Koh Kood, also called Koh Kut, is a hidden paradise in Thailand that many travelers haven’t heard of yet. While more famous islands like Phuket or Koh Samui attract millions of visitors each year, Koh Kood remains a peaceful retreat where you can enjoy a relaxed atmosphere, pristine beaches, and lush tropical scenery. The beauty of Koh Kood lies in its quiet charm—this is an island where you can escape the crowds and immerse yourself in nature.

When you arrive on Koh Kood, you’ll instantly notice how different it feels compared to the more touristy parts of Thailand. The roads are less busy, the beaches are less crowded, and the pace of life is slower. There’s something refreshing about being in a place that hasn’t been overrun by mass tourism, where you can explore at your own pace and feel like you’ve discovered a hidden gem. Koh Kood is the kind of destination that draws you in with its simplicity and beauty, offering a truly relaxing experience that’s becoming harder to find in today’s travel landscape.

Getting to Koh Kood: An Adventure in Itself

One of the first questions you’ll probably have is, “How do I get to this secluded island?” Located in the eastern part of Thailand, close to the Cambodian border, Koh Kood is part of the same island group as Koh Chang and Koh Mak. These islands are relatively close to each other, making it easy to visit multiple islands during your trip. But getting to Koh Kood requires a bit of effort, which is perhaps why it remains less popular than other Thai islands.

The journey usually begins in Bangkok, where you can either take a flight or a bus to the town of Trat. Trat serves as the gateway to Koh Kood and the other nearby islands. From Trat, you’ll catch a ferry or speedboat to Koh Kood. The ferry ride itself is a beautiful experience, offering stunning views of the turquoise waters and the green, jungle-covered islands scattered across the sea. Once you arrive at the Koh Kood pier, local transport (usually a truck with benches in the back) will take you to your accommodation.

While it might seem like a complicated journey, everything is well-organized, and you’ll find that it runs smoothly. In fact, many travelers enjoy the adventure of getting to Koh Kood—it adds to the sense of discovery and makes you appreciate the island even more once you arrive. Plus, during the journey, you’ll likely meet other travelers who are also heading to this hidden paradise, giving you a chance to share tips and stories before you even set foot on the island.

Exploring Koh Kood by Scooter: Freedom to Roam

One of the best things about Koh Kood is its size. Although it’s the fourth largest island in Thailand, Koh Kood is still relatively small and easy to navigate. The island is about 25 kilometers long, and the best way to explore it is by scooter. Renting a scooter gives you the freedom to roam the island at your own pace, taking detours down random roads and discovering hidden beaches and local villages along the way.

Scooter rentals are widely available on the island, and most accommodations will have scooters for rent. Prices are typically around 250 baht per day, making it an affordable way to get around. Even if you’ve never driven a scooter before, Koh Kood is a great place to learn. The roads are quiet, and traffic is minimal, so you can ride at your own pace without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

For us, renting a scooter was one of the highlights of our trip. It allowed us to experience the island in a more personal and intimate way. We loved taking spontaneous detours, following winding roads through the jungle, and stumbling upon small villages and secluded beaches that we might have missed if we were traveling by car or bus. There’s something exhilarating about having the freedom to go wherever you want, whenever you want, without having to stick to a schedule.

As you explore the island by scooter, you’ll notice how green and lush Koh Kood is. The landscape is a mix of dense jungle, towering palm trees, and pristine beaches. The air is fresh, and the sounds of nature surround you—whether it’s the rustling of leaves in the wind or the chirping of birds in the trees. Driving through this natural paradise feels like an adventure in itself, and it’s a great way to connect with the island’s natural beauty.

Discovering Koh Kood’s Waterfalls: Nature’s Hidden Treasures

Koh Kood may be best known for its beaches, but it’s also home to some beautiful waterfalls that are well worth a visit. There are three main waterfalls on the island: Huang Nam Khiao Waterfall, Khlong Chao Waterfall, and Khlong Yai Kee Waterfall. Each of these waterfalls offers a peaceful escape into nature, where you can cool off in the refreshing waters and enjoy the tranquility of the jungle.

Khlong Chao Waterfall is perhaps the most popular of the three, and for good reason. It’s easily accessible, with a short 500-meter walk from the parking area, and it’s one of the few waterfalls on the island that has enough water for swimming year-round. The waterfall cascades into a large pool, surrounded by rocks and trees, creating a picturesque setting for a swim. If you’re feeling adventurous, there are ropes hanging from the trees that you can use to swing into the water, adding an element of fun to your visit.

While Khlong Chao is the most well-known, the other two waterfalls—Huang Nam Khiao and Khlong Yai Kee—are also worth exploring. They may not be as large or dramatic as Khlong Chao, but they offer a quieter and more intimate experience. These waterfalls are tucked away in the jungle, and reaching them often involves a bit of a hike, but the journey is part of the adventure. Along the way, you’ll pass through dense jungle, cross small streams, and hear the sounds of birds and insects all around you.

Visiting the waterfalls is a great way to break up your beach days and experience a different side of Koh Kood. It’s also a chance to cool off in the natural pools and enjoy the refreshing feel of the water after a hike through the jungle. Best of all, visiting the waterfalls is free, so it’s an affordable way to enjoy the island’s natural beauty.

Koh Kood’s Best Beaches: Secluded Paradise Awaits

Koh Kood’s beaches are some of the most beautiful in Thailand, yet they remain largely undiscovered by tourists. The island’s west coast is dotted with stunning beaches, each offering its own unique charm. What’s great about Koh Kood is that many of these beaches are still relatively unknown, so you can often find yourself alone on the sand, with nothing but the sound of the waves and the rustling of palm trees.

One of our favorite beaches on the island is Ao Ta Khian Beach. This hidden gem isn’t even marked on Google Maps, which is part of what makes it so special. To get there, navigate to Cham’s House Koh Kood Resort, park your scooter, and take the path to the left. The further along the beach you walk, the more stunning it becomes. The water is crystal clear, and the sand is soft and white—everything you’d expect from a tropical paradise. What makes Ao Ta Khian Beach so magical is its sense of isolation. Because so few people know about it, you’ll often have the beach all to yourself, making it the perfect spot for a peaceful day by the sea.

Another beach that we fell in love with is Ao Jark Bay. This beach has a more relaxed atmosphere, with a few beach bars where you can grab a drink and enjoy the view. The beach is surrounded by tall palm trees, providing natural shade from the sun, and the water is calm and clear, making it a great spot for swimming. As you walk further down the beach, it becomes quieter and more secluded, offering the perfect escape from the more crowded beaches on the island.

For those looking for something even more off the beaten path, Huggy Beach is a great option. This beach isn’t marked on Google Maps, so it remains a well-kept secret. The water here is shallow and incredibly blue, reminiscent of the famous lagoon in Bacalar, Mexico. To find Huggy Beach, navigate to Million Beach Cafe, and you’ll be rewarded with a quiet, beautiful spot where you can relax in peace. The beach even has a swing and a boardwalk, making it a great place to take photos and capture the beauty of the island.

Each of these beaches offers its own unique experience, and part of the fun of being on Koh Kood is discovering new spots to relax and unwind. Whether you’re looking for a quiet beach to read a book, a lively spot with beach bars, or a hidden gem that few people know about, Koh Kood has something for everyone.

Enjoying the Sunset: A Magical End to Your Day

One of the best ways to end your day on Koh Kood is by watching the sunset. The island’s west coast offers some incredible vantage points for sunset viewing, and there’s nothing quite like watching the sky turn shades of pink, orange, and purple as the sun dips below the horizon. Whether you’re sipping a cocktail at a beach bar or lounging on a beanbag chair, watching the sunset is a magical experience that you won’t want to miss.

One of our favorite spots for sunset watching was Monkey Bar, where you can enjoy a drink and watch the sun go down over the water. The atmosphere is laid-back and friendly, and it’s the perfect place to relax after a day of exploring the island. Another great spot is Gathi Cafe, where you can settle into a cozy beanbag chair and take in the view. No matter where you choose to watch the sunset, you’re in for a treat—Koh Kood’s sunsets are truly breathtaking, and they’re the perfect way to end a day in paradise.

Renting a Kayak: A Fun and Active Way to Explore

If you’re looking for a more active way to explore the island, renting a kayak or stand-up paddleboard is a great option. Koh Kood’s calm waters make it an ideal destination for kayaking, and there are several places where you can rent equipment and set off on an adventure. One of the best spots to rent a kayak is Sup Point Koh Kood, which is located along a small river that flows into the sea.

Kayaking is a great way to explore the island’s coastline and discover hidden beaches that are only accessible by water. On calm days, when the wind is light, the sea is perfect for paddling, and you can spend hours exploring the island’s natural beauty. If you prefer a more relaxed experience, you can paddle along the river and enjoy the peaceful surroundings of the jungle. Either way, kayaking is a fun and active way to see the island from a different perspective.

Snorkeling Adventures: Discovering Koh Kood’s Underwater World

Koh Kood is home to some beautiful coral reefs and vibrant marine life, making it a great destination for snorkeling. Several snorkeling trips are offered on the island, and you can usually book them through your accommodation. The more affordable option involves snorkeling around Koh Kood itself, while the more expensive trips take you to smaller islands in Mu Ko Chang National Park, where the underwater scenery is even more impressive.

Snorkeling is a great way to experience the island’s natural beauty from a different perspective. As you swim through the clear waters, you’ll encounter colorful fish, vibrant coral, and perhaps even a sea turtle or two. It’s a peaceful and relaxing activity that allows you to connect with the ocean and appreciate the incredible diversity of marine life that calls Koh Kood home.

Dining on Koh Kood: Local Flavors and Cozy Restaurants

Koh Kood may not have as many restaurants as some of Thailand’s larger islands, but there are still plenty of great places to eat. The island’s dining scene is a mix of local Thai restaurants and small cafes, offering everything from classic Thai dishes to international cuisine. Here are a few of our favorite spots to grab a meal:

• HEAVEN Sense: For a taste of Italy on Koh Kood, HEAVEN Sense is the place to go. This cozy restaurant serves up delicious pizzas and pastas, making it a great option if you’re craving something different from the usual Thai fare.
• Wooden Hut: This charming little restaurant offers classic Thai dishes in a laid-back setting. The curries here are particularly good, and the friendly owners make you feel right at home.
• Black Bananas: If you’re looking for a great cup of coffee or a tasty Thai dish, Black Bananas is the place to be. We ended up here because they had our favorite dish, Khao Soi, and it did not disappoint!
• Nomkhon Station: Located near Huggy Beach, Nomkhon Station is the perfect spot to stop for a waffle and ice cream after a day of exploring. The cafe has a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, making it a great place to unwind.
• Mermaid Boutique & Cafe: This cute little cafe serves up delicious breakfasts, including smoothie bowls that are the perfect way to start your day on the island.

Where to Stay on Koh Kood: Finding the Perfect Accommodation

Koh Kood offers a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly bungalows to more luxurious resorts. No matter what your budget is, you’ll be able to find a place that suits your needs. Here are three great options for where to stay on the island:

• Wooden Hut: This budget-friendly accommodation offers charming wooden bungalows surrounded by lush plants. The owners are incredibly friendly, and the on-site restaurant serves up delicious Thai food, so you don’t even have to leave the property for a great meal. Wooden Hut is also within walking distance of Ao Ta Khian Beach, making it a great option for travelers who want to be close to the beach without breaking the bank.
• Walk in Homestay: For those looking for a more peaceful and private retreat, Walk in Homestay is a great choice. The bungalows are set among palm trees and surrounded by water, creating a serene and calming atmosphere. The cabins are clean and well-maintained, making it a great option for travelers who want to be close to nature without sacrificing comfort. Walk in Homestay is also within walking distance of Ao Jark Bay, so you’re never far from the beach.
• The Hideout: If you’re looking for something a bit more luxurious, The Hideout is the perfect place to stay. The rooms are beautifully decorated, and there are plenty of sunbeds around the pool and on the small beach, making it an ideal place to relax and unwind. The Hideout offers a more upscale experience without the hefty price tag, making it a great option for travelers who want a bit of luxury on their trip.

Conclusion: Koh Kood, Thailand’s Hidden Gem

Koh Kood is a true paradise, offering everything you could want from a tropical island getaway—beautiful beaches, lush jungles, peaceful waterfalls, and a relaxed atmosphere. Whether you’re exploring the island by scooter, kayaking along the coast, or lounging on a secluded beach, you’ll find that Koh Kood offers a sense of peace and tranquility that’s hard to find elsewhere.

This island is perfect for travelers who want to escape the hustle and bustle of more touristy destinations and experience a slower, more relaxed way of life. With its stunning natural beauty and laid-back charm, Koh Kood is a destination that will capture your heart and leave you with memories that last a lifetime.

Whether you’re spending your days exploring waterfalls, snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, or simply lounging on the beach with a good book, Koh Kood offers the perfect escape from the stresses of everyday life. So if you’re looking for a tropical paradise that’s still relatively untouched by tourism, Koh Kood should be at the top of your travel list.