Koh Mak (Ao Nid Pier) Ferries

Sorry, there is currently no available ferries on this route.

The journey to Koh Mak typically begins in Trat Province on Thailand's eastern seaboard, with regular ferry services departing from Laem Ngop pier on the mainland. From Bangkok, travelers can reach Trat by bus (approximately 5-6 hours) or by flying into Trat Airport followed by a short taxi ride to the pier. Many visitors also arrive from nearby islands like Koh Chang or Koh Kood via speedboat or ferry connections. The mainland pier area offers secure parking facilities for those arriving by car, though most visitors find it more convenient to use the shuttle services that operate between Trat town and the ferry terminal.

Nestled in the eastern Gulf of Thailand, Koh Mak stands as one of the country's most pristine and peaceful island escapes. This family-owned tropical haven spans just 16 square kilometers, offering a refreshing alternative to Thailand's more developed islands with its unspoiled beaches and laid-back atmosphere. As a ferry destination, Koh Mak provides the perfect balance of accessibility and seclusion, where travelers can experience authentic Thai island life surrounded by swaying coconut palms and crystal-clear waters.

Koh Mak enjoys a tropical climate with distinct dry and wet seasons that shape the island experience. November through April marks the ideal visiting period, with sunny days, gentle breezes, and minimal rainfall creating perfect conditions for swimming and water activities. The peak months of December and January bring the most visitors, while November and February offer similar weather with fewer crowds. The rainy season from May to October sees reduced ferry schedules and some business closures, though September and October can deliver dramatic storms and rough seas that occasionally interrupt ferry services. For the perfect balance of good weather and tranquility, aim for November or early March.

Koh Mak serves as an excellent hub for exploring Thailand's eastern island group. From Ao Nid Pier, travelers can easily reach the larger Koh Chang (1-2 hours by speedboat), with its impressive waterfalls and vibrant nightlife. The pristine Koh Kood lies just 1 hour away by speedboat, offering some of Thailand's most spectacular beaches and untouched rainforest. For snorkeling enthusiasts, the tiny islands of Koh Rang and the surrounding marine park are accessible within 30-45 minutes, featuring some of the region's most vibrant coral reefs. The journey between these islands offers stunning views of the archipelago's emerald waters and dramatic karst formations, making island-hopping one of the region's greatest pleasures.

Koh Mak's charm lies in its simple pleasures and natural beauty, beginning with its pristine beaches like Ao Kao and Ao Suan Yai where soft white sand meets shallow, clear waters. Rent a bicycle or motorbike to explore the island's interior, where rubber plantations, coconut groves, and quaint fishing villages reveal the authentic rhythm of island life. Culinary explorers should sample local specialties at the island's family-run restaurants, particularly the fresh seafood caught daily by local fishermen and prepared with traditional southern Thai flavors. For a cultural experience, visit the Koh Mak Museum to learn about the island's unique history and the five families who have owned it for generations. Water enthusiasts can explore the coastline by kayak, paddleboard, or join a snorkeling trip to the colorful reefs surrounding the island.

Unlike most Thai islands, Koh Mak has been owned by the same five families since 1901, when King Chulalongkorn granted them the land, creating a unique approach to development that has preserved its natural character. The island is shaped like a dolphin when viewed from above, with Ao Nid Pier located near what would be the dolphin's tail. Koh Mak is one of Thailand's few 'low carbon' destinations, with a community-wide commitment to sustainable tourism practices and renewable energy sources. The waters around Koh Mak are home to bioluminescent plankton that create a magical light show on certain beaches during moonless nights, offering visitors a rare natural phenomenon that seems almost otherworldly.