Koh Kradan, one of the Trang Islands, is like one of those tropical paradise islands we usually get to see only on postcards. Pristine white beaches, the crystal clear and turquoise Andaman Sea, lush jungles and a few bungalow resorts are basically everything this tiny island has to offer. And what an offer it is! Being just an hour and a half by boat from the island of Koh Lanta, many travelers decide to make a day trip to Koh Kradan. Your one day on Koh Kradan island will be filled with great snorkeling, romantic walks on the beach, a spectacular sunset and the intimate island atmosphere.
What’s the best time to visit Koh Kradan?
Koh Kradan is a seasonal destination which means most of the resorts close down from May to October due to the rainy season. Owing to its limited accommodation options, the island doesn’t get very crowded even during the high season (December to February), but it requires booking some time in advance. If you can choose, pick March or April.
What’s good to know about Koh Kradan?
This almost 600-acre island has no roads, villages, markets, or emergency services. The main part of the island is managed by the Hat Chao Mai National Park. In spite of the mesmerizing nature and almost a mile and a half of breathtaking sandy beaches, only a few resorts can be found there. The resort owners and staff are the only people living on this otherwise uninhabited island. The island was hit by the devastating 2004 tsunami. but it’s fully recovered today.
One Day on Koh Kradan Itinerary
Follow this guide and make the best of your trip even if you’re short on time. These are the top sights and things to do on your one day on Koh Kradan.
Hop on a Boat to Koh Kradan
Take a boat tour that operates each morning from the Koh Lanta ferry port. There are also daily snorkeling tours to the Trang islands, including Koh Kradan, but spending at least one night at the island is recommended.
Spend the Morning at the Beach
Start your morning at Paradise Beach, almost exactly half a mile long. Enjoy the morning low-tide sandbars and explore the east coast of the island. Visit the Ao Phai Beach for some spectacular views of the Trang Islands. Enjoy swimming in the clear waters of Andaman sea.
Explore the Rich Underwater Life
When the tide gets high, it’s time for some snorkeling and exploring the island’s rich marine life. The island is famous for its snorkeling tours as one of the best snorkeling destinations in Thailand. Even when snorkeling right off the shore, various species of fish and colorful coral reef can be easily noticed.
Relax in a Hammock
The snorkeling can be really tiring, especially when the sun is strong. Jump into a hammock, take a nap or just relax while reading a book.
Enjoy Lunch at the Beach
The few restaurants you can come across along the beach are all part of the island resorts, and are your only choice when it comes to food. If you’re into some delicious Thai food, Kradan Beach Resort Restaurant has just the right thing. They serve great salads and even better Thai seafood dishes.
Do Some Kayaking
Kayaking can be a very exciting activity too. Most of the resorts provide kayaks for free so why not use them. Paddle all way to the southern horn and explore some very nice, more private beaches along the way.
Enjoy the Marvelous Sunset at the Aptly Named Sunset Beach
The Chonglom Bay Beach, also known as a Sunset Beach is THE spot to enjoy Andaman’s dependably marvelous sunsets. Take the short trail through the island’s lush jungle and find this island’s hidden gem. Due to how tiny the island is, it won’t take you long to reach the other side, but still, make sure you’re on time.
Enjoy the Intimate Atmosphere of the Paradise Lost Restaurant
After the sun goes down, you’ll surely crave some food. The Paradise Lost Resort, located on the hill above Sunset Beach is the best (if not only) place to spend the evening and enjoy some dinner. The owners always make sure the atmosphere is romantic and intimate, so it’s a perfect place to meet either the owners or other fellow travelers. Show up early so you can grab a table on time.
Where to stay in Koh Kradan?
Paradise Lost Resort
Paradise Lost Resort is a lovely little resort with bungalows and dorms – pretty simple but still cozy and relaxing. It is perfectly located – right in the middle of the island, only a short walk to all the different gorgeous beaches around. It features one of the most famous restaurants on the island – so even if you don’t manage to find accommodation here – don’t hesitate to have dinner here.
Book here
Paradise Beachfront Bungalows
Paradise Beachfront Bungalows offers four bungalows in a peaceful area of Koh Kradan, right on the waterfront. The area is super peaceful since it’s located at the end of the main stretch to the north. There are no crowds and restaurants around. The best snorkeling spot on the island is right in front of the resort and pretty accessible from the beach.
Book here
The Reef Resort
The Reef Resort is another exquisite beach stay on the Koh Kradan island. You can enjoy an amazing beach with turquoise waters only a few yards away from your room, or you can enjoy the pool with a relaxing lounge area. The resort also provides kayaks and snorkeling gear at no extra charge.
Book here
Find the Best Hotel Deals on Koh Kradan
day trip to koh kradan
Since Koh Kradan is a remote, quiet location, you won’t find any day trips to other parts of Thailand. However, there are several excellent day trips from Koh Lanta to Koh Kradan. Most of them follow a similar itinerary and provide a great alternative if you don’t feel like spending the night at the island, but you would like to visit it anyway.
Sea Tour to 4 Islands & Emerald Cave from Koh Lanta
On this day trip, you will get a chance to beautiful beaches, coral reefs, and caves surrounding Koh Lanta, complete with swimming, snorkeling, a big lunch, and covered national park entrance fees. With convenient pick-up and drop-off in front of your hotel, you can just relax and prepare for a day filled with exciting activities. Highlights of the tour include the spectacular Emerald Cave, where you can swim through an 80-meter dark tunnel to reach a hidden rainforest wall hidden at the very heart of the island. The next stop is Koh Kradan, with swimming in open waters over a shallow coral reef, followed by Koh Chuak and Kon Ngai, two tranquil, remote islands more secluded even than Koh Kradan.
Extra tips for visiting Koh Kradan
– Due to the limited capacities, it’s recommended to book accommodation in advance.
– You don’t need to bring your own snorkeling equipment. Most of the resorts provide it for free.
– Keep in mind there are neither markets nor grocery stores on the island. There is one tiny shop next to the Kradan Beach Resort, but that one really doesn’t sell much.
– Sleeping in a tent is possible if you bring your own camping equipment.
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