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Everything You Need to Know About Trang Islands Where Pristine Beaches Await You!
- Where Are Thailand’s Trang Islands?
- How to Get to the Trang Islands
- Best Time to Go to the Trang Islands
- Best Trang Islands You Need to Visit and Experience
- Koh Ngai
- Koh Mook
- Koh Kradan
- Koh Libong
- Koh Sukorn
- Natural Wonders You Need to See in the Trang Islands
- Hat Chao Mai National Park
- Morakot Cave (Emerald Cave)
- Kantang Hot Spring Forest Park
- Where to Stay in the Trang Islands
- CoCo Cottage Resort
- Chompu Nakarin Apartment
- Rua Rasada Hotel
- FAQs About Thailand’s Trang Islands
Tucked away in the Andaman Sea, the Trang Islands are one of southern Thailand’s most stunning destinations—an untouched archipelago that many travellers haven’t visited yet. Scattered just off the coast of Trang Province, this cluster of islands offers something that’s getting harder to find these days: real tranquility.
You should imagine powdery white beaches without crowds, turquoise waters so clear you can see the seabed, and coral reefs teeming with life. Whether you’re into diving or taking a nap under a palm tree, the Trang Islands deliver it all with a refreshing charm.
You’ve probably heard of Thailand’s bigger island names, but places like Koh Mook, Koh Kradan, and Koh Ngai let you experience island life the way it used to be. Raw, relaxed, and peaceful.
Where Are Thailand’s Trang Islands?
The Trang Islands are located in the Andaman Sea, off the coast of southern Thailand. This cluster of islands is part of the larger Trang province, known for its stunning coastline and relatively untouched natural beauty.
To be specific, they lie south of the more famous islands of Krabi and Koh Lanta, and north of Koh Lipe, placing them in a less-traveled part of the sea. The provincial capital, also named Trang, serves as the primary gateway for visitors.
How to Get to the Trang Islands
Closest Airport: The most straightforward way to get to the area is by flying into Trang Airport (TST). You can catch a direct flight from Bangkok’s Don Mueang Airport (DMK), and in about an hour and a half, you’ll be on the doorstep of the Andaman’s attractions.
Once you land, getting to the piers for the islands is a breeze. You’ll find plenty of minivan and taxi services at the airport ready to take you to Pak Men Pier or other nearby piers.
You can often book a combined ticket that includes the van and the ferry to your island.
From Nearby Hubs: If you’re already exploring southern Thailand, you can easily connect to the Trang Islands from places like Krabi or Hat Yai. Minivans and buses regularly run between these towns and Trang, making it a simple addition to your itinerary.
From the piers in Trang, longtail boats and ferries are your ticket to paradise. These boats travel between the mainland and popular islands like Koh Mook, Koh Kradan, and Koh Ngai throughout the day.
Best Time to Go to the Trang Islands
The best time to visit the Trang Islands is during the dry season, which runs from November through April. During these months, you can expect calm seas, clear blue skies, and plenty of sunshine, perfect for island hopping and beach relaxation.
It’s best to avoid the monsoon season from May to October, as heavy rains and rough seas are common. Many boat services are suspended, and some resorts on the smaller islands close down completely during this period.
Best Trang Islands You Need to Visit and Experience
Koh Ngai
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Address: Ko Lanta Yai, Kantang District
Website
Koh Ngai is the kind of island where you can fully switch off. You’ll arrive by boat, step onto the soft white sand, and quickly realise there are no roads, cars, or motorbikes—just the sea, the sand, and the sound of birds in the trees.
Its main beach on the eastern side is where most action is, and by action, it means a quiet stretch of bungalows, beach bars, and hammocks swaying. It’s small enough to walk around, so you won’t need much more than a pair of beach shoes and a backpack.
Snorkelling right off the beach is solid too, especially if you’re into spotting coral and colourful fish without going too far. The vibe here is low-key, which is honestly part of the appeal.
Koh Mook
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Address: Ko Libong, Kantang District
Website
Koh Mook has a relaxed, low-key charm that makes it easy to settle into. You’ll probably hear more birds and waves than people, especially if you’re staying near Sivalai Beach. The sand here is soft, the water’s calm, and catching sunrise from your bungalow feels like a reset button.
One of the biggest draws is the Emerald Cave, which you can access by swimming through a dark tunnel into a hidden lagoon—it’s short but unforgettable. If you like exploring on foot, there’s a trek to a viewpoint that gives you a full sweep of the coastline.
You’ll also find that Farang Beach is a great spot to catch the sunset, with enough space to spread out or take a long walk. There’s no need to over-plan your days here because a few small restaurants serve decent food, and local transport is simple.
Koh Kradan
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Koh Kradan is one of those spots where you won’t need much more than a towel, a snorkel, and maybe a book. You’ll land on a beach that’s pretty, with clear water and barely any noise except for the waves.
If you’re aiming for a quiet swim or some easy snorkelling, this island makes it simple. Paradise Beach is the main stretch and lives up to its name—super clear in the mornings and easy to enjoy without much effort.
If you’re walking, it’s worth checking out Sunset Beach for golden-hour views that don’t feel staged or overcrowded. There are a few rocky spots like Ao Niang, but the scenery still holds up.
Koh Libong
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Address: Kantang District
Website
Koh Libong gives you a different kind of island experience—quiet, local, and surrounded by nature. It’s not as polished as some other spots, but that’s what makes it stand out.
You’ll see rubber plantations, fishing villages, and real day-to-day island life everywhere you go. This is the largest island in Trang, and it’s part of a protected wildlife area, so it’s especially good if you’re into nature.
Dugongs are the main attraction here, and while sightings aren’t guaranteed, the viewing tower gives you a solid chance. If you’re into birdwatching or just want to walk through mangroves without a crowd, Libong makes that easy.
Koh Sukorn
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Koh Sukorn is where you go if you want to slow things right down and spend time in a real working island community. You’ll see rice paddies, rubber trees, and fishermen heading out in the early morning—it’s very different from the usual resort vibe.
The locals are warm and welcoming, and the island’s name, which means pig island, is something people will probably tell you with a laugh. There are a few nice beaches, especially on the west side, where you can catch a solid sunset and take a quiet swim.
It’s not super polished, but that’s part of the experience—basic, peaceful, and not made for crowds. If you’re here around March or April, you’ll also find fresh watermelons everywhere, and they’re some of the best you’ll try!
Natural Wonders You Need to See in the Trang Islands
Hat Chao Mai National Park
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Address: Village No. 5 142/18 Mai Fat, Sikao District
Contact details: +6675829967
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 8 AM to 6:30 PM
Cost:
- Adults – 200 THB
- Children – 100 THB
Hat Chao Mai National Park is a solid spot if you’re into nature and don’t mind a bit of walking, swimming, or quiet time by the sea. The park covers a big area along the Trang coastline and includes some inland trails, clean beaches, and a good amount of shade if you just want to relax by the water.
It’s a mix of forest, sea, and mangroves, so you’ll see plenty of local wildlife if you’re paying attention. The highlight for most people is the hidden beach inside an open-air cave—you reach it by swimming through a tunnel, and it’s one of those things you’ll probably remember long after.
Even if it gets a bit crowded, it doesn’t take away from the experience. The main beaches are kept clean, and you’ll find locals and Thai tourists enjoying picnics or taking photos along the newer bridge walkway.
Morakot Cave (Emerald Cave)
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Address: Muk Island, Kantang District
Emerald Cave is one of the most popular natural spots around Trang, and the experience lives up to the hype. You’ll swim through a dark tunnel—only about 80 metres—and pop out into a hidden beach surrounded by cliffs and jungle.
It’s a short swim, but the way the light hits the water around midday does give it that emerald glow. Crowds are common, especially during public holidays or peak season, but the timing of your visit makes a big difference.
Going with a local tour in the late morning or early afternoon is the sweet spot for both light and water conditions. Once you’re inside, the cave opens up to a small bay that feels completely cut off from the outside.
Kantang Hot Spring Forest Park
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Address: CF67+283 Onsen Bo Nam Ron, Kantang District
Contact details: 0897246247
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM
Cost: Free
Website
Kantang Hot Spring Forest Park is a good stop if you’re looking for something quiet and outdoors that’s not a beach. It’s a mix of tropical forest and wetlands, with few walking trails and, of course, the hot springs.
You can soak your feet or go all in, depending on how you can handle it—some pools reach over 400 degrees Celsius. The main area is clean and easy to get around, with small facilities like private shower rooms and a foot-dipping pool.
There’s also a nature study route with trails that vary in length, so you can pick based on how much time or energy you’ve got. If you’re into plants and animals, the variety here is decent, from orchids to dusky leaf monkeys.
Where to Stay in the Trang Islands
CoCo Cottage Resort
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Address: 110, Tambon Ko Lanta Yai, Kantang District
Contact details: +66897249225
Operating hours:
- Check-in: 1:30 PM
- Check-out: 10:30 AM
Cost: $$
Website
CoCo Cottages Resort is a solid choice if you’re after a simple, beachside stay with a laid-back vibe. The bungalows are made with natural materials and have just the right amount of comfort without going over the top.
You’ll get a beachfront view if you book one of the front cottages, and the overall setting feels peaceful from the moment you arrive. You’ve got direct access to snorkeling gear, kayaks, and the beach, so it’s easy to spend your day outside without needing to leave the resort.
The restaurant here also stands out—not just because it’s convenient, but because the food’s genuinely good and consistent. Many guests from other places even come here for dinner, which tells you a lot.
Chompu Nakarin Apartment
Media credit: chompu.nakarin
Address: 18 59 Khuan Han 1 Alley, Thap Thiang
Contact details: +66836321939
Operating hours:
- Check-in: 2 PM
- Check-out: 12 PM
Cost: $$
Website
Chompu Nakarin Apartment is a good option if you’re staying in Trang town and want something simple, clean, and practical. The rooms are spacious and well-maintained, with working aircon, strong WiFi, and enough space to move around without feeling cramped.
It’s quiet at night too, so you’ll get decent sleep. The location puts you close to shops and local attractions, which makes it easy to get around without needing to plan much.
There’s indoor parking if you’re driving, and aloft inside, which is helpful if you’re carrying bags. The building’s layout is straightforward, and check-in runs smoothly, so kudos to the whole staff!
Rua Rasada Hotel
Media credit: ruarasadahotel.trang
Address: 188 Trang-Phatthalung Road, Thap Thiang, Muang Trang
Contact details: +6675226999
Operating hours:
- Check-in: 2 PM
- Check-out: 12 PM
Cost: $$
Website
Rua Rasada Hotel is a practical pick if you’re looking for a full-service hotel because the rooms here are spacious and clean, with good air conditioning and views from the upper floors. The style is more traditional, and while some features like the aircon or TV might feel outdated, everything works as it should.
The hotel has a decent set of extras like a gym, bar with live music, and an on-site restaurant with a buffet breakfast. It’s close to Robinson shopping mall, so grabbing essentials or finding food outside the hotel is convenient and easy.
Staff at the front desk are friendly and speak English, which makes check-in and general help straightforward. If you’re travelling as a group or with kids, the hotel has enough space and services to keep things easy during your stay.
