Blissfully undeveloped—Koh Kood is Thailand’s last low-key island escape
Think white-sand coves, coconut groves, and freshwater waterfalls, with almost no crowds. Koh Kood feels refreshingly unhurried, with limited development, quiet roads, and a pace that suits travelers who value space and simplicity over nightlife and big resorts. This guide covers the island’s best beaches, where to stay depending on your travel style and budget, reliable food spots, and the practical steps to reach Koh Kood.
Why Visit Koh Kood?
Koh Kood (also spelled Ko Kut) is the quietest of the Trat islands—big on space, small on development. Expect pocket-size bays of flour-soft sand and glass-clear water; inland, coconut groves and low jungle hide a handful of easy waterfalls. Days here move slowly: swim, paddle, read, repeat…
Who it’s for: couples, families with small kids, and travelers who value peace over parties.
What you won’t find: malls, nightclub strips, traffic—just small resorts and sleepy villages.
Where Is It?
Koh Kood sits in the far eastern Gulf of Thailand, close to the Cambodian border. It’s part of the Trat province island group, which also includes the larger Koh Chang and the smaller Koh Mak.
At around 25 kilometers long and 12 kilometers wide, Koh Kood is Thailand’s fourth-largest island—but despite its size, it remains one of the least developed. Most of the action is concentrated along the west coast, where ferries arrive and the main beaches and resorts are located.
Because of its remote location and low-key development, Koh Kood feels a world away from Bangkok, even though it can be reached in a single day. Travelers often combine it with Koh Chang or Koh Mak as part of an island-hopping trip through the Trat archipelago.
Koh Kood on the Map
Koh Kood lies off Thailand’s far eastern coast in Trat Province, close to the Cambodian border. It’s part of the same archipelago as Koh Chang and Koh Mak, but it’s far quieter and less developed.
Click the map to open Koh Kood’s location in Google Maps in a new tab.
How to Get to Koh Kood
Reaching Koh Kood takes a little effort, but that’s exactly why the island stays so peaceful. The trip is usually a two-step journey: first to Trat on the mainland, then by ferry across to Koh Kood. You can also connect directly from Koh Chang or Koh Mak as part of an island-hopping trip.
Step 1: Bangkok to Trat
- By air (approx. 2,000–3,000 THB one way) – The fastest option. Bangkok Airways flies from Suvarnabhumi (BKK) to Trat Airport (TDX) in about 1 hour. From there, it’s a short transfer (20–30 minutes) to the piers (around 250–300 THB per person by shared van).
- By bus or minivan (approx. 300–400 THB) – Buses and vans leave from Bangkok’s Ekkamai and Mo Chit terminals. Travel time is 5–6 hours to Trat town or directly to Laem Sok Pier.
- By private car or taxi (approx. 3,500–5,000 THB per vehicle) – A comfortable option for families or groups. Driving time from Bangkok is around 5–6 hours, with door-to-door convenience.
Photo by nakhon100 on Wikimedia Commons, licensed under CC BY 2.0
Step 2: Trat to Koh Kood
- Ferry – Boats depart from Laem Sok Pier (not to be confused with Koh Chang piers). Travel time is 60–90 minutes depending on the boat.
- Operators – Several companies run daily ferries (e.g., Boonsiri, Koh Kood Princess). Advance booking is recommended in high season.
- Tickets – Expect to pay around 400–600 THB one way, often including a hotel transfer on Koh Kood.
Step 3: Koh Chang or Koh Mak to Koh Kood
- Island connections – High-season speedboats connect Koh Chang → Koh Mak → Koh Kood in about 1.5–2 hours total.
- Operators – Companies like Boonsiri and Bang Bao Boat run these routes.
- Tickets – Around 600–900 THB depending on route and operator.
- Note – Services are limited in low season, so check schedules carefully.
Notes
- Ferries are daytime only; if you arrive late in Trat, you’ll need to stay overnight.
- There is no airport on Koh Kood, so all access is via boat.
- Some resorts arrange private transfers from Bangkok, bundling van + ferry tickets for convenience.
| Route | Option | Time (hrs) | Cost (THB) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bangkok → Trat | |||
| • | Flight (Bangkok Airways) | ~1 | 2,000–3,000 |
| • | Bus / Minivan | 5–6 | 300–400 |
| • | Private Car / Taxi | 5–6 | 3,500–5,000 |
| Trat → Koh Kood | |||
| • | Ferry (Laem Sok Pier) | 1–1.5 | 400–600 |
| Koh Chang → Koh Kood | |||
| • | Speedboat (via Koh Mak) | 1.5–2 | 600–900 |
Travel times and prices are approximate and vary by operator and season.
Where to Stay on Koh Kood
Unlike more developed islands, Koh Kood doesn’t have one central town or nightlife strip. Resorts and guesthouses are scattered along the island’s west coast, and each beach has its own atmosphere. Choosing where to stay is more about vibe and budget than chasing the “best hotel.”
Photo by Vyacheslav Argenberg on Wikimedia Commons, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0
Klong Chao Beach – Central & Family-Friendly
Koh Kood’s closest thing to a “hub,” with the biggest concentration of mid-range and luxury resorts. You’ll also find cafés, small shops, and easy access to the pier.
- High Season Pool Villa & Spa – Luxury, beachfront pool villas, from 8,000 THB+.
- Wendy The Pool Resort – Stylish mid-range, right on the beach, from 3,000–4,500 THB.
✅ Best for: Families, couples who want convenience, anyone who prefers to be near other travelers.
Ao Tapao Beach – Long & Laid-Back
A relaxed stretch lined with palm trees and a mix of classic resorts. Quieter than Klong Chao but still offers comfort and dining options.
- To The Sea Resort – Mid-range boutique, from 3,000–4,000 THB.
- Koh Kood Resort – Long-standing beachfront classic, from 2,500–3,500 THB.
- Shantaa Resort – Romantic boutique luxury with sea-view villas, from 6,000–7,500 THB.
✅ Best for: Couples and families seeking a calm, easygoing base.
Ao Klong Hin (South) – Secluded & Romantic
Fewer resorts, more exclusivity. Ideal for privacy seekers.
- Cham’s House – Contemporary design resort, from 5,000–7,000 THB.
✅ Best for: Honeymooners and couples who value seclusion.
Inland & Villages – Budget Options
Backpackers won’t find many beachfront bargains. Budget guesthouses are inland or in fishing villages, offering good value if you don’t mind riding a scooter to the beach.
- Cozy House – Simple guesthouse, from 700–1,000 THB.
- Kama Siri Guesthouse – Budget rooms with a social vibe, from 600–900 THB.
- PD Guesthouse – Basic rooms near Ao Salad area, from 800–1,200 THB.
✅ Best for: Backpackers or long-stayers on a tight budget.
Price Overview
- Budget (600–1,200 THB) – Inland guesthouses, no direct beach access.
- Mid-range (2,500–4,500 THB) – Beachfront bungalows and boutique resorts on Klong Chao or Ao Tapao.
- Luxury (5,000–10,000+ THB) – Villas and upscale resorts with pools and full service, especially on Klong Chao and secluded bays.
Best Places to Stay on Koh Kood: Beaches, Resorts & Price Ranges
| Beach / Area | Notable Resorts | Price Range (THB) | Vibe |
|---|---|---|---|
| Klong Chao Beach |
High Season Pool Villa & Spa (8,000+) Wendy The Pool (3,000–4,500) |
3,000–10,000+ | Central hub, family-friendly, restaurants nearby |
| Ao Tapao Beach |
To The Sea Resort (3,000–4,000) Koh Kood Resort (2,500–3,500) Shantaa Resort (6,000–7,500) |
2,500–7,500 | Long sandy stretch, calm water, relaxed |
| Ao Klong Hin (South) | Cham’s House (5,000–7,000) | 5,000–7,000 | Secluded, romantic, honeymoon-style |
| Inland & Villages |
Cozy House (700–1,000) Kama Siri Guesthouse (600–900) PD Guesthouse (800–1,200) |
600–1,200 | Budget stays, scooter needed, local vibe |
Prices are per night and vary by season. Expect higher rates from December to March (peak season).
Best Beaches on Koh Kood
Koh Kood’s beaches are what give the island its “untouched” reputation: white sand, shallow turquoise water, and almost no crowds. Each bay has its own character.
Photo by Stéphane Bidouze on Wikimedia Commons, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0
Klong Chao Beach
The island’s most central and popular beach. Wide stretch of white sand, calm water, and plenty of mid-range to luxury resorts right on the shore. It’s also the most convenient base, with restaurants and cafés nearby.
✅ Best for: Families, couples, and anyone who wants to be in the “hub” of Koh Kood.
Ao Tapao Beach
A long, palm-fringed beach just north of Klong Chao. It’s quieter and more laid-back, with classic beachfront resorts and plenty of space to spread out. Perfect if you want comfort without too much activity.
✅ Best for: Relaxed stays, couples, families looking for calm water.
Ao Phrao Beach (South)
One of the island’s most remote stretches of sand. Fewer resorts, fewer people, and a wild, natural feel. Getting here requires a scooter ride, but the peace is worth it.
✅ Best for: Travelers craving solitude and quiet.
Ao Klong Hin Beach
A small, secluded bay in the south with just a handful of resorts, including Cham’s House. The sand is powdery, the water crystal clear, and the atmosphere romantic.
✅ Best for: Honeymooners and couples.
Hidden Coves & Smaller Beaches
Between the main bays are tiny unnamed coves and pocket beaches—some only accessible by kayak or a short walk. They’re ideal for escaping completely, though you won’t find services there.
✅ Best for: Adventurers and those seeking “secret” spots.
Top Things to Do on Koh Kood
Koh Kood isn’t the island for buzzing nightlife or endless shopping. Instead, it’s about slowing down, exploring nature, and enjoying the sea. Here are the highlights:
Swim & Snorkel in Crystal-Clear Water
Most beaches have calm, shallow seas perfect for swimming. For snorkeling, head to the rocky ends of Klong Chao or Ao Tapao, or join a trip to the nearby islets of Koh Rang (a marine park known for coral reefs and colorful fish).
Visit Waterfalls
The island has several small but beautiful waterfalls, best visited in the rainy season and early dry season (June–December).
Photo by Stéphane Bidouze on Wikimedia Commons, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0
- Klong Chao Waterfall – The most famous, with a swimmable pool, just inland from Klong Chao Beach.
- Klong Yai Kee Waterfall – North of the island, quieter and less crowded.
- Huang Nam Keaw Waterfall – Deeper in the jungle, less visited.
Photo by Vyacheslav Argenberg on Wikimedia Commons, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0
Kayak & Paddleboard
Many resorts provide free kayaks or boards. Paddle along the coast or up the Klong Chao River, where mangroves and palms line the banks. At sunset, it’s one of the most peaceful experiences on the island.
Explore by Bicycle or Scooter
With little traffic, Koh Kood is ideal for exploring on two wheels. A scooter lets you reach the southern beaches or inland villages. Cycling is slower but perfect for passing through coconut groves and farmland.
Visit Fishing Villages
Stop by Ao Salad or Ao Yai, two small fishing villages where wooden stilt houses sit over the water. You can watch boats unload the day’s catch or eat fresh seafood at simple local restaurants.
Take a Day Trip
Island-hopping boats connect Koh Kood with Koh Mak and Koh Rang, making for an easy adventure if you want variety. Trips usually include snorkeling stops and lunch.
Do Absolutely Nothing
This might just be the best activity of all. Find a hammock under a palm tree, listen to the waves, and let the hours drift by. On Koh Kood, doing nothing isn’t wasted time—it’s the point.
Best Photo Spots & Scenic Viewpoints
Koh Kood is all about soft light, clean water, and quiet “tropical simplicity” shots. You will get your best results early morning (calm sea, empty beaches) and at sunset (warm tones on palms and piers). These spots are reliable, easy to reach, and worth building into your day.
Klong Chao Beach (Classic Palm Bay)
📌 Koh Kood’s most photogenic “postcard beach” — palms, pale sand, and calm turquoise shallows.
✅ Best time: Sunrise (06:00–07:30) or late afternoon (16:30–17:45)
Shot ideas: Palm lean silhouettes, wide shoreline curves, reflections at low tide, resort longtail/jetty frames
Crowd strategy: Walk 5–10 minutes away from the central resort cluster for cleaner backgrounds
Tripod notes: Fine on firm sand early/late; avoid blocking walkways near resort fronts
Difficulty: ★☆☆☆☆ Easy – flat access, close to main beach roads
📍 Google Maps: Klong Chao Beach, Koh Kood
Ao Tapao Beach (Long Quiet Stretch)
📌 A calmer, longer beach with fewer visual distractions — great for minimalist compositions.
✅ Best time: Late afternoon → sunset (16:30–18:15)
Shot ideas: Empty-sand wides, palm lines, water-color gradients, long-lens compression along the shore
Crowd strategy: Shoot the far ends of the bay; most people stay near resort entrances
Tripod notes: Useful for blue hour; sand is usually firm enough near the waterline
Difficulty: ★☆☆☆☆ Easy – simple beach access, short walks
📍 Google Maps: Ao Tapao Beach, Koh Kood
Khlong Chao Waterfall (Jungle Pool Textures)
📌 The island’s most famous waterfall — jungle greens, rock textures, and a swim-friendly pool.
✅ Best time: Morning (09:00–10:30) for softer contrast and fewer people
Shot ideas: Slow shutter water flow, rock-and-fern close-ups, wide pool context, candid swim scenes
Crowd strategy: Arrive early; late morning onward gets busy with day-trippers
Tripod notes: Possible, but watch slippery rocks; a handheld low-light setup is often easier
Difficulty: ★★☆☆☆ Easy–Moderate – short walk; uneven, wet footing near water
📍 Google Maps: Khlong Chao Waterfall, Koh Kood
Ao Salad Fishing Village (Stilt Houses & Boats)
📌 Old-school island life — stilt houses, fishing boats, and calm water reflections.
✅ Best time: Morning (07:00–09:00) for activity and soft light
Shot ideas: Boat lines, net/rope details, stilt-house geometry, street-to-sea frames
Crowd strategy: Stay discreet and shoot from public edges; avoid pointing cameras into homes
Tripod notes: Not recommended in tight walkways; handheld works best
Difficulty: ★☆☆☆☆ Easy – flat village roads and pier edges
📍 Google Maps: Ao Salad, Koh Kood
Ao Yai Fishing Village (Seafood Pier Views)
📌 A more rustic fishing-village look — wooden piers, working boats, and simple coastal texture.
✅ Best time: Late afternoon (16:30–17:30) for warm tones on wood and water
Shot ideas: Pier leading lines, boat silhouettes, seafood-restaurant overwater angles, detail shots of gear
Crowd strategy: Go between meal times; restaurants get busy around sunset dinner
Tripod notes: Fine on wider pier areas; be mindful of traffic and staff
Difficulty: ★☆☆☆☆ Easy – short walks, mostly flat surfaces
📍 Google Maps: Ao Yai, Koh Kood
Bang Bao / West Coast Pier Viewpoints (Sunset Layers)
📌 Clean sunset compositions — gentle wave texture, long pier lines, and pastel skies.
✅ Best time: Sunset → blue hour (17:30–18:45)
Shot ideas: Pier silhouettes, long exposures, palm-and-jetty framing, sky gradients after sunset
Crowd strategy: Shoot slightly off-center from the main standing area; avoid the “everyone shoots here” spot
Tripod notes: Great for long exposures if you keep it tight and out of the flow
Difficulty: ★☆☆☆☆ Easy – flat access near beach roads
📍 Google Maps: Bang Bao Beach / Pier area, Koh Kood
Where to Eat & Drink on Koh Kood
Koh Kood isn’t a foodie hotspot—but you won’t go hungry. Most dining happens in resort restaurants, often right on the beach, with simple but tasty Thai dishes, fresh seafood, and a few international options. Prices are a little higher than on the mainland, since everything must be brought in by boat.
Beachfront Dining
- High Season Pool Villa & Spa and Shantaa Resort both serve refined Thai and Western meals in romantic beachfront settings—expect resort pricing.
- Many mid-range resorts on Klong Chao and Ao Tapao have restaurants open to non-guests, offering seafood, curries, and casual Thai dishes with sea views.
Local Seafood Spots
📌 For a more authentic experience, head to the fishing villages:
- Ao Salad – Small family-run restaurants serve just-caught fish, crab, and squid at very fair prices (from 200–400 THB per dish).
- Ao Yai – Wooden stilt restaurants over the water; simple atmosphere but incredibly fresh seafood.
Cafés & Chill Spots
A handful of small cafés and beach bars have popped up around Klong Chao, serving fruit shakes, coffee, and cocktails at sunset. Don’t expect a big nightlife scene—the vibe here is more hammock than party.
Practical Notes
- There are no 7-Elevens on Koh Kood. Small minimarts stock basics but close early.
- Most restaurants shut down by 9–10 pm.
- Carry cash—many places don’t accept cards.
Koh Kood Dining at a Glance: Food, Prices & Places
| Type | Examples / Where | Price Range (THB) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resort Dining |
High Season Pool Villa & Spa, Shantaa Resort, restaurants along Klong Chao & Ao Tapao |
250–600 per dish | Romantic beachfront settings, Thai & Western menus |
| Local Seafood |
Ao Salad fishing village, Ao Yai stilt restaurants |
200–400 per dish | Fresh catch, family-run, simple atmosphere |
| Cafés & Beach Bars |
Small cafés around Klong Chao, beach bars with sunset cocktails |
80–150 coffee 150–250 cocktails |
Relaxed vibe, limited nightlife, closes early |
| Minimarts | Scattered around Klong Chao & villages | Varies (snacks 20–50) | No 7-Elevens, limited stock, closes by 9–10 pm |
Prices are approximate. Expect higher costs in resort restaurants compared to local seafood spots.
Best Time to Visit Koh Kood
Like the rest of Thailand’s east coast islands, Koh Kood has a tropical monsoon climate with two main seasons: dry and rainy. When you go makes a big difference to your experience.
Photo by Vyacheslav Argenberg on Wikimedia Commons, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0
Dry Season (November–April)
- Weather: Sunny skies, calm seas, very little rain.
- Travel: Ferries and flights to Trat run reliably, resorts are fully open.
- Crowds & Prices: December to March is peak season. Expect higher room rates and early bookings needed for luxury resorts.
✅ Best for: beach holidays, snorkeling, swimming, and anyone visiting Koh Kood for the first time.
Green Season (May–October)
- Weather: Heavy rain showers are common, especially September–October, but mornings can still be clear.
- Travel: Some ferry services reduce schedules, and rough seas may cause delays.
- Crowds & Prices: Far fewer tourists, and resorts offer discounts of 30–50%.
✅ Best for: travelers who don’t mind rain, love lush green scenery, and want quiet beaches at lower cost.
📌 Tip: If you want the best balance of good weather and reasonable prices, November and late April/early May are sweet spots—sunny but not as crowded or expensive as peak months.
Not sure if it’s a good month to visit?
Use the Monsoon Weather Checker—choose a destination and month to see a clear Go / Iffy / Avoid signal from Thailand’s Meteorological Department climate averages (historical; no forecasts), plus typical rainfall, rainy days, temperature, and a one-line sea conditions note.
Getting Around Koh Kood
Koh Kood is larger than it first appears, and with no real public transport system, you’ll need to plan how to get from beach to beach. The island is quiet and easy to navigate, but distances between resorts, waterfalls, and villages can be longer than expected.
Rent a Scooter
- The most popular way to explore. Daily rentals cost 250–350 THB.
- Roads are mostly paved, though some stretches are bumpy. Traffic is light compared to bigger islands.
- Fuel is available at small roadside shops for 40–50 THB per liter.
✅ Best for confident riders who want flexibility.
Bicycle
- Some resorts provide bicycles for free or cheap rental (100–150 THB/day).
- Great for exploring nearby beaches, coconut groves, and villages at a slower pace.
✅ Best for short distances and eco-friendly travelers.
Resort Transfers & Taxis
- Many resorts offer pick-up and drop-off between beaches or piers. Prices vary but usually 200–500 THB depending on distance.
- There are no metered taxis or Grab on the island.
✅ Best if you don’t ride a scooter.
By Boat
- Resorts and local operators can arrange longtail boats to remote beaches or snorkeling spots.
- Prices depend on distance—expect around 1,000–1,500 THB for a private half-day trip.
📌 Koh Kood is still rustic—don’t expect organized taxis or public buses. Most travelers either rent a scooter or rely on their resort for transfers.
Day Trips & Nearby Islands
Koh Kood is beautiful on its own, but it also makes a great base for exploring the surrounding Trat archipelago. With clear water, coral reefs, and sleepy neighboring islands, a day trip adds variety to your stay.
Photo by Vyacheslav Argenberg on Wikimedia Commons, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0
Koh Rang Marine Park
A cluster of small uninhabited islands west of Koh Mak and Koh Kood. Known for excellent snorkeling with colorful coral, parrotfish, and even the occasional sea turtle.
- Tours: Day trips cost around 800–1,200 THB per person including snorkeling gear and lunch.
- Best for: Snorkelers and families who want a fun, easy adventure.
Koh Mak
A small, quiet island between Koh Chang and Koh Kood. It has sandy beaches, coconut plantations, and a relaxed vibe—similar to Koh Kood but with a bit more infrastructure.
- Getting there: Speedboat connections link Koh Kood and Koh Mak in about 30–40 minutes.
- Best for: Travelers who want to combine two tranquil islands.
- More info: Read the Koh Mak Travel Guide
Koh Chang
Much larger and livelier than Koh Kood. Known for jungle treks, waterfalls, and nightlife. Some travelers pair Koh Chang with Koh Kood to balance activity and relaxation.
- Getting there: High-season speedboats run Koh Chang → Koh Mak → Koh Kood (about 1.5–2 hours).
- Best for: Those who want variety—quiet time on Koh Kood, plus adventure and nightlife on Koh Chang.
- More info: Read the Koh Chang Travel Guide
📌 Most tours can be booked directly through your resort. If traveling in low season (May–October), check schedules, as some island-hopping boats stop running.
Itineraries for Koh Kood
Koh Kood rewards slow travel. Distances are bigger than they look on a map, nights are quiet, and the best moments tend to happen between swims, short scooter rides, and sunset meals. Most travelers stay 2–4 nights, and anything longer starts to feel like a proper reset.
2-Night Koh Kood Sampler (Quick Escape)
📌 For first-timers who want the “best bits” without overplanning.
Timing
Day 1: Arrival → beach time → sunset
Day 2: 09:00–17:30
Day 3: Morning wrap-up → departure
What you’ll do:
- Day 1: Check in around Klong Chao or Ao Tapao and take your first swim
- Day 2 morning: Klong Chao Waterfall swim (easy, classic Koh Kood)
- Day 2 afternoon: Ao Salad or Ao Yai fishing village for seafood
- Day 2 evening: Sunset dinner near your beach
- Day 3: Easy breakfast + one last beach walk before leaving
Typical spend: ฿3,500–฿7,000 per person
✅ Best for: Short breaks, couples, first-time visitors
3-Night Classic Koh Kood (Best Value)
📌 The sweet spot: beaches + waterfall + one day trip option.
Timing
Day 1: Arrival + beach
Day 2: 09:00–17:30
Day 3: 09:00–17:30
Day 4: Morning wrap-up → departure
What you’ll do:
- Day 1: Settle in + sunset beach time
- Day 2: Waterfall + river paddle (kayak/paddleboard if your resort offers it)
- Day 3: Choose one:
- Koh Rang snorkel day trip (most popular), or
- A south-coast beach day (quieter, more “empty island” feel)
- Day 4: Slow morning, pack, leave
Typical spend: ฿5,000–฿10,500 per person
✅ Best for: Families, relaxed explorers, “one proper island” trips
4-Night Slow Island Reset (Most Recommended)
📌 A real recharge: less moving, more swimming, better pacing.
Timing
Day 1: Arrival + beach
Day 2–4: 09:00–17:30 (one active block per day)
Day 5: Morning wrap-up → departure
What you’ll do:
- Day 1: Arrival, swim, sunset dinner
- Day 2: Beach + waterfall (keep it light, don’t stack activities)
- Day 3: Fishing village seafood + quiet beach afternoon
- Day 4: Optional snorkel trip or longtail to a quieter bay (if you want variety)
- Day 5: Coffee, last swim, leave
Typical spend: ฿6,500–฿14,000 per person
✅ Best for: Couples, families, slow travelers who want Koh Kood to “work its magic”
6–7 Night Koh Kood Base Stay (For Long-Stayers)
📌 For travelers who want a weekly rhythm: repeat the good days on purpose.
How to structure it:
- 3 “beach days” (no schedule, just swim and eat well)
- 2 “light activity days” (waterfall + village + a short ride)
- 1 snorkel day (Koh Rang)
- 1 do-nothing day (hammock rule applies)
Typical spend: ฿10,000–฿25,000+ per person (depends heavily on accommodation)
✅ Best for: Remote workers on light load, retirees, anyone escaping noise and crowds
Everyday Life & Local Know-How
Koh Kood isn’t like Phuket or Koh Samui. It’s still rustic, quiet, and lightly developed. That charm comes with a few quirks every visitor should know before arriving.
Photo by Vyacheslav Argenberg on Wikimedia Commons, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0
Limited Shops & Services
There are no 7-Elevens on the island. Instead, you’ll find small minimarts selling snacks, drinks, and basics. Don’t expect big pharmacies or malls. Bring essentials like sunscreen, mosquito repellent, and medicine with you.
Cash is King
ATMs are scarce and often unreliable. Many guesthouses and even some mid-range resorts are cash only. Bring enough cash from the mainland (Trat or Bangkok).
Internet & Connectivity
Wi-Fi is available in most resorts, but speeds can be slow and inconsistent. Mobile coverage (AIS, True, Dtac) works in most areas but can drop in remote bays.
Family-Friendliness
Koh Kood can be fantastic for families who want calm beach days, but it helps to arrive prepared. Facilities are limited, so plan for “simple entertainment” rather than organized kids’ activities. Bring any must-have items from the mainland (medications, baby supplies, specific snacks), because island shopping is basic and closes early.
Getting around is the biggest friction point: if you’re not comfortable on a scooter, choose a resort that can handle transfers and keep day plans close to your beach. For peace of mind, pick places with shade, a pool, and easy access to food, then treat waterfalls and longer drives as optional extras, not daily goals.
Nightlife
Apart from a few beach bars around Klong Chao, nightlife is minimal. Don’t come expecting fire shows or beach parties. This is a hammock-and-stargazing island.
📌 Think of Koh Kood as a place to unplug. If you arrive prepared (cash, essentials, insurance), you’ll enjoy the island’s peace without stress.
Medical: Basic care is available on the island (around the Ao Salad area). For serious cases, transfer to Trat may be needed.
Police: Koh Kood is generally low-crime, but support is limited compared to bigger islands.
Emergency Numbers (Thailand)
Tourist Police: 1155
Police: 191
Ambulance/Medical: 1669
Fire: 199
Tip: Save these numbers offline and keep a power bank handy.
Cost Snapshot: What to Budget on Koh Kood
Koh Kood is more expensive than nearby Koh Chang or the mainland. The limited supply of accommodation and the need to ship goods in by boat mean higher prices across the board. Still, it’s possible to enjoy the island on different budgets if you plan ahead.
Accommodation
- Budget guesthouses (inland or village stays): 600–1,200 THB/night
- Mid-range beachfront resorts: 2,500–4,500 THB/night
- Luxury villas & boutique resorts: 5,000–10,000+ THB/night
Food & Drink
- Local seafood restaurants: 200–400 THB per dish
- Resort restaurants: 250–600 THB per dish
- Coffee/fruit shakes: 80–150 THB
- Cocktails: 150–250 THB
Transport
- Scooter rental: 250–350 THB/day
- Fuel: 40–50 THB per liter
- Resort transfers / local taxi: 200–500 THB per trip
- Private longtail boat trip: 1,000–1,500 THB (half-day)
Activities
- Waterfall entry (if charged): 20–40 THB donation
- Snorkeling tour (Koh Rang, incl. lunch): 800–1,200 THB per person
- Island-hopping (Koh Mak/Koh Chang): 600–900 THB per person (speedboat)
📌 Koh Kood doesn’t have budget street food culture like Bangkok or Chiang Mai. If you want to keep costs low, stay inland and eat in local villages rather than resort restaurants.
Cost Snapshot: What You’ll Spend on Koh Kood
| Category | Budget Traveler | Mid-Range Traveler | Luxury Traveler |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | 600–1,200 THB (guesthouse) | 2,500–4,500 THB (beach resort) | 5,000–10,000+ THB (villa/resort) |
| Food & Drink | 200–500 THB/day (local eateries) | 600–1,200 THB/day (mix of local & resort) | 1,500+ THB/day (resort dining, cocktails) |
| Transport | 250–350 THB (scooter + fuel) | 400–700 THB (scooter or transfers) | 1,000+ THB (private transfers, boats) |
| Activities | Free–200 THB (waterfalls, beaches) | 800–1,200 THB (snorkel tour) | 1,500+ THB (private trips, spa) |
| Approx. Daily Total | 1,200–2,200 THB | 4,000–7,000 THB | 9,000+ THB |
Costs vary by season and personal style. Peak season (Dec–Mar) brings the highest accommodation prices.
Want a realistic Thailand trip budget?
Use the Thailand Travel Cost Calculator — just enter your destinations, trip length, and travel style to get instant, accurate per-person and group trip costs in both THB and USD.
📌 Want a deeper breakdown of what things cost across Thailand by region and style?
Read the full Cost of Travel in Thailand guide.
Related Guides & Further Reading
Travel in Thailand is easier when you have the right balance of practical advice and destination inspiration. Below you’ll find useful travel resources to help you prepare smoothly, plus nearby destinations worth adding to your journey.
Thailand Travel Essentials: Plan Smarter, Travel Easier
Need tips on visas, health, culture, or everyday logistics? My hub brings all the key guides together in one place: ✅ Explore the Thailand Travel Guide
Your Next Thai Adventure Awaits
Looking for where to go next? These nearby or complementary places pair well with your current destination and are worth your time in the Land of Smiles.
- Koh Mak Travel Guide: Peaceful Beaches, Hidden Charm & How to Get There
- Koh Chang Island Travel Guide: What to Know Before You Go
💬 Have you been to Koh Kood or are you planning a trip soon? Share your thoughts, tips, or questions in the comments — I’d love to hear from you.