Koh Rok Roi

Ko Rok Roi is a small, uninhabited island in Tarutao National Marine Park’s outer group, close to Koh Lipe in Satun province. It’s not the well-known Koh Rok near Koh Lanta — that pair of islands (Koh Rok Nai and Koh Rok Nok) sits roughly 100 km away in Mu Ko Lanta National Park, off Krabi. This is a separate, far smaller island that functions as a rest and photo stop on the outer-island boat route rather than a full day-trip destination in its own right.

A short white sand beach faces the sea on one side of the island, with a viewpoint on the higher ground behind it giving an elevated look over the surrounding water — the main reason boats pull in here. There’s no jetty infrastructure or facilities: longtail and speedboats simply beach or anchor close by, passengers wade or step ashore, and the stop typically lasts long enough for a swim and a look from the viewpoint rather than a full excursion.

Insider Tip: Don’t book a trip expecting Ko Rok Roi to be the headline stop — it’s usually a short addition on longer Tarutao outer-island itineraries. Confirm with your boat operator that it’s actually on the route before assuming it’s included.

The setting is quiet by design. Tarutao’s outer zone sees far fewer visitors than the inner islands around Koh Lipe, and Ko Rok Roi itself has no development to draw crowds — it’s a stop, not a resort island.

Watch out: There’s no shade structure, drinking water, or shop on the island. Bring your own water, reef-safe sunscreen, and snorkel gear if you plan to get in the water, since nothing is available to rent.

November through April brings the calmest seas for the outer-island boat routes; the park’s outer zone can get choppy and some routes close during the southwest monsoon. Overnight stays aren’t permitted on any of Tarutao’s uninhabited outer islands, Ko Rok Roi included. If you want a fuller day exploring this part of the park, Ko Rawi offers more to see and better snorkelling on the same general route.