Where to Stay in Koh Kood (Ko Kut), Thailand: The Ultimate 2025/2026 Guide to Every Beach and Hidden Gems
- Fokke Baarssen
- 11h
- 8 min read
Imagine this: You're bouncing along on a speedboat from the mainland, salt spray in your hair, leaving behind the chaos of Bangkok or the tourist traps of Phuket. The engine cuts, and suddenly... silence. Just turquoise water so clear you can see fish doing their morning yoga, palm trees waving like they're personally welcoming you, and beaches that look like someone spilled a bucket of paradise all over the Gulf of Thailand. Welcome to Koh Kood, Thailand's fourth largest island, but somehow still the best kept secret in the east. Jungle-covered mountains, waterfalls, zero traffic lights, No 7-11, and vibes so chill you'll forget what stress feels like. I've scootered every dirt road, snorkeled every reef, and "accidentally" extended my stay multiple times (oops). And after all that, my hot take hasn't changed: High Season Pool Villa & Spa on Klong Chao Beach is the absolute king of Koh Kood stays. But more on that love story later.
Koh Kood has more beaches than you have excuses for not booking a ticket right now. We're talking powdery white sand, crystal waters, and spots so secluded you'll swear you're the first human ever to set foot there. I've pulled from my own adventures (and yes, a few epic fails like getting stuck in monsoon mud) to give you the real deal on every major beach. Each one gets its own little story because, let's be real, who scrolls past a good tale? Grab a coconut (virtual one for now), settle in, and let's beach-hop without moving from your couch.
1. Klong Chao Beach, The One That Stole My Heart (And Probably Will Steal Yours Too)
Picture me: First day on Koh Kood, jet-lagged and grumpy from the boat ride, stumbling onto this 600-meter stretch of the softest white sand you've ever felt. The water? That perfect turquoise that makes your phone camera weep with joy. I grabbed a free kayak from my resort, paddled up the river like a wannabe explorer, and ended up at Klong Chao Waterfall, diving into the plunge pool while fish nibbled my toes. Later, sunset cocktails at a beach bar, watching the sky explode in pinks and oranges. This beach isn't just pretty; it's the island's lively (but still incredibly chill) hub, complete with cafes, massages, and genuine people to chat with.
Pros:
- Central location – everything's walkable (restaurants, ATMs, scooter rentals)
- Epic waterfall adventure + free kayaks/SUPs everywhere
- Sunrise yoga vibes and killer sunsets
- Family-friendly shallow waters
Cons:
- The "busiest" spot (still quieter than your local Starbucks on a Tuesday)
- Tiny bit of seasonal plastic (cleaned daily like clockwork)
Best Stay: High Season Pool Villa & Spa, my forever crush. Waking up to your own private plunge pool, 20 steps to the sand, spa treatments that melt away years of bad decisions... It's 5-star luxury that doesn't take itself too seriously. Fresh renovations in 2025 make the villas even dreamier.
Runners-up: Tinkerbell Resort (infinity pool insanity)
Budget: Baan Klong Jao Homestay
2. Klong Hin Beach My Personal 1 "I'm Never Leaving" Paradise
Okay, confession: On my blog, I crowned this the ultimate beach, and I stand by it. I scootered down a bumpy road, expecting nothing, and BAM velvety white sand, palms swaying like they're in a music video, dramatic rocks framing the bay, and water so clear I spotted a Nemo fish before I even hit the sand. I spent the whole day floating, snorkeling around the rocks (fish party!), and feeling like Koh Kood personally whispered, "Hey, wanna see real paradise?" Zero crowds. Pure bliss.
Pros:
- Insanely peaceful – often just you and the crabs
- Great snorkeling right off the shore
- That dramatic, framed-by-rocks beauty
Cons:
- Water recedes a bit at low tide
- Limited resorts and eats (pack snacks!)
Top picks: Rustic vibes at Khlong Hin Beach Resort, Tel 089-0463005 doesn't have a booking site, you have to call or just walk by if they have a room. Beachfront bungalows, very basic but with a beautifull view and including breakfast are 2500 Baht, or try at t The Koh Kood Hideout if you want more luxury, walking distance to Klong Hin Beach, and they also have new pool villas
3. Bang Bao Beach, The Postcard Horseshoe That Feels Like a Secret
I remember pulling up here thinking, "Wait, is this real life?" Golden sand curving like a smile, coconut trees leaning over the water like they're gossiping, and the calmest swimming ever. I snorkeled straight off the beach, chased fish for hours, then hammock-napped under the palms. It's southwest seclusion at its finest, far enough to feel exclusive, close enough for a scooter adventure.
Pros:
- Sheltered bay = no waves, perfect for floaters
- Snorkel heaven without a boat
- Shaded and photogenic AF
Cons:
- 15-20 mins from the center (scooter essential)
Stay at: Siam Beach Resort or within walking distance, The Beach Natural Resort Koh Kood, both beachfront beauties.
4. Ao Tapao Beach, The Long, Laid-Back Welcomer
My first "proper" beach day on Koh Kood started here, a massive km-long stretch saying, "Come as you are, buddy." I kayaked forever, grilled prawns at a shack with an ice-cold beer, watched sunsets turn the sky lava-lamp crazy. It's near the pier, so super practical, but still wild with palms and calm waves.
Pros:
- Longest beach = endless walks
- Amenities nearby (ATMs, shops)
- Great for all vibes
Cons:
- Low tide mudflats (timing is key)
Stay:
Shantaa Resort for hilltop views or Seafar , solid mid-range wins.
5. Ao Phrao (Ao Prao) Beach, The Luxe Southern Stunner
Scootering south, I hit this long, lush beach and thought Koh Kood was flexing hard. Powdery sand, clear water, posh resorts that aren't snobby, I low tide walked forever, feeling like a millionaire without the bank account.
Pros:
- Secluded luxury feel
- Fresh seafood from the village
Cons:
- 25-30 mins from the center
- A lot of trash is washing up on the beach, and nobody seems to care
Stay:
6. Ao Jark / Ao Jak Beach, The Tiny Pocket of Privacy
Tiny bay, massive feels. I felt like I'd discovered my own private island here – perfect for "do not disturb" days.
Pros: Ultra-private
Cons: You will need a scooter to visit nearby beaches
7. Takhian Beach (Ao Takhian) – The One I Earned (And You Should Too)
Hiked over a jungle path like Indiana Jones with flip-flops, emerged sweaty to soft sand and "I did it!" smugness. Worth every mosquito.
Pros: Rewarding seclusion
Cons: Access trek/rough road
Stay: Ajinta Resort
8. Ao Noi Beach, The Cute Little Hug From Nature
Quick scooter stop turned into an afternoon of cozy dips under shady trees. Like a warm beach embrace.
Pros: Photogenic and chill
Cons: Small
Stay:
Ao Noi Resort for overwater magic. ( Closed during rin season )
9. Klong Mad & Yai Kee Area The Quiet Cousin With Waterfall Bonus
Quieter than Klong Chao, with mangroves and nearby falls. Zen mode activated.
Pros: Peaceful + waterfall access
Cons: Not prime swimming
Stay:
10. Klong Rahan Beach (The Famous "Secret Beach") , The Northwest New Hotspot
Used to be a boat-only secret, now road access and resorts are exploding (Seacret led the way). White sand, offshore snorkeling to Koh Raet – but at the island's end!
Pros: Still feels undiscovered
Cons: 40+ mins rough road – motorbike mandatory, or forever stranded
Stay:
Seacret Resort – book fast!
The Undisputed Champion: Why High Season Pool Villa & Spa Wins Every Time
After all these beaches (and trust me, I've "tested" them extensively), nothing beats High Season. Private pool cannonballs, beachfront strolls, waterfall kayaks for lunch, staff who know your cocktail order – it's central luxury that lets you explore everywhere else easily. Splurge here. Future, you will send thank-you postcards.
Ready to live the dream?
How to Get to Koh Kood from Bangkok in 2025/2026: The Lazy (But Smart) Person's Guide to Paradise
Picture this: You're in Bangkok, nursing a hangover from too many pad Thai street eats and rooftop bar cocktails, staring at your phone thinking, "How the heck do I escape to Koh Kood's turquoise beaches without losing my mind (or my luggage)?" Fear not, my fellow beach bum, I've done this trip more times than I've "accidentally" extended my vacation, and I've got the foolproof scoop.
Spoiler: The absolute best way from Bangkok is the minibus + speedboat/catamaran combo. It's cheaper, more scenic, and here's the kicker, it often takes THE SAME TOTAL TIME as flying (or sometimes even less hassle). Flights sound fancy, but factor in airport security, waiting for baggage, and that pricey Bangkok Airways monopoly... yeah, no thanks.
Total journey time? 6-9 hours door to the beach, depending on traffic and which boat you catch. Price? Around 900-1,200 THB (~$25-35 USD) per person. And yes, it includes pickup from Khao San Road area (or sometimes your hotel/airport), the comfy air-con minibus/van to Laem Sok Pier in Trat, and the boat straight to Koh Kood (with drop-off at your resort pier – win!).
Why Minibus + Speedboat Wins Every Time (My Personal Recommendation)
No airport drama: Skip the 2-hour check-in, overpriced coffee, and "why is my flight delayed again?" vibes.
Scenic AF: Watch Bangkok fade into rice paddies, then hop on a boat with ocean breezes and island views.
Same arrival time as flying: The early 5-8 am departures get you on the island by noon-2 pm, same as most flight + transfer combos.
Cheaper & greener: Half the price of flying, and you're not burning jet fuel for a 1-hour hop.
All-in-one ticket: Companies like Boonsiri or Seudamgo handle everything, no stressing about missing connections.
Pro Tip: Book the earliest departure possible (5-6 am from Khao San) to catch the first boat and maximize beach time. Bring snacks, a neck pillow, and download some podcasts; the minibus has Wi-Fi sometimes, but Thai traffic is unpredictable.
The top companies? Boonsiri High Speed Catamaran (comfy, reliable, free resort taxi on arrival) or Seudamgo/Koh Kut Express for speedboats if you wanna feel the wind in your hair.
Ready to book? Do it on 12Go.asia – it's the easiest site, shows all options/schedules in real-time, and is English-friendly.
The "Fancy" Option: Fly to Trat + Transfer (But Why Bother?)
If you're allergic to buses or traveling with tiny humans/tons of luggage, fly Bangkok Airways from Suvarnabhumi (BKK) to Trat Airport (TDX). Flight: 1 hour, ~2,500-4,000 THB one-way. Then grab a shared minivan to Laem Sok Pier (another 45-60 mins, 300-500 THB) and hop on a speedboat/ferry (1 hour).
Total time? Still 6-8 hours if everything aligns perfectly. Cost? Double or triple the bus option. And Bangkok Airways owns the airport, so prices are... premium. Only worth it if you're short on time or hate road trips.
From Koh Chang or Koh Mak: Easy speedboat hop if you're island-hopping (500-900 THB, 1-2 hours). 12GOAsia
Best season to visit Koh Kood:
- High season (Mid Nov-Apr): Book EVERYTHING in advance, hotels sell out!
- Rainy season (May-Mid Nov ): Fewer boats, rougher seas, but cheaper and quieter island.
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