How Many Days Should You Spend in Koh Kood, Thailand? A Travel Guide to Thailand’s Hidden Island Paradise
Thinking about escaping to a peaceful Thai island free from tourist crowds? Welcome to Koh Kood (also spelled Koh Kut) — a slice of untouched paradise located in Thailand’s Trat province, not far from the Cambodian border. With white-sand beaches, crystal-clear water, jungle waterfalls, and a laid-back atmosphere, Koh Kood is often hailed as one of Thailand’s most beautiful islands.
But getting there isn’t as straightforward as hopping on a flight to Phuket or Koh Samui. If you’re wondering how to get from Bangkok to Koh Kood, what to expect on the journey, and how many days you should spend in Koh Kood, this travel guide has all the details to help you plan your perfect island getaway.
Whether you’re mapping out a multi-island itinerary or just looking for some quiet time on one of Thailand’s last unspoiled gems, this Koh Kood travel guide will help you make the most of your trip.
Why the Journey to Koh Kood Matters
Let’s start with an important point: getting to Koh Kood takes time. Unlike more accessible islands like Koh Samui or Phuket, Koh Kood requires extra effort:
- Travel from Bangkok to Trat by plane (expensive) or bus (long)
- Songthaew ride from Trat airport or station to the pier
- Ferry or speedboat from the pier to Koh Koo
Many travelers describe the journey as “a slog” or “a pain in the ass” — so if you go, make it worth your time. That’s why staying just 1 or 2 nights often feels rushed and unsatisfying.
What to Do on Koh Kood (Besides Relax)
Koh Kood is not about all-night parties or shopping malls. Instead, it’s all about tranquility and nature. But that doesn’t mean you’ll be bored. Here’s a quick list of what to do on Koh Kood:
- Relax on the beaches — Ao Tapao, Ao Noi, and Ao Prao are must-visits
- Swim in waterfalls — Don’t miss Khlong Chao Waterfall
- Explore by motorbike — The best way to reach beaches, villages, and viewpoints
- Visit fishing villages — Ao Yai and Ao Salad offer local charm and seafood
- Snorkel, kayak, or paddleboard — Especially near mangroves and hidden coves
- Enjoy the slow pace — Koh Kood is ideal for digital detoxing and wellness
Because the island is fairly large and sights are spread out, you’ll need at least a few days to explore and unwind.
So, How Many Days in Koh Kood Is Enough?
Here’s what most travel guides and real visitors recommend:
✅ Minimum Stay: 3 Days
If you want to make the journey worthwhile, spend at least 3 full days. This gives you time to:
- Explore beaches and waterfalls
- Visit a fishing village
- Ride around the island by motorbike
- Relax for more than just a night
✅ Ideal Stay: 4–5 Days
This is the sweet spot for most travelers. With 4–5 days, you can:
- Add snorkeling, kayaking, or even diving
- Enjoy multiple beaches
- Have downtime to simply relax
- Avoid the stress of rushing from one activity to another
✅ Extended Stay: 5–7 Days or More
If you fall in love with the island’s charm (many do!), a week or longer lets you truly unplug. Some travelers stay for 5–10 days, especially if combining their trip with neighboring islands like Koh Chang and Koh Mak.
Limited Time? Consider Your Options
If you only have 4 days total for the Trat islands, some suggest skipping Koh Kood due to the long journey and instead staying on Koh Chang, which is easier to access.
But if you’re committed to avoiding crowds and want pristine beaches, even a quick 3-day Koh Kood trip can be worth it.
Combining Koh Kood with Other Islands
Koh Kood is part of the Trat island trio: Koh Chang, Koh Mak, and Koh Kood.
Here are some suggested itineraries:
- 10-Day Island-Hopping: 4 days on Koh Chang, 3 on Koh Mak, and 3 on Koh Kood
- One Week: 3–4 days on Koh Kood + 3 on Koh Mak
- 5-Day Chill: 5 days just on Koh Kood for a full beach escape
Island-hopping is easy with speedboats, but note that weather and ferry schedules can affect travel plans — especially in the rainy season.
Best Time to Visit Koh Kood
The best time to visit Koh Kood is from November to April, especially December to February for dry, sunny weather.
Avoid the rainy season (June to October) when many businesses close, ferry rides are rough, and weather can disrupt your plans.
Quick Tips for a Smooth Koh Kood Trip
- Bring enough cash — ATMs are few and may not work
- Book ferries in advance — Especially during peak season
- Use motorbikes — Taxis are rare and expensive
- Don’t expect nightlife — Come to unwind, not to party
- Book accommodations early — Options are more limited than other islands
Final Verdict: How Long Should You Stay on Koh Kood?
Here’s the bottom line:
- 3 days minimum to make the travel effort worth it
- 4–5 days for a balanced experience of adventure and relaxation
- 7+ days if you want to fully disconnect and explore at your own pace
- Combine Koh Kood with Koh Mak and Koh Chang for a full Trat island-hopping trip
Koh Kood isn’t for everyone — but if you’re seeking a serene escape, this island might just steal your heart.
Ready to Plan Your Koh Kood Adventure?
Whether you’re mapping out a 10-day Thai island itinerary or planning the perfect remote beach escape, Koh Kood is an unforgettable destination that rewards those who make the journey.
🌴 Tag a travel buddy and start planning your island adventure!