Are you a Thailand traveller, adventurer or just someone who wants to escape the crowds for a while? Then put Koh Tarutao high on your bucket list! This island is a hidden gem, a place where you won't find crowds of tourists, but you will find pristine nature, deserted beaches and adventurous jungle hikes. Oh, and did I mention that it used to be a prison island? Right, pure Pirates of the Caribbean vibes.
Located in the Andaman Sea, Koh Tarutao is part of the Tarutao National Marine Park. Don't expect luxury resorts or beach clubs with loud beats here - this is back-to-nature at its best!
1. Why Koh Tarutao is different from other Thai islands
Koh Tarutao is the largest island in the Tarutao National Marine Park and is located in the Andaman Sea, near the border with Malaysia. The island is an oasis of peace and unspoilt nature. No mass tourism here, though:
Rugged jungle: Trek through dense forests, past waterfalls and discover a diversity of flora and fauna.
Deserted beaches: Enjoy white sandy beaches where you hardly meet anyone. These are the best beaches in Thailand if you are looking for peace and quiet.
Adventure trekking: Climb mountains, explore caves and discover hidden coves.
Wildlife: Spot monkeys, deer, wild boar and maybe even a leopard!
A unique history: Visit the old prison where political prisoners were once held.
2. How to get to Koh Tarutao?
Koh Tarutao is about 30 km off the coast of Satun in southern Thailand. The easiest way to reach the island is via Pak Bara Pier on mainland Thailand. Here you catch a boat that takes you to this tropical paradise in about an hour.
Note: boats only run from November to April, as they are shut down during the rainy season. So no speedboat experience? Nope, but a beautiful crossing over crystal-clear waters.
Or you can also travel from Koh Lipe to Koh Tarutao
3. What to do on Koh Tarutao.
Beaches that will make your mouth water: No crowded beaches with hundreds of sunbeds here, but vast stretches of white sand where you are the only one. Recommended:
Ao Son Beach - Perfect for a picnic and a refreshing swim.
Ao Molae Beach - Here you stay in simple bungalows right on the beach.
Ao Ta Lo Woo Pier - A historic point where prison gangs used to escape. Now a beautiful viewpoint!
On Koh Tarutao, you really don't have to be bored for a moment. There is something for everyone:
Trekking: Take a challenging trek to the top of Luang Mountain for breathtaking views of the island. Or explore the hidden waterfalls of the Crocodile River.
Beach hopping: Hire a longtail boat and explore the island's beautiful beaches, such as Ao Son, Ao Phante and Ao Talo.
Diving and snorkelling: Explore the colourful underwater world around Koh Tarutao.
Camping: Spend the night in nature and enjoy peace and quiet under the stars.
Kayaking: Paddle through mangrove forests and explore the island's coastline.
Visit the prison: Learn about Koh Tarutao's history as a prison island.
4. Accommodation on Koh Tarutao: From basic to comfortable
Don't expect fancy hotels, but basic bungalows and tents in the middle of nature. You can stay with the park rangers of Tarutao National Park, where you can rent basic huts or a tent. This is the place to sit by a campfire under the stars at night.
5. Eating and drinking on the island
There are no fancy restaurants or trendy cafes on Koh Tarutao. You eat here at the national park restaurant, which serves simple Thai dishes. Expect dishes like Pad Thai, fried rice and fresh fish. Everything is basic, but hey, that's part of the adventure!
6. Combine Koh Tarutao with other destinations
Koh Tarutao is easy to combine with other destinations in the area, such as Koh Lipe, Koh Adang and the Malaysian island of Langkawi. This way, you can put together a wonderful tour of Thailand.
7. Useful travel tips for your adventure
Bring plenty of cash - There are no ATMs on the island.
Bring mosquito spray - This is a nature reserve, so expect mosquitoes, especially around the mangroves.
Bring a power bank - Electricity is limited, and of course you want to keep your camera charged.
Respect nature - Koh Tarutao is a protected national park, so don't leave litter behind!
8. Conclusion: Koh Tarutao is calling!
Are you ready for an adventurous and unique travel experience? Then come to Koh Tarutao and discover the pristine beauty of this beautiful island! It is one of Thailand's hidden gems that you don't want to miss.
So, pack your backpack and go explore! 🏝️
Want to add Koh Tarutao to your Thailand trip? Share this blog with your travel buddies and start planning! Leave a comment below ↓↓↓ if you have any questions or want to share your experiences. See you in paradise! ✈️🌴
9. Useful links to plan your trip
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