Discover the best beaches on Koh Mook
Koh Mook, a hidden gem in Thailand’s Trang Province, is known for its untouched beauty, tranquil vibe, and some of the most stunning beaches in the Andaman Sea. From pristine white sands to crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life, the beaches on Koh Mook offer something for every traveler. Whether you’re looking for the perfect spot to watch the sunset, relax with the sound of the waves, or explore vibrant underwater life, Koh Mook’s beaches are sure to impress.
In this guide, we’ll take you through the best beaches on the island, highlight the wildlife you’ll encounter, and share tips for making the most of your beach days.
Charlie Beach: the best spot for sunsets
Charlie Beach, also known as Farang Beach, is without a doubt the best place on Koh Mook to catch a breathtaking sunset. This wide, sandy beach on the western side of the island is framed by palm trees and backed by lush jungle, offering a perfect setting for a relaxing afternoon. As the day winds down, head here to watch the sun dip below the horizon, painting the sky in shades of orange, pink, and purple.
The beach is well-loved by both locals and tourists, and you’ll often find small groups gathering in the evening to enjoy the view. The water here is shallow and calm, making it a great spot for swimming or just wading in to cool off.
Local Tip : Bring a picnic or grab a cold drink from one of the nearby beach bars before settling in for the sunset. It’s the perfect way to end a day on Koh Mook.
Sivalai Beach: Powdery sand and stunning views
If you’re looking for a postcard-perfect beach, head to Sivalai Beach on the northeastern tip of the island. This stretch of white sand, lined with palm trees, offers some of the most beautiful views on Koh Mook. Sivalai Beach is known for its soft, powdery sand and turquoise waters that seem to stretch out forever. The beach is shaped like a long peninsula, meaning you can enjoy views on both sides—perfect for photography lovers.
The beach is great for swimming and snorkeling, especially during high tide when the waters are deeper. If you’re visiting during low tide, the beach transforms, with the shallow waters revealing sandbars and rock pools. This is a great time to explore the marine life up close.
Local Tip: Low tide also reveals hundreds of small crabs and hermit crabs scurrying along the shore. It’s fascinating to watch these creatures darting across the sand, so keep an eye out as you walk along the beach.
Ao Lo Dang Beach : secluded paradise
For those seeking a quieter, more secluded experience, Ao Lo Dang Beach is the perfect escape. This remote beach is located on the southern part of Koh Mook and is best reached by foot or boat. It’s less frequented by tourists, so you’ll often have the place to yourself, making it ideal for a peaceful day in the sun.
The waters here are crystal clear, and snorkeling is highly recommended. There are plenty of fish to see just off the beach, so don’t forget to bring your snorkeling mask and fins. The beach is surrounded by dense jungle, adding to its untouched, wild beauty.
Local Tip : The path to Ao Lo Dang can be a bit steep, especially if you’re coming by foot, so wear comfortable shoes. Bring water and snacks, as there are no facilities here.
Emerald Cave Beac h: A hidden wonder
No visit to Koh Mook is complete without exploring the Emerald Cave. Accessible only by boat or kayak, the Emerald Cave leads to a hidden lagoon and secluded beach, completely surrounded by towering limestone cliffs. You’ll have to swim through a narrow cave tunnel (about 80 meters long) to reach this secret paradise.
Once inside, the crystal-clear waters and powdery sand make this a magical place to relax or swim. The cave is best visited at low tide to avoid strong currents. Be sure to bring a waterproof flashlight to help guide your way through the darker sections of the cave.
Local Tip : The Emerald Cave can get crowded in the middle of the day, so aim to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for a more peaceful experience.
Understanding the tides on Koh Mook
The tides play an important role in your beach experience on Koh Mook. During high tide, the waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling, offering a deeper, more refreshing dip. At low tide, many of the beaches become quite shallow, and while the water recedes, it reveals interesting marine life, including crabs and small sea creatures that scuttle along the wet sand.
Some beaches, like Sivalai Beach, even reveal sandbars and rock formations during low tide, making it the perfect time to explore and observe wildlife. Keep in mind that snorkeling is better during high tide when the water is deeper and clearer.
Local Tip : Check the tide schedule in advance to plan your beach day on websites like TideCharts. Snorkeling is best during high tide, while low tide offers better opportunities for exploring the shore and spotting marine life.
Wildlife and marine life on Koh Mook’s beaches
Koh Mook’s beaches are not just about sand and sea; they are also teeming with wildlife. One of the most delightful things to observe on the island are the hundreds of small hermit crabs and sand crabs that run along the beaches, especially in the early morning and late afternoon. You’ll often find them digging small holes or carrying tiny shells across the sand.
For those interested in marine life, Koh Mook’s waters are rich with colorful fish, making it a great spot for snorkeling. Don’t forget your mask—just a short swim from the shore can reveal an underwater world filled with vibrant fish, sea urchins, and occasionally even small rays.
Local Tip : The best beaches for snorkeling are Sivalai Beach and Ao Lo Dang Beach, where you can spot a variety of tropical fish close to the shore. Always bring your own mask and fins to make the most of it!