Ko Mak is surrounded by numerous small, yet interesting islands. Ko Kradat, which can be found to the north-east of Ko Mak, is only a 15-minute boat ride from Laem Son Beach.

Kradat is Thai for paper, and much like the name suggests, Ko Kradat is a flat expanse in the middle of the sea. The island also has an interesting history. During the reign of King Rama V the Great there was a time when French troops invaded and occupied part of Thailand and Ko Kradat became one of the targets. To protect the island from French colonisation, King Rama V the Great ordered the purchase of the entire island from the villagers and issued land title deeds. It is the first island in Trat province to have official title deeds.

These days, Ko Kradat is a private island that has opened as a resort for tourists, though there is a 150 Baht fee to be on the island as part of a day trip. Apart from the serene nature and the famous white sandy beaches, it is known for its herds of deer. At some point in the past, people let the deer into the wild and they have since spread across the island.

The highlight of the stay is riding around the island in the back of a large open-roof farm truck known as I-taek. The truck rocks along the dirt roads, cutting between the tall trees of the coconut plantations that have been there upwards of 80 years. Along the way visitors will see deer, some picking at leaves, some staying in groups amid the woods, some standing with their mothers and some bolting away from the noise of the truck. It will be great fun, like being on a safari.

The truck ends its journey at Chai Hat Maphrao En Beach. The name, of course, comes from the coconut trees that lean out over the water, angled towards the horizon. This beach is frequented by many people that come to swim, take pictures or just relax.
To experience a new adventure at Ko Kradat, please contact the Ko Kradat Resort at Telephone number : 08 8500 0667, 08 6332 7010 or visit the resort’s website at www.kohkradadresorts.com