Koh Mak Thailand Island
Koh Mak is a tropical paradise for those who are looking for a peaceful and bucolic holiday. The island is still the land that time forgot as low-rise resorts do not overshadow the island’s iconic coconut-palm plantations or its dazzling white beaches.
This small mass of land south of Koh Chang is only 16km² and should rightly be referred to as an islet. The pristine sands and interior areas of Koh Mak have so far been untouched by mass tourism and offer a relaxing base from which to enjoy the attractions of Mu Koh Chang National Marine Park.
Koh Mak Guide – Pristine Tropical Island Paradise
Island guests are offered the chance of joining boat cruises for snorkeling, scuba diving, fishing, and sightseeing. Three island dive shops provide the chance of getting PADI certified. Resorts have kayaks for rent and these can be used to paddle around the coast, or to nearby Koh Kham.
There are four principal beach areas on Koh Mak. Ao Kao is the busiest and is on the southwest-facing coast. It offers several resorts, bungalow complexes, and a few shops and eateries. Ao Suan Yai is less busy and on the opposite side of the island, and is home to more bungalows and a luxury resort.
Koh Mak boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Whether you’re looking for an action-packed beach day or just want to relax on the sand with a good book, you can find it here. The waters around Koh Mak are perfect for swimming and snorkeling, with plenty of marine life visible just beneath the surface. There are also plenty of water sports activities available if you’re looking for some adventure – from jet skiing to kayaking, there’s something for everyone!
The two premier Koh Mak beaches, Ao Kao Beach in the southwest and Ao Suan Yai Beach, both feature tranquil strolls near soothing water inviting you to dip in and cool off. Along with restaurants and the occasional bar, Ao Kao includes a dive shop and numerous mini-marts. If it is sunset bars you’re seeking, then glance towards the broader horizon at Ao Suan Yai. For both of these beaches, that promise of relaxation from beach life awaits.
Other accommodation options are dotted around the island’s shores, never far from beaches, at the end of traffic-free lanes and paths. The best way of getting from place to place on the island is by renting bicycles and riding around.
Try Authentic Thai Cuisine
No trip to Thailand would be complete without trying some authentic Thai cuisine. Thankfully, Koh Mak has plenty of restaurants serving up delicious dishes made with fresh local ingredients. From classic dishes like Pad Thai and Tom Yum Goong soup to lesser-known specialties like Moo Ping (grilled pork skewers), there’s something for every palate here. Of course, no meal would be complete without sampling some local coconut ice cream or fresh fruit shakes – yum!
Restaurants and cafés serve dishes concocted from freshly caught seafood and a vast array of Thai spices. Those craving a taste of their homelands will find offerings including a bakery, gourmet coffee, German specialties, and Western breakfasts.
Party animals looking for exciting nightlife would be better off heading for neighboring Koh Chang, as most bars and restaurants here have shut up shop by about 22:00. At the last count, Koh Mak’s late-night venues were a few beer bars and a café on Ao Kao Beach road.
How to Get There
Koh Mak is located off the coast of Trat Province in eastern Thailand. The easiest way to get there is by taking a ferry from Laem Ngop Pier. Ferries run regularly throughout the day and the trip takes about an hour and a half. For those looking for something a bit more luxurious, there are also speedboat services available that will get you to Koh Mak in just 45 minutes.
AccommodationsÂ
Koh Mak has accommodations ranging from budget-friendly bungalows to luxury resorts. On the south end of the island, Ao Kao and Ao Suan Yai are two of the most popular beaches with some great mid-range resorts such as Sea View Resort, Lazy Day The Resort, and Bamboo Hideaway. For those looking for something more affordable, there are plenty of budget options as well like Prompakdee Resort or Baan Koh Mak.