Koh Mak, also known as Koh Maak, is a hidden gem nestled within the Marine National Park in Eastern Thailand, approximately 40 km from the coast of Trat and 20 km south of Koh Chang. With a land area of 16 km², the island is too large to explore entirely on foot but is perfect for a cycling adventure. The roads are quiet since no car ferries operate to the island. Because Koh Mak remains relatively undiscovered, it retains its pristine charm, free from mass tourism and crowded package tours.
1. The Tranquility of Koh Mak: An Island Without Mass Tourism
While Koh Chang continues to develop with more restaurants, bars, and nightlife, Koh Mak maintains its authentic charm. Here, you will find small-scale restaurants, mini-marts, and a handful of resorts. Growth on the island is slow and carefully managed to preserve its relaxed and peaceful atmosphere.
Koh Mak is perfect for travelers seeking tranquility. If you dream of long, untouched beaches, this is the place for you. You won’t find jet skis or vibrant nightlife here, so if you’re looking for an alternative to Phuket or Pattaya, this might not be the right fit. Instead, Koh Mak offers stunning natural landscapes, ideal for hiking and exploration. You can also book diving and snorkeling trips with one of the island’s dive centers. The nearby Marine Park is home to some of Thailand’s most impressive underwater ecosystems.
2. Activities on Koh Mak
For nature lovers and adventure seekers, there is plenty to do on the island. Some popular activities include:
✅ Diving and Snorkeling – Explore the underwater world with PADI-certified dive centers.
✅ Kayaking – Paddle along the coast and discover hidden bays.
✅ Muay Thai Training – Learn the art of Thai boxing.
✅ Cycling – Explore the island via its numerous cycling trails and sandy paths.
✅ Beach & Wellness – Enjoy a traditional Thai massage or relax on the serene beaches.
3. Where to Stay on Koh Mak
Accommodation on Koh Mak consists mainly of beach resorts and cozy bungalows. The most popular beaches for staying are Ao Kao and Ao Suan Yai. Some favorite resorts include:
🏝️ Koh Mak Resort – Perfect for families and couples.
🏝️ Lazy Day Resort – For a relaxed and intimate atmosphere.
Budget options are limited, but there are several welcoming and affordable guesthouses and small resorts. Backpackers can check out Island Huts, offering simple wooden beach huts from 400 Baht per night.
4. How to Get to Koh Mak
Traveling to Koh Mak is straightforward, thanks to the fast speedboat services operating year-round from Laem Ngop Pier in Trat
.
✈️ By Air: If you fly with Bangkok Airways, you can reach Koh Mak on the same day via a morning or afternoon flight to Trat Airport.
⛵ Boat Connections: Be aware that boat services between Koh Mak, Koh Chang, and Koh Kood may temporarily stop between June and September.
Book your transport through 12GoAsia for the best deals.
5. The Beaches of Koh Mak
You’re probably coming for the beaches! Check out our ‘Koh Mak Beach Guide’ for photos and tips. The two largest beaches host most resorts, but there are also countless small, hidden beaches scattered around the island.
🚴 Rent a scooter or mountain bike and explore the sandy trails leading to the coast. Who knows? You might stumble upon a deserted beach with no tourists in sight!
6. How Busy is Koh Mak?
Whether you visit during the high season or low season, Koh Mak never feels overcrowded. There’s always a quiet spot on the beach to relax and swim.
🌴 Photo: Ao Suan Yai Beach, Koh Mak – blissfully quiet even in peak season!
The peacefulness of Koh Mak is due to five local families who still own most of the island. They have successfully kept large-scale developers at bay and encourage only small-scale, sustainable resorts. As a result, there are no noisy bars, karaoke venues, or heavy traffic—only passenger boats arrive on the island.
7. The History of Koh Mak
The five families descend from Lung Prompakdee, a Chinese official during the reign of King Rama V. He purchased the island for 24,000 Baht from Chao Sua Seng, the first person to establish coconut plantations here. Koh Mak has a well-documented history that has been preserved through generations. You can even visit a small museum at Koh Mak Seafood Restaurant, where old photographs from the early 20th century are displayed.
Until the early 2000s, Koh Mak had only a handful of resorts catering mainly to Thai tourists with all-inclusive packages. As a result, development outside of the resorts remained limited, allowing the island to maintain its authentic character.
8. Want to Explore More? Visit Koh Chang!
If you’re looking for more adventure, Koh Chang is just a short boat ride away, offering even more beaches, waterfalls, and activities to enjoy.
Koh Mak is truly a hidden paradise—peaceful, beautiful, and perfect for a relaxing getaway. So, if you’re looking for a slice of untouched Thailand, this island should be at the top of your list!
Let us know in the comment below ↓↓↓ what you think of the blog post, or if you have visited Koh Mak, what you like best.
9. Useful links to plan your trip
Comments