Escape to Koh Mak: One of Thailand’s Most Peaceful Secrets

Bangkok Airways Round Up

• Koh Mak, a small island in Trat province, is known for its tranquility and laid-back atmosphere. It is a perfect place for a peaceful holiday, where you can laze around without worrying about overtourism. The island also offers relaxing activities, which allow you to connect with its beautiful nature, such as snorkeling, diving, and cycling.
• The key features of Koh Mak apart from peace are its stunning beaches and turquoise waters, which become even more spectacular during sunset. Explore a variety of high-end resorts and bungalows, where you can stroll along a private beach and relax on the white sand.

Koh Mak, Trat, Thailand’s Quiet Island Escape

Koh Mak, situated in the eastern Gulf of Thailand, is an island known for its tranquility and laid-back atmosphere. Sitting between the popular Koh Kood and Koh Chang in Trat Province, Koh Mak appears to be one of the most charming islands in Eastern Thailand. Instead of loud beach parties or noisy water sports, Koh Mak is all about chill resorts, small restaurants, and local shops

Discover the secret wonder of the island where you can chill out with your travel buddies all day. Join thrilling activities to immerse yourself in the beautiful nature from diving side by side with colorful fish to exploring the sand and groves of swaying coconut trees along the beach on a two-wheel vehicle.

Bangkok Airways has got you covered with everything you should know about Koh Mak, from must-visit attractions, famous diving sites to recommended resorts and frequently asked questions.

How to go to Koh Mak from Bangkok

Option 1. Fly with Bangkok Airways and Speedboat

For the fastest and most convenient option, take a 1-hour flight from Suvarnabhumi Airport to Trat Airport with Bangkok Airways. Then, take a taxi or a private transfer from the airport to Laem Ngop Pier, which takes only 20-25 minutes. From the pier on the mainland, you can reach Koh Mak within 1 hour by a regular speedboat.

Option 2. Take a Bus and Speedboat

For a more budget-friendly option, get on a bus either at Ekamai Station or Suvarnabhumi Bus Terminal in Bangkok to Laem Ngop Pier. Make sure to carefully check the bus schedule, as there is only one trip per day from each location. After the bus departs in the early morning, you will arrive at Laem Ngop Pier 6-7 hours later. From the pier on the mainland, you can reach Koh Mak within 1 hour by a regular speedboat.

Top 7 Koh Mak Highlights You’ll Love

1. Blue Pearl Bar

If you would love to have a refreshing drink while leisurely watching the view of the beautiful sea and vast sky, Blue Pearl Bar is highly recommended. This small bar is built on a wooden pier above the water at Koh Mak Cococape Resort. 

It is a romantic destination where you can take pictures of the panoramic view of the golden sunset while chilling on a sunlounger. Get some fresh coconut juice, or maybe a glass of nice cocktail, and get lost in the moment. This is where you can leave the chaotic world behind.

Open Hour: Daily, 10.00 a.m. – 9.00 p.m

2. Cinnamon Scenic Boardwalk

This 500-meter wooden boardwalk, which belongs to Kohmak Cinnamon Art Resort And Spa, is one of the most famous photo spots on Koh Mak, thanks to its serene atmosphere and stunning scenery. 

It is where visitors love to take a long stroll to immerse themselves in the moment and take some great photos of the antique wooden structure with the turquoise sea in the background. There are seating areas along the pathway and also at the end of the boardwalk, where you can take a rest and enjoy the evening breeze of the tropical paradise.

3. Koh Kham

Koh Kham is an attractive island situated on the northwest coast of Koh Mak, which features captivating white sand and massive black volcanic rocks. Because of its small size, you can easily explore the island by kayak. 

Swimming and snorkeling are also the main activities tourists love to do here, while some might simply choose to sunbathe on the soft sandy beach. This scenic island serves as an ideal destination for anyone seeking a quiet getaway. To reach here, paddle a kayak for 20 minutes or ride a longtail boat from Koh Mak Resort, which takes only 5 minutes.

4. Ao Kao

Located on the southwestern part of Koh Mak, Ao Kao Beach serves as a great relaxing spot with crystal-clear water, one of the cleanest beaches on the island, and a line of leaning coconut trees where you can sit and snap some great pictures. Strolling along the beach is a wonderful way to boost your energy. As your feet touch the sand, your nose breathes in the salty air, and your ears listen to the gentle waves. 

The beach is also where most resorts, restaurants, and shops are situated; thus, it is one of the liveliest areas on Koh Mak. You can also reach the nearby Koh Rayang Nai and Koh Rayang Nok by kayak.

5. Ao Suan Yai

Ao Suan Yai Beach, situated in the northwest, is known as one of the best beaches on Koh Mak, which features a 2-kilometer stretch of white sand and lovely blue sea. Apart from being a famous destination for swimming and chilling, it is also where travelers love to dine at a beachfront restaurant while watching the mesmerizing sunset—an experience that will create fond memories that last forever. Besides, this is where you can purchase a boat ticket to Koh Kham, which takes only 5-10 minutes.

6. Ao Pra

Another of Koh Mak’s best beaches, located on the north coast next to Ao Suan Yai but more secluded, is Ao Pra Beach. Perfect for a peaceful escape,  it boasts a 400-meter-long, beautifully curving coastline with shallow, transparent water that is suitable for swimming. 

Ao Pra offers a quiet atmosphere and privacy. You will find plenty of trees along the beach, which provide shady areas with a few swings and beach chairs where you can sit back in peace and enjoy the breathtaking view of the sunset.

7. Koh Kradat

Koh Kradat is a small private island located in the northeast that is definitely worth a visit. It is home to a gorgeous stretch of sand and a large herd of deer roaming freely on the island—the highlight of this place. With their friendly nature, travelers are allowed to hand-feed and take photos with these sweet creatures. 

Do not miss the 30-minute deer-spotting mini safari tour on a tractor ride to have some fun. Other activities you can try here are diving in the sea to appreciate the underwater world, kayaking to enjoy the endless view of the ocean, and relaxing at the beach to get some warmth from the sun or dip yourself in the water to cool off.

Snorkeling & Diving Spots Around Koh Mak

1. Koh Rang

Koh Rang, a part of the Koh Chang Marine Park, is where awesome diving and snorkeling spots are located. The best time to come here is from October to May (the dry season), when you can see the colorful reefs and various marine creatures living around the underwater rocks and corals. Apart from the relaxing dives, the island is also home to a stunning beach where you can enjoy swimming and unwinding under the shade of trees.

Dive Deeper at Hin Bai & Hin Gor

Hin Bai, where hard corals, soft corals, schools of yellowfin fish, spotted stingrays, boxfish, and sea turtles can be spotted, along with Hin Gor, which features a large pile of rocks and various types of corals. Depths range from 6 to 14 meters.

2. Koh Yak Lek

Koh Yak Lek is a small island located on the east side of Koh Rang, which serves as another great diving spot. It is home to a number of beautiful coral species and is favored by visitors who are looking for a simple and quick dive.

3. Koh Yak Yai

Koh Yak Yai, a rocky island next to Koh Yak Lek, is situated on the east side of Koh Rang, where the stream is gentle. The island is suitable for diving, with an underwater slope that goes from 9 to 12 meters deep and features a mixture of hard and soft corals on its east side. The west side is decorated with the antler-like staghorn coral and the yellowstripe scad fish, while the south is home to a huge type of coral that looks like a rose that blooms under the sea.

Dive Deeper at Horseshoe Stone

Horseshoe Stone, one of Koh Yak Yai’s most famous dive sites, features a horseshoe-shaped rock formation surrounded by staghorn coral fields, colorful reef fish, schools of barracuda, plate corals, and bamboo sharks hiding beneath the rocks.

1. Kohmak Cococape Resort

Kohmak Cococape Resort comes with a couple of room options, including a family room and an interconnected room. Experience the impressive amenities, such as the outdoor swimming pool and the balcony that offers a great sea view, or enjoy spending your free time at the private beach and sun terrace. The restaurant offers a wide variety of international cuisines and Thai dishes. Do not miss the resort’s highlight—Blue Pearl Bar—a small wooden hut built on the water. 

Official Website: http://www.kohmakcococape.com/

2. Kohmak Cinnamon Art Resort And Spa

Kohmak Cinnamon Art Resort And Spa, home to the famous Cinnamon Scenic Boardwalk, is an outstanding accommodation that features a selection of rooms, bungalows, and villas—all decorated and designed in Thai style. Relax on the large balcony to get some evening sunlight or swim in the outdoor pool to beat the heat. Snorkeling and diving activities are also available at the beach. 

Official Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CinnamonArtResortKohmak/

3. Mira Montra Resort Koh Mak

Mira Montra Resort Koh Mak, located at Ao Pra Beach, offers room options with wooden decor and a long list of modern amenities. Have a lovely time relaxing on a private beach, where you can have a peaceful stroll and lie down on a hammock bed. At the tour desk, discover things to do around the island, ranging from water activities to full island tours.

Official Website: https://www.miramontra.com/

4. The Mak Trat

Make your stay the most comfortable at The Mak Trat, where you are provided with a luxury villa and warm hospitality. Discover the rooftop swimming pool, where you can see the view of the blue ocean over the quiet private beach below. It is dog-friendly, which means you can bring your dogs to the resort. Kayak and snorkel equipment rental is also available at the resort to make your activities more enjoyable..

Official Website: https://themaktrat.com/

5. Talay Time Koh Mak

Experience the best time at Talay Time Koh Mak, a mid-range resort located at the southernmost part of Koh Mak. Thanks to its location, this resort offers an astonishing panoramic view of sunrise and sunset. Enjoy your elegant stay in a cozy bungalow while exploring the high-quality facilities and activities around the area. Do not miss the wonderful restaurant, which serves not only tasty food but also provides a great spot to watch the beautiful sunset.Official Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/talaytime/

Best Time to Visit Koh Mak

Koh Mak is best visited during the dry season (November-April) due to its suitable weather and pleasant conditions.

• November to April (Dry Season): This is the high season when it rarely rains and the sky is clear, making it a good opportunity to do outdoor activities and explore the island.
• May to October (Wet Season): This is the low season when the island often experiences heavy rains. The boat and accommodation service may be closed in a period if the weather is too severe; so, be sure to check updates on the official website. On the other hand, most service fees will be relatively cheaper compared to the dry season.

Q&A About Koh Mak

Explore Neighboring Islands in the Gulf of Thailand

• Koh Chang: Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting
• Ultimate Guide to Koh Kood from Bangkok: Essential Tips for Your Trip
• Ang Thong National Marine Park: A Must-Visit Near Koh Samui

Discover Koh Mak’s Charm with Bangkok Airways

Koh Mak is the right destination to spend your perfect holiday as it offers everything from the serene atmosphere to luxury experiences. To maximize your vacation to the fullest, let Bangkok Airways be part of your adventure from beginning to end. With high-end services and facilities, we ensure to provide the best flight experience where you can relax comfortably and be prepared for every journey that lies ahead.

Bangkok Airways: Experience Unparalleled Comfort and Convenience

Embark on seamless travel adventures with Bangkok Airways’ extensive network of flights connecting you to Singapore, Laos, Cambodia, and Hong Kong. Additionally, enjoy flights with Bangkok Airways’ three private airports in Koh Samui, Sukhothai, and Trat.

• Seat Selection: Choose your preferred seat on your flight to ensure a comfortable journey.
• Baggage Allowance Included: Enjoy up to 20 kg of checked baggage, allowing you to bring along your essentials without worry.
• In-flight Meals: Savor delicious and satisfying meals on board, tailored to your taste preferences.
• Airport Lounge Access: Relax and unwind in our exclusive airport lounges before your flight.

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