Ko Kho Khao, Phang Nga

Rising from the Andaman Sea off Phang Nga’s coast, Ko Kho Khao offers visitors a rare glimpse of authentic Thai island life largely untouched by mass tourism. This elongated island stretches along the mainland coast, its western shores facing the open ocean while mangrove-lined channels separate it from the continent. Unlike Thailand’s more developed islands, Ko Kho Khao maintains its traditional fishing village character, where local communities continue their ancestral ways of life alongside the growing eco-tourism industry.

Pristine beaches dominate the island’s western coastline, where soft white sand meets azure waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The coral reefs surrounding the island teem with tropical fish, while the shallow lagoons on the eastern side provide ideal conditions for kayaking through mangrove forests. Walking along the shore, you’ll hear the gentle lapping of waves mixed with calls from hornbills and other tropical birds inhabiting the island’s interior forests. Local fishing boats dot the horizon, their colorful hulls creating picturesque scenes against the backdrop of distant limestone karsts. The island’s rubber plantations and coconut groves offer shaded walks where the air carries hints of sea salt and tropical vegetation.

Tranquility defines the Ko Kho Khao experience, where time seems to move at the rhythm of the tides rather than modern schedules. Village life unfolds naturally around you – fishermen mending nets in the early morning, children playing in the shallows, and families gathering for meals at simple beachfront restaurants. The absence of high-rise hotels and bustling tourist infrastructure creates an atmosphere of genuine serenity, where sunset watching becomes a meditative daily ritual shared with just a handful of other visitors.

Visiting during the dry season from November through April ensures calm seas and clear skies ideal for water activities. Longtail boats from Takua Pa pier provide the primary access route, with the journey taking approximately 30 minutes. Pack reef-safe sunscreen, a waterproof bag for valuables, and comfortable walking shoes for exploring village paths. While accommodation options remain limited, this scarcity preserves the island’s peaceful character and offers an authentic alternative to Thailand’s busier beach destinations.