Thailand’s eastern islands offer some of the country’s most rewarding island-hopping experiences. If you have one week available, the ideal route is Koh Chang → Koh Mak → Koh Kood, allowing you to experience three very different islands at a comfortable pace.
This itinerary starts with the largest and most developed island, gradually transitions to quieter destinations, and finishes on one of Thailand’s most peaceful tropical islands. It is especially suitable for first-time visitors looking for a balance of sightseeing, relaxation, nature, and authentic island life.
Why Choose This Route?
Each island offers a distinct atmosphere:
| Island | Best For | Recommended Stay |
|---|---|---|
| Koh Chang | Beaches, waterfalls, restaurants, activities | 3 nights |
| Koh Mak | Cycling, quiet beaches, local atmosphere | 2 nights |
| Koh Kood | Relaxation, pristine beaches, nature | 2 nights |
Following this order creates a natural progression from activity to relaxation while minimizing travel stress.
Day 1: Arrive in Trat and Transfer to Koh Chang
After arriving in Trat Province, continue directly to Koh Chang, the largest island in the archipelago.
The mainland ferry crossing typically takes 30–45 minutes, followed by a short transfer to your accommodation.
Recommended areas for first-time visitors:
- White Sand Beach
- Kai Bae Beach
- Klong Prao Beach
These areas offer easy access to restaurants, convenience stores, tour operators, and beaches.
Estimated Costs:
| Item | Cost |
| Mainland ferry | THB 80–120 |
| Shared transfer (if needed) | THB 100–300 |
| Taxi on Koh Chang | THB 50–300 depending on distance |
Spend the evening relaxing on the beach and enjoying your first island sunset.
Day 2: Explore Koh Chang’s Beaches and Waterfalls
Dedicate a full day to discovering Koh Chang’s natural attractions.
Highlights include:
- White Sand Beach
- Lonely Beach
- Kai Bae Viewpoint
- Klong Plu Waterfall
Klong Plu Waterfall is the island’s most famous waterfall and offers a refreshing swimming area surrounded by rainforest.
Optional activities:
- Snorkeling tours
- Scuba diving trips
- Kayaking
- Jungle trekking
Typical Activity Costs:
| Activity | Approximate Cost |
| Snorkeling trip | THB 700–1,500 |
| Diving excursion | THB 2,500–4,500 |
| Kayak rental | THB 150–400 |
Day 3: Discover Local Life on Koh Chang
Slow the pace and explore a different side of the island.
Visit Ban Salak Khok, a traditional fishing village surrounded by mangrove forests.
Popular activities include:
- Mangrove boat tours
- Seafood dining
- Photography
- Café hopping
This day also provides time to relax at the beach or enjoy a less crowded section of the island.
For travelers working remotely, Koh Chang offers the strongest infrastructure and internet connectivity among the three islands.
Day 4: Transfer to Koh Mak
Today, leave Koh Chang and continue to Koh Mak.
The speedboat journey generally takes between 45 and 60 minutes, depending on weather conditions and routing.
Koh Mak is significantly quieter than Koh Chang and is known for:
- Minimal development
- Quiet beaches
- Cycling-friendly roads
- Relaxed atmosphere
Estimated Transportation Cost:
| Route | Cost |
| Koh Chang → Koh Mak speedboat | THB 500–900 |
After arrival, spend the afternoon enjoying Ao Kao Beach or Ao Suan Yai Beach.
Sunsets on Koh Mak are among the best in the Trat archipelago.
Day 5: Enjoy a Slow Day on Koh Mak
Koh Mak is best experienced slowly.
Rather than rushing between attractions, enjoy the island’s peaceful atmosphere.
Recommended activities:
- Bicycle touring
- Scooter exploration
- Beach hopping
- Stand-up paddleboarding
- Café visits
Unlike larger Thai islands, Koh Mak has very limited nightlife, making it ideal for travelers seeking a quiet retreat.
Suggested beaches:
- Ao Suan Yai
- Ao Kao
- Ao Tan
- Laem Son
Daily rental costs:
| Rental Type | Cost |
| Bicycle | THB 100–200 |
| Scooter | THB 250–400 |
Day 6: Transfer to Koh Kood
Continue onward to Koh Kood, often considered the most beautiful island in the region.
The speedboat journey typically takes 30–60 minutes.
Known for crystal-clear water, dense tropical forests, and uncrowded beaches, Koh Kood is the perfect final stop before returning to the mainland.
Estimated Transportation Cost:
| Route | Cost |
| Koh Mak → Koh Kood speedboat | THB 400–800 |
Accommodation options range from simple beachfront bungalows to luxury resorts.
Spend the remainder of the day enjoying the beach and slowing down completely.
Day 7: Explore Koh Kood and Return to Trat
Use your final day to visit some of Koh Kood’s most famous attractions.
Recommended places include:
- Klong Chao Waterfall
- Ao Yai Beach
- Bang Bao Beach
- Klong Hin Beach
- Klong Chao Beach
Depending on your departure schedule, enjoy a final beach morning before boarding a boat back to the mainland.
Estimated Cost:
| Route | Cost |
| Koh Kood → Mainland Trat speedboat | THB 600–1,000 |
Allow additional travel time if continuing to Bangkok or Trat Airport.
Transportation Overview
The simplest route is:
Trat → Koh Chang → Koh Mak → Koh Kood → Trat
Typical Travel Times:
| Route | Duration |
| Trat → Koh Chang | 30–45 minutes |
| Koh Chang → Koh Mak | 45–60 minutes |
| Koh Mak → Koh Kood | 30–60 minutes |
| Koh Kood → Trat | 60–90 minutes |
Seasonal Considerations
High Season (November–April)
- More ferry departures
- Easier island transfers
- Better sea conditions
- Higher accommodation rates
Green Season (May–October)
- Reduced boat schedules
- Potential weather-related delays
- Lower hotel prices
- Fewer crowds
Always confirm boat schedules a few days before departure, especially during the rainy season.
Suggested Budget for 7 Days
Excluding accommodation and flights.
| Category | Estimated Cost |
| Ferries and boats | THB 1,600–2,800 |
| Local transportation | THB 500–1,200 |
| Activities | THB 1,000–5,000 |
| Food and drinks | THB 2,000–4,000 |
| Total | THB 5,100–13,000 |
Final Thoughts
For first-time visitors to Thailand’s eastern islands, this 7-day itinerary offers an excellent balance of exploration and relaxation.
Koh Chang provides the most facilities and activities, Koh Mak delivers a peaceful community atmosphere, and Koh Kood offers some of the region’s most beautiful beaches. Following this sequence creates a smooth travel rhythm while allowing enough time to appreciate the unique character of each island.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is 7 days enough to visit Koh Chang, Koh Mak, and Koh Kood?
Yes. Seven days provides enough time to spend three nights on Koh Chang, two nights on Koh Mak, and two nights on Koh Kood while maintaining a comfortable pace.
2. What is the best time of year for this itinerary?
November through April offers the best weather, calmer seas, and more frequent ferry services.
3. Can I visit all three islands without renting a scooter?
Yes. Local taxis, hotel transfers, bicycles, and walking are sufficient for most visitors.
4. Which island has the best beaches?
Koh Kood is generally considered to have the most pristine and least developed beaches.
5. Which island is best for nightlife?
Koh Chang has the widest selection of bars, restaurants, and evening entertainment.
6. Is Koh Mak suitable for families?
Yes. Koh Mak’s quiet roads, peaceful atmosphere, and safe beaches make it popular with families.
7. Do ferries operate year-round?
Yes, but schedules are typically reduced during the rainy season from May to October.
8. How much should I budget for island transportation?
Most travelers spend between THB 1,600 and THB 2,800 on ferries and speedboats throughout the trip.
9. Should accommodation be booked in advance?
During the high season, booking several weeks in advance is recommended, especially for beachfront properties.
10. Which island is best for a longer stay?
Koh Kood is often the preferred choice for extended stays due to its peaceful atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and slower pace of life.
For a Complete Travel Guide
For more detailed information on transportation options, booking tips, itinerary suggestions, and everything you need to know about planning your trip, visit our full guide:
