Just a ten minute boat ride from the Takua Pa area of Phang Nga province, Ko Kho Khao (pronounced kaw koe cow) doesn’t look very different from the mainland. However, for those seeking a family beach destination that’s not as remote as nearby Ko Phra Thong but not as busy as Khao Lak or Phuket, Kho Khao is worth a visit. The island’s long golden beaches are the main draw, and aesthetically these are similar to the beaches of the Khao Lak area further south. The waters are slightly murky and lack the pristine aquamarine hues of Ko Surin, to the west, but the beaches still make for great swimming, romantic walks and dazzling sunsets.
The island still feels like something of a secret place, but more resorts are gradually popping up. Though Kho Khao (Neck Mountain) island is increasingly included on the tourist radar, especially with Germans and Scandinavians, it remains a markedly sleepy affair — the perfect place to enjoy seclusion without sacrificing quality, comfort and an adequate selection of visitor-oriented services.
Umbrellas AND deckchairs – don’t see those in Phuket!
Historically it was a landing spot for ancient settlers who over time then spread across the Malay peninsula. Later, it was a popular stopping off point among Chinese and other traders during the Takua Pa area’s heyday as a tin mining centre.
The pace of life is slow.
To the northwest there’s an old, overgrown air strip that was used by the Japanese during World War II. Other low-key sights and activities include the small but pretty Toan Thong Waterfall to the northeast, a kayaking operation that runs excursions into the northern and eastern canals, birdwatching trips, snorkelling at nearby Ko Pha or the more remote Ko Tachai, and diving with the island’s only dive operation — Kho Khao Diving.
Peak season at the mangroves.
Further north is Nok Na beach, the most remote stretch of sand with a similar feel to the ultra secluded beaches of Ko Kho Khao’s northern neighbour, Ko Phra Thong. Towards the north it’s also possible to explore the dirt paths by motorbike or bicycle that wind deep into the mangrove areas to the east.
Where did that day go?
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Orientation
Unless coming by private longtail from Ko Phra Thong, virtually all visitors to Ko Kho Khao arrive at Baan Pak Koh’s Ko Koh Khao pier at the far southern point of the island after disembarking from either the longtail or car ferries that depart from Nam Khem pier across the narrow straight that separates the island from the mainland.
Immediately after arrival the island presents itself as a friendly and accessible place with an ample number of taxis, restaurants, shops, and tour companies offering motorbike rentals. The infrastructure is good throughout, with internet and mobile access most everywhere. Free WiFi is available at nearly all of the resorts across the island and some restaurants.
Simple travelling.
There is a small police box across the main road from the entrance to Tacola Resort.
There are a couple ATMs near the pier at Baan Pak Koh, and the larger resorts accept VISA and Mastercard.
Ko Kho Khao is very much a seasonal destination. While a few resorts remain open year round you can expect them to be running with skeleton staffs and most of the tourist facilities on the island to be shut down from May through October.
By Lana Willocks .
