Rating: 4.2/5 (5 votes)

Open Days: Daily (Koh Mun Nai is a conservation area and requires permission from the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources)

Opening Hours: 08:00 – 17:00

 

Mun Islands are a group of small islands located off the coast of Klaeng District, Rayong Province, in the upper Gulf of Thailand. The group consists of three main islands: Koh Mun Nai, Koh Mun Klang, and Koh Mun Nok. Known for their crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, shallow coral reefs, and serene atmosphere, these islands are ideal for peaceful eco-tourism.

 

The name “Mun Islands” is believed to come from the local “Man” trees that once grew abundantly along the nearby coastline. As explorers discovered three small islands aligned offshore, they were named based on their distance from the mainland: Koh Mun Nai (Inner Mun), Koh Mun Klang (Middle Mun), and Koh Mun Nok (Outer Mun).

 

This island group plays an important role in marine conservation in Eastern Thailand, especially Koh Mun Nai, which houses the Sea Turtle Conservation and Hatchery Center under the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources (DMCR). The number of visitors is limited daily to preserve the delicate marine ecosystem.

 

Koh Mun Nai covers around 131 rai and is the closest to the mainland. It features several scenic bays such as Ao Ton Makham, Ao Hin Khod Ya, Ao Kong Kang, and Ao Na Ban – the latter being popular for snorkeling among colorful coral reefs. Visitors must obtain prior permission before visiting, as it is a protected conservation site.

 

Koh Mun Klang offers a calm and quiet atmosphere, with rocky and sandy shores. It is perfect for light snorkeling and relaxing walks along the beach. Accommodation is limited to a few eco-friendly lodges that emphasize sustainable, low-impact tourism.

 

Koh Mun Nok is the farthest island, featuring a single private resort that provides an exclusive and tranquil retreat. The island is surrounded by clear turquoise water and shallow coral reefs, ideal for swimming, kayaking, and watching sunsets over the Gulf of Thailand.

 

The Mun Islands’ natural ecosystem includes shallow coral reefs, seagrass beds, turtle nesting grounds, and mangrove vegetation along certain coves. Visitors are encouraged to avoid stepping on coral, taking shells or sand, and to minimize single-use plastics to protect the environment.

 

Getting There – Boats to the Mun Islands depart from Ban Phe Pier or Laem Mae Phim Pier in Klaeng District. Both private charters and day tours are available. The journey takes about 45–60 minutes depending on weather and sea conditions. Always check forecasts and follow safety advice from local operators.

 

The best time to visit is from November to May when the sea is calm and visibility is clear. During the monsoon season (June–October), rough waves make travel unsafe and tours are usually suspended.

 

For overnight stays, Koh Mun Nok offers private resort accommodation, while Koh Mun Nai and Koh Mun Klang are typically visited on day trips to reduce environmental impact. Visitors should bring drinking water, sunscreen, snacks, and cash, as facilities on the islands are limited.

 

Travel tips: Book boat transfers in advance, pets are not allowed, some islands have limited electricity, and please respect conservation zones – especially turtle nesting areas.

 

Nearby mainland attractions include Laem Mae Phim Beach, Ban Phe Market (seafood and local products), Sunthorn Phu Monument, and Suan Son Beach. These are great options for extended coastal trips after visiting the islands.

 

 

A: The best period is from November to May when the sea is calm and clear, ideal for snorkeling and boat trips.

 

A: Yes. Koh Mun Nai is a conservation area; visitors must obtain permission or join authorized eco-tours under DMCR supervision.

 

A: Round-trip private boats cost around 2,000–2,500 THB (Koh Mun Nai), 2,800–3,200 THB (Koh Mun Klang), and 3,500–4,000 THB (Koh Mun Nok), depending on season and operator.

 

A: Yes. Several local operators offer one-day packages including boat, guide, lunch, and insurance, typically priced around 1,200–1,800 THB per person.

 

A: Popular options include Je Yindee and Je Aung Seafood near Mae Ramphueng Beach, and accommodations like Novotel Rayong Rim Pae Resort or Laem Mae Phim Resort. Koh Mun Nok has its own private resort.

 

A: Bring drinking water, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, and cash. Check weather conditions and verify permissions if visiting Koh Mun Nai.