Koh Mak is a serene island located in the Gulf of Thailand, near the Trat province. It is famous for its quiet beaches and natural beauty, making it a popular escape from busy cities like Bangkok. Many travelers visit Koh Mak to enjoy its peaceful environment and explore its marine life.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to reach Koh Mak from the mainland. You will learn about the main transport options, step-by-step travel plans, practical tips, and what to expect upon arrival. Whether you prefer trains, buses, or self-driving, this article covers everything you need for a smooth trip.

Getting from Trat to Koh Mak – Main Options

Ferry

The ferry is the primary and most popular way to reach Koh Mak from Trat. It is suitable for most travelers as it offers direct access to the island with regular schedules.

• Ferries depart from Laem Ngop Pier near Trat town, about 30 km from Trat city center, with travel times of around 45 to 60 minutes to Koh Mak island.

• Fares typically range from 150 to 250 THB per person, depending on the ferry operator and season, with services running multiple times daily from early morning to late afternoon.

• Ferries can be crowded during weekends and Thai public holidays, so booking tickets in advance through local travel agents or online platforms is advised to secure your spot.

• During the monsoon season (May to October), rough sea conditions may cause delays or cancellations, so check weather updates before traveling.

• Onboard facilities are basic but comfortable, with some ferries offering shaded seating and refreshments; carry water and snacks for the journey.

Bus

Buses are a common way to reach Trat from Bangkok or nearby cities, but they do not go directly to Koh Mak. You must combine bus travel with a ferry ride.

• From Bangkok’s Eastern Bus Terminal (Ekkamai), frequent buses run to Trat, covering approximately 315 km in 5 to 6 hours, with fares between 300 and 500 THB depending on the bus class.

• Upon arrival at Trat Bus Station, you will need to take a taxi or local songthaew to Laem Ngop Pier, which is about 30 km away and costs around 300 to 400 THB for a taxi.

• Bus services are generally comfortable with air conditioning, but buses can get crowded during peak travel seasons like Songkran (April) and New Year holidays.

• Booking bus tickets in advance via online portals or bus counters is recommended to avoid last-minute hassles, especially during holidays.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Bangkok or nearby areas to Trat and then taking a ferry to Koh Mak is a flexible option for travelers who prefer control over their schedule and stops.

• The drive from Bangkok to Trat covers about 315 km via Highway 3 (Sukhumvit Road), taking approximately 5 to 6 hours depending on traffic conditions and stops.

• There are toll plazas along the route, so keep cash handy; toll fees can total around 100 to 150 THB one way.

• Parking is available near Laem Ngop Pier, but space can be limited during peak seasons; it is advisable to arrive early to secure a spot.

• After parking, you can board the ferry to Koh Mak; some ferry operators allow vehicles on board, but this is rare and usually not necessary for tourists.

• Driving in Thailand requires an international driving permit, and be prepared for left-hand traffic and local driving customs.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This plan is designed for first-time travelers to Koh Mak, combining bus and ferry travel for a smooth journey.

• Book a bus ticket from Bangkok Ekkamai Terminal to Trat in advance, especially during holidays, to ensure availability and preferred timing.

• Upon arrival at Trat Bus Station, hire a taxi or songthaew to Laem Ngop Pier; confirm the fare before starting the trip to avoid misunderstandings.

• Purchase your ferry ticket at Laem Ngop Pier or book online if available; arriving 30 minutes before departure helps avoid last-minute rush.

• Board the ferry and keep your belongings secure; carry water and light snacks as onboard options may be limited.

• After reaching Koh Mak, use local motorbike taxis or rent a scooter to reach your accommodation, as public transport on the island is minimal.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always carry a copy of your passport and travel documents when traveling between provinces and islands in Thailand for identification and emergencies.

• Drink bottled water and avoid tap water on Koh Mak to prevent stomach issues; carry a refillable bottle to reduce plastic waste.

• Book bus and ferry tickets through reputable agents or official websites to avoid scams and inflated prices common in tourist areas.

• Use app-based taxis like Grab in Trat city for safe and reliable local transport; on Koh Mak, motorbike taxis are common but negotiate fares beforehand.

• Pack light and waterproof luggage, especially during the monsoon season, as ferry decks can get wet and luggage space is limited.

• Check weather forecasts before traveling, as heavy rains can disrupt ferry schedules and road conditions between Trat and Laem Ngop.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to visit Koh Mak is during the dry season, from November to April, when the weather is sunny and sea conditions are calm. This period offers the smoothest ferry rides and pleasant beach weather.

The monsoon season from May to October brings heavy rains and rough seas, which can cause ferry delays or cancellations. Travelers should plan accordingly and monitor weather updates.

• Avoid traveling during major Thai festivals like Songkran (April) and New Year (December-January) due to heavy traffic and crowded transport.

• Early morning ferry departures are less crowded and offer cooler temperatures, making travel more comfortable.

• Fog is rare in this region but can occur in early mornings during the cooler months, potentially delaying road travel from Bangkok to Trat.

Arrival at Koh Mak & What to Expect

Upon arrival at Koh Mak Pier, you will find a small but welcoming area with basic facilities. The island is quiet, and transport options are limited but sufficient for tourists.

Local transport mainly consists of motorbike taxis and scooter rentals. Most accommodations are within a short distance from the pier, but pre-arranged transfers or clear directions help avoid confusion. Prepaid taxis or app-based services are not common on the island, so cash payments and fare negotiations are standard.

Conclusion

Traveling to Koh Mak is straightforward once you understand the combination of bus or car travel to Trat and the ferry crossing from Laem Ngop Pier. The ferry is the most efficient and popular option to reach the island, especially during the dry season when sea conditions are favorable.

Planning your trip in advance, booking tickets early, and preparing for local transport on Koh Mak will ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey. With this guide, you can confidently plan your travel to Koh Mak and look forward to a peaceful island experience.