Koh Kood is unrivalled in terms of its privacy and tropical landscapes, which is why you see it most often in the Bounty chocolate bar commercials. Though it is not best-known as a developed tourist center, there is no better place than Koh Kood for romantics and those looking for a little repose and respite.
Location
Measuring a petite 131 km², Koh Kood is located in the Gulf of Thailand, near the Cambodian border, 80 km from the province of Trat, and 320 km from Bangkok. Your travel plans can and most likely will include a combination of ground, sea, and/or air transport to make it to this southeastern island, so plan in advance. From the Laem Sok pier on the mainland, a one-hour trip is all it takes by speedboat; double that by ferry. If you’re coming from Bangkok by bus, add another six hours onto the trek. There is also the option of flying, but this again will only get you to the administrative center of Trat province.
Beach Vacations
The most popular beaches on Koh Kood are four in total: Taphao, Bang Bao, Khlong Chao, and Phrao. Located on the island’s west coast, Taphao – the island’s main beach, is great for snorkeling and swimming. Khlong Chao stretches 600 meters along the western coast to the south of the Taphao Gulf, and is a wonderfully quiet place with few tourists. You’ll have to travel a little to make it Phrao beach, located in the center of the southern coast, but rest assured the lagoon surrounded by mountains and palm trees growing along the sandy shore make it worth the trip. As a whole however, with the island being part of the Mu Koh Chang National Park, there aren’t too many places that aren’t just incredibly stunning.
Sights
The one thing you’re going to want to see before you leave Koh Kood is its stunning three-stage waterfall, Khlong Chao. In addition to the plethora of photos you’ll undoubtedly take, make sure you bring a swimsuit, as the lower bowl is fabulous for a quick dip or a longer plunge. The 500-year old Makka trees, reaching heights of 35 meters plus and overgrown with vines and epiphytes, should also be a drawing card.
Active Leisure
Diving and snorkeling are great on Koh Kood, with high-density coral reefs stretching for what seems like miles. Or, you might try renting a canoe and exploring the surrounding islands. Koh Kood is dotted with numerous bays and channels that run in all directions, most of which are hidden under the huge mangroves. It is especially romantic in the evening, when the trees are set alight with fireflies.
Services
The island only just opened to tourists, so you won’t find many shops or restaurants yet. Additionally, the nightlife is somewhat subdued, with many places closing up shop altogether during low season. Roads and hotels are being built at a fast pace, however.
Prices
The price/quality ratio is very reasonable on Koh Kood, not unlike Koh Chang, in terms of amenities and service.
Please note:
planned power cuts occur at certain times on a daily basis as a way to save on electricity.