If you are looking for a less touristy island in Thailand, where you can enjoy the natural beauty, the local culture, and the relaxing vibe, then you should definitely consider visiting Koh Mook. Koh Mook, also spelled Koh Muk, is a small island in the Andaman Sea, located in the Trang province of southern Thailand. It is part of the Hat Chao Mai National Park, which protects the marine and coastal ecosystems of the area. Koh Mook is famous for its stunning Emerald Cave, where you can swim through a dark tunnel to reach a hidden lagoon surrounded by limestone cliffs. But there is more to Koh Mook than just the Emerald Cave. You can also explore the Big Cave, go on a boat tour to the nearby islands of Koh Kradan and Koh Ngai, kayak, snorkel, dive, cycle, hike, or just relax on the beautiful beaches. Koh Mook is also home to a friendly and authentic fishing village, where you can experience the local life and cuisine.
In this article, we will provide you with everything you need to know about travelling to Koh Mook, Thailand. We will cover how to get there, where to stay, what to do, where to eat, how to get around, and some useful tips for your trip. This is the ultimate travel guide to Koh Mook, Thailand, the hidden gem of the Andaman Sea.
How to Get to Koh Mook
Koh Mook is an island that can only be reached by boat. The nearest mainland town is Trang, which has an airport, a train station, and a bus terminal. From Trang, you can take a bus, a minivan, or a taxi to Trang pier, and then take a ferry or a longtail boat to Koh Mook. Alternatively, you can take a ferry, a speedboat, or a longtail boat from other popular destinations in the Andaman Sea, such as Krabi, Phuket, Koh Lanta, Koh Phi Phi, Koh Lipe, and Koh Ngai.
How to Get to Koh Mook from Trang
Trang is the main gateway to Koh Mook, as it is the closest mainland town to the island. Trang has an airport, a train station, and a bus terminal that connect it with other major cities in Thailand, such as Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, and Krabi. From Trang, you need to take a bus, a minivan, or a taxi to Trang pier, and then take a ferry or a longtail boat to Koh Mook.
- Bus: The cheapest option to get to Trang pier from Trang airport or train station is to take a public bus. The bus number is 301, and it runs every 20 minutes from 6 am to 6 pm. The bus fare is 20 baht per person, and the journey takes about 30 minutes. The bus stop is located outside the airport terminal or the train station. You can ask the driver to drop you off at Trang pier, which is also known as Kuan Thung Kuu pier.
- Minivan: A faster and more comfortable option to get to Trang pier from Trang airport or train station is to take a minivan. The minivan service is operated by various companies, such as Phantip Travel, Lomprayah, and Tigerline. The minivan fare is around 100 baht per person, and the journey takes about 20 minutes. The minivan stop is located inside the airport terminal or the train station. You can book your ticket online or at the counter. The minivan will drop you off at Trang pier, which is also known as Kuan Thung Kuu pier.
- Taxi: The most convenient and fastest option to get to Trang pier from Trang airport or train station is to take a taxi. The taxi service is available 24/7, and you can find a taxi stand outside the airport terminal or the train station. The taxi fare is around 300 baht per car, and the journey takes about 15 minutes. You can negotiate the price with the driver before getting in. The taxi will drop you off at Trang pier, which is also known as Kuan Thung Kuu pier.
- Ferry: The cheapest option to get to Koh Mook from Trang pier is to take a ferry. The ferry service is operated by various companies, such as Phantip Travel, Lomprayah, and Tigerline. The ferry fare is around 300 baht per person, and the journey takes about 2 hours. The ferry departs from Trang pier at 8 am, 10 am, 12 pm, and 2 pm. The ferry will stop at Koh Ngai and Koh Kradan before reaching Koh Mook. The ferry will drop you off at Koh Mook pier, which is located on the east coast of the island.
- Longtail boat: A faster and more flexible option to get to Koh Mook from Trang pier is to take a longtail boat. The longtail boat service is operated by local fishermen, who can be found at the pier. The longtail boat fare is around 1500 baht per boat, and the journey takes about 45 minutes. The longtail boat can accommodate up to 6 people, and you can share the cost with other travellers. The longtail boat departs from Trang pier at any time, depending on the availability and the demand. The longtail boat will drop you off at any beach or resort on Koh Mook, depending on your preference.
How to Get to Koh Mook from Other Destinations
Koh Mook is also accessible by boat from other popular destinations in the Andaman Sea, such as Krabi, Phuket, Koh Lanta, Koh Phi Phi, Koh Lipe, and Koh Ngai. You can take a ferry, a speedboat, or a longtail boat from these places to Koh Mook.
- Ferry: The most common option to get to Koh Mook from other destinations is to take a ferry. The ferry service is operated by various companies, such as Phantip Travel, Lomprayah, and Tigerline. The ferry fare ranges from 400 baht to 1200 baht per person, depending on the distance and the season. The ferry journey takes from 1 hour to 4 hours, depending on the destination and the stops. The ferry departs from different piers at different times, depending on the destination and the company. You can check the schedule and book your ticket online or at the pier. The ferry will stop at Koh Ngai and Koh Kradan before reaching Koh Mook. The ferry will drop you off at Koh Mook pier, which is located on the east coast of the island.
- Speedboat: A faster and more comfortable option to get to Koh Mook from other destinations is to take a speedboat. The speedboat service is operated by various companies, such as Phantip Travel, Lomprayah, and Tigerline. The speedboat fare ranges from 600 baht to 1500 baht per person, depending on the distance and the season. The speedboat journey takes from 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the destination and the stops. The speedboat departs from different piers at different times, depending on the destination and the company. You can check the schedule and book your ticket online or at the pier. The speedboat will stop at Koh Ngai and Koh Kradan before reaching Koh Mook. The speedboat will drop you off at Koh Mook pier, which is located on the east coast of the island.
- Longtail boat: A more flexible and adventurous option to get to Koh Mook from other destinations is to take a longtail boat. The longtail boat service is operated by local fishermen, who can be found at the piers or the beaches of the other islands. The longtail boat fare ranges from 1000 baht to 3000 baht per boat, depending on the distance and the season. The longtail boat journey takes from 45 minutes to 3 hours, depending on the destination and the weather. The longtail boat can accommodate up to 6 people, and you can share the cost with other travellers. The longtail boat departs from the piers or the beaches at any time, depending on the availability and the demand. The longtail boat will drop you off at any beach or resort on Koh Mook, depending on your preference.
Where to Stay on Koh Mook
Koh Mook has a variety of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. You can choose from hostels, resorts, bungalows, or villas, depending on your needs and expectations. Most of the accommodation options are located on the east coast of the island, near the pier and the village. However, there are also some options on the west coast of the island, near the Sivalai Beach and the Emerald Cave. Here are some of the best accommodation options on Koh Mook, categorized by budget.
Best Budget Accommodation on Koh Mook
If you are looking for a cheap and cheerful place to stay on Koh Mook, you can opt for one of the hostels, resorts, or bungalows that offer basic facilities and services at affordable prices. These are some of the best budget accommodation options on Koh Mook:
- Koh Mook Hostel: This is the only hostel on Koh Mook, and it is a great choice for solo travellers, backpackers, and budget-conscious travellers. The hostel offers dorm beds and private rooms with shared bathrooms, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and lockers. The hostel also has a common area, a kitchen, a garden, and a terrace. The hostel is located on the east coast of the island, near the pier and the village. The price for a dorm bed is 250 baht per night, and the price for a private room is 600 baht per night.
- Koh Mook Resort: This is a cozy and friendly resort that offers bungalows and rooms with private bathrooms, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and balconies. The resort also has a restaurant, a bar, a massage service, and a tour desk. The resort is located on the east coast of the island, near the pier and the village. The price for a bungalow or a room is 700 baht per night.
- Koh Mook Coco Lodge: This is a charming and rustic lodge that offers wooden bungalows with private bathrooms, fans, free Wi-Fi, and hammocks. The lodge also has a restaurant, a bar, a library, and a bicycle rental service. The lodge is located on the west coast of the island, near the Sivalai Beach and the Emerald Cave. The price for a bungalow is 800 baht per night.
Best Mid-Range Accommodation on Koh Mook
If you are looking for a comfortable and convenient place to stay on Koh Mook, you can opt for one of the resorts or bungalows that offer moderate facilities and services at reasonable prices. These are some of the best mid-range accommodation options on Koh Mook:
- Mook Ing Lay: This is a modern and stylish resort that offers bungalows and rooms with private bathrooms, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and flat-screen TVs. The resort also has a restaurant, a bar, a swimming pool, and a tour desk. The resort is located on the east coast of the island, near the pier and the village. The price for a bungalow or a room is 1500 baht per night.
- Koh Mook Garden Beach Resort: This is a lovely and peaceful resort that offers bungalows and rooms with private bathrooms, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and refrigerators. The resort also has a restaurant, a bar, a swimming pool, and a spa. The resort is located on the west coast of the island, near the Sivalai Beach and the Emerald Cave. The price for a bungalow or a room is 2000 baht per night.
- Koh Mook Riviera Beach Resort: This is a beautiful and elegant resort that offers bungalows and rooms with private bathrooms, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and minibars. The resort also has a restaurant, a bar, a swimming pool, and a fitness center. The resort is located on the east coast of the island, near the pier and the village. The price for a bungalow or a room is 2500 baht per night.
Best Luxury Accommodation on Koh Mook
If you are looking for a luxurious and exclusive place to stay on Koh Mook, you can opt for one of the resorts or villas that offer premium facilities and services at high prices. These are some of the best luxury accommodation options on Koh Mook:
- Sivalai Beach Resort: This is the most famous and prestigious resort on Koh Mook, and it is a perfect choice for couples, families, and honeymooners. The resort offers villas and rooms with private bathrooms, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and flat-screen TVs. The resort also has a restaurant, a bar, a swimming pool, and a spa. The resort is located on the west coast of the island, on a stunning spit of land that forms a private beach. The price for a villa or a room is 4000 baht per night.
- Koh Mook De Tara Resort: This is a splendid and serene resort that offers villas and rooms with private bathrooms, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and balconies. The resort also has a restaurant, a bar, a swimming pool, and a massage service. The resort is located on the east coast of the island, near the pier and the village. The price for a villa or a room is 4500 baht per night.
- Koh Mook The Sun Great Resort: This is a magnificent and secluded resort that offers villas and rooms with private bathrooms, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and flat-screen TVs. The resort also has a restaurant, a bar, a swimming pool, and a tour desk. The resort is located on the west coast of the island, near the Sivalai Beach and the Emerald Cave. The price for a villa or a room is 5000 baht per night.
What to Do on Koh Mook
Koh Mook has a lot of things to do for different types of travellers, whether you are looking for adventure, nature, culture, or relaxation. You can explore the amazing caves, go on a boat tour to the nearby islands, kayak, snorkel, dive, cycle, hike, or just relax on the beautiful beaches. Here are some of the best things to do on Koh Mook:
Emerald Cave (Tham Morakot)
The Emerald Cave, also known as Tham Morakot in Thai, is one of the most famous attractions on Koh Mook, and it is a must-see for anyone who visits the island. The Emerald Cave is a natural wonder, where you can swim through a dark tunnel to reach a hidden lagoon surrounded by limestone cliffs. The lagoon is filled with emerald green water, hence the name of the cave. The cave is also a historical site, as it was once used by pirates to hide their treasures.
To get to the Emerald Cave, you can either join a boat tour or rent a kayak from the Sivalai Beach or the Koh Mook pier. The boat tour will cost you around 300 baht per person, and it will also take you to the nearby islands of Koh Kradan and Koh Ngai. The kayak rental will cost you around 100 baht per hour, and you can paddle to the cave at your own pace. The best time to visit the Emerald Cave is in the morning, when the tide is low and the sun is shining through the tunnel.
- Kayaking, Snorkeling, and Diving: If you love water activities, you will enjoy kayaking, snorkeling, and diving on Koh Mook. You can rent a kayak from the Sivalai Beach or the Koh Mook pier, and paddle around the island, exploring the coastline, the caves, and the mangroves. You can also snorkel or dive in the clear water, and see the colorful coral reefs, the tropical fish, and the sea turtles. You can rent snorkeling or diving equipment from the Sivalai Beach or the Koh Mook pier, or join a snorkeling or diving tour from one of the dive shops on the island. The price for renting a kayak is around 100 baht per hour, the price for renting snorkeling or diving equipment is around 200 baht per day, and the price for joining a snorkeling or diving tour is around 1000 baht per person. The best time to kayak, snorkel, or dive on Koh Mook is in the morning, when the water is calm and clear.
- Cycling, Hiking, and Village Tour: If you prefer land activities, you will enjoy cycling, hiking, and village tour on Koh Mook. You can rent a bicycle from the Sivalai Beach or the Koh Mook pier, and cycle around the island, exploring the countryside, the jungle, and the rubber plantations. You can also hike on the Koh Mook Jungle Track, which is a 3-kilometer trail that leads you to the Big Cave and the viewpoint. You can also visit the fishing village of Baan Koh Mook, which is located on the east coast of the island, near the pier and the village. You can see the local life, the wooden houses, the mosque, and the school. You can also buy some souvenirs, such as batik, pearls, and shells. You can rent a bicycle for around 50 baht per day, or join a guided tour for around 500 baht per person. The best time to cycle, hike, or visit the village on Koh Mook is in the afternoon, when the temperature is cooler and the sun is less intense.
- Relax on the Beach: If you just want to relax on the beach, you will not be disappointed by Koh Mook. The island has several beautiful beaches, where you can enjoy the soft sand, the warm sun, and the gentle breeze. The most popular beach on Koh Mook is Sivalai Beach, which is located on the west coast of the island, on a stunning spit of land that forms a private beach for the Sivalai Beach Resort. The beach has white sand, turquoise water, and palm trees, and it offers a spectacular view of the sunset. The beach is open to the public, but you may have to pay a small fee to enter the resort area. Another great beach on Koh Mook is Charlie's Beach, which is located on the north coast of the island, near the Emerald Cave. The beach has golden sand, clear water, and rocks, and it offers a peaceful and secluded atmosphere. The beach also has a beach bar, where you can enjoy some drinks and snacks. Other beaches on Koh Mook include Farang Beach, Sabai Beach, and Ao Kham Beach, which are located on the east coast of the island, near the pier and the village. These beaches are less crowded and less scenic, but they are still nice places to relax and swim.
Where to Eat on Koh Mook
Koh Mook has a variety of restaurants and bars to suit different tastes and budgets. You can choose from local, western, or seafood cuisine, depending on your mood and preference. Most of the restaurants and bars are located on the east coast of the island, near the pier and the village. However, there are also some options on the west coast of the island, near the Sivalai Beach and the Emerald Cave. Here are some of the best restaurants and bars on Koh Mook:
Best Local Restaurants on Koh Mook
If you want to try some authentic and delicious local food on Koh Mook, you can visit one of the local restaurants that offer Thai and Muslim dishes at reasonable prices. These are some of the best local restaurants on Koh Mook:
- Koyao Seafood: This is a popular and friendly restaurant that offers fresh and tasty seafood dishes, such as grilled fish, fried squid, and tom yum soup. The restaurant also offers other Thai dishes, such as pad thai, green curry, and fried rice. The restaurant is located on the east coast of the island, near the pier and the village. The price for a dish is around 100 baht.
- Hilltop Restaurant: This is a cozy and scenic restaurant that offers a panoramic view of the island and the sea. The restaurant offers a variety of Thai and Muslim dishes, such as chicken satay, massaman curry, and roti. The restaurant also offers some western dishes, such as burgers, pizzas, and sandwiches. The restaurant is located on the west coast of the island, near the Sivalai Beach and the Emerald Cave. The price for a dish is around 150 baht.
- Koh Mook City Centre Restaurant and Bar: This is a lively and fun restaurant and bar that offers a mix of Thai and western dishes, such as noodles, salads, steaks, and pasta. The restaurant also offers a variety of drinks, such as beers, cocktails, and smoothies. The restaurant also has a pool table, a dart board, and a karaoke machine. The restaurant is located on the east coast of the island, near the pier and the village. The price for a dish is around 200 baht.
- Best Western Restaurants on Koh Mook
If you are craving some familiar and comforting western food on Koh Mook, you can visit one of the western restaurants that offer burgers, pizzas, sandwiches, and salads at moderate prices. These are some of the best western restaurants on Koh Mook:
- Happy Restaurant: This is a cheerful and cozy restaurant that offers a variety of western dishes, such as burgers, pizzas, sandwiches, and salads. The restaurant also offers some Thai dishes, such as fried rice, noodles, and curries. The restaurant is located on the east coast of the island, near the pier and the village. The price for a dish is around 150 baht.
- Charlie's Beach Bar: This is a relaxed and fun beach bar that offers a selection of western dishes, such as burgers, pizzas, sandwiches, and salads. The beach bar also offers some drinks, such as beers, cocktails, and smoothies. The beach bar is located on the north coast of the island, near the Emerald Cave. The price for a dish is around 200 baht.
- Sivalai Beach Restaurant: This is a classy and elegant restaurant that offers a range of western dishes, such as steaks, pastas, soups, and desserts. The restaurant also offers some seafood dishes, such as grilled fish, lobster, and oysters. The restaurant is located on the west coast of the island, on the Sivalai Beach Resort. The price for a dish is around 300 baht.
How to Get Around Koh Mook
Koh Mook is a small island that can be easily explored by various modes of transportation. You can choose from renting a scooter, walking, or taking a taxi, depending on your preference and budget. Here are some of the best ways to get around Koh Mook:
Rent a Scooter
The most convenient and flexible way to get around Koh Mook is to rent a scooter, which will allow you to explore the island at your own pace and schedule. You can rent a scooter from the Sivalai Beach or the Koh Mook pier, and pay around 200 baht per day. You can also rent a helmet, which is highly recommended for your safety. You can drive the scooter on the main road that circles the island, or on the dirt roads that lead to the beaches and the caves. You can also park the scooter anywhere on the island, as long as you do not block the traffic or the entrance. The best time to rent a scooter on Koh Mook is in the morning, when the weather is cooler and the traffic is lighter.
Walk
The cheapest and most eco-friendly way to get around Koh Mook is to walk, which will allow you to enjoy the scenery and the atmosphere of the island. You can walk on the main road that circles the island, or on the dirt roads that lead to the beaches and the caves. You can also walk on the trails that cross the island, such as the Koh Mook Jungle Track. You can walk anywhere on the island, as long as you do not trespass on private property or disturb the wildlife. The best time to walk on Koh Mook is in the afternoon, when the temperature is cooler and the sun is less intense.
Taxi
The most comfortable and fastest way to get around Koh Mook is to take a taxi, which will allow you to travel between the main points of interest on the island. You can take a taxi from the Sivalai Beach or the Koh Mook pier, and pay around 50 baht per person. You can also call a taxi from your accommodation or restaurant, and pay around 100 baht per person. The taxi service is available 24/7, and you can find a taxi stand or a phone number at the pier or the village. The taxi is usually a pickup truck or a motorbike with a sidecar, which can accommodate up to 4 people. The best time to take a taxi on Koh Mook is in the evening, when the weather is cooler and the traffic is lighter.
Koh Mook Travel Tips
To make the most of your trip to Koh Mook, you should follow some useful tips and recommendations that will help you plan your itinerary, pack your luggage, stay safe and healthy, and be a responsible traveller. Here are some of the best travel tips for Koh Mook:
When to Visit Koh Mook
The best time to visit Koh Mook is from November to April, which is the dry season and the high season on the island. During this time, the weather is sunny and pleasant, the water is calm and clear, and the island is lively and festive. However, this is also the most expensive and crowded time on the island, so you should book your accommodation and transportation in advance, and expect to pay higher prices for everything. You can also visit Koh Mook from May to October, which is the rainy season and the low season on the island. During this time, the weather is humid and rainy, the water is rough and murky, and the island is quiet and peaceful. However, this is also the cheapest and least crowded time on the island, so you can enjoy some discounts and bargains, and have the island to yourself. You should also be prepared for some closures and cancellations, and bring some rain gear and insect repellent.
What to Pack for Koh Mook
To pack for Koh Mook, you should bring some essential and optional items that will make your trip more comfortable and enjoyable. Here is a checklist of what to pack for Koh Mook:
- Essential items:
- Passport, visa, and travel insurance
- Cash, credit card, and ATM card
- Phone, charger, and power bank
- Camera, memory card, and battery
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, and hat
- Swimsuit, towel, and flip-flops
- T-shirt, shorts, and sandals
- Light jacket, pants, and shoes
- Toiletries, medications, and first-aid kit
- Water bottle, snacks, and reusable bag
- Optional items:
- Flashlight, headlamp, and batteries
- Mosquito net, repellent, and coil
- Waterproof bag, dry bag, and ziplock bag
- Snorkeling or diving equipment and mask
- Kayak or paddle board and paddle
- Bicycle or scooter and helmet
- Book, magazine, or Kindle
- Board game, card game, or puzzle
- Souvenir, gift, or donation
How to Stay Safe and Healthy on Koh Mook
To stay safe and healthy on Koh Mook, you should follow some tips and precautions that will help you avoid or deal with some potential risks, hazards, and diseases. Here are some of the best tips for staying safe and healthy on Koh Mook:
- Drink only bottled or filtered water, and avoid ice cubes and tap water.
- Eat only cooked or peeled food, and avoid raw or street food.
- Wash your hands frequently, and use sanitizer or wipes.
- Wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and hat, and avoid sunburn and heatstroke.
- Wear insect repellent, and avoid mosquito and sandfly bites.
- Wear a helmet, and drive carefully and slowly.
- Wear a life jacket, and swim or snorkel with a buddy.
- Wear shoes, and watch out for snakes and scorpions.
- Avoid touching or feeding the animals, and beware of dogs and monkeys.
- Respect the local culture and religion, and dress modestly and appropriately.
- Carry a copy of your passport, visa, and travel insurance, and keep them in a safe place.
- Have some emergency contacts and numbers, and know where to find the nearest clinic or hospital.
Conclusion
Koh Mook is a hidden gem of the Andaman Sea, where you can enjoy the natural beauty, the local culture, and the relaxing vibe. You can explore the amazing caves, go on a boat tour to the nearby islands, kayak, snorkel, dive, cycle, hike, or just relax on the beautiful beaches. You can also choose from a variety of accommodation, food, and transportation options, depending on your budget and preference. You can also follow some useful tips and recommendations, that will help you plan your trip, pack your luggage, stay safe and healthy, and be a responsible traveller.
This is the ultimate travel guide to Koh Mook, Thailand, the hidden gem of the Andaman Sea. We hope you enjoyed reading this article, and we hope you will visit Koh Mook
