Getting out and exploring Ko Mak can be done easily on a bicycle. With so few cars to clutter up the roads, the way is usually empty. The routes rise and fall over the small hills, rolling through serene beaches, natural forests, rubber plantations, tall coconut trees and old communities.
There are many bicycle rental shops on Ko Mak that offer a variety of bikes. There is the cruiser bike, a simple single speed bicycle that is great for leisurely biking around or riding down to nearby shops. Rougher terrain calls for a mountain bike, which can handle not only the typical concrete roads, but also the dirt paths through plantations and climbing hills.
The key to picking a bike is finding the proper size to match your body. This will make it easier to control. A suitable bike will not leave you feeling tired after a long ride. Before renting a bike, you should test the ride, and check the braking and gearing systems to make sure they are still functioning well.
The Ko Mak map is not too difficult to figure out, as the island does not have many roads and they are all connected. However, some rental shops make their own bike routes to follow.
Once you have picked a bike and a map, go for a ride!
If it is a family trip with young children, you can choose the shorter paved roads for greater safety and convenience. These roads typically go from the resorts to nearby beaches and offer a relaxed journey with a great view. The family can also peddle out to recharge at a cafe or restaurant.
For more routes to explore, start by picking a destination that interests you. It could be a ride up to the viewpoint or down to swim at Ao Suan Yai, a ride out to see the Luang Phromphakdi Residence or to take pictures on the Bridge to the Dream at the Cinnamon Art Resort and Spa.
Here are some recommended paths to explore on Ko Mak:

Luang Uthai Route:
This route starts close to the T-junction near the Ban Ko Mak School and is no more than 5 km long. Ride along the road until reaching the local community. Enjoy coasting past the large coconut plantations and rubber treatment plants, as well as the natural feeling of the fresh forest farther down the route.

Luang Nara Route:
Starting from the same point as the Luang Uthai path, this route stretches nearly 7 km over mostly concrete roads, with a few rough patches over dirt and stones. Take some time to relish the shade provided by the rubber plantations along the way. In some areas, the tops of the rubber trees on either side arch towards each other, creating a natural canopy over the road. Be ready to put in some work, however, as parts of the path go up steep hills that might test your endurance. At the end of it though lies Laem Son Beach, where you can park your bikes and hop into the ocean, or decide to board a boat heading for Ko Kradat.
These are just some of your choices, and Ko Mak is planning to create even more routes to cater to all different types of cyclists. Additionally, there are plans to add bicycle lanes along the roads.

Biking is a great activity that offers both speed and convenience. Biking is quicker than walking, but still retains the luxury of being able to simply stop along the way to visit an interesting spot. It is an exciting way to get around that can leave you feeling fresh and healthy.
Let's bike around Ko Mak!