Trang & Islands

Little-known islands in the Andaman Sea: Ko Mook's Emerald Cave, Ko Kradan's white sand and Trang's roast-pork breakfasts, far quieter than Krabi.

Trang lies on the Andaman coast of southern Thailand, between Krabi and Satun. It is a gateway to islands that Thais love but foreign visitors have yet to discover in large numbers. More than forty islands are scattered along Trang's coast and offshore, most of them within Hat Chao Mai National Park; their limestone islets, white-sand beaches and shallow coral seas rival Krabi's scenery, but are far less crowded.

There are three main things to do. First, the islands: the classic 'four islands' day trip links Ko Mook's Emerald Cave, Ko Kradan, Ko Ngai and the snorkeling spots at Ko Chueak and Ko Waen, or you can stay a few nights on Ko Mook, Ko Kradan or Ko Ngai. To the south, the waters around Ko Libong have Thailand's largest dugong population, while Ko Sukorn is an unspoiled rural island. Second, the mainland: Hat Yong Ling's rock caves in Hat Chao Mai National Park, Le Khao Kob Cave with its underground river trip by boat, the Khao Chang sea cave and Thung Khai Botanical Garden can all be covered in a day by hired car. Third, Trang town: its dim sum breakfasts and crispy roast pork, brought by Chinese immigrants, are famous throughout Thailand, and the Nine Emperor Gods (Vegetarian) Festival is lively too.

The best time is November to April, when the dry season brings calm seas; during the southwest monsoon from May to October the seas are rough, some boat routes stop running and resorts close. Getting there: there are direct flights from Bangkok to Trang (about 1.5 hours), or take the overnight train; speedboats connect the islands with Krabi and Ko Lanta. Boats to the islands depart from Pak Meng or Hat Yao piers. Allow 4–5 days: one for the town and caves, and 3–4 on the islands.

Top sights

Where to eat

Itineraries