Which beach?
If you’re coming to Ko Kut, you better like things quiet. The question is: how quiet do you want it? If preferring to have more than one resort on the beach you stay on, and maybe even a few shops and eateries out on the road, go for Khlong Chao, Ao Tapao, Ao Ngam Kho or Bang Bao. Those seeking more seclusion in some spectacular settings should check out Khlong Yai Ki along with four beaches in Kut’s southern reaches. Confused? See our full wrap on Ko Kut’s beaches.

The pier at Dusita is terrific. Photo: Stuart McDonald

Few budget choices
One of the only backpacker spots with actual seafront is Sand and Sea, offering spartan rooms and shacks with shared bathrooms starting at 600 baht in high season. Set within arm’s reach of the sea, a couple of their bungalows have front walls that can be propped open to the breeze. If you don’t mind an inland location, cheaper digs are on offer at PD Guesthouse and Wooden Hut, among others.

Beach shack views. Photo: David Luekens

Backpacking at flashpacker rates
In the 700 to 1,200 baht range, Khlong Chao’s trifecta of Mangrove Bungalow, Cozy House and Ban Klong Jao Homestay forms a strong mix of fan and air-con rooms geared towards independent travellers. Not far away, Ao Ngam Kho’s namesake resort joins Sand and Sea in the two-member “on the beach for less than 1,000 baht club.” Also check out Gumm Lonely Club for its khlong-side setting and chilled-out scene down in Khlong Phrao. Rooms in the house start at 800 baht, but the 1,500-baht waterside deals look to be worth it.

Relax now. Photo: David Luekens

With kids in tow
At first glance we thought Koh Kood Beach Resort in Khlong Mat was a little bland, but upon closer inspection we really warmed to it thanks to the helpful staff and pretty grounds. For around 4,000 baht, the large bungalows and duplexes were designed with families in mind and kids will enjoy the swimming pool set at the bottom of a wide lawn and garden. On Ao Ngam Kho, Dusita Resort is another good family choice with 3,000-baht sea-view bungalows and a big seaside garden lawn of its own.

Designed with families in mind. Photo: David Luekens

A splurge for romance
If you’re a couple willing to float that budget up close to 3,000 baht per night, we loved Bann Makok with its artistically designed rooms in a hidden-away location amid the mangroves of Khlong Yai Ki. In a more central spot on Ao Ngam Kho, Horizon should do the trick for couples hoping for a sunset view from the porch and perhaps a yoga class in the morning. If planning a honeymoon with the means to splurge, we’d give Shantaa a shot.

Think natural horizon pool. Photo: David Luekens

Should you book in advance?
Ko Kut is a seasonal island and the best time to visit is between November and March, when you’ll most likely have great weather. The island is busiest on weekends, so if you’re planning a stay in high season or over a weekend, making a reservation is a good idea. Many places can be booked online at often discounted rates via Agoda and Booking or via the accommodation website—or go old-school and just pick up the phone.

Note also that rates at most places jump by around 20% at peak times including late December to mid January, and around Thai holiday long weekends. Rates often go down by around 20% in the early season shoulder months (November and most of December). Some places slash rates during the monsoon from May to October, but many do not.