We often dream about retiring in Thailand one day and the Trat Islands are always the first place that comes to mind. This archipelago in the eastern Gulf of Thailand is home to around 50 islands with the “Big Three” being Koh Chang, Koh Kood and Koh Mak. Collectively, they form a tropical, laidback and quirky set of destinations that are absolutely worth visiting.

After spending the day beach hopping around Koh Kood, we thought we’d seen the best of the island. Then we received a message from some new friends we had just made, a lovely French couple who invited us for sunset drinks at Bang Bao Beach. So we headed there on our scooters for the final act of the day. We were supposed to take the turn-off down to Siam Beach Resort but ended up getting lost somehow.

Khlong Chao Waterfall is a hit with travelers due to its raw beauty and easy access. The jungle trail is short and sweet. In less than 10 minutes, you’ll be standing in front of a beautiful cascade and natural pool. Some would argue it’s a better swimming spot than the beaches of Koh Kood and they might be right. You won’t get sand everywhere and the freshwater is lovely.

Koh Chang is one of our favorite islands in Thailand, in part because it’s so close to Kat’s family in Chanthaburi. We first went there together in 2018, and absolutely loved it, but chose to explore its smaller neighboring islands such as Koh Kood and Koh Mak on more recent trips. In March, 2026, we decided it was finally time to return to Koh Chang and see how the island has changed over the years.

We’ve visited Koh Kood three times now, and just can’t get enough of its tropical beaches and laidback atmosphere. Arriving at this gem of the Eastern Gulf is such a special experience: you instantly feel at peace when you see the Big Buddha Statue peak its head through the palm trees of Ao Salad Pier. Jumping off the ferry, and into a songthaew, you’re whisked away through the jungle roads to your hotel.

Koh Kham is a tiny private island situated off the coast of Koh Mak, famous for its abandoned luxury resort and unusual black volcanic rock formations. We spent the day here during our stay in Koh Mak and it turned out to be one of the highlights of our trip. We did nothing more than sunbathe, swim, take photos and explore Ananya Hideaway but the time simply flew by.

Koh Mak truly lives up to its reputation of being a “hidden gem”. There are no 7-Elevens or resort chains to be found here, instead a handful of sleepy roadside cafes and intimate family-run hotels dot the landscape. The lack of mass-tourism is noticeable as soon as you hop off the boat and take a golf cart to your accommodation, weaving through bumpy dirt tracks and lush coconut groves.