Thailand

Koh Mak is a small green island located in the Gulf of Thailand to the east of the country. Situated between the more famous Koh Chang and Koh Kood, this paradise island is still relatively untouched by mass tourism. Unlike its neighboring islands with rugged terrain, Koh Mak is entirely flat, and its beaches are breathtaking!

It is part of the 52 islands of the Mu Ko Chang Marine National Park. Its beauty and tranquility make it exceptional for a romantic getaway or a few days of relaxation.

History

During the reign of King Rama V, Chinese affairs officer Chao Sua Seng established a coconut plantation on Koh Mak. He then transferred ownership to Luang Prompakdii, who was in charge of Chinese affairs.

Khun Mae Mulee, Luang Propakdii's wife, acquired the coconut plantation for 300 Chang, equivalent to 24,000 Baht. Since then, Koh Mak has been owned by the descendants of the Taveteekul clan until today.

Their family was highly respected in Prachatkiriket. Prosperous, they expanded their business by purchasing and processing mangrove wood. The couple were the first traders to purchase mangrove wood and successfully ship it to Bangkok.

In 1910, their entire family moved to the coconut plantation, and their children cultivated rubber on the island's virgin land. As the couple were devoted to Buddhism, they built a temple, which unfortunately was abandoned after two years.

In 1974, the first tourist bungalows were built on the east coast of Koh Mak in Ban Ao Nid.

In 1987, tourism began to flourish, and hotel complexes were established on some of the island's beaches.

Today

Coconut and rubber plantations are renowned on Koh Mak, thanks to the descendants of Tavateekul. Most of the island's inhabitants work in agriculture.

Currently, Koh Mak has about three fishing villages, three diving schools, and 25 resorts.

Most hotels and restaurants are concentrated on Ao Kao Beach. The island is known to be much quieter than its neighbors. Tourists are fewer and more discreet, promising a peaceful stay, perfect for enjoying dreamy beaches in tranquility.

What to see on Koh Mak?

Koh Mak offers dreamy beaches with white sand and turquoise waters. Often, you'll find yourself alone on the beach, enjoying the postcard-worthy scenery in peace.

Ao Suan Yai Beach

Located in the northwest of the island, its beautiful two-kilometer white sand will immediately captivate you. The ridge at its western end provides a magnificent viewpoint. Plus, the sunsets are breathtaking. A must-visit!

Ao Pra Beach

Like Ao Suan Yai, this beach is perfect for watching sunsets. Its postcard-perfect landscape is undoubtedly one of Koh Mak's most beautiful beaches. It also houses several resorts.

Ao Tan Beach

It is a haven of peace with exceptional scenery. Its large beach is home to only three resorts. It's a great opportunity to relax and soak up the sun in peace.

Laem Son Beach

This is the beach frequented by Koh Mak's residents. Here, they come to swim, picnic, or have a barbecue under the shade of tall pine trees.

Ao Pai Beach

It's a beautiful beach with red sand and rocks. Offering an extraordinary view, it's perfect for a stroll.

Baan Lang Beach

This beach winds between black limestone formations and mangroves. The colors that emerge from it ensure beautiful photos.

What to do on Koh Mak?

Koh Mak is home to several diving schools that will take you to nearby islands.

Feel free to rent bicycles to explore the entire island.

Some hotels and restaurants on the island offer kayaks.

During your stay, you can take cooking classes to learn Thai cuisine.

Climate

Koh Mak has a tropical climate, with average temperatures ranging from 23°C to 31°C throughout the year. There's a summer season known for its thunderstorms, and a relatively dry winter season.

Precipitation is low in the winter, and the ideal time to visit Koh Mak is from November to March. You'll enjoy good weather with gentle, warm breezes.

How to get to Koh Mak?

Koh Mak is reachable by boat from Laem Ngop, which is the embarkation point for Koh Chang. This is an essential step if you're traveling from Bangkok. For this, you can go through Trat or travel directly from Bangkok to Koh Chang. To get to Trat, you have the option of flying, taking the bus, minivan, taxi, or driving.

- By plane: Bangkok Airways operates three flights daily between Bangkok and Trat. It's the only company that offers this route, and you can ask for a transfer to the embarkation port. Alternatively, you can take the bus.

- By bus: From Ekamai station and Suvarnabhumi airport bus terminal, there are direct buses to Laem Ngop and Trat. Some buses from Mo Chit station terminate at Trat, and then you'll need to take a taxi to the port.

- By minivan: From Bangkok, this is the cheapest option to reach the ports.

- By car: From Suvarnabhumi airport exit, take highway no. 7 until highway 344 exit. Once in Klaeng, access Route 3 towards Trat and then follow signs indicating Koh Chang until you reach Laem Ngop port.

- Take the boat at Laem Ngop: Speedboats or fast boats will take you directly to Koh Mak in just an hour.

With your Sawa’Discovery agency, you'll just need to be driven by your chauffeur. They'll take you to the embarkation port, and you'll be guided throughout your stay to your hotel on Koh Mak.

Getting around Koh Mak

Koh Mak is a relatively flat, small island that you can easily explore on foot. You can also rent a scooter to explore the island more deeply and its beautiful beaches.