Ko Kut is the southernmost island in the Ko Chang archipelago. At Khlong Chao Beach, fresh water from Khlong Chao Waterfall flows into the sea. Other highlights include swimming, coral watching and the culture of communities such as Ban Ao Yai and Ao Salat. When looking for a hotel, it helps to first consider whether you want to focus your trip on the sea and scenery or on the cultural life of local communities.
Waterfalls, beaches and coral reefs
Khlong Yai Ki Waterfall has clear, cool water and is suitable for swimming. The seawater at Khlong Hin Beach is also clear and suitable for swimming. Khlong Hin is also designated as a coral-watching dive site; the beach is approximately 300 metres long.
Near Ko Kut is the dive site at Ko Raet. It has coral and submerged animal sculptures that provide a habitat for marine fish. Comparing the underwater attractions, Khlong Hin combines a beach, swimming and designated coral diving; at Ko Raet, the submerged sculptures form part of the fish habitat. Tapae Beach is in the north of Ko Kut.
Community and island culture
Ban Ao Yai is an old community on Ko Kut where local knowledge and diverse cultural traditions have accumulated. Nature tourism activities and community coral conservation are organized here. Visitors take part in activities to release aquatic animals together with the Trat Coastal Fisheries Research and Development Center. As program details may change, it is best to confirm dates locally. Ban Ao Yai is also a popular place for tourists to buy seafood.
The fishing village of Ao Salat is in the northeast of Ko Kut and offers a chance to experience island culture. Wat Ao Phrao houses a statue of Prince Chumphon Khet Udomsak. Khao Ruea Rop consists of three large natural rocks whose shapes resemble the bows of warships; there is also a shrine to the prince there.
One name also recalls the island’s history: after a king visited Ko Kut in 1911, Khlong Chao Waterfall was given the name “Anam Kok”.
More attractions in the wider Trat destination
The wider Trat destination also has its own natural and cultural attractions. At Hat Sai Dam, a nature trail runs through the mangrove landscape; there is also a sand ridge more than one kilometre long with fine black sand. At the Ban Chang Thun Ecomuseum, visitors can learn how to make an inhalant from local herbs. Ban Salak Khok is a small fishing village surrounded by mangrove forest. Visitors can take a Mad boat trip there, also known as the “Koh Chang Gondola”.
Discover more destinations: Laem Ngop, Thung Nonsi, Huai Raeng, Bang Phra, Koh Chang Tai, Ko Chang, Khlong Yai, Mai Rut
For the overview of the wider destination: Trat.
