Visit Koh Mak: Best Beaches, Where to Stay, Things to Do

Nestled within the Marine National Park of the eastern Gulf of Thailand, Koh Mak is a small tropical island in Trat province.

Located just 20 kilometers south of Koh Chang, this tranquil haven spans only 16 km², making it small enough to explore on foot and easy to traverse by bike or moped. In recent years, this once well-kept secret has attracted an increasing number of tourists and local holidaymakers, yet its laid-back atmosphere and natural beauty remain intact.

While not as well-known as Koh Samui or Phi Phi, Koh Mak is often regarded as Thailand’s family island, offering the perfect getaway for those seeking a relaxed and welcoming environment.

Like many Thai islands, Koh Mak boasts clear blue waters and white sand, but what truly sets it apart is its strong sense of community and minimal development.Compared to Phuket, Koh Phangan, and Samui, Koh Mak remains relatively undiscovered.

Its growth has been slow compared to nearby Koh Chang, preserving its charm and authenticity.Development is limited to a handful of resorts, guesthouses, and small restaurants.

Fortunately, the island isn't overrun with touts and tour packages, and at times, you may even find yourself enjoying an entire beach in solitude.In this post, I’ll share my insider tips on the best beaches, the best places to stay, and the top things to do on Koh Mak.

Beautiful Koh Mak. Image credit: Heinz Albers

6 Best Beaches on Koh Mak

Koh Mak has two main beaches, Ao Kao and Suan Yai, but with a little exploration, you’ll discover a handful of hidden gems that most visitors overlook.

Perhaps the best thing about these beaches – aside from their pristine waters and white sand – is that they are rarely crowded.

Year-round, Koh Mak’s beaches offer a peaceful retreat—even during peak season.

Additionally, because the island is shaped like a star, you can enjoy the sunset from a different spot each evening.

1. Ao Kao

Of all the beaches on this beautiful island, Ao Kao is the most active and lively, though even here it never feels crowded.

The sand is lush – soft as a baby's bottom.

This area hosts the majority of the island’s accommodations, including Ao Kao Resort, Baan Koh Mak, Koh Mak Cottage, Lazy Day Resort, Makathanee Resort, Monkey Island, and Palm Beach.

Beyond the resorts, a variety of small restaurants and shops line the main road, offering delicious Thai food and souvenirs.

Ao Kao is simply delightful, but even more treasures await…

2. Ao Suan Yai

Located on the island’s northwest shore, Ao Suan Yai is the other “main” beach on Koh Mak.

This long stretch of soft, white sand offers breathtaking views of Koh Kham, a small nearby island with striking black volcanic rocks and clear waters.

Koh Mak Resort and Seavana Resort occupy a significant portion of the beach, while the remaining area is home to the more budget-friendly Suchanaree Resort and a nearly century-old wooden house belonging to one of the founding families of Koh Mak.

Ao Suan Yai also serves as a key entry and exit point, with boats arriving from nearby islands and the mainland.

3. Ao Pra

Ao Pra is usually deserted, except for a few locals casting their fishing rods.

Extending from the eastern point of Ao Suan Yai, Ao Pra is just a 10-minute walk away.

This secluded beach features a shallow bay with clear, calm waters, making it ideal for afternoon wading. A small beachfront restaurant offers a place to grab a bite while enjoying the peaceful surroundings.

Ao Pra is also home to Mira Montra Resort, one of Koh Mak’s newer boutique resorts.

4. Ao Tao Khai

Extending from the northern side of Ao Suan Yai is a small, secluded beach called Ao Tao Khai, a former nesting site for sea turtles.

You can reach Ao Tao Khai by walking through coconut groves or by riding a moped or bicycle along dirt tracks that wind through coconut fields and rubber plantations.

Be sure to bring your camera—the views are spectacular!

Image credit: PezBar

5. Ao Kra Tueng

Located on the southwest shore of Koh Mak, this stretch of sand is home to several resorts, including Big Easy Resort, Kham Nature Resort, Koh Mak Holiday Beach Resort, and Sky Beach Resort.

A classic tropical beach with all the trimmings, it features shallow waters that extend at low tide, making it perfect for wading and paddling.

In the middle of the beach, a jetty serves as a great vantage point for capturing scenic photos.

6. Ao Tan and Ao Talong

On the northeastern shore of the island, you'll find two beaches – Ao Tan and Ao Talong.

The sand here is darker, and the shore is lined with more mangroves than other beaches, making it a little less desirable compared to other parts of the island.

That said, there are a couple of resorts here, namely Green View Resort, which offers simple huts, and Cinnamon Art Resort, which provides more luxurious accommodation.

Bear in mind that the island is small, so if you find cheaper accommodation near one of the less appealing beaches, you'll easily be able to travel to another.

(The video above was shot in January and May.)

How to Get to Koh Mak

Koh Mak is approximately 300 kilometers from Bangkok and about 40 kilometers from Trat on the mainland.

To get to the island from the mainland, you will need to take a speedboat from Krom Luang Pier in Laem Ngop.

Several boat operators offer service between the mainland and Koh Mak, but not all use the same piers – so always check the pier closest to your accommodation. Just ask the hotel you book with.

A one-way ticket costs around 450 Baht for what is typically a 45-minute trip. Travel times usually run from 10:30 AM to 4:00 PM daily.

Making a reservation is recommended, as seats are limited.

Koh Mak still has that castaway vibe. Image credit: PezBar.

Bangkok to Koh Mak

If you're traveling to Koh Mak from Bangkok, you can choose from the following transport options:

By Plane

Flying is the fastest way to reach Koh Mak. Check the website of Bangkok Airways for flights to Trat.

Travel time is approximately 1 hour. From Trat airport, take a taxi to Laem Ngop Pier, then take a speedboat from there.

By Bus

If you're traveling on a budget, consider taking a bus to Laem Ngop Pier from either Ekkamai Bus Station or Suvarnabhumi Bus Terminal.

It isn't actually a bad trip. Once you've had a sleep, listened to an audiobook, and had a snack, you're almost there.

From Ekkamai Station in Bangkok (BTS Ekkamai):

• Ticket cost: 261 Baht
• Travel time: approximately 6 hours
• Departure from Bangkok: 7:45 AM
• Departures to Bangkok: 12:30 PM, 2:00 PM, 3:00 PM

From Suvarnabhumi Bus Terminal:

• Ticket cost: 261 Baht
• Travel time: approximately 6 hours
• Departure from Bangkok: 8:15 AM
• Departures to Trat: 6:40 AM, 10:10 AM, 11:40 AM, 1:10 PM, 4:10 PM, 6:10 PM

By Private Minibus or Van

A more comfortable transport option is a private limousine or minivan.

Travel time is usually around 4.5 hours, and the price depends on the rented vehicle. Generally, you're looking at 4,500 Baht for a 3-person car and 5,000 Baht for a 5-person minibus.

Check out ticket prices for various modes of transport below:

Best Time to Visit Koh Mak

Temperatures are warm year-round on Koh Mak, and there's certainly no cold weather. However, the best time to visit is between December and March.

Here’s a rundown of the seasons on Koh Mak:

• December to March: Peak season – dry and sunny
• April to November: Okay to visit, but you might see a couple of showers. This period is still pleasant overall, with fewer tourists compared to the peak season.
• May to October: Rainy season. While it’s not advisable to visit during this time due to higher chances of heavy rainfall, it’s still possible to enjoy the island. The rain tends to be short, heavy bursts, so you may experience clear skies between showers. Additionally, this is the low season, so accommodation rates are much lower.

Where to Stay on Koh Mak

Koh Mak offers a fair variety of accommodation, ranging from high-end resorts to budget hostels.

It is usually possible to book on arrival but for the best deals book online.

If visiting during peak season you should definitely book beforehand.

View from the infinity pool at Seavana Resort.

Luxury Accommodation

Seavana Koh Mak Beach Resort

• Location: Ao Suan Yai (beachfront)
• Rate per night: From approximately 1,300 Baht (based on recent data)
• Facilities: Private beach along Suanyai Bay, outdoor pool, massage services, beach facilities, WiFi.

+ See rates for the Seavana

Mira Montra Resort Koh Mak

• Location: Ao Phra
• Rate per night: From approximately 1,400 Baht (based on recent data)
• Facilities: Private modern villas, pool, clubhouse, WiFi, outdoor rain shower

+ See rates for the Mira Montra

Ao Kao White Sand Beach Resort

• Location: Ao Kao (beachfront)
• Rate per night: From approximately 1,100 Baht (based on recent data)
• Facilities: Tropical bungalows, WiFi, pool, garden, bar, restaurant.

Koh Mak Resort

• Location: Ao Suan Yai
• Rate per night: From approximately 1,000 Baht (based on recent data)
• Facilities: Pool, massage services, restaurant, bar, safety deposit box, balcony/terrace.

Islanda Resort Hotel

• Location: Ao Suan Yai
• Rate per night: From approximately 1,200 Baht (based on recent data)
• Facilities: Infinity pool, pool bar, garden grill bar, spa, WiFi, open-air terraced restaurant, private balcony.

Mid-range Accommodation

Lazy Day The Resort

• Location: Ao Khao
• Rate per night: From approximately 1,000 Baht (based on recent data)
• Facilities: Restaurant, WiFi, bar, massage services, balcony.

Good Time Resort

• Location: Between Ao Suan Yai and Ao Kao
• Rate per night: From approximately 1,200 Baht (based on recent data)
• Facilities: Tennis court, fitness center, private terrace, restaurant, outdoor gym, massage services, WiFi.

Budget Accommodation

Bamboo Hideaway

• Location: Ao Pai
• Rate per night: From approximately 300 Baht (based on recent data)
• Facilities: Bamboo bungalows, pool, restaurant, WiFi.

+ See rates for Bamboo Hideaway

Ao Pong Resort

• Location: Ao Nid Pier (beachfront)
• Rate per night: From approximately 350 Baht (based on recent data)
• Facilities: Balcony, WiFi, restaurant, bar, massage services.

Banana Sunset Bar and Bungalows

• Location: Ao Kao
• Rate per night: From approximately 500 Baht (based on recent data)
• Facilities: Pet-friendly, WiFi, free transfer from pier, balcony, restaurant with live music.

Monkey Island Resort Koh Mak

• Location: Ao Suan Yai (beachfront)
• Rate per night: From approximately 200 Baht (based on recent data)
• Facilities: Bar, restaurant, sun terrace.

Please note that hotel rates are subject to change based on seasonality, availability, and booking platforms.

+ Check Agoda (usually best rates in Thailand)

Enjoy a drink as the sun goes down on Koh Mak.

How to Get Around

The island is small, making it perfect for exploring on two wheels. You can rent a bike or moped, which is one of the most popular ways to get around. Many accommodations offer rentals, so be sure to ask when booking your stay. Renting a motorbike typically costs around 250 Baht for a full day. This gives you the freedom to explore the entire island at your own pace.

For a more laid-back option, you can also rent bicycles, which are ideal for shorter trips or a more leisurely experience. They are often more affordable, with rental rates starting around 100 Baht per day.

Private taxis are available on Koh Mak, but they are not the most common way to get around. A typical fare is 50 Baht per person, though their routes are limited due to the island's infrastructure. The roads are mostly unpaved or narrow, so taxis can only reach certain areas, and there is no extensive road network on the island. Due to this, taxis are best suited for short, local trips.

Public transport does not exist on the island, so getting around relies mainly on private transportation options like bikes, mopeds, or taxis. If you're looking to explore at your own pace, renting a motorbike or bike will be your best bet.

Public transport does not exist on the island, so getting around relies mainly on private transportation options like bikes, mopeds, or taxis. If you're looking to explore at your own pace, renting a motorbike or bike will be your best bet.

Other Important Tips

Here are some tips on facilities and other important things to note:

1. Don’t rely on the ATM: There is one ATM on the island, and it has been known to run out of cash or go offline. Make sure to bring enough cash with you for your stay. You can exchange foreign currency at some of the larger resorts.
2. No 7/11s or supermarkets: While there are small shops offering basics like sunblock, toothpaste, and snacks, there are no 7/11 stores or large supermarkets on Koh Mak.
3. Be aware of jellyfish: Warmer waters are ideal for jellyfish, so it’s possible to encounter them. Resorts and locals usually warn tourists if jellyfish have been spotted, especially the box jellyfish, which can be dangerous. It's a good idea to carry a small bottle of vinegar with you when heading to the beach in case of a sting.
4. Watch out for sandflies: Like many tropical islands, Koh Mak has sandflies. These insects bite, leaving itchy marks that can last for several days. If you get bitten, immediately apply Tiger Balm or similar ointments to soothe the irritation.
5. Riding around the island: Getting around is easy as the island is mostly flat. However, it’s always a good idea to carry a map and compass, or at least have them on your phone, to help navigate.

10 Best Things to Do On Koh Mak

Snorkeling is always a fun activity.

Koh Mak is a small island but offers plenty to do. Here are 10 great activities to try:

1. Paddle in glass-bottom kayaks

What’s more fun than kayaking? Kayaking with a glass-bottom kayak! This is an excellent way to explore the crystal-clear waters of Koh Mak, where you can observe the underwater life without getting wet. You can paddle along the shoreline with a stunning sunrise or sunset as your backdrop. Check with your resort or accommodation if they offer kayak rentals, or if they can point you to rental shops.

2. Visit the white-sand beaches

While Ao Kao is the most popular, don’t miss the other hidden gems of Koh Mak’s beaches. The island boasts several stunning stretches of white-sand beaches, each offering a slightly different vibe. Ao Suan Yai and Ao Phrao are also beautiful and less crowded than Ao Kao. Renting a moped is an excellent way to explore the island at your own pace – visit a beach or two each day depending on your itinerary.

3. Learn to dive

Koh Mak is home to several diving schools, offering relatively affordable PADI-certified diving courses. BB Divers, Koh Mak Divers, and Paradise Divers are some of the most reputable options, with courses that cater to beginners as well as advanced divers. Besides diving, these schools also offer snorkeling tours for those not quite ready for the full diving experience.

4. Go snorkeling

If diving seems too intense, snorkeling is a fantastic alternative. The clear, calm waters around Koh Mak offer an abundance of marine life, including coral reefs and tropical fish. You can book a snorkeling tour or simply bring your own gear and explore the nearby waters. Ask the locals or your accommodation for recommendations on the best snorkeling spots, including Ao Kao Beach and Ao Suan Yai.

5. Enjoy sunset at Banana Sunset Bar

True to its name, Banana Sunset Bar is the place to go for one of the best sunset views on the island. It’s located near Ao Kao, offering a front-row seat to the vibrant colors of the sky as the sun sets over the Gulf of Thailand. Enjoy a refreshing drink or snack in a relaxed, laid-back atmosphere while watching the stunning natural beauty unfold.

6. Hit some walking trails

Nature lovers will appreciate Koh Mak’s walking trails that meander through lush forests, along tranquil beaches, and past old fishing villages. Trails can lead you to Laem Son, one of the oldest settlements on the island, and Laem Tookata, a charming, original fishing community. Koh Mak is wonderfully free from traffic, making it a peaceful place to enjoy a leisurely walk or bike ride in nature.

7. Take a cooking class

For those who love Thai food, the Smile Koh Mak Cooking School offers hands-on classes where you can learn to make your favorite dishes. Classes are small (usually no more than 4 people), ensuring personal attention. You'll be able to try your hand at dishes like Pad Thai, Green Curry, and Mango Sticky Rice, and bring home the skills to recreate them. It’s a fun and interactive way to learn more about Thai cuisine.

8. Visit the Buddhist temple

Located overlooking Ao Nid Bay, Koh Mak’s Buddhist temple is a peaceful place of worship and community. It is inhabited by several monks, and the temple serves as a spiritual hub for the island. One distinctive feature of the temple is the golden Buddha statue, which has a more feminine appearance. This design is attributed to the wife of the island’s founder, who supported the temple’s construction.

9. Visit The Kingdom of Somchai’s Affection

If you’re looking for something unique and offbeat, head to The Kingdom of Somchai’s Affection, an art garden featuring quirky and thought-provoking statues. The collection is curated by Khun Somchai and is famous for its erotic art, which is not typical for public exhibitions. This place is designed for an adult audience (18+), so be prepared for an eccentric experience. Take a stroll through the garden and enjoy the creative, if somewhat controversial, art.

10. Muay Thai training

For fitness enthusiasts or those wanting to try something new, Muay Thai training at Hongthong Muay Thai Gym is an exciting option. The gym, which is also popular in Bangkok and Chiang Mai, has a branch on Koh Mak near Coco Café. Located at the top of Ao Kao Resort road, this gym offers training for all levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in Thai culture while improving your fitness.

A seriously suggestive display of art at Somchai’s Affection.

GET MY NEWSLETTER

Join thousands of others who receive my monthly roundup of content & insider tips on how to survive & thrive in Thailand.