5 Activities To Do on Koh Mak Island – for Free or on a Budget
Nestled in the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Mak stands as a testament to nature’s unparalleled beauty. This tropical haven, often overshadowed by its more famous neighbors of Koh Kood and Koh Chang, offers a treasure trove of free activities that promise to make your visit truly unforgettable. From pristine beaches to captivating cultural experiences, join us as we uncover the best cost-free adventures awaiting you on the island of Koh Mak.
Here are the top 5 enjoyable free activities to experience on Koh Mak Island:
- Take leisurely strolls along Long Beach during the morning or evening.
- Dive into snorkeling, swimming, or canoeing near the charming natural islets.
- Contribute to Koh Mak’s cleanliness by participating in a Trash Hero Event.
- Unwind amidst the unspoiled beauty of the River Retreat Forest.
- Embark on a journey to a Point of Interest, such as Wat Koh Mak or an open-air art gallery.
Please note all distances and references are provided from The River Retreat on Koh Mak. If you ask yourself how big Koh Mak is, its area is just above 12.4 km², with 27km of beautiful coastline, its no wonder that Koh Mak has been included in the Sunday Times 10 most beautiful beaches list in 2006. That said with around 7.5 km at its widest point, you might be best off exploring the island on a bicycle as only gentle hills make for great tracks.
Northern Koh Mak
On the North Shore of Koh Mak, Ao Soun Yai Beach walks combined with a visit to Koh Kham Island and snorkling in the blue, crystal clear waters of the Thai Gulf Islands, with some time spent exploring The Kingdom of Somchai’s Affection is a great adventure for a half day adventure on Koh Mak island.
Ao Soun Yai Beach stretches as one of Koh Mak’s longest shorelines, gazing towards the North West. On certain occasions, the distant view even includes the sight of Koh Chang. This expansive beach makes for an excellent spot to unwind in the morning or evening. You can relish a cup of coffee or a refreshing beer (depending on the time of day and your preference) at one of the beach resorts. Take a dip in the inviting waters and consider a potential trip to Ko Kham Island, an untouched paradise (with entrance fees). The snorkeling experience between the island and the northern section of Ao Soun Yai beach is exceptional, particularly during low to mid tides.
On your way back to the Rver Retreat (around 2.0km) pay a visit to Koh Maks only open air art gallery, The Kingdom of Somchai’s Affection. The artist Khun Somchai, a member of the ‘Mon’ community, settled on Koh Mak in the bygone era, long before tourism flourished. Though he passed away some years back, his rustic wooden house, workshop, and a collection of his sculptures remain, inviting visitors to appreciate his legacy. As a note, quite a few of the statues display erotic poses, which might not be suitable for your childrens eyes.
Southern Koh Mak
Exploring the southern side of Koh Mak Island offers an afternoon of adventure and beauty. Begin with a leisurely stroll along Ao Kao Beach, then make your way towards Ko Rayang Nai Island, accessible by canoe or on foot. Continue your journey to Cape Tukata, followed by a visit to Sunset / Pebble Beach. This short hike rewards you with breathtaking vistas of the island’s southwestern corner. Immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes and create lasting memories on Koh Mak Island.
Just a short 200-meter stroll from the River Retreat lies Ao Kao Beach, waiting to be explored. Head westward, tracing the path along Leelawada Pier, and you’ll soon catch a glimpse of Ko Rayang Nai Island in the nearby horizon. When the tide is low, a sandbank emerges, allowing you to walk across to the island. While the island offers limited pathways to explore, the sight of Koh Mak from there makes the journey truly rewarding.
Explore the Sunset Viewpoint or Leam Tukata by following this link: Location on Google Maps. It’s a quick 2.5km walk or bike ride from the River Retreat. Once you’re there, you’ll be treated to breathtaking vistas from the towering cliffs at the island’s southwestern tip. Please note that the forest trail leading to the viewpoint is moderately steep and without guides. If you start your journey early, you can even venture down to Pebble Beach for a refreshing dip in the inviting waters.
Trash Hero Koh Mak
Situated as an offshore gem in the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Mak faces its share of ocean debris. Let’s work together to preserve our island paradise’s beauty. You’re invited to participate in one of the weekly Trash Hero Events. Held every Saturday at various beaches and spots across Koh Mak. Join us and likeminded individuals on the mission to maintain cleanliness and sustainability on Koh Mak. Find out more at Trash Hero Koh Mak and stay connected on Facebook
Koh Mak Temple
Discover the serene spiritual enclave of Koh Mak Island’s southeast – Wat Koh Mak or Wat Samakeetham, the island’s sole temple. Immerse yourself in a tranquil atmosphere as you step into this Buddhist sanctuary, cradled by lush surroundings. Admire the intricate architecture, engage in quiet reflection, or simply meditate amidst the peaceful ambiance. Whether seeking to connect with the island’s spiritual essence or to savor panoramic sea views from the temple, Wat Koh Mak offers a perfect haven.
The River Retreat, Nature Bungalows, Farm and Forest
Discover the captivating River Retreat Forest and Farm Area. Right here, surrounding our nature bungalows at the River Retreat on Koh Mak, we nurture our own petite Organic Farm and a diverse array of ornamental, forest trees, and plants. Take a leisurely stroll across our expansive grounds and extend your visit to enjoy a beverage or a Thai or Western meal at our Riverside Restaurant.
Find out how to get to Koh Mak and our River Retreat here.
Koh Mak, a true gem in the Gulf of Thailand, beckons you to explore its wonders without breaking the bank. From secluded beaches to cultural insights and underwater adventures, this island offers an array of free activities that are as enriching as they are delightful. So, pack your curiosity, leave behind your worries, and let The River Retreat and Koh Mak weave its spell on you through these cost-free, priceless experiences.
Find out more about all Activities on Koh Mak here.
For further information please contact us via https://www.facebook.com/riverretreatkohmak/ or info@riverretreat-kohmak.com
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