Thailand’s islands draw millions of visitors every year, all chasing that perfect stretch of sand and crystal-clear water. Most head to the usual suspects – Phuket, Koh Samui, or Phi Phi. But there’s a quieter alternative that delivers everything you’re looking for without the crowds – Koh Kood, also known as Ko Kut.
Koh Kood sits off Thailand’s eastern coast, practically touching the Cambodian border. It’s far enough from the beaten path that mass tourism hasn’t taken over, yet close enough to reach without too much hassle. What you’ll find here are some of Thailand’s most stunning beaches, each with its own personality and appeal.
Let’s dive into what makes each of Koh Kood’s beaches special and help you figure out which ones deserve a spot on your itinerary.
Ao Noi Beach
Ao Noi easily makes our top three most beautiful beaches on Koh Kood. It’s everything you want in a tropical beach – quiet, unspoiled, and seriously beautiful.
The beach sits on the western side of the island, but we’d actually recommend visiting in the morning when it’s at its most idyllic. You’ll get those long palm tree shadows stretching across white sand and perfectly calm turquoise water. Ao Noi isn’t huge, but that’s part of its charm. When we showed up (and we weren’t even particularly early), we had the entire stretch to ourselves – it’s paradise for introverts.
Ao Noi Resort occupies the cove, which brings us to the main challenge: getting there.
One option is to enter through the resort, but reviews are mixed on whether non-guests will be allowed to pass through to reach the beach. You have a couple of other options, though. Kayaking from nearby Klong Chao Beach takes about 20 minutes. Or you can take the dirt track through the woods. It took us just 35-40 minutes of a leisurely morning stroll to walk there from High Season Resort on Klong Chao Beach.
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Klong Chao Beach
Klong Chao Beach stretches for about 600 meters of soft white sand meeting crystal clear turquoise water – it’s a little piece of paradise. Unlike some of the more remote beaches on Koh Kood, this one has a bit more infrastructure around it, though it still feels quiet even during peak season. You’ll find several resorts, restaurants, cafes, shops, and even an ATM within walking distance. If you’re not planning to rent a scooter or car during your stay, this is hands down the most convenient area to base yourself on the island.
The beach faces west, making it an ideal spot to watch sunsets. For a sunset cocktail, go straight to the beach bar at Peter Pan Resort – they serve some of the best cocktails you’ll find on the island.
Bang Bao Beach
Bang Bao Beach is another one that makes our top three favorites on Koh Kood. It’s hard not to fall in love with this beach on the southwest side of the island – turquoise blue waters, fine white sand, and rows of coconut trees casting beautiful shadows across the beach. You’ll find swings and hammocks scattered around, plus a long pier that’s ideal for watching fish swim in the clear water below.
If you’re looking for that perfect Instagram shot, don’t miss the little bridge near the Sand and Sea hotel.
Bang Bao is easily accessible from the road, and the area is home to several resorts, bars, and restaurants.
Ao Tapao Beach
Ao Tapao sits near Khlong Hin Dam village, which houses the island’s temple, hospital, bank, and police station. But don’t let that fool you into thinking it’s busy. South of Sea Far Resort, you’ll find 500 meters of quiet, undeveloped beach – just palms and you, perfect for those wanting peaceful beach time.
Ao Tapao is also perfect for sunset watching. You can catch the sunset from a swing, the picture-perfect pier, or grab a drink at one of the bars. We loved the Beach Bar by Seafar Resort. It’s a lovely spot to unwind with a drink during sunset, with great music and service to match the view.
Ao Phrao Beach
A lovely long beach on the southern part of the island, Ao Phrao, is remote and quiet. Anyone seeking peace and seclusion is in good hands here. The bonus? Overwater hammocks where you can chill right above the water.
There are three smaller resorts along this stretch, so you won’t be completely cut off from civilization. But it still maintains that secluded feel that makes it special.
Klong Hin Beach
Renowned for its natural beauty, Klong Hin Beach is a stunning, secluded beach with many palm trees. It’s another one of our top three favorite beaches on Koh Kood. This 400-meter stretch is off the beaten track and feels more secluded than some of the busier spots on the island.
With just a couple of locally owned bungalow resorts, Klong Hin strikes a nice balance between having some amenities while still maintaining a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere.
