Picture this: you’re lounging on a beach so pristine it looks like it’s been Photoshopped, sipping a cold drink, and wondering how you managed to stumble into paradise without accidentally selling your soul to a travel agent. Welcome to Koh Kham, a microscopic speck of an island off Koh Mak in Thailand that’s so beautiful it’ll make you question why you have ever been bothered by crowded tourist traps like Phuket. I’m here to spill the beans on this hidden gem complete with a few laughs, some questionable life choices, and a guide to getting there without ending up on a deserted sandbar with nothing but a crab for company.
Koh Kham: The Island That’s a Postcard with Attitude
Koh Kham isn’t just an island; it’s a vibe. Tucked a measly 750 meters off the northern tip of Koh Mak, it’s like the cool little sibling who shows up late to the party but steals the show anyway. We’re talking powdery white sand that feels like walking on clouds (if clouds were imported from the UAE—more on that later), water so clear you can see fish plotting their next move, and an abandoned luxury resort that’s a playground for Instagram explorers.
This place is tiny—think “I could jog around it in five minutes if I weren’t so lazy” tiny—but it’s got more charm than a barrel full of monkeys hyped up on mango smoothies. There’s a small kiosk selling drinks and snacks (because even paradise needs a vending machine), a heart-shaped wooden platform for those cheesy couple pics, and enough palm trees to make you feel like you’re in a coconut-scented fever dream. Oh, and did I mention the black volcanic rocks? They’re like nature’s attempt at modern art, scattered around the beach to remind you that even perfection has a little edge.
The Abandoned Resort: Where Dreams Go to Sunbathe
Now, let’s talk about the elephant in the room—or rather, the half-built luxury resort that’s just chilling there like a rich uncle who forgot to finish his midlife crisis project. Back in the day, some big shots decided Koh Kham needed to be the next big thing, complete with swanky pool villas and probably a spa where you could get a massage from a dolphin. Construction got about 70% done before the whole thing screeched to a halt—rumor has it the owner crashed his Ferrari and decided he’d rather blow his cash on horsepower than beachfront property. True story? Maybe. Hilarious either way? Absolutely.
Today, the resort sits there, slowly being reclaimed by nature, with unfinished villas that look like they’re auditioning for a post-apocalyptic movie. You can wander through them (watch your step—those concrete floors aren’t exactly OSHA-approved), snap some eerie pics, and pretend you’re the last survivor of a very bougie zombie invasion. It’s creepy, it’s cool, and it’s a stark reminder that even paradise has its share of “what the heck happened here” moments.
Snorkeling, Swimming, and Sunburns: The Holy Trinity of Koh Kham
If you’re not into playing Indiana Jones in the abandoned resort, Koh Kham’s got plenty to keep you busy—or at least distracted from the fact that you forgot sunscreen. The eastern side of the island is snorkeling central, with coral reefs so vibrant they look like someone spilled a bag of Skittles underwater. You’ll see fish in every color of the rainbow, darting around like they’re late for a meeting with Nemo. Bring your own gear if you’re fancy, or just squint really hard through the crystal-clear water and call it a day.
Swimming here is like diving into a giant kiddie pool, minus the screaming toddlers and questionable floaties. The main bay near Khao Kham Pier is shallow and calm, protected by underwater rocks that act like nature’s bouncers, keeping the big waves out. It’s perfect for kids, beginners, or anyone who’s ever flailed in the deep end and yelled, “I’m fine!” while secretly panicking. If you’re a pro swimmer, there are other bays to explore—just don’t blame me if a crab mistakes your toe for lunch.
And sunbathing? Oh, honey, Koh Kham’s beaches were made for it. The sand’s so soft you’ll want to roll around in it like a happy puppy, and the early morning hours (7-9 a.m.) are prime time before the midday crowds roll in. Pro tip: hide under a palm tree when the sun gets feisty unless you want to go home looking like a lobster with a backstory.
How to Get to Koh Kham: A Comedy of Errors and Boats
Alright, let’s get down to brass tacks: how do you actually reach this slice of heaven without accidentally booking a one-way ticket to Cambodia? Spoiler alert: it’s not as simple as hopping on a plane and yelling, “Take me to paradise!” Here’s the scoop, served with a side of my own dumb luck.
Step 1: Get Yourself to Koh Mak
Koh Kham is basically Koh Mak’s clingy little sidekick, so you’ve got to start there. Koh Mak itself is in eastern Thailand, part of the Trat Province sandwiched between Koh Chang and Koh Kood. From Bangkok, you’ve got options:
Bus + Ferry Grab a bus from Bangkok’s Ekkamai Terminal to Trat (about 5-6 hours, depending on traffic and how many snack stops the driver makes). Then hop a taxi or songthaew to Laem Ngop Pier, where speedboats zip to Koh Mak’s Ao Nid Pier for around 450-550 baht. Total travel time? Roughly 7-8 hours if you don’t get lost or distracted by roadside pad thai.
Fly + Ferry: Feeling fancy? Fly from Bangkok to Trat Airport (1 hour), taxi to the pier (30 minutes), and catch a boat. It’s faster but pricier—think 2,500-3,000 baht total.
Private Transfer: If you’re rolling in dough or just hate planning, companies like Boonsiri Ferries offer bus + ferry combos from Bangkok’s Khao San Road straight to Koh Mak for about 1,000 baht. It’s idiot-proof, which is why I love it.
Once you’re on Koh Mak, congratulate yourself—you’re halfway there! Book a room at a resort like Koh Mak Resort or Seavana (they’re pros at shuttling folks to Koh Kham), and brace yourself for the next leg.
Step 2: Boat or Kayak to Koh Kham
From Koh Mak, you’ve got two ways to reach Koh Kham, and both come with their own flavor of chaos:
Boat: The easiest option is a speedboat from the pier at Koh Mak Resort. For 300 baht, you get a round-trip ride, the entry fee to Koh Kham, and a free drink (score!). Boats run hourly during high season (November to April), but in low season, call ahead—sometimes the weather’s cranky, and the boats stay docked. It’s a quick 5-10-minute ride, and you’ll feel like James Bond minus the tuxedo and martini.
Kayak: Feeling adventurous (or cheap)? Rent a kayak from a Koh Mak resort like Ao Kao or Koh Mak Resort for 100-200 baht an hour. It’s only 750 meters to Koh Kham, so paddling takes 20-30 minutes—unless you’re me, in which case it’s 45 minutes of swearing, splashing, and accidentally turning in circles. Bring water, a hat, and a prayer that the wind doesn’t turn you into a human kite.
Step 3: Pay the Piper
Koh Kham’s not free, folks. The 300 baht boat ticket covers the entry fee, but if you kayak, it’s 200 baht to step foot on the island (drink included). Cash only—there’s no ATM, and the kiosk lady isn’t about to barter with your soggy socks.
My Personal Misadventure: A Cautionary Tale
Last time I went, I decided kayaking sounded “fun.” Spoiler: it wasn’t. Halfway there, my arms turned to jelly, a fish jumped into my kayak like it owned the place, and I nearly capsized trying to shoo it out. By the time I washed ashore, I looked like a drowned rat who’d lost a fight with a paddle. The kiosk guy took one look at me, handed me a Coke, and said, “You’re not from around here, are you?” Nope. But was it worth it? Heck yes. That beach made me forget all my woes—until I had to paddle back.
Final Thoughts: Go Now, Laugh Later
Koh Kham is the kind of place that makes you wonder why you ever bothered with overpriced cocktails and sunburnt crowds elsewhere. It’s raw, it’s ridiculous, and it’s ready for you to make your own dumb mistakes there. So pack your sunscreen, channel your inner pirate, and get to Koh Mak—Koh Kham’s waiting with open arms and a smirk. Just don’t ask me to kayak with you. I’m still recovering.
The Best Hotels in Koh Mak: A Totally Serious (But Not Really) Guide to Paradise
Planning a trip to Koh Mak, Thailand’s under-the-radar island gem, is like picking the comfiest hammock—you can’t really go wrong, but some options just sway better than others. This star-shaped paradise isn’t your rowdy Koh Samui or your tourist-packed Phuket; it’s more like the chill buddy who’s got a secret stash of snacks and no drama. I’ve poked around this quiet island (and dodged a few sandflies)
1. Lazy Day Koh Mak Resort – The “Palm Tree Road to Nirvana” Spot
Lazy Day Koh Mak Resort is the island’s chill pill in resort form. It’s got this *gorgeous* road lined with palm trees that’s so postcard-perfect you’ll want to slap it on Instagram and call it a day. The bungalows are right on Ao Khao Beach, modern yet minimalist, with private balconies begging for a lazy afternoon with a mango smoothie. Free Wi-Fi, a restaurant with killer Thai food, and a 2-minute stumble to the sand make it a no-brainer. Oh, and the vibe? Pure peace—until you realize you forgot to pack flip-flops.
Why It’s Great: That palm-tree-lined road is basically a red carpet to relaxation.
Funny Flaw: The Wi-Fi might ghost you if the resort’s full—guess you’ll have to talk to the coconuts instead.
2. Mira Montra Resort Koh Mak – The “Secluded Beach Bliss” Hideaway
Mira Montra is a total vibe if you’re into serenity with a side of luxury. Tucked away on Ao Pra Beach—aka the island’s prettiest stretch of sand—it’s got beachfront villas and rooms that scream “unplug and unwind.” Think rustic-chic decor, private terraces, and an outdoor pool with Gulf of Thailand views that’ll make you forget your inbox exists. Free kayaks and paddleboards? Yes, please. The staff’s so lovely you’ll wonder if they’re secretly angels.
Why It’s Great: It’s quiet, gorgeous, and feels like a secret only you’re in on.
Funny Flaw: The reef’s great for snorkeling but not for barefoot wading—watch your toes or channel your inner crab walk.
3. Seavana Koh Mak Beach Resort – The “I’m Fancy but Barefoot” Vibe
Seavana’s got that private beach swagger and bungalows so cozy you’ll consider moving in. There’s an outdoor pool for when you’re too posh for the ocean, and the staff’s so sweet you’ll suspect they’re plotting to adopt you. Snorkel off the pier and live your *Finding Dory* dreams—just don’t ask the fish for Wi-Fi passwords.
Why It’s Great: It’s got that “vacation, not castaway” energy.
Funny Flaw:* Sandflies might crash your beach picnic—bring bug spray or perfect your swatting skills.
4. TK Beach Resort Koh Mak – The “Free Kayaks and Chill” Deal
TK Beach Resort is your cool aunt who hands out free stuff and doesn’t care if you nap all day. Free kayaks, snorkeling gear, and a garden that’s basically a photo shoot waiting to happen. It’s a 13-minute shuffle from Ao Soun Yai Beach, perfect for a “casual explorer” vibe. The rooms are clean, the food’s delish, and the terrace is prime sunset territory.
Why It’s Great: Free toys + epic views = instant vacation cred.
Funny Flaw: The “sea-view” rooms require some squinting—pack binoculars or imagination.
5. Makathanee Resort – The “Waves Are My Lullaby” Escape
Makathanee is *on* Ao Kratueng Beach, so close you might wake up spooning a seashell. Spacious bungalows, comfy beds, and a rooftop restaurant that’s rom-com-worthy. Stake out a beach chair early, or you’ll be negotiating with the seagulls.
Why It’s Great:Ocean ASMR all night long—nature’s gift to light sleepers.
Funny Flaw: The patio chairs creak like they’re auditioning for a horror flick—bring a pillow or lean into it.
Why Koh Mak —like Lazy Day with its dreamy palm-tree road and Mira Montra with its secluded beachfront—are all about that low-key island life. No blaring party boats, no selfie-stick armies, just you, some palm trees, and maybe a dog napping in the shade. They’re affordable, chill, and perfect for pretending you’re in a castaway movie (but with Wi-Fi). Lazy Day’s got that approachable charm, while Mira Montra feels like a luxe escape—both are Koh Mak gold.
How to Choose Your Koh Mak Hotel (A Foolproof-ish Plan)
1. **Fancy a scenic stroll?** Lazy Day’s palm-tree road is calling.
2. **Crave seclusion?** Mira Montra’s your spot.
3. **Pool or sea?** Seavana and TK have both—pick your splash.
4. **Wave soundtrack?** Makathanee’s got you covered.
*The sea’s warm, the beaches are quiet, and the hotels are chill—Koh Mak’s got it all. Book one of these spots, and thank me later when you’re sipping a coconut under a palm tree.*
Final Tip: Bug spray’s your BFF—sandflies don’t RSVP, they just show up.
Safe travels, you beautiful weirdos!
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