Talay Trat
Islands of Charm, Diversity, and Tranquility
STORY
See & Do
While the Andaman often gets the spotlight, the eastern seaboard of Thailand is home to a quieter but equally captivating treasure — the sea of Trat. Dotted with idyllic islands and rich in character, Trat offers more than just sun and sand. From family-friendly beaches and dramatic sunsets to peaceful fishing piers and eco-conscious escapes, each island in Trat has its own story. Let’s explore the highlights.
Chai Chet Cape
Although the entire west coast of Ko Chang enjoys magnificent sunsets, Chai Chet Cape (Laem Chai Chet) is one of the most beloved viewpoints. Located between White Sand Beach and Klong Prao Beach, the cape juts out into the sea and provides unobstructed views of the horizon.
Visitors come here in the late afternoon to walk the short trails, take photos from the rocky viewpoint, or simply sit in silence as the sun dips into the Gulf of Thailand. The setting is especially photogenic with waves breaking against dark rocks and golden light reflecting on the sea. It’s a peaceful yet dramatic scene, and one of the best spots to end a day on the island.
Ko Chang
: Thailand’s Second Largest Island, Rich in More Than Just Beaches
Ko Chang, the second largest island in Thailand after Phuket, is a microcosm of nature’s diversity. Despite its fame as a beach destination, Ko Chang also boasts misty mountains, dense rainforests, and cascading waterfalls — a paradise for both relaxation and adventure.
Among its many beaches, three stand out for their accessibility and charm. White Sand Beach (Hat Sai Khao) is the most developed, with soft white sand, palm trees swaying over beach bars, and resorts catering to all budgets. Klong Prao Beach offers a more serene atmosphere with its wide bay, calm waters, and long stretches of sand perfect for morning walks. Meanwhile, Kai Bae Beach blends beauty with convenience — ideal for families, with gentle waves and plenty of nearby dining options.
The island's accommodations range from affordable bungalows to luxury resorts. Whether you're planning a romantic getaway, a solo adventure, or a family vacation, Ko Chang offers the right setting and service to suit your needs.
Klong Plu Waterfall
: A Lush Escape from the Beach
Ko Chang’s landscape is not just about beaches — venture inland and you’ll find lush forests and hidden waterfalls. Among them, Klong Plu Waterfall (Nam Tok Khlong Phlu) is the most accessible and popular.
Located in Mu Ko Chang National Park, reached via an easy 20-minute walk through a shady jungle trail. Along the way, you’ll hear the rustling of leaves, the calls of birds, and eventually the sound of rushing water. At the base of the falls is a cool, freshwater pool where visitors can swim — a refreshing break from the salty sea.
The site is well-maintained and suitable for families, with picnic areas and park staff on hand. It’s an ideal place to appreciate Ko Chang’s verdant heart and cool off in nature.
Bang Bao Bay
: From Fishing Pier to Travel Hub
At the southern tip of Ko Chang’s west coast lies Bang Bao Bay — once a quiet fishing village, now a vibrant hub with a distinct maritime charm. The area centers around a long wooden pier that extends into the bay, lined with restaurants, dive shops, souvenir stalls, and homestays built on stilts above the water.
Despite the growing tourism, Bang Bao has retained its laid-back character. You can still see local fishermen unloading their catch in the early morning, and wooden boats rocking gently in the harbor. The pier also serves as a departure point for boat trips to nearby islands, making it a gateway to further exploration.
Strolling through Bang Bao feels like stepping into a floating village — it’s part cultural experience, part scenic stroll, and wholly unique to Ko Chang.
Ko Kut
: Remote Beauty with Crystal-Clear Waters
Further from the mainland and less developed than Ko Chang, Ko Kut (also spelled Ko Kood) is a serene escape for those seeking peace and pristine nature. It’s home to some of the clearest waters and whitest sands in Eastern Thailand — the beaches here are postcard-perfect, uncrowded, and framed by swaying coconut palms.
Though remote, reaching Ko Kut is now easier thanks to improved boat services. Once there, visitors can choose from a range of accommodations, from simple beach bungalows to high-end resorts. Most are nestled along the island’s many bays, such as Ao Tapao and Ao Phrao, which offer direct access to soft sands and calm, shallow seas.
What sets Ko Kut apart is not just its natural beauty, but its sense of stillness. This is a place for quiet mornings, slow swims, and evenings under star-filled skies.
A Canalside Retreat
Beyond the beaches, Ko Kut also has a more intimate, canalside side — particularly in its lush interior where canals meander through mangroves and coconut groves. Here, travelers can experience homestay accommodations that offer a deeper connection to local life.
One beloved example is Baan Makok , a hidden gem located along a quiet canal. With rustic-chic wooden cabins built right over the water, surrounded by trees and silence, the atmosphere is tranquil and immersive. Kayaks are available for guests to paddle into the surrounding mangroves, while meals are lovingly prepared from fresh local ingredients.
Staying here offers a different kind of island experience — one that’s slower, more rooted in nature, and perfect for travelers who value authenticity and serenity.
Ko Mak
: A Low-Carbon Island for Nature Lovers
Ko Mak is often described as the “greenest” island in Trat — not just because of its lush landscape, but also because of the islanders’ commitment to sustainable tourism. Unlike its larger neighbors, Ko Mak has no noisy nightlife or large-scale developments. Instead, it offers an eco-friendly atmosphere favored by backpackers, cyclists, and anyone who appreciates nature.
Most businesses here follow a Low Carbon tourism policy, encouraging environmentally friendly practices. Visitors can enjoy quiet beaches, take bike rides through coconut plantations, paddle kayaks in calm bays, or even try sailing — all in harmony with the environment.
Ko Mak is where you come to breathe easy, unplug, and truly reconnect with nature.
Ko Kham
Just off the coast of Ko Mak is Ko Kham, a small island that packs a visual punch. It’s a popular day-trip destination, reached by a short boat ride, and famous for its contrasting scenery — powdery white beaches set against dark volcanic rocks and turquoise water.
The beach is ideal for swimming and sunbathing, but many visitors come just to soak in the unique landscape. Black volcanic rocks scattered along the sand give Ko Kham a rugged yet beautiful appearance, making it a favorite spot for photography.
Though undeveloped, Ko Kham remains accessible and unforgettable — the kind of place that reminds you how diverse Thailand’s coastal beauty can be.
