Ko Kho Khao

Ko Kho Khao is a long, narrow coastal island off the Andaman Sea coast in Takua Pa District, Phang Nga Province, opposite Khao Lak and Ban Nam Khem. Accessible by a short ferry crossing, the island is known for its 14-kilometre sandy west coast beach, quiet undeveloped landscape, small fishing villages and beachfront resorts. It offers a tranquil alternative to busier Khao Lak beaches and serves as a gateway for day trips and cycling tours.

Visitors can expect a quiet, low-development island with a long continuous sandy beach on the west coast facing the Andaman Sea, calm interior with coconut groves, small villages and dirt roads. The island has scattered resorts, restaurants and beach bars, a small ferry pier on the east side, and open beach areas suitable for walking, swimming in calm season, cycling and photography. No large towns or nightlife; atmosphere is rural and relaxed.

Ko Kho Khao has long been inhabited by small fishing communities. The island and the adjacent mainland area of Ban Nam Khem were significantly affected by the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, with Ban Nam Khem becoming a focal point for memorials and recovery. The island itself has remained largely undeveloped compared to nearby Khao Lak.

The island is home to small Thai-Muslim and Thai-Buddhist fishing villages that maintain traditional coastal livelihoods, coconut farming and small-scale fishing, reflecting the local culture of the Phang Nga Andaman coast.