Koh Kood

In a more local part of the island, away from the typical tourist areas. €106 per night, disproportionately high for Thailand, comparable accommodations usually cost between €30 and €50 per night. Authentic ambience, friendly host, air conditioning. Downsides: open-air bathroom and limited privacy, a dark, cluttered room, average breakfast, no working WiFi, no fridge, and the place was hard to find.

Right on the beach, a fantastic setting for a relaxing stay. €230 per night, the most expensive accommodation we've ever booked in Asia, and it only partly justifies the high price. A dreamy beachfront location, lovely ambience, free extras like water, tea, coconut ice cream with toppings and toast in the hotel restaurant, scooter rental and massage services on site.

On the west coast, one of the island's most beautiful beaches. Fine, white sand, crystal-clear water, calm atmosphere and a breathtaking backdrop, hardly any crowds. A few resorts along the beach with direct access to the sea, the water is shallow and perfect for swimming.

On the southeastern coast, one of the island's quieter beaches. Relaxed, secluded atmosphere, far fewer visitors than other beaches. The few accommodations blend harmoniously into nature, a simple but charming retreat.

On the southern coast, also quietly located. Idyllic and remote, fine white sand, crystal-clear water, relaxed atmosphere for swimming and sunbathing. Right on the beach there's a hotel with food and drinks.

Besides the idyllic beachfront location, hotel guests get free sticky rice coconut ice cream with various toppings all day long, plus toast and tea, consistently good quality. The sticky rice ice cream was our highlight, a perfect combination of creamy ice cream and sweet mango.

A cozy restaurant with a relaxed atmosphere and fresh, homemade dishes, from healthy smoothie bowls and fresh juices to aromatic curries and creative Thai dishes. Fresh ingredients, lovingly presented, warm and attentive staff. Open daily 9am to 10pm.

A small, family-run restaurant known for authentic Thai cuisine and a warm atmosphere, you feel welcome right away. Freshly prepared, aromatically seasoned, excellent value for money. The massaman curry was an absolute highlight, perfectly spiced and wonderfully creamy. Open daily 8am to 9pm.

Stylish interior and a relaxed atmosphere, a great selection of fresh smoothie bowls, coffee specialties and light snacks, plus a small boutique with handmade souvenirs. The smoothie bowl with fresh fruit wasn't just a visual highlight, it was also wonderfully refreshing to taste. Open daily 8am to 5pm.

Three waterfalls with free access: Klong Chao Waterfall (the best-known and most visited, easily accessible with a natural pool for swimming), Klong Yai Kee Waterfall (quieter, a great alternative for a relaxed nature experience) and Huang Nam Keaw Waterfall (only reachable via jungle trail until 2012, there's now a road, but the walk through tropical forest remains a highlight for hikers).

Tip: A visit is especially worthwhile in the rainy season, when the waterfalls carry more water. Sturdy footwear is recommended, since the paths can be slippery.

Calm bays, dense mangrove forests and hidden beaches make this activity a real highlight. You glide over clear water, discover untouched beaches and enjoy the silence of nature, a tour through the mangroves is especially striking, with lush vegetation and, with a bit of luck, local wildlife.

Tip: Many hotels and resorts offer free kayaks for guests. It's best to paddle out in the early morning hours or just before sunset, when the water is especially calm.

The coastal waters around Koh Kood offer ideal conditions, the coral reefs are still largely untouched with an impressive variety of marine life. Colorful schools of fish, intact corals and even occasional sightings of rays and turtles. Especially recommended are the reefs around the smaller islands like Ko Rang, reachable by boat.

Tip: If you don't have your own snorkel gear, you can rent it at many resorts or dive schools. The best conditions are in the morning hours.

An absolute highlight, unspoiled beaches, hidden coves and breathtaking snorkeling spots near Koh Mak or Koh Rang. Koh Rang is especially impressive with crystal-clear water and vibrant coral reefs, and Koh Mak with its relaxed beaches and small restaurants was also worth a visit. The tours often include several stops, including sandbanks and secluded lagoons.

Tip: Book a private or small group tour to enjoy the most beautiful spots without the crowds. Many operators also offer lunch and snorkel gear.