Koh Kood
Koh Kood is the second largest and southernmost island in the Koh Chang archipelago. Its topography is similar to that of Koh Chang - also mountainous and largely covered in rain forest. The highest hill on Koh Kood, at 315 metres, is Khao Phaentee in the southeast of the island.
Another significant scenic feature is Klong Chao waterfall. The waterfall itself is not particularly high but falls into a huge plunge pool in a very beautiful jungle setting, a good place for a cooling swim. Various tours in Koh Maak offer trips to the waterfall. Alternatively enquire on Koh Chang to book a boat tour privately.
The sea here is extremely clear and a brilliant blue colour. This makes the many beaches that run down the West coast of the island extremely pleasant places to be. Also there are some excellent corals at shallow depths on many of the beaches
Despite the fact that Koh Kood is Thailand’s fourth biggest island the population is estimated to be only 1,500. Infrastructure is improving and there is now a decent road between many points of interest on the island but the resorts to the extreme north and south of the island are still only accessible by boat. There is also a small hospital.
The largest settlement is the fishing village of Ao Salat in the northeast. This is worth a visit just to see the wide range of seafood brought in and sold on the rickety wooden pier.
Unfortunately there isn’t yet any organised public transport on the island. In fact there aren’t many vehicles at all. If you want to have a look around ask at your resort to see if you can hire a motorbike or get a car to take you around. Otherwise you might be able to get around in a motor boat or canoe.
Traditionally the resorts on the island have been luxury developments catering mainly to Thai package tourism. Transport to these resorts is arranged as part of the package deal.
There are now, however, some new low and medium end options which cater more to foreign visitors. Rooms at these places start at around 300Baht.
The easiest way to reach the island independently is with Koh Kood Seatrans leaving from Laem Ngop and Koh Chang or by taking the local ferry from Dan Khao close to Trat (see transport section) .
If you want a beautiful sandy beach virtually to yourself and don’t expect anything by way of nightlife other than listening to the waves lap then this is the place for you. If you expect a party you will be disappointed but if peace and quiet is your thing then Koh Kood is a good choice of destination. You can find some pretty good corals off the beaches if you like to snorkel. You can dive off Koh Kood with Ploy Scuba Diving in Ao Salat and next to Bai Kood Shambala.
