I think Koh Mak is the most beautiful Thai island we’ve visited yet.
It doesn’t have the dramatic limestone cliffs of the Andaman coast or Koh Chang’s teeming jungly mountains. Actually, there is nothing particularly grand or spectacular about this particular version of paradise. But the serenity of palm trees leaning over the empty strip of soft sand and the peacefully still crystal water has a special appeal because it’s so, so quiet here.
There are better places to go for an action holiday. There are certainly better places to go for a party. But if, like us, you just want to unwind – to dip into the sea between reading, yummy food, thai massages and a dozing in the sun – this is the place to be. No distractions, no hassle, no nothing. Just perfect beaches, cool water, and wonderful views of the many other islands that dot this part of the Gulf of Thailand.
The island is tiny compared to nearby Koh Chang and Koh Kood. If you hire a moped (insist they give you a helmet and wear it!!) or bicycle you can explore what the island has to offer very quickly and cheaply. Mopeds cost about 250 baht a day.
Most resorts and restaurant are on the two main beaches on the west of the island, though if you’re up for an explore there are several places to be found hidden away on the East side. We read about Laen Som, a great little beach on the North-East coast, and found it quite easily. Waiting at the beach was a tiny little hut serving glorious Thai staples. It was so good that we made are way back down the dirt track the next day for lunch and a swim!
For such a small island there are plenty of great restaurants to choose from. Food Art Hut serve delicious and extremely generous breakfasts, and I ate the best pizza I’ve had in well over a year at Koh Mak Rooftop (not on a rooftop!) although it was so big Matt had to finish it for me!
Tonight, we’ll be heading to Food Garden for some much anticipated BBQ, and maybe a few drinks. Night life is generally as chilled as you’d expect, but there’s great fun to be had with the mix of live western acoustic and traditional music at Art House, the one place on the island we’ve seen busy after 9pm. The fairy lights are plentiful, the seats are limited and the cocktails are strong!
But for now it’s time for these weary minds to dip into our favourite books and treat our tired bones to a much needed massage. So it’s goodbye from our favourite Thai island.
At least our favourite until tomorrow, when we visit the next one…
