Just a short journey from the bustling streets of Bangkok, Thailand’s east coast offers the perfect getaway for both locals and tourists alike. With convenient transport links and easy access to Cambodian border crossings, this region promises sun-soaked beaches, vibrant nightlife, and serene island escapes—all within reach of the capital.
While the eastern seaboard serves as Thailand’s industrial heartbeat, with sprawling refineries and deep-sea ports, don’t let that fool you. Beyond the bustling infrastructure lies a treasure trove of pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and hidden coves worthy of any tropical dream. Think powdery white sands swaying palm trees—Thailand’s famous southern beaches have nothing on these coastal gems.
Top Destinations Along Thailand’s East Coast
About 100km east of Bangkok, the charming town of Si Racha offers the perfect gateway to tranquil Ko Si Chang. With its rugged coastlines and laid-back vibe, this hidden gem is a sanctuary for those looking to escape the crowds. Nearby, the famous—or infamous—Pattaya awaits, drawing visitors with its electric nightlife despite its rather unremarkable shoreline.
But the real magic begins beyond Pattaya. As the coastline curves east, you’ll find Ban Phe, the jumping-off point for picturesque Ko Samet. Known for its powdery sands and crystal-clear waters, it’s one of Thailand’s most accessible island paradises.
Venture further, and the landscape transforms into lush hills and fertile valleys. Chanthaburi, the heart of Thailand’s gem trade, and Trat, a bustling hub for island hoppers, are must-visit towns before heading to the glorious Ko Chang archipelago. Here, dense jungles meet postcard-perfect beaches, while smaller islands like Ko Mak and Ko Kood offer tranquility far from the tourist trail.
With Highway 3 stretching along the east coast and plenty of convenient transport options, exploring this region is a breeze. Whether you’re looking for a quick getaway from Bangkok or an extended island-hopping adventure, Thailand’s east coast delivers unforgettable experiences for every traveler.
Crossing into Cambodia: Your Guide to the Aranyaprathet-Poipet Border
For travelers looking to journey from Thailand into Cambodia by land, the most popular crossing connects Aranyaprathet in Thailand with Poipet in Cambodia. Located about 210km east of Bangkok, this border route offers convenience—but also requires some caution to avoid common scams.
Smart travelers secure a Cambodian e-visa in advance and use reliable public transport. While package deals to Siem Reap (complete with visas on arrival) might seem tempting, they often lead to overcharges, dubious fees, and unreliable transport. Watch out for unofficial “consulates” in Aranyaprathet and touts insisting you exchange money—Cambodia accepts US dollars, so you don’t need riel before crossing.
Once you clear immigration, Siem Reap is just a two-hour taxi or bus ride away. If you get delayed in Aranyaprathet, the Inter Hotel offers clean, budget-friendly rooms.
Getting there: Bangkok-bound travelers have several options:
- Train: One daily departure (5:55 AM) from Bangkok, arriving at Aranyaprathet Station, 4km from the border.
- Bus: Frequent services from Bangkok’s Northern Bus Terminal or faster minivans from Victory Monument.
- From eastern towns: Take a bus to Sa Kaew, then transfer to Aranyaprathet.
Avoid through-tickets from Trat or Khao San Road—they often involve hidden fees and subpar transportation.
Si Racha: Gateway to the East & Home of Sriracha Sauce
After leaving Bangkok’s urban sprawl, you’ll reach Si Racha, a thriving industrial hub famous for two things: its namesake spicy Sriracha sauce and as the launch point for trips to Ko Si Chang.
The town’s main attraction is Wat Ko Loy, a striking Chinese-style temple on a tiny islet connected by a causeway. Check out the statue of Kuan Im (the Goddess of Mercy) and enjoy waterfront views.
Ko Si Chang: A Quiet Escape with Royal History
Unlike many Thai islands, Ko Si Chang isn’t about beach resorts—instead, it offers a relaxed, off-the-beaten-path experience. Highlights include:
- The abandoned summer palace of King Rama V
- White squirrels, a rare local species
- Coastal hikes & kayaking through scenic rock formations
The island also hosts unique festivals, including:
- Songkhran (April): Exorcism rituals and sandcastle contests.
- Visakha Puja (May): Chinese lantern parades.
- King Chulalongkorn’s Birthday (Sept): Old-world costumes and palace performances.
Ko Mak: A Hidden Paradise Away from the Crowds
Just 20km from Ko Chang, Ko Mak is a tranquil alternative with no nightclubs, jet skis, or noisy tourist crowds. Expect:
- Secluded beaches (Ao Suan Yai & Ao Kao)
- Plantation trails for biking or hiking
- Simple island living—no ATMs, minimal tourism infrastructure
The rainy season (June–Sept) means fewer boats but lush scenery—perfect for a quiet retreat at discounted rates.
Ko Kood: Pristine Beaches & Untouched Jungle
Thailand’s fourth-largest island remains blissfully underdeveloped, with:
- Postcard-perfect beaches fringed by coconut palms
- Dense rainforests hiding waterfalls and wildlife
- Remote charm—limited WiFi, no crowds
For now, Ko Kood remains a slice of untouched paradise—worth visiting before big tourism arrives.
Ko Kood, Thailand’s fourth-largest island, is a paradise where nature takes center stage. The west coast dazzles visitors with its crystal-clear turquoise waters, but this island offers far more than just picture-perfect beaches. Much of its coastline remains wild, fringed with mangroves and dense scrub instead of sandy shores, while lush tropical rainforests, palm groves, and rubber plantations dominate the inland areas.
This is an island best explored at a leisurely pace—whether on foot or by kayak—with sandy tracks and winding khlongs (canals) leading adventurers into its untouched heart. Cool seasonal breezes make hiking even more pleasant, and the island’s interior hides stunning waterfalls, including the famous Nam Tok Khlong Chao near Ao Khlong Chao, a popular day-trip spot for visitors from nearby Ko Chang and Ko Mak.
A Changing Paradise for Independent Travellers
For years, Ko Kood was primarily a package-tour destination due to its limited road network and boat access. But times are changing—now, independent travellers can easily reach the island via scheduled ferries from the mainland, Ko Chang, or Ko Mak. Budget-friendly guesthouses have also emerged, making this once-exclusive retreat more accessible.
Like many Thai islands, Ko Kood operates on a seasonal schedule. Boat services mostly run from November to May when the sea is calm, though some businesses now stay open year-round, offering tempting off-season discounts. Just be aware that malaria is present here—so keep repellent handy, use mosquito nets, and consider visiting the malaria-testing station in Ban Khlong Hin Dam if needed.
Ko Kood’s Unique Culture and Villages
The island’s 1,500 residents mostly earn their living from fishing, coconut palms, and rubber trees. Many have Khmer ancestry, a legacy from the early 20th century when Thais and Cambodians fled French-controlled territories to settle here.
Ko Kood’s main villages each have their own charm: Ban Khlong Hin Dam sits just inland from the main pier, while Ban Khlong Mat offers a peaceful natural harbor. The stilted fishing village of Ban Ao Salat on the northeast coast and the tight-knit community of Ban Ao Yai in the southeast provide glimpses into traditional island life. For budget travelers, Ao Khlong Chao and Ao Ngamkho are ideal bases, with a mix of affordable stays and local eateries. Meanwhile, secluded west-coast beaches cater to upscale resorts, perfect for those seeking solitude.
Diving and Snorkeling Adventures
Ko Kood’s underwater world is just as breathtaking as its jungles. Three dive operators offer everything from discovery dives to PADI certification, with prices ranging around B3,000 for two dives or B14,500 for an Open Water Diver course. Snorkeling trips cost about B1,000, and the island’s dive sites provide a quieter alternative to the crowded reefs near Ko Rang.
Top Dive Shops on Ko Kood
BB Divers – Opposite Away Resort in Ao Khlong Chao (t082 220 6002, wbbdivers.com).
Koh Kood Divers – Near Siam Beach Resort in Ao Bang Bao (t085 698 4122, wkohkooddivers.com).
Paradise Divers – Based at Ko Kood Beach Resort (Ao Khlong Mat) and Happy Days (Ao Ngamkho) (t087 144 5945, wkohkood-paradisedivers.com).
Dreaming of a Thai island getaway? Start planning your adventure to Thailand today.
Top image © Punnawit Suwattananun/Shutterstock
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