Koh Mak – The Complete Guru Guide

Overview: When to Go, Who It's For

Atmosphere: Relaxed and low-key. No big nightlife like Koh Chang. Best for couples, families, and those who want to recharge in peace.

Seasons:

• Nov–Feb: Best season – clear sky, calm seas.
• Mar–May: Hot but excellent for snorkeling/diving.
• Jun–Oct: Rainy season – some boat trips may be canceled.

Main Beaches on Koh Mak (Beach-by-Beach)

1) Ao Suan Yai – Long Sunset Beach

Sunset

Romantic

Location: Northwest coast, ~2 km long. Lined with beachfront resorts.

Vibe: Golden sunset views, clear water, great for evening walks.

Activities: Sunset dinner, casual swimming, long strolls.

Insider Tip: Set up camera ~45 min before sunset for best shots.

-----------

2) Ao Kao – Social & Easy Beach

Restaurants & Cafes

Easygoing

Location: Southwest coast. Most restaurants, bars, and shops.

Vibe: Sandy, shallow beach. Relaxed family-friendly feel.

Activities: Sunbathing, SUP, kayaking, swings under palm trees.

Insider Tip: Go mid-morning to midday – tides shrink the beach later in the day.

-----------

3) Ao Pra / Ao Phra – Private & Quiet

Secluded

Romantic Resorts

Location: Northern-west side. Quieter curve of the island.

Vibe: Private resort vibe, calm atmosphere.

Activities: Reading by the beach, kayaking between bays.

-------------

4) Ao Nid / East Coast – Local Pier Life

Local

Harbor

Location: East side, main pier area.

Vibe: Not a swimming beach but authentic village life. Small cafes and homestays.

-------------

Side Trips: Koh Kham & Koh Rang

Koh Kham – Black Lava Rocks & White Sand

Highlights: Tiny island just off Ao Suan Yai. Iconic contrast of powdery sand and black volcanic rocks. Instagram-perfect.

Access: 5–10 min by kayak or boat. Entrance fee required.

-------------

Koh Rang Marine Park – Snorkeling Heaven

Highlights: Best snorkeling in the Trat archipelago. Coral reefs, clear water, tropical fish.

Access: Half-day or full-day boat tours from Koh Mak.

-------------

Getting Around & Cycling Routes

Transport: No car ferries – only scooters, bicycles, and walking. Roads are safe and quiet.

• Short loop (8–12 km): Ao Kao ↔ Ao Suan Yai ↔ sunset point.
• Full loop (18–24 km): Ao Kao ↔ Ao Nid ↔ Ao Pra ↔ Ao Suan Yai.

Staying & Eating on Koh Mak

Accommodation: From affordable bungalows to boutique eco-resorts. Ao Kao and Ao Suan Yai are the most popular areas.

Food: Fresh seafood, small Thai restaurants, cozy beachfront cafes. Ao Kao has the largest variety.

Pros & Cons (Guru’s Summary)

✅ Why Choose Koh Mak

• Peaceful & uncrowded
• Easy cycling and walking
• Close to Koh Rang snorkeling
• Unique trip to Koh Kham

⚠️ Things to Know

• Rainy season may affect boat schedules
• ATM and banking are limited – bring cash
• Tides can make some beaches narrow in late afternoon
• Bring mosquito repellent (sandflies in some areas)

How to Get There (Boonsiri Ferry)

Travel the easy way with Boonsiri Ferry (Bus + Speedboat). One ticket covers the full journey: bus from Bangkok to Trat, transfer to the pier, and speedboat to Koh Mak (~30–45 min).

• From Bangkok: Bus to Trat → transfer to pier (Laem Ngop / Laem Sok) → speedboat.
• From Trat Airport (TDX): 20–30 min taxi to pier → speedboat.

------------