Picture this: you’re sipping a coconut, toes in the sand, with not a soul in sight except maybe a curious crab scuttling by. Welcome to Koh Kood (aka Ko Kut), Thailand’s sneaky little secret that’s basically a love letter to beach bums. Tucked in the Gulf of Thailand near Cambodia, this island’s got all the postcard vibes—powdery sands, turquoise waves, jungly goodness—without the chaos of Phuket or Samui. I’ve scoured its shores (tough gig, I know) to bring you the 10 best beaches that’ll have you booking a ticket faster than you can say “sunscreen.” Let’s dive in—starting with the one that stole my heart!
1. Klong Hin Beach: The “Pinch Me, I’m Dreaming” Winner
Oh, Klong Hin Beach, where do I even start? This place is my nr 1 for a reason it’s like Koh Kood whispered, “Hey, wanna see paradise?” and then dropped this gem. Hidden on the West Coast, it’s got velvety white sand, water so clear you can see your own goofy grin reflected back, and a vibe that screams “stay forever.” It’s not crawling with tourists (thank the universe), so you can flop down, swim in peace, or just stare at the horizon like a wannabe poet. Palms sway, rocks frame the edges, and I’m pretty sure this is where stress goes to die.
Pro Tip: Pack some snorkel gear—there’s fishy action near the rocks that’ll make you feel like Aquaman.
2. Ao Tapao Beach: The Chill Crowd-Pleaser
Ao Tapao is the beach that says, “Come as you are, buddy.” It’s a long, curvy stretch of soft sand and calm, blue-green waves that practically beg for a splash. Sure, it’s got a few resorts and shacks nearby, but it’s not some overcrowded circus—more like a laid-back hangout where you can kayak, nap, or watch the sunset turn the sky into a lava lamp. It’s Koh Kood’s welcome mat, and I’m here for it.
Pro Tip: Hit up a beachside shack for grilled prawns. Pair it with a cold beer and thank me later.
3. Klong Chao Beach: The Instagram Bait
Klong Chao is the beach you’d slap on a postcard and mail to your jealous friends. Fine sand? Check. Crystal water? Yup. Jungle spilling right to the edge? Oh, you bet. It’s got that “I’m in a movie” feel—perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or paddling up the little Klong Chao River that sneaks into the sea. It’s chill but not dead, with a sprinkle of cafes and bungalows. Sunrise here? Chef’s kiss.
Pro Tip: Trek to Klong Chao Waterfall nearby. It’s like nature’s ice bath after a sweaty beach day.
4. Bang Bao Beach: The “Shh, Don’t Tell Anyone” Spot
Bang Bao Beach is my hush-hush fave. Tucked on the southwest side, it’s a golden-sand hideout with coconut trees photobombing every view. It’s a bit out there, so the crowds don’t bother—and that’s the magic. Swim, sunbathe, or just vibe to the sound of waves like it’s your personal soundtrack. I’d live here if Wi-Fi grew on trees.
Pro Tip: Bring a hammock. You’ll thank me when you’re swaying like a pro.
5. Ao Prao Beach: The Fancy Pants Option
Ao Prao is where Koh Kood flexes a little luxury. Down south, this beach is long, lush, and lined with posh resorts—think powdery sand and water so clear you can see your toes doing a happy dance. It’s still chill, though, not some snobby VIP zone. Swim, splash, or sip something fruity while pretending you’re in a Bond flick.
Pro Tip: Low tide turns it into a giant sandbox—perfect for a goofy beach photoshoot.
6. Ao Yai Beach: The Rough-and-Ready Local Hang
Ao Yai’s got that “lived-in” charm. Near a fishing village on the southeast coast, it’s less polished—think gritty sand and some seaweed—but it’s real. Boats bob offshore, locals chatter, and the water’s warm enough to make you linger. It’s less “ooh la la” and more “this is home,” and I dig it.
Pro Tip: Grab some fresh fish from a nearby joint. It’s cheap, tasty, and straight from the sea.
7. Takhian Beach: The Hike-to-Heaven Reward
Takhian Beach is for the “I earned this” crew. You’ve gotta hoof it over a mountain path through Koh Kood’s jungly heart to get here, but oh man, it’s worth it. Soft sand, quiet waves, and that smug feeling of being somewhere secret—it’s a total win. The trek’s not brutal, but it’s enough to make you feel like Indiana Jones with a tan.
Pro Tip: Pack water and decent kicks. Flip-flops won’t cut it on this adventure.
8. Ao Noi Beach: The Tiny-but-Mighty Cove
Ao Noi is the little beach that could. This western cove is small but packs a punch—fine sand, gentle waves, and shady trees that make it feel like a hug from nature. It’s not flashy, just cozy and perfect for a quick dip or a lazy afternoon.
Pro Tip: Ideal pit stop if you’re scooting around the island.
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9. Klong Mad Beach: The Underdog Next Door
Klong Mad is Klong Chao’s quieter cousin same soft sand and clear water, fewer people stealing your spot. It’s low-key and lovely, the kind of place where you plop down with a mango smoothie and forget the world exists. Underappreciated? Maybe. Awesome? Totally.
Pro Tip: Bring a book. This is your zen zone.
10. Sai Daeng Beach: The Quirky Wildcard
Sai Daeng is the oddball I can’t resist. It’s got pebbly sand and red cliffs that look like they’re posing for a drama shot. Less lounging, more exploring—snorkeling here is a blast with fish darting around like they own the place. It’s weird, it’s wonderful, it’s Koh Kood being extra.
Pro Tip: Sunset here is a neon explosion. Don’t miss it.
Why Koh Kood’s Beaches Are My Obsession
Koh Kood’s got this magic mix of raw beauty and “who needs people anyway?” energy. It’s not some overbuilt tourist trap—it’s Thailand with the volume turned down, letting the beaches do the talking. Whether you’re a swim freak, a sun worshipper, or just hiding from life, there’s a spot here for you.
When to Go and How to Get to Koh Kood (Ferry Vibes Included!)
The sweet spot for Koh Kood is November to February—dry, sunny, and cooler than your ex’s heart. High season stretches to May, but June to October gets rainy—think empty beaches and epic deals if you’re cool with a drizzle. I’ve done both, and honestly, it’s always a blast.
Getting there? Easy peasy. Most folks kick off in Trat (fly or bus from Bangkok, 5-6 hours), then grab a ferry from Laem Sok Pier (1 hour, boom, you’re there). Boonsiri High-Speed Ferries is my go-to—they’ve even got a slick bus-ferry combo straight from Bangkok or Pattaya. Tickets? Like 500-1,000 THB, depending on where you start. On the island, rent a scooter (200-300 THB/day) or hop a songthaew (shared taxi). Roads are chill, so cruise slowly and soak it in.
Pro Tip: Book with 12Go to find your travel route for local buses, and ferries, we use them all the time as you can easily see the reviews, and the vouchers are everywhere accepted. tickets are sold for more than 5,000 destinations in 100+ countries worldwide.
Wrap-Up: Your Koh Kood Beach Quest Starts Now
From Klong Hin’s “I’m never leaving” vibes to Takhian’s trekker’s triumph, Koh Kood’s beaches are straight-up soul food. I’m obsessed, and you will be too. So, which one’s calling your name? Hit me up below with your Koh Kood dreams or hot tips—I’m all ears!
Where to Stay on Koh Kood
Whether you’re looking for luxury or budget-friendly options, Koh Kood has it all.
Let’s dive into the best places to stay on Koh Kood, Thailand’s chill little island paradise that’s somehow still flying under the radar (shh, don’t tell Instagram). I’ve scoured the options, and I’m serving them up with a side of sass and a sprinkle of real talk. Buckle up, because this will be more fun than a barrel of monkeys on a booze cruise.
1. Shantaa Resort – For When You Want to Feel Fancy Without Selling Your Soul
Picture this: you’re sipping a coconut on a terrace overlooking the Gulf of Thailand, feeling like a low-key millionaire who accidentally stumbled into paradise. Shantaa Resort is your spot—villas with open-air bathrooms (yes, you’ll shower under the stars like a jungle VIP), ocean views, and no TVs to ruin the vibe. It’s right by Ao Tapao Beach, so you’re close enough to stumble to the sand but far enough to pretend you’re the only human for miles. The catch? Minimum-stay rules might trap you longer than your last Tinder date. Worth it? Hell yeah—your pics will slay.
2. To The Sea Resort – Budget Vibes with a Side of Smug
If you’re the type who loves a deal but still wants to flex, To The Sea Resort in Bao Bay is your jam. It’s got 22 bungalows—some with sea views, some with garden vibes—plus free WiFi and TVs for when you need to binge *Squid Game* between beach naps. There’s a private beach, an outdoor pool, and kayaks to paddle around like you’re auditioning for Survivor. It’s 2 kilometers from Takhian Beach, so rent a scooter unless you’re training for the Thighmaster Olympics. Cheap, cheerful,
3. The Beach Natural Resort – Balinese Bliss Meets Thai Chill
Okay, imagine Balinese-style villas with thatched roofs and wooden vibes, plopped on Bang Bao Bay like they’re posing for a postcard. The Beach Natural Resort is where you go to feel like a boho influencer without the trust fund. Free WiFi, flat-screen TVs, and minifridges keep you connected, while upgraded villas throw in whirlpool tubs for that “I’m living my best life” soak. It’s 5 kilometers from Klong Chao Waterfall, so you’ll need wheels, but the beach bar and BBQ area scream “party of one, please.”
4. Peter Pan Resort Mangrove Magic for the Quirky Soul
For the weirdos who’d rather vibe by a mangrove-shaded canal than flex on a beach, Peter Pan Resort is your Neverland. It’s a hop-skip from Khlong Chao Beach—close enough to hear the waves, far enough to feel like you’ve escaped the normies. The villas are chill, the staff are legends, and it’s got that “I’m off the grid but not really” energy. Finding yourself while sipping a Chang and dodging mosquitoes. Pro tip: pack bug spray, or you’ll be scratching your way through your next trip.
5. Soneva Kiri – If You’ve Got Cash to Burn and a Yacht to Park
Listen, if you’re ballin’ on a budget that’d make Jeff Bezos blush, Soneva Kiri is the luxe pick. We’re talking private villas that cost more per night ($1,400, cha-ching!) than my rent. It’s got a private beach, infinity pools, and staff who’ll probably peel your grapes if you ask nicely. It’s stupidly gorgeous—think turquoise water and jungle vibes—but unless you're sponsored by a sugar daddy, you’re just window-shopping.
6. High Season Resort Koh Kood – Pool Villa Poshness with a Side of “Oof, My Wallet”
Welcome to High Season Resort Koh Kood, where every villa has a private pool so you can flop around like a bougie fish. On Klong Chao Beach, it’s a 5-star swagger with a spa, fitness center, and a library for when you want to pretend you’re intellectual mid-vacay. The catch? It’s pricey enough to make you whisper “treat yourself” while crying into your ramen later. “I swam in my pool while the peasants shared the ocean.” Worth it for the ‘Gram.
Bonus Vibes: Hideout Koh Kood – The Hipster Haven
Fresh on the scene, Hideout Koh Kood is for the “I found it first” crowd. Think minimalist huts, woven decor, and enough photo ops to crash your phone. They’ve got kayaks, SUP boards, and snorkeling gear, so you can play adventurer without leaving the resort. It’s got that eco-luxe feel. They have recently expanded with Pool Villas, Book early though; the cool kids are already onto it.
Real Talk: Getting Around and Staying Sane
Koh Kood’s has no public transport, so rent a scooter (250-300 baht/day) or prepare to perfect your “lost tourist” face. Cash is king—ATMs are flaky, so hit one up in Trat before you ferry over. (ATM can be found on the backside of High Season Pool Villas) And don’t expect a wild nightlife; this island’s more about sunsets than shots.
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