Island Hopping in Thailand: Koh Chang, Koh Kood & Koh Mak
Island Hopping in Thailand: Koh Chang, Koh Kood & Koh Mak
December 2025 update:
At the time of writing, some governments have issued precautionary travel advisories for parts of eastern Thailand due to border tensions with Cambodia. Is Koh Kood safe? The islands of Koh Kood, Koh Chang and Koh Mak remain calm and unaffected on the ground, but travellers should check their local government guidance and travel insurance before departure.
Island hopping in Thailand is an absolute dream come true, it's like stepping right into a real life postcard! Each island has its own special charm, just waiting for you to discover.
Picture yourself lounging in sparkling turquoise waters, unwinding on beautiful palm-fringed beaches, and exploring lush jungles, not to mention the amazing snorkelling and spectacular sunsets.
Whether you're drawn to the laid-back vibe of Koh Kood, the lively shores of Koh Chang, or the peaceful beauty of Koh Mak, Thailand's eastern islands are perfect for a Thai island hopping holiday. And let’s be honest, the journey between each island is just as magical as the places themselves! So take your time, soak in those breathtaking views, and enjoy the delightful pace of island life!
Why island hop in Eastern Thailand?
The islands in eastern Thailand are surprisingly easy to get to! I know some people might be a bit hesitant about the journey, but let me assure you, it’s super straightforward and smooth sailing all the way! So many people don't even consider a Thailand island hopping holiday but it is so easy to do.
These islands, tucked away near the Cambodian border, are less crowded, and honestly, they’re even more beautiful than you might expect. Here you can find some of the most beautiful islands in Thailand, all of different sizes and all offering a totally different experience.
Koh Chang is the perfect starting point, it's the closest island to the mainland and the third largest in Thailand. There’s so much to do here (more on that later), making it an ideal kick-off for your Thai island-hopping adventure.
Then there’s Koh Kood, the fourth largest island, which is home to some of the most gorgeous beaches you can imagine. With minimal development, it offers pristine sands, boutique hotels, and a wonderfully laid-back atmosphere.
And don’t forget about Koh Mak! This tiny gem is a breeze to explore by scooter of golf buggy. It’s packed with stunning white sand beaches and crystal clear waters, plus it’s a great base for day trips to nearby islands.
Island hopping in Thailand is an incredible experience and so easy once you have figured out the logistics, often the thought is far more daunting than the actual experience of getting from island to island.
When is the best time to visit Koh Chang, Koh Kooh & Koh Mak
Island hopping in Thailand is best experienced between December and March. This is when rainfall is at its lowest and the temperatures are cooler.
The rains start to pick up in April but it remains relatively dry, however, April is often one of the hottest months of the year, making it more difficult to explore, especially if you are looking to hike in Koh Chang or Koh Kood.
Rainy season in Koh Chang, Koh Kood and Koh Mak is from June to October but still only sees around 13 days with rain so isn't a terrible time to visit.
Hotels are cheaper during this time and the islands are emptier. Rain usually comes in the form of a tropical downpour which clears up into beautiful sunny periods.
It is important to note during rainy season, it is more likely to see ferry cancellations so please accommodate for such events.
How to get to Koh Chang, Koh Kood & Koh Mak
Start your journey in Bangkok, the only destination that flies into Trat Airport, the closest airport to Koh Chang and Koh Kood.
Take a 1 hr flight with Bangkok Airways from Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport to Trat Airport. Be warned, it's a small plane, a propellor plane, in fact, but the journey is smooth, fast, and very safe.
On arrival at Trat Airport, you will be greeted by a hut of an airport, with perfectly manicured hedges shaped like elephants - it really is charming!
From here, you need to take a taxi or minibus to the ferry piers at Laem Ngop (Ao Thammachat and Trat Ferry pier).
Taking the ferry to Koh Chang
There are two piers at Laem Ngop, where you can catch a ferry to Koh Chang.
If you wish to take a car or minibus/hotel transfer to Koh Chang, you can use the Ao Thammachat car ferry. You can book your ferry here; I recommend booking at least a week in advance.
You can book the entire journey through 12Go; this will include the 30-minute minibus and the ferry, taking care of all the transfer times so you can sit back and relax. These are all carefully timed with incoming flights into Trat.
I enjoyed the ferry to Koh Chang, there was a small shop on board and a seating area. You can sit or stand outside to enjoy incredible views of palm-fringed beaches as you sail into Koh Chang.
Book here.
Taking the ferry to Koh Kood
The fastest way to get to Koh Kood from Trat Airport is also via minibus and ferry, taking a total of 2 hours with the Boonsiri High Speed Ferry.
Ferries depart Leamsok Pier at 10:45, 13:00, and 15:00, arriving at Ao Salad pier in Koh Kood 1 hour later. The majority of bookings include a drop off to your hotel.
Book here.
Taking the ferry to Koh Mak
The fastest ferry to Koh Mak is also with Boonsiri High Speed Ferry from Leamsok Pier, taking just 45 minutes.
Daily departures at at 11:30 and 15:00.
Book here.
Koh Chang, Koh Kood and Koh Mak island hopping itinerary
This eastern Thai island hopping itinerary is designed as a 10-day guide to help you explore the highlights of each destination, but it’s entirely flexible.
Whether you have just a few days or two full weeks, you can adjust the pace to suit your travel style.
With easy ferry connections and a variety of activities, this route is perfect for both first-time visitors and regular visitors looking to experience a different side of Thailand.
Koh Chang - 4 nights
Koh Chang is the largest and most developed island in eastern Thailand, making it the perfect location to start your island-hopping adventure.
You can read my full Koh Chang Travel Guide for a more detailed deep-dive into this gorgeous island, but below are a few ideas to help you kick start your trip.
Less developed in the way of luxury, Koh Chang has successfully maintained its authenticity, offering Thai charm mixed with beautiful beaches and a ton of activities.
Whilst you won't find the luxury resorts with all the bells and whistles, there is a vibrant hostel scene, alongside some more basic resorts (mainly up near White Sand Beach), and a handful of pretty boutique hotels such as The Retreat.
The island is home to some beautiful beaches, but really it's its jungle that brings people here all year round!
Things to do in Koh Chang
Jungle trekking
Whilst there are a bunch of beautiful beaches in Koh Chang, many people come for its jungle interior.
If you’re up for a challenge, why not try tackling Mount Salakphet? It’s the highest point on the island at 744 meters and offers some breathtaking views. The hike up takes about 5 hours, and while it’s a bit of a trek, the scenery makes it all worth it. Coming back down is a bit easier and takes around 3 hours, depending on your pace.
For those looking for a shorter, easier trek, I recommend the trek to Klong Plu Waterfall. The walk is 4km with a small amount of climbing; it lasts around 4 hours, and you might spot some wild orchids and reptiles along the way!
Scuba Diving
Thanks to its quiet waters, there is an amazing underwater world waiting to be explored. However, what really gets divers excited is an incredible shipwreck, the HTMS-Chang, the best wreck dive in Thailand.
Book a diving tour with a guide to explore the best dive sites in Koh Chang.
Explore the mangroves
You might be asking why I haven't spoken about the beaches in Koh Chang yet, that's because there is so much more than beaches here and that's what sets the island apart from others. There is plenty of time for beach hopping in Koh Kood and Koh Mak, another reason these three islands blend so well together!
Enjoy a guided gondola tour through the Salak Khok mangrove forest. This tour has no engines, just a paddle, keeping the environment peaceful and offering a chance to reconnect with nature and destress.
Ghost Ship Beach
One of Koh Chang's most notable landmarks, this abandoned resort in the south of the island is. really cool ay to spend the day.
Located on a gorgeous beach overlooking the Gulf of Thailand, this crumbling resort is home to its very own abandoned cruise ship! A once vibrant holiday destination, the resort fell into disrepair and its owners abandoned it. For a small fee you can enter and look around to see how it was left.
Please note as of December 2024 there was a fire in the main ship. Please check to see the resort is open before visiting.
Kayak to Ko Ngam Island
Ko Ngam Island is a tiny paradise off the south coast of Koh Chang, accessible by a small boat, or you can kayak instead.
I chose to kayak, it was all part of the fun! It only took around 10 minutes and kayak rental was 200 THB.
There is also a small entrance fee of 200 THB per adult (£4.70) and 100 THB per child (£2.35) which goes towards maintaining the island.
The beach here is breathtaking, the perfect place for safe swimming and snorkelling. Despite its small size, there are toilets available!
There are no hotels or restaurants on the island so you must bring your own food and drink, but be careful of the monkeys and don't leave anything behind.
Best hotels on Koh Chang
The Retreat Koh Chang
The most beautiful hotel in Koh Chang, the retreat is a 5* boutique resort with a gorgeous pool, swim up rooms, an it is right on the seafront. This is not a beach hotel but it is just a few minutes walk from Kai Bae Beach. You can read my full hotel review here.
Learn more or book here
Santhiya Tree Koh Chang
Located on a quiet stretch of Koh Chang's west coast, Santhiya Tree Koh Chang is a larger resort suited to those who want excellent facilities such as large swimming pools, a gym, three restaurants, a spa, and watersports equipment such as paddleboards and kayaks.
The beach here, like many along the coast, is tidal so changes quite drastically throughout the day.
Many of the villas have their own pools, offering guests the opportunity to relax in complete privacy.
Learn more or book here
Sol Beach Koh Chang
This brand new hotel is situated on the quieter end of Klong Prao Beach, within walking distance to markets and restaurants, but also offers its own bit of solitude.
The hotel is designed in a boho style with bright and airy villas, a chic bar, and a highly rated restaurant perfect for sunset views/
Learn more or book here
Koh Kood - 4 nights
Koh Kood is my favourite island in Thailand, and to understand why I love it so much, check out my review of Koh Kood Island.
Many visitors are surprised to learn that Koh Kood is the fourth-largest island in Thailand. This is mainly due to the island's quiet and relatively undeveloped nature.
Getting around Koh Kood is very easy if you have a moped; there are no traffic jams here, so everything feels close by!
Koh Kood has a laid-back and sleepy atmosphere, making it the ultimate destination for relaxation.
Tourists often sleep until noon and spend their days soaking up the sun on the beach.
There is no nightlife here, no street markets, just miles of pristine beaches, boutique hotels, beach bungalows, and cafes run by locals.
There is only one ultra luxury hotel on Koh Kood, Soneva Kiri. Apart from this, there is one resort, and the rest are just a dusting of beach bungalows and guesthouses. There are a few cafes and restaurants dotted along the road.
The best beaches in Koh Kood
Klong Chao Beach
Klong Chao Beach is a gorgeous spot with soft white sand, swaying palm trees, and water that's as clear as glass.
Although it's the most developed beach on the island, it still feels peaceful and relaxed. It's a great choice for families with younger children looking to enjoy some fun in the sun!
Bang Bao Beach
If you’re looking for a beach with a super relaxed vibe, Bang Bao Beach is a fantastic choice! Many of the beaches in Koh Kood have no facilities at all, where as Bang Bao Beach has a nice beach bar and cafe to watch sunset from or enjoy a refreshing drink during the day. There is a jetty here which offers beautiful panoramic views of the beach.
It’s a great spot to just unwind, with plenty of folks chilling under coconut trees, diving into a good book. Although it’s a popular place, it really maintains a nice, calm atmosphere, it's never too loud or overwhelming. If you want to be around other people without the resort scene, this beach is just right for you.
Khlonghin Beach
Located in the south of Koh Kood, Khlonghin Beach is an idyllic postcard-worthy beach. With a beautiful palm tree plantation providing the perfect backdrop, the beach feels cut off from the rest of the world.
There are a few facilities on the beach, a restaurant and some beach bungalows, but it still feels like an untouched paradise.
Takhian Beach
One of the quieter beaches in Koh Kood, Takhian Beach is nestled below Cham's House, a popular all villa hotel. The beach is oo`zing in natural beauty, but unfortunately it seems to catch the plastic pollution from the sea.
This part was a shame because it was one of my favourite beaches in Thailand, there was only one other person on it, but I ended up spending my time picking up and bagging plastic and giving it to the hotel to throw away.
Don't let this put you off visiting, it is amazing and can be access through the hotel itself.
Best hotels in Koh Kood
For a more comprehensive guide on where to stay in Koh Kood, check out my comprehensive all-budget hotel guide here.
High Season Pool Villa & Spa
The best family hotel in Koh Kood, High Season Pool Villa & Spa is the largest resort in Klong Chao Beach.
With the perfect beachfront setting, there is no place better to enjoy a sunset cocktail by their (very popular!) beach bar, complete ith comfy bean bags and one of the best views in Koh Kood.
Rooms are within individual villas, many with pools and some on the beach. The resort is built around a huge pool. The restaurant is pretty average but I found that in most places on the island!
Learn more or book here
The Beach Natural Resort
One of the best located hotels in Koh Kood, the Beach Natural Resort is at the northern end of Bang Bao Beach, meaning you can wake up and enjoy the beach to yourself before other visitors from the island descend onto it.
If you can spare the budget, I would highly recommend a beachfront villa, from here you can enjoy amazing sunset views from the comfort of your own bed if you so wish! Waking up in the morning with the incredible view of Bang Bao Beach is unbeatable.
Learn more or book here.
Shantaa Resort
One of the highest rated hotels in Koh Kood, the Shantaa Resort offers a peaceful escape surrounded by nature. The word 'Shantaa' means 'tranquility' in Hindi, the perfect way to describe this gorgeous resort.
The villas at Shantaa Resort are spread throughout 13 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens that lead down to the water. It never feels busy here and you feel as though you don't have to share the world with anyone.
Learn more or book here
Koh Mak - 2 nights
Koh Mak is a tiny dot of an island, and whilst 3 nights would be preferred, if you are stuck for time, 2 nights is definitely enough to take in this tranquil destination.
Many people visit Koh Mak on a day trip from Koh Chang or Koh Kood, but I think it deserves its own spot on an itinerary.
Koh Mak is just 16 square kilometres but has 27 kilometres of breathtaking coastline.
Despite its increasing popularity as more people discover the eastern islands, development has not increased, and the island remains a peaceful haven - a far cry from the likes of Phuket and Koh Samui.
Koh Mak is easy to explore by scooter, bicycle, or even on foot. It's very different to Koh Chang and Koh Kood, there are no mountains or waterfalls, in fact, it's pretty flat, that's what makes it so easy to explore in such a short amount of time.
There's not much nightlife on the island. Sometimes there is a full moon party but this is pretty lowkey, the island is favoured more by couples than backpackers.
How to spend 2 days in Koh Mak
Take the ferry to Koh Mak
The ferry to Koh Mak only takes 30 minutes from Koh Kood. The ferries depart at 11:00 and 14:00 with Boonsiri Highspeed Ferries.
The ferry will bring you into Ao Nid Pier on the south east of the island. I recommend pre arranging a pick up with your hotel, this is not an island with taxis in abundance!
Book here
Head to a beach bar for sunset
Once you have checked into your accommodation (more on that later) and freshened up, it will be time to head out read to enjoy the sunset.
Best beach bars in Koh Mak
Banana Sunset Bar
The perfect place for a sunset drink, visitors can enjoy a chilled atmosphere with Reggae music. If you feel peckish food is available too, they are known for their pizza!
White Sand Rooftop Bar
Enjoy a cool beverage alongside rice, noodles and delicious Thai curry. It's a little more expensive than some of the other local bars, but it is a great experience.
Blue Pearl Bar
Part of the Cococape Resort, Blue Pearl Bar is the most popular sunset beach bar in Koh Mak. Again, this isn't the cheapest place in Tailand (nor the most expensive) but it is important to note Koh Mak is a tiny island and everything has to be imported in.
Entry is 200 THB but includes a drink (£4.70), this is to deter people coming for sunset and not buying any drinks.
The Coral Club
Perfectly located above a pretty beach lined with palm trees, the Coral Club is one of the best places to see the sunset in Koh Mak. Comfy chairs are laid out whilst mellow music plays out.
Go beach hopping
The best beaches in Koh Mak
White Sand Beach
White Sand Beach is one of the most well knon beaches in Koh Mak, and one of the most beautiful. With amenities such as a beach bar, restaurant and hotel, it is a really great choice if you want to choose one beach to laze on all day.
Turtle Beach
Long and empty, Turtle Beach is one of the quieter beaches on Koh Mak island. Everything a tropical island should be, the sand is golden and the beach is lined ith fluffy green palm trees. The beach stretches over a kilometre, there are no facilities here, just nature.
Palm Beach
Easy to access and good for swimming, Turtle Beach is best enjoyed at low or mid tide (high tide makes the beach quite narrow).
Palm Beach is the home beach of PalmBeach Resort, a small collection of beach bungalows, but the beach is quiet without cafes, bars or restaurants.
Best hotels in Koh Mak
Hidden Beach Resort
Fully immerse in nature at hidden Beach Resort on Koh Mak. This beachfront resort comes with a lot of natural beauty. The hotel is home to a great beach with a restaurant and bar.
Throughout the rest of the resort are individual bungalows which are surprisingly spacious inside. Rooms are well designed and clean whilst staff are super friendly and helpful! There are only a handful of bungalows, all on the beachfront and with beautiful balconies to enjoy the views.
Learn more or book here
The Mak Trat
If you are seeking a luxury hotel in Koh Mak, look no further than the Mak Trat, the most fully equipped hotel on the island.
The hotel boasts a stunning infinity pool with amazing views, as well as beautifully appointed beach bungalow. This is certainly one for those who want luxurious accommodations, the food isn't the highest rated on the island but is located next door to a great restaurant at Little Moon Villa.
Learn more or book here
Seavanna Koh Mak Beach Resort
A beautiful beachfront escape, perfect for couples, the Seavanna Koh Mak Beach Resort is one of the highest rated hotels in Koh Mak. Located on a stunning 1km stretch of beach, the Seavanna Resort is favoured by couples and those looking to completely switch off.
Wake up to the gentle sound of waves before enjoying a delicious breakfast on the terrace. Kayaks are available to paddle out to a nearby island, whilst free-of-charge bikes are also available to guests to explore the island.
Learn more or book here
Islands to visit on a day trip from Koh Chang, Koh Kood or Koh Mak
Whilst Koh Chang, Koh Kood and Koh Mak are the main three tourist islands, there are other islands to visit on a day trip, or even to spend a night!
Koh Wai
Koh Wai is one of the ultimate Thai islands to escape to to run away from the rest of the world.
You can only visit this paradise island between November and April as throughout rainy season all boat tours are cancelled. To get from Koh Chang to Koh Wai, or travel there from Koh Kood of Koh Mak, there is a speedboat. You are best booking these transfers directly with a local tour operator on the islands or through your hotels.
Alternatively, you can reach Koh Wai from Trat on the mainland via a half hour speedboat from. Laem Ngop Pier
Ko Rang
Part of the Mu Ko Chang National Marine Park, Ko Rang has been under protection for a number of years, meaning its natural beauty has been well preserved and looked after.
Located a short distance west from Koh Mak, Ko Rang is a small island with a large white sand beach. It's interior is filled with dense jungle and makes a popular day trip for hikers.
Despite its remoteness and small size, visitors can stay on the island if they fancy camping. Alternatively, a handful of bungalows have recently been built, but most visit just for the day.
The most popular activity on Ko Rang is snorkelling and diving thanks to its excellent coral reef.
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