Overview
Ko Phra Thong offers a rare glimpse of Thailand's undeveloped coast: over 9 km of deserted Andaman Sea beach, savannah landscapes like Africa's plains, and a 60% mangrove forest teeming with wildlife including dugongs, leopard cats, and king cobras. The island is home to fewer than 300 Moken (sea gypsy) inhabitants, a rare indigenous tribe, making it one of the few places in Thailand where this culture remains intact.
Beach · Budget Travel · Diving · Island · Nature
Before you go
Electricity
No 24-hour electricity on the island as of 2014. Accommodation likely runs generators during limited hours.
Environment
Part of Mu Ko Ra - Ko Phrathong National Park (since 2001). Extensive mangrove forest covers 60% of the east side. Home to dugongs, leopard cats, king cobras, and sea eagles.
Population
Fewer than 300 Moken (sea gypsy) and Thai inhabitants across three villages. Baan Lion is nearly deserted with only 6 permanent families.
Transport
Only boat access from Khuraburi pier. Longtail boats depart until 16:30 (1,400 baht, 1 hr). Return last boat at 15:00. Speedboat available for 6,000 baht.