Koh Kood Sees 40% Tourist Surge Second Year Despite Monsoon

Crowds of tourists wait in line for boats to Koh Kood at Laem Sok Pier, Trat Province, June 28, 2025.

TRAT — Koh Kood, one of Thailand’s premier island destinations in the eastern province of Trat, is experiencing unprecedented tourism growth with visitor numbers increasing by over 40% for the second consecutive year, according to local hospitality operators.

Ms. Piyaporn Ampai, owner of Sea Blue Resort on Koh Kood, revealed that the island’s tourism sector has maintained strong momentum throughout 2025, building on exceptional performance in 2024 when Koh Kood emerged as one of Thailand’s top tourist destinations for both domestic and international visitors.

“We’ve seen consistent growth since the New Year, Chinese New Year, and Songkran festivals,” Ms. Ampai explained. “During long holiday periods, all accommodation on the island – over 1,200 rooms – reaches full capacity, generating significantly higher revenues for operators compared to the post-COVID period.”

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Koh Kood continues to attract nature-loving travelers drawn to the island’s unique rainy season beauty.

Monsoon Season Appeal

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Despite the current low season from June to October, when monsoon conditions typically deter marine tourism in Koh Chang and Koh Kood, archipelagos, the destination continues to attract nature-loving travelers drawn to the island’s unique rainy season beauty.

“During the monsoon, Koh Kood showcases exceptional natural beauty with cool weather, lush green vegetation, and three pristine waterfalls at full capacity,” Ms. Ampai noted. “Particularly spectacular is Khlong Chao Waterfall, which holds historical significance as a destination visited by King Rama V, whose royal inscription remains on site.”

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Ms. Piyaporn Ampai

The low season offers additional advantages for budget-conscious travelers, including reduced accommodation rates and fresh, affordable local cuisine. Accommodation bookings for late 2025 are already at full capacity across the island.

Safety Measures During Rough Seas

However, current monsoon conditions have created dangerous sea conditions, prompting operators to install red warning flags at all beaches. The strong waves and currents pose significant safety risks for swimming and water activities.

“Each beach has different characteristics – some are deep, others have gradual slopes – making conditions unpredictable during monsoon season,” Ms. Ampai warned. “We’ve experienced drowning incidents in the past, so we urge visitors to heed operator warnings.”

District Chief Phairat Sroysaeng of Koh Kood confirmed that while local authorities maintain emergency response capabilities, visitor cooperation is essential. “We strongly advise against sea swimming during this period due to dangerous currents and high waves.”

Improved Accessibility

The tourism boom has been supported by increased ferry competition, making travel to the island more convenient and affordable for visitors. This improved connectivity has contributed to Koh Kood’s position as a leading destination in Thailand’s Eastern Economic Corridor tourism development.

The sustained growth positions Koh Kood as a year-round destination, challenging traditional seasonal tourism patterns in Thailand’s marine tourism sector.

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Despite red flag safety warnings, foreign tourists are observed swimming in rough seas near the shoreline on June 28, 2025.

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