Top 8 Spots in Ko Kradan (Hat Chao Mai National Park) for the Ultimate Local Experience

150

I still can’t get over how stunning Ko Kradan is! This tiny Thai island completely won me over with its powder-white beaches and some of the clearest water I’ve ever seen. Seriously, when I first waded into that turquoise paradise at Sunset Beach, I could count the fish swimming around my feet. After spending several incredible days exploring all the things to do in Ko Kradan, I’m convinced it’s one of Thailand’s most beautiful islands.

The snorkeling right off Paradise Reef blew my mind (imagine swimming through clouds of yellow butterfly fish!), and the views across the Andaman Sea at sunset were unreal. If you’re heading to Hat Chao Mai National Park, these are my absolute favorite spots that made my island adventure unforgettable. Let me show you why this place is so special!

Top Must-See Places in Ko Kradan (Hat Chao Mai National Park)

Looking for the coolest things to do in Ko Kradan (Hat Chao Mai National Park)? Explore the vibrant marine life at Ko Kradan’s Coral Reefs, relax on the pristine shores of Ao Niang Beach, take in breathtaking views from Ko Kradan’s Southern Tip, and embark on an adventure to the mysterious Emerald Cave on Ko Mook. Whether you’re into snorkeling, beach relaxation, or exploration, these are the top attractions to visit in Ko Kradan.

1. Snorkeling at Ko Kradan’s Coral Reefs

If you’re heading to Ko Kradan, pack your snorkel. The reefs off Ko Kradan Beach are packed with vibrant marine life. I rented gear from Reef Resort Kradan, which made jumping in quick and easy. The coral gardens start close to shore, and within minutes, I was floating among schools of butterflyfish and parrotfish. Visibility was fantastic—like swimming through a living aquarium.

The stretch near Emerald Cave had the best variety of coral and the occasional sea turtle gliding by. If you go early in the morning, it feels like you’ve got the whole reef to yourself. Even without a guide, the reef is easy to navigate, but bring reef-safe sunscreen and a rash guard to protect both yourself and the coral. For any first-timer or repeat visitor, snorkeling these reefs is one of Ko Kradan’s signature experiences.

2. Swim at Ao Niang Beach

Ao Niang Beach is the quiet side of Ko Kradan, and that’s exactly what makes it special. The calm water, soft sand, and lack of crowds create a peaceful escape. It took me just ten minutes to walk there from the main beach, but the difference in atmosphere was huge—perfect for a slow morning swim.

The water was incredibly clear, and I could see tiny fish darting near my feet as I waded in. With no nearby restaurants or shops, it helps to bring your own drinks and snacks if you plan to stay a while.

I brought a book and ended up spending most of the afternoon there without realizing it. Whether you’re looking for a laid-back alternative to the busier beaches or a scenic spot to unwind, Ao Niang Beach is well worth the detour.

3. Kayak to Ko Kradan’s Southern Tip

Kayaking to the southern tip of Ko Kradan turned out to be one of my favorite activities on the island. I rented a kayak from Kradan Beach Resort, and within minutes, I was paddling through shallow waters above coral beds and schools of fish. The coastline was calm and beginner-friendly, making it easy to enjoy the views while drifting along.

About halfway to Sunset Beach, I found a small cove with no one else around—ideal for a quick dip and snack break. Bring a dry bag and sunscreen since you’ll want to stay out longer than planned. If you time it right, you can circle back just as the sun starts to dip. For a half-day activity that’s both relaxing and full of scenery, kayaking to Ko Kradan’s southern shore is a great option.

• Read next: Best Places to Live in Thailand

4. Visit the Emerald Cave on Ko Mook

A visit to the Emerald Cave on nearby Ko Mook is one of the most unique side trips from Ko Kradan. I booked a small boat tour directly through Reef Resort Kradan, and the ride took less than 30 minutes. The highlight? Swimming through a narrow, dark tunnel that opens into a hidden lagoon surrounded by towering cliffs.

Once inside, sunlight filters through the opening and reflects off the green water, giving the cave its name. I recommend going early before the group tours arrive—our guide timed it so we had the lagoon mostly to ourselves.

Bring a waterproof flashlight or follow a local guide to navigate safely. It’s not a strenuous swim, but water shoes are helpful for walking on the sandy bottom. This is one of those rare spots that lives up to the hype—mysterious, peaceful, and unforgettable.

5. Take a Sunrise Walk Along the Main Beach

Starting your day with a sunrise walk along Paradise Beach—Ko Kradan’s main stretch—is well worth the early wake-up. I walked the beach just after 6 a.m. and found the shoreline practically empty, except for a few hermit crabs scuttling around and the occasional longtail boat bobbing offshore. The sky turned every shade of orange and pink before the sun peeked over the horizon.

With the beach so quiet in the morning, it felt like I had the island to myself. I grabbed a coffee to-go from a nearby bungalow and made my way from one end of the beach to the other without any rush. The sand is soft, the breeze is cool, and the water is perfectly still. It’s an easy, no-effort activity that sets the tone for a slow island day. If you only do one thing early here, make it this.

6. Hike the Ko Kradan East Coast Trail

For a break from the beach, hiking the East Coast Trail is a refreshing option. The trail begins near Paradise Beach and winds through lush vegetation before ending at a quiet patch of coastline. It took me about 45 minutes one way, and the terrain was manageable with sturdy sandals or hiking shoes. There’s no signage, but the path is easy to follow.

Along the way, I spotted monitor lizards, butterflies, and even a few hornbills. What I liked most was how peaceful it felt—no crowds, no noise, just jungle sounds and ocean views through the trees. The endpoint is a rocky shore where you can take a quick swim or just sit and listen to the waves. It’s not a difficult hike, but bring water and insect repellent. If you’re looking for something active yet low-key, this trail hits the mark.

7. Relax on Sunset Beach

If you’re looking for a peaceful spot to end the day, head to Sunset Beach on the west side of Ko Kradan. It’s a short, easy walk from most parts of the island, and you’ll know you’ve arrived when the trees open up to a quiet stretch of sand and wide ocean views. I brought a sarong, a couple of snacks, and just sat watching the colors shift as the sun dipped behind the horizon.

The beach stays surprisingly uncrowded, even at peak sunset time. There aren’t any bars or shops here, which adds to the laid-back vibe. You’ll want to arrive about 30–45 minutes before sunset to claim a good spot. It’s a simple experience—no tours, no gear needed—but the view is unbeatable. Bring a flashlight for the walk back, especially if you linger past dusk.

• Read next: Beautiful Places in Thailand

8. Go Island Hopping (Ko Mook, Ko Ngai, & Ko Cheuk)

Island hopping from Ko Kradan makes for an epic full-day adventure. I joined a small group tour through Reef Resort Kradan, which included stops at Ko Mook, Ko Ngai, and Ko Cheuk. Each island offers something different—Ko Mook has the famous Emerald Cave, while Ko Ngai delivers powdery beaches and chill snorkeling right off the shore.

Ko Cheuk was the highlight for me. The water was crystal clear, and the coral gardens looked untouched. Our guide pointed out lionfish and clownfish while we drifted just a few meters from the boat. There weren’t any crowds, just open sea and reef.

The day moved fast, but the variety of scenery—from hidden lagoons to vibrant marine life—made it feel like three trips in one. Pack reef-safe sunscreen, a dry bag, and a full water bottle.

• Read next: Enchanting Places to Live in Southeast Asia

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the best things to do in Ko Kradan (Hat Chao Mai National Park):

Looking for more content on the top things to do in Hat Chao Mai National Park? Here are some popular questions (and answers) I get that will help you plan your trip to one of the most beautiful places in Thailand.

What animals are in the Hat Chao Mai National Park?

Hat Chao Mai National Park is teeming with wildlife. Expect to see a variety of birds, monkeys, and the occasional monitor lizard. If you’re lucky, you might spot a dugong, which is rare and pretty special.

How do I get to Hat Chao Mai?

Getting to Hat Chao Mai is straightforward. From Trang, take a minivan to Pak Meng Pier and then hop on a longtail boat directly to the park. It’s an adventure just getting there!

Is Koh Kradan worth visiting?

Absolutely, Koh Kradan is worth visiting. Its pristine beaches, clear waters, and peaceful vibe make it a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle. It’s a slice of paradise for beach lovers and snorkeling enthusiasts alike.

What is the closest airport to Koh Kradan?

The closest airport to Koh Kradan is Trang Airport. From there, it’s about a 45-minute drive to Pak Meng Pier, where you can catch a boat to Koh Kradan. The journey is part of the fun!