Dreaming of the perfect Thai island escape? You might think of Phuket or Koh Samui…
But savvy travelers are now whispering about a quieter paradise, some say it’s similar to the Thailand of 40 years ago—Koh Kood.
Tucked away in Thailand’s eastern waters close to Koh Chang and the Cambodian border, it’s practically untouched, uncrowded, and incredibly beautiful.
Could Koh Kood be Thailand’s BEST island? Many seasoned travelers say yes—and for good reason.
From crystal-clear waters to jungle-covered hills, Koh Kood offers raw beauty without the crowds. No party scene. No traffic. Just laid-back vibes, stunning beaches and natural charm.
In this guide, we’ll show you why Koh Kood is rising fast on every Thailand travel bucket list.
👉 Ready to discover Thailand’s best-kept island secret?
The Best Beaches on Koh Kood (And Where to Find Them)
Koh Kood doesn’t have flashy beach clubs and busy walking streets like some more well known islands — and that’s exactly why travelers fall in love with it. The beaches here are quiet, clean, and naturally beautiful.
Below are some of the island’s best spots to swim, relax, and just do absolutely nothing — complete with Google Maps links so you can find them easily when you’re there.
Ao Tapao Beach
One of the island’s longest beaches, Ao Tapao offers a serene stretch of soft white sand and calm, turquoise waters. It’s perfect for leisurely swims and sunset strolls.
Klong Chao Beach
Centrally located, Klong Chao is known for its powdery white sand and gentle waves. The beach is lined with a few resorts and eateries, making it a convenient spot for relaxation and dining.
Ao Phrao Beach
Situated on the southern tip of Koh Kood, Ao Phrao is a secluded beach backed by lush greenery. Its shallow waters make it ideal for families and those seeking tranquility.
Bang Bao Bay
A picturesque bay with clear waters and a peaceful ambiance, Bang Bao is perfect for swimming and sunbathing. The surrounding coconut trees add to its tropical charm.
Ao Noi Beach
A hidden gem, Ao Noi is a small beach known for its crystal-clear waters and wooden pier. It’s a great spot for snorkeling and capturing stunning photos.
Where to stay on Kod Kood
Whether you’re looking for a simple wooden bungalow or luxury beach-side villa, Koh Kood has a place that fits your needs and budget.
Accommodation here blends into nature — no high-rises, no big chains, just peaceful stays with unforgettable views.
Here are five of the best places to stay on the island, from laid-back bungalows to stunning resort hideaways.
Siam Beach Resort Koh Kood
Nestled directly on the pristine sands of Bang Bao Bay, Siam Beach Resort offers a tranquil escape with its beachfront bungalows and villas.
Guests rave about the stunning location, describing it as “a true paradise” with “serene blue waters and pristine white sand beaches.” The resort’s restaurant and beach bar provide delightful dining options, complemented by the soothing sounds of the sea.
While some rooms may show signs of age, the overall ambiance and friendly staff make it a favorite among travelers seeking relaxation
Rough price: from $48 USD per night, depending on the season and room type.
Book your stay at Siam Beach Resort Koh Kood
Koh Kood Beach Resort
Set against the backdrop of lush tropical greenery and the gentle waves of the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Kood Beach Resort offers a serene escape for travelers seeking tranquility.
The bungalows and villas mix Thai-style design with modern touches, and there’s a pool, bikes, kayaks, and even a small spa. It’s quiet, scenic, and great for couples or solo travelers looking to unplug and unwind.
Rough price: from $75 USD per night, depending on the season and room type.
Book your stay at Koh Kood Beach Resort
High Season Pool Villa & Spa
Perched on the pristine sands of Klong Chao Beach, High Season Pool Villa & Spa offers an exclusive 5-star retreat.
Each of its 41 villas boasts a private pool, blending luxury with the island’s natural beauty. Guests can indulge in beachfront dining, rejuvenate at the full-service spa, or explore the serene surroundings with non-motorized water activities.
The resort’s commitment to sustainability and exceptional service makes it a standout choice for discerning travelers.
Rough price: from $236 USD per night, depending on the season and villa type.
Book your stay at High Season Pool Villa & Spa
Shantaa Koh Kood
Set amidst a lush coastal coconut grove, Shantaa Koh Kood offers a tranquil retreat with its 1 and 2-bedroom villas featuring king-size beds, evening air conditioning, and elegant bathrooms.
Guests can unwind at the beach bar, take a dip in the outdoor pool, or enjoy pristine ocean views from the open-sided restaurant that serves delicious Thai and international cuisine.
Rough price: from $111 USD per night, depending on the season and room type. KAYAK
Book your stay at Shantaa Koh Kood
Soneva Kiri
Soneva Kiri is Thailand’s most exclusive island retreat — a place where barefoot luxury meets wild jungle, private beaches, and next-level service.
Each of the 33 villas comes with a private pool, open-air bathrooms, and a personal “Barefoot Guardian” to assist you throughout your stay.
The resort is renowned for its unique experiences, such as the Treepod Dining, where guests are hoisted into the rainforest canopy to dine among the treetops.
Rough price: from $1,200 USD per night, depending on the season and villa type .
Klook.comHow to Get to Koh Kood from Bangkok
Getting to Koh Kood takes a little effort — but it’s part of the adventure and definitley worth while.
Unlike the more commercial Thai islands (Koh Samui, Phuket etc), Koh Kood has no airport and no direct flights. But with a bit of planning, you can go from city chaos to tropical paradise in under a day.
Here’s how to do it:
Option 1: Bus + Ferry Combo (Most Budget-Friendly)
This is the most popular and budget-friendly route.
Boonsiri offers a combined minivan and high-speed catamaran ticket from Bangkok (Khao San Road) to Koh Kood via Laem Sok Pier.
- Duration: Approximately 7–9 hours
- Price: Starting from $25 USD
- Departure Times: Early morning departures ensure arrival on Koh Kood by early afternoon.
👉 Book your combined bus and ferry ticket now
Option 2: Flight + Transfer + Ferry (Fastest Route)
For those short on time, flying is the quickest option.
Bangkok Airways operates daily flights from Suvarnabhumi Airport to Trat. From there, a short transfer to Laem Sok Pier connects you to the ferry bound for Koh Kood.
- Duration: Approximately 4–5 hours
- Price: Flights start around $70 USD; transfers and ferry add approximately $20–$30 USD
- Note: Ensure flight arrival times align with ferry departures
👉 Check flight and transfer options to Koh Kood
Option 3: Private Transfer + Ferry (Most Comfortable)
Ideal for groups or those seeking comfort, private transfers offer door-to-door service from Bangkok to Laem Sok Pier, followed by a ferry to Koh Kood.
- Duration: Approximately 7–8 hours
- Price: Starting from $160 USD per vehicle
- Benefits: Flexible departure times, comfortable vehicles, and personalized service.
👉 Book your private transfer and ferry to Koh Kood
Pro Tip: Booking through 12Go ensures a seamless journey with coordinated schedules between transport modes. Plus, their platform offers customer reviews and support for added peace of mind.
Best Time to Visit Koh Kood
Koh Kood has two main seasons: dry and rainy.
The good news? Even in the wet season, it’s still beautiful — but if you want the best weather, timing matters.
☀️ High Season: November to April
This is the best time to visit Koh Kood. Skies are blue, seas are calm, and the island is in full swing.
Most travelers come between December and March, when the weather is ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and boat trips. It’s also when most resorts and restaurants are fully open.
🌧️ Green Season: May to October
This is monsoon season — so you should expect occasional heavy rains, especially from June to September.
Some resorts close temporarily, and ferries may run less frequently. But there’s a silver lining: fewer tourists, lower prices, and lush green landscapes. If you don’t mind a shower or two, it can be a quiet, peaceful time to visit.
👌 Our Take?
If it’s your first time, aim for late November to early April. You’ll get postcard weather and crystal clear, calm seas. But if you’re a return visitor or don’t mind a slower pace and want to save some money, the green season can be surprisingly rewarding.
Klook.comWhat to Do in Koh Kood (Besides Chill at the Beach)
Koh Kood is all about peace and tranquility — but that doesn’t mean there’s nothing to do.
In fact, if you’re into nature, scenery or exploring off the grid, there’s plenty to keep you busy (or relaxed).
Visit Waterfalls
There are a few waterfalls on the island, but Klong Chao Waterfall is the most accessible and scenic.
You can swim in the freshwater pool at the bottom and enjoy the jungle vibes on the way there.
If you want something quieter, try Huang Nam Keaw, deeper inland.
Go Kayaking Through Mangroves
Rent a kayak (most resorts offer them) and paddle through the calm mangrove canals near Klong Chao or Ao Yai.
It’s peaceful, shady, and feels like you’re in your own nature documentary.
Snorkel in Clear, Coral-Filled Waters
The water around Koh Kood is incredibly clear. You can snorkel right off many beaches or join a local boat trip to nearby reefs. Popular snorkeling spots include around Ao Yai Kee and Ao Phrao.
Explore the Island by Scooter or Bicycle
There’s very little traffic on Koh Kood, making it great for riding around. Rent a scooter or bicycle and visit sleepy fishing villages, rubber tree plantations, or just explore whatever quiet road you come across.
Visit Ao Salat and Ao Yai Fishing Villages
These small villages offer a glimpse into the island’s local life. Wooden houses on stilts, fishing boats bobbing in the water, and the smell of grilled seafood in the air. Great for photos and lunch with a view.
Book a Massage by the Sea
Almost every resort offers Thai massage, often in open-air salas overlooking the beach. After a day of exploring, there’s nothing better than a one-hour massage as the sun sets.
FAQ: Everything You Still Might Be Wondering About Koh Kood
Is Koh Kood safe for tourists?
Yes — Koh Kood is considered one of the safest islands in Thailand.
It’s quiet, peaceful, and crime rates are extremely low. Just take the usual travel precautions, like securing valuables and watching the weather during rainy season.
Is Koh Kood expensive?
It depends on your travel style. Budget travelers can find simple bungalows and local meals for around $20–30 USD per day.
On the flip side, luxury resorts like Soneva Kiri can cost over $1,000 a night. Mid-range options are plentiful too.
Are there ATMs or should I bring cash?
There are a few ATMs on the island, mostly near the main beaches or villages.
Still, it’s smart to bring enough cash from the mainland, especially if you’re staying in remote areas or small guesthouses that don’t take cards.
Can I work remotely from Koh Kood?
It’s possible, but internet speeds vary. Some resorts offer decent Wi-Fi, especially near Klong Chao Beach.
If you need a stable connection for video calls or remote work, check with your accommodation ahead of time.
How many days should I spend in Koh Kood?
Most travelers recommend 3 to 5 days. That gives you time to relax, explore the beaches and waterfalls, and enjoy the slower rhythm of island life.
Do I need to book accommodation in advance?
In high season (December to March), yes — especially for popular resorts. In low season, you can often walk in, but it’s still smart to book ahead for peace of mind.
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