Written by Graham Smith, Hannah McKinsey, Lorraine Aust, Somchai Boonmee
13/08/2025
Lemonsoup Chumphontm, Pexels
Koh Kood presents a tranquil retreat defined by its exceptionally clear, turquoise waters and untouched white-sand beaches. The island's interior offers lush tropical rainforests and accessible waterfalls, appealing to those seeking natural beauty and a peaceful escape. It is a destination for discerning travelers, including families and couples, favoring serenity over a bustling tourist experience.
Social opportunities on Koh Kood are notably low-key; it does not cater to a vibrant party scene. Instead, evenings can be spent at relaxed beach bars and restaurants, particularly around Klong Chao and Bang Bao beaches. These venues offer cocktails, music, and occasional fire shows, providing a calm atmosphere for unwinding rather than extensive nightlife.
Top 6 Things to do in Koh Kood
Activities in Koh Kood primarily revolve around experiencing its pristine natural beauty, from relaxing on secluded beaches and exploring waterfalls to engaging in water sports and discovering local culture.
1. Relaxing on Beaches
Koh Kood boasts numerous stunning beaches with crystal-clear turquoise waters and soft white sand. Popular choices include Khlong Chao Beach, known for its serene atmosphere and shallow waters, ideal for families and sunset strolls. Bang Bao Beach is also a favorite for its relaxed vibe and opportunities to rent sea kayaks. Ao Phrao Beach is often highlighted for its exceptional swimming conditions and picturesque palm-fringed scenery. Visitors can find quiet spots even on popular beaches to unwind under palm trees or enjoy a cooling drink at beachfront bars.
Cost: Free (beach access). Sunbed/umbrella rentals or drinks from beach bars would be additional.
Transport: Many resorts are beachfront. For exploring various beaches, renting a motorbike is recommended. Resort transfers may also be available.
2. Visiting Waterfalls
The island's interior offers lush tropical rainforests hiding several accessible waterfalls. Khlong Chao Waterfall is the most prominent, featuring a beautiful cascade into a large pool where one can swim and even swing into the water using a rope. The path to the waterfall is generally an easy walk from the parking area. Khlong Yai Ki Waterfall and Huang Nam Khiao Waterfall are other notable options, offering quieter experiences, with Huang Nam Khiao being particularly impressive during the rainy season. Khlong Yai Ki is known for tiny fish offering a 'pedicure' in the pools.
Cost: Free (entrance).
Transport: Waterfalls are accessible by motorbike, typically a 10-15 minute drive from central areas, followed by a short walk.
3. Kayaking and Paddleboarding
The calm waters of Koh Kood are perfect for kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding (SUP). One can paddle along the Khlong Chao River, which flows through a beautiful mangrove forest, or explore sheltered bays like Bang Bao. Many accommodations offer kayaks for rent, and some even provide them for free. It is possible to paddle upstream towards Khlong Chao Waterfall or downstream to the sea.
Cost: Rentals typically range from 50-200 THB per hour, or 300-500 THB for 3 hours, and up to 500-800 THB for a full day. Some resorts offer free use.
Transport: Accessible directly from beachfront resorts or designated rental points, often within walking distance of popular beach areas.
4. Snorkeling Trips
While some areas near the beaches offer limited snorkeling, the most rewarding experience is a boat trip to nearby marine parks. Koh Rang Marine Park is a highly recommended destination for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and diverse marine life. These full-day tours typically include visits to multiple snorkeling spots and often include lunch. Equipment rental is usually part of the tour package.
Cost: Snorkeling day trips cost around 1,000-1,400 THB per person, often including equipment and lunch.
Transport: Tours generally include hotel pickup and drop-off. Boats depart from various piers, often around Bang Bao Bay.
5. Exploring Fisherman Villages
Visiting Ao Yai Fisherman's Village provides a glimpse into the local way of life. This village, built on stilts over the sea, is a hub for local fishermen and features several seafood restaurants serving fresh catches. The scenic drive to the village, particularly along winding roads with viewpoints, is an experience in itself. Ao Salat is another fishing village worth exploring.
Cost: Free (village access). Cost depends on meals purchased.
Transport: Best accessed by renting a motorbike. The drive itself is part of the experience.
6. Diving
Koh Kood is a recognized diving destination with several dive shops offering courses and fun dives. Experienced divers can explore local pristine reefs, or venture further to Koh Rang Marine Park or the HTMS Chang wreck. Beginners can opt for an 'Intro Dive' from shore to experience underwater breathing without certification, or undertake a PADI Open Water Diver course to gain certification. Dive operations prioritize safety and often maintain small group sizes.
Cost: An 'Intro Dive' from shore is approximately 2,500 THB. A 2-dive boat trip around Koh Kood costs about 3,500 THB. A PADI Open Water Diver course is around 15,000 THB.
Transport: Dive shops are typically located near Ao Tapao Beach and Bang Bao Beach. Many dive centers offer hotel pickup and drop-off.
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Our typical audience are those that want to see something new and get involved with authentic experiences of a country. Whether you are a backpacker, solo traveller, solo female traveller, straight or LGBTQ+ couple, family, you will find local and authentic experiences here.
