in general, there is a completely different atmosphere there than on other beaches on the island. Many European tourists, by the way, write with horror that “Russians are wandering around there with vodka and cigarettes.” Nothing surprising!
Well, walking around the island is a pleasure: massive jungle, unreal waterfalls (although very weak in April), surprisingly good beaches and clear sea. You can try massages at hotel spas.
Visit restaurant "Happy days restaurant"- you can try German beer and really good Thai food there. You can go to "Pizza & Pasta restaurant", one kilometer north of Klong Chao. At the restaurant Chiang Mai They serve Thai food in very large plates and it's all very cheap! There is also a very nice restaurant "Bartist" on the way to the waterfalls in the same area and several good restaurants along the Klong Chao River, in principle, in any of them you can try “proper” Thai cuisine. Oh yes, take a look at "The Peter Pan Bar"- a bar with a good atmosphere, calm visitors (apparently Russians don’t go there) and cool music.
"The Tawan Eco Bar"- this is, in general, a breakthrough!
Drinks, food and music are all organized by the owner. If you know how to play a musical instrument, then you will probably end up sitting down to play with it - that's how cool it is there.
In addition, around the island you can go kayaking and boating, climb mountains, admire waterfalls and lagoons, where you can hide from the sweltering heat.
And, of course, snorkeling and diving – the island definitely boasts underwater landscapes and fish and corals!
And in general, the water here is cleaner than, say, on Chang (and the beaches are also cleaner and better). With the exception of Ngam Kho, this beach is so-so.
And here Bang Bao– perhaps the best beach.
Spacious, clean, with snow-white sand. There are three hotels on this beach, all quite good. Of these, the Siam Beach Resort has the coolest and most convenient beach.
Ao Baan Chao (Ao Baan Chao) suitable for people who prefer to use a variety of services during their vacation, and housing is cheaper here. The island's two most famous resorts, Peter Pan and Tinkerbell, are also not very expensive.
We sailed next to an interesting small island:
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Koh Mak Island
On the way to Khud, our boat stopped at Mak Island (Kho Mak / Koh Mak) An interesting small island (16 km²).
As you can see from the photo, the island is not very high, i.e. has a flat landscape. A small wave and he will disappear under water. Kidding. I haven't seen the whole island. We just got out, walked around for 5 minutes and got back into the boat.
Ko Kood
We disembarked at Ao Bang Bao at the pier next to Koh Kood Resort.
We looked at the beautiful water at the pier for a bit and went to look for accommodation and find out prices.
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Koh Kood Hotels
Everything here was occupied by resorts with expensive houses. The first resort offered houses for 1200 or 1800. But all the houses were occupied (All full).
Second - . A very beautiful place.
This hotel rented out houses at the following price:
At the third hotel with houses on the shore - Siam Beach Resort Koh Kood prices for bungalows ranged from 1200 to 3000.
I don’t remember exactly, but it seems that all the bungalows here are also occupied. One Thai man told us that if we went further, we would come to the last resort on the shore, which was visible ahead - and that you could rent housing there at low prices.
We headed there with the hope that at least there would be a free bungalow for us.
At the reception we were offered the last available house for 800 rubles, or rent a room for 300 rubles. A room, of course, was not an option, and after thinking a little and haggling in an attempt to bring down the price, we rented a house for a day for 800 rubles.
In general, an ordinary house with a bed, a fan, a stool, a shower, a toilet and an excellent view from the porch.
When asked about cheaper bungalows, the owner of the resort said that you can find cheap houses, but they are not much cheaper and are located far from the beach. She also added that she would reduce the price to 700 rubles per day if we rented the house for another 2 days.
We had a plan in our heads - to go to another beach and see how the situation with housing was there, and if we liked something more than this house (in terms of price and quality), then rent there.
After shopping a bit and looking at the fish, at about 4 o’clock we set out to look for another beach.
There are a couple of roads here. One is the main road on which bikes and cars race, and the second is an old washed out road that is impossible to drive on. It was just leaving our resort and leading into the jungle. Let's go along it.
We walked for quite a long time. Not a soul around. We finally reached the more popular concrete road towards the Khlong Hin Beach Resort sign. This is the direction sign to another beach.
Suddenly I remember movies about desert islands and find in the depths of my brain a hidden fantasy/desire to climb a palm tree, get a coconut and eat it.
We are simple Russian boys... Knowing that I’ll rip everything off for myself, without hesitation I climb a palm tree without a T-shirt in my shorts. I pick the largest coconut, throw it down and from above I see a Thai man on a bike approaching in our direction. Fade! I don’t know why, but I began to quickly go down the palm tree, like on a rope. As a result, he scratched his legs, arms and chest.
If I hadn't been in a hurry, I would have gotten less ripped off
A Thai guy on a bike laughs and rides by. We put the coconut in our bag and move on as if nothing had happened. After some time we find ourselves in places where coconuts are processed - several houses near the shore.
Not far from this place, on one side and on the other, there are resorts.
According to the Russian girl - guide we met, prices for houses on this beach start from 1400 rubles. They didn’t check - they really wanted to eat. Let's go look for restaurants...
It was difficult to find 2 small restaurants. In one we didn’t like the decor, in the second we didn’t like the food. Small portions of food for big money. Greedy bastards...) And we liked the beach where we rented a house better.
We ate and went home. It's already dark. (The sun in Thailand sets at about 18.00. After that, darkness sets in.) We remember the road through the jungle and begin to get excited. The cafe worker, worried about us, began to wonder where we were coming from and where we were going, whether we had a flashlight, etc. We had no flashlight, no cell phones, no weapons except a coconut in our bag. By the way, coconut is quite a deadly weapon. It is heavy and strong and if it hits the head, it will have no chance...)
We took the second civilized wide road at random. Thank God, they found the way to the house. Apart from the torn shale of the sidekick and a pack of disgruntled barking dogs, we arrived without incident. As soon as I got home I started opening the extracted coconut.
How to open a coconut
Rumor has it that opening a coconut is quite difficult unless you have a good cleaver at hand. In fact, there is nothing difficult about hiding a coconut, but you still have to work hard.
So, to split a coconut, we need: hands growing from the right place, a medium-sized stone, an ordinary table knife and, of course, the coconut itself.
The top of the coconut is covered with a rather soft skin. You need to peel it with a knife until you get to the core, which contains milk and white filling. If you want to get only the milk out of the coconut, then you can peel a small area of the skin, but if you want to eat the insides, you will have to clean it more.
The core is very strong, an ordinary knife will not take it.
This is where a stone comes in handy. We apply neat pinpoint blows with the stone, “drawing” the fault line we need.
After we drink the milk, we continue to crack the coconut to eat the insides.
Delicious... It was probably worth it :).
moped
The roads here are good for learning to ride a bike. There are few cars and bikes. Therefore, without thinking twice, we rented a bike for 350r/day
There are all kinds of entertainment on Ko Kood: kayaking, renting bicycles/motorbikes, snorkeling, diving, fishing, all sorts of tours to a waterfall or pearl farm, etc., but they are not cheap. For example, a massage for 500 rubles, instead of the usual 250-300 rubles. Rent a bike – 350 rubles, instead of 200 rubles. The restaurants are all from resorts. The food there is delicious, but I didn’t look at the price tag of the food. However, I generally don’t like looking at food prices in price lists. You need to choose what you want to eat, and not what “the toad won’t strangle for.”
There was no Internet in the bungalow, which was a plus. After all, I wouldn’t do anything anyway. Completely lazy...
Overall, Ko Kood is a very calm, beautiful island. There are no loud bars or parties at night. You need to come here to rest, relax, enjoy the sea and beautiful beaches, lie on the sand, look at the fish. I liked it on Kuda. It’s a pity we couldn’t stay here for a long time... I’ll definitely come back here again and see all the beaches.
P.S.: My sidekick and I parted ways. Next I travel alone. I stayed in Bangkok for one day and moved on. The first one to guess where I went will receive $5. (Those to whom I told, do not write, I will not give money.)
See you soon.