Rating: 4/5 (5 votes)

Open Days: Every day (subject to weather conditions and park announcements)

Opening Hours: 08:00–16:00 (recommended time for snorkeling and sandbar viewing)

 

Koh Kruai, Koh Kham, and Koh Platin are three small islands located north of Koh Kudi in the Gulf of Thailand, Rayong Province. They are part of the Khao Laem Ya–Mu Ko Man National Park. Each island has unique natural features and diverse ecosystems. The area remains remarkably pristine, with crystal-clear waters, rich coral reefs, and an abundance of marine life. It’s one of the best spots for snorkeling, relaxing, and studying marine biodiversity along Thailand’s eastern coast.

 

The beauty of this island group lies in its geographical and ecological connection. Koh Kruai serves as a shallow coral reef zone, Koh Kham features a sandbar that appears during low tide, and Koh Platin showcases coastal mudflat ecosystems. Together, they form a “natural classroom of Rayong Sea,” blending beauty with environmental harmony.

 

Koh Kruai is a small cone-shaped island located about 600 meters north of Koh Kudi. It is surrounded by rocky shores and shallow coral reefs that remain healthy and colorful. Common coral species here include staghorn, brain, and plate corals found at depths of 2–5 meters. The water is so clear that the coral can be seen from the surface, making it ideal for snorkeling. Divers often spot parrotfish, butterflyfish, damselfish, and clownfish gliding among the coral formations.

 

From Koh Kruai’s viewpoint, visitors can see both Koh Kudi and Koh Kham clearly. During low tide, a golden sandbar emerges, connecting Koh Kruai and Koh Kham—a striking natural phenomenon known as the “sandbar walkway.” It’s one of the most photogenic moments of the day, perfect for walking between the two islands and taking scenic photos.

 

Koh Kham is slightly larger than Koh Kruai, with a crescent-shaped coastline. Its beaches feature soft brownish sand mixed with volcanic rocks, offering a tranquil and natural atmosphere. The island is encircled by dense coral growth, especially on the southwest side where staghorn and table corals thrive. The water here is exceptionally clear, allowing snorkelers to easily spot schools of small fish moving gracefully beneath the waves.

 

Koh Kham has been designated as a coral restoration site by the Department of National Parks after previous coral bleaching events in the Gulf of Thailand. Surveys show that coral colonies are gradually recovering, with the return of various species such as butterflyfish, damselfish, and parrotfish—an encouraging sign of ecosystem resilience.

 

Its peaceful beach is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. The open sea view from Koh Kham reveals a wide horizon and neighboring islands, creating an ideal spot for photography and quiet relaxation away from crowds.

 

Koh Platin is the smallest island of the group, located north of Koh Kham. Its name comes from the mudskippers (“pla teen” in Thai) that inhabit its rocky and muddy shoreline. The island’s coastal terrain hosts small marine life such as fiddler crabs, mudskippers, and shellfish, making it an excellent site for observing coastal ecology up close.

 

Deeper waters surrounding Koh Platin contain patches of hard coral, providing feeding grounds for groupers and sea bass. The island is popular with anglers, especially during early morning hours when fish are most active. Koh Platin has no beach or pier, so tourist boats usually anchor nearby to enjoy the view or go fishing.

 

Ecological Connection: Koh Kruai serves as a natural wave barrier for Koh Kudi, protecting its southern coral reefs from erosion. Koh Kham acts as a coral recovery zone, while Koh Platin bridges coral reef and coastal ecosystems. Together, they form a balanced marine habitat system crucial to Rayong’s coastal environment.

 

Getting There: Boats depart from Ban Phe Pier or Koh Samet, taking about 40–60 minutes. Many operators offer one-day boat tours covering Koh Kudi, Koh Kruai, Koh Kham, and Koh Platin. Activities include snorkeling, exploring the sandbar, or simply relaxing on the beach while enjoying the sea view.

 

The best time to visit is from November to May, when the sea is calm and clear, and the sunlight enhances the turquoise water. During the monsoon season (June–October), rough waves and rain make travel difficult, so it’s best to avoid those months.

 

 

 

A: Yes. During low tide, a sandbar emerges connecting the two islands, known as the “sandbar walkway.”

 

A: Absolutely. Koh Kruai and Koh Kham have shallow coral reefs ideal for snorkeling and marine observation.

 

A: No. Visitors must travel on a day trip from Ban Phe or Koh Samet.

 

A: November to May offers calm seas and clear water, perfect for snorkeling and photography.

 

A: Regular boat tours do not require advance permission, but visitors must follow all park regulations and conservation guidelines.