Trat, Thailand’s Best Islands, Rainforests & Rustic Charm (2025)
Trat, Thailand isn’t just a destination—it’s a gateway to paradise. The scent of saltwater mingles with grilling seafood as longtail boats bob in turquoise waters, their colorful bows pointing toward 52 untouched islands. Fishermen mend nets while market vendors arrange pyramids of rambutan and mangosteen. This is Thailand’s final eastern frontier, where jungle meets sea in perfect harmony.
Why Trat, Thailand Stands Out
A boat is out on the water near a beach, Trat, Thailand
- Historic Architecture: Trat City Pillar Shrine (built 1921) showcases exquisite Thai-Chinese craftsmanship and serves as the spiritual heart of the province.
- Cultural Scene: The annual Trat Fruit Fair (May-June) celebrates the province’s legendary fruits with parades, competitions, and unlimited tastings.
- Local Specialties: Pla kaphong kamin (turmeric-marinated sea bass grilled over coconut husks) captures the region’s coastal-terrestrial fusion perfectly.
Pro Tip: Visit mid-week (Tuesday-Thursday) between February and April for perfect weather, minimal crowds, and the best accommodation rates—avoid weekends when Bangkok residents flock here.
Map of Trat, Thailand
Use these interactive maps to explore Trat, Thailand and plan your route:
📍 View Trat, Thailand on OpenStreetMap
🗺️ Open Trat, Thailand in Google Maps
Planning Your Trip: Practical Essentials
Getting There and Around
- By Air: Trat Airport (TDX) receives daily Bangkok Airways flights from Suvarnabhumi (1 hour, 2,500 THB). Airport taxis to Laem Ngop pier cost 400 THB. Book flights at Skyscanner for best deals.
- By Train: No direct service to Trat; nearest station is Chanthaburi (60km away). Reserve tickets at Trainline or the national railway website.
- By Car: Highway 3 from Bangkok (315km, 4.5 hours). Free parking at most guesthouses. Compare car rentals at RentalCars.com.
- Local Transport: Songthaews (converted pickup trucks) run fixed routes (20-50 THB). Motorbike rentals (250 THB/day). Private taxis (1,500 THB/day).
Best Time to Visit
Trat offers distinct seasonal experiences—dry season (Nov-Apr) provides ideal island-hopping conditions, while green season (May-Oct) offers lush landscapes and fewer tourists at lower prices.
| Season | Weather | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Summer (Jun–Aug) | 28-33°C, high humidity, afternoon showers | Lush rainforests, 30% lower prices, fruit season peak, fewer crowds |
| Winter (Dec–Feb) | 25-30°C, low humidity, minimal rain | Perfect beach weather, crystal-clear waters, full ferry schedules, festive atmosphere |
| Shoulder (Apr–May/Sep–Oct) | 27-32°C, occasional brief storms | Best value, comfortable temperatures, transitioning landscapes, local festivals |
Budgeting for Trat, Thailand
A black and white photo of a street sign, Trat, Thailand
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | 400-800 THB (guesthouses) | 1,200-2,500 THB (boutique resorts) | 3,500-8,000 THB (private villas) |
| Meals | 60-150 THB (street food) | 200-400 THB (restaurants) | 600-1,200 THB (resort dining) |
| Transport | 50-100 THB (songthaews) | 250 THB (motorbike rental) | 1,500 THB (private car) |
| Activities | Free beaches, hiking | 500 THB (island tours) | 2,000 THB (private boat) |
| Daily Total | 800-1,200 THB | 2,500-4,000 THB | 8,000-15,000 THB |
Top Attractions and Must-See Sights
| Attraction | Description | Hours | Entry Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Koh Chang | Thailand’s second largest island with pristine waterfalls and untouched beaches | 24 hours | Free (national park fee 200 THB) |
| Koh Kood | Remote paradise with turquoise bays, luxury resorts, and spectacular sunsets | 24 hours | Free |
| Koh Mak | Tiny tranquil island perfect for cycling between rubber plantations and empty beaches | 24 hours | Free |
| Mu Ko Chang National Park | Protected archipelago with hiking trails, coral reefs, and rare wildlife | 8:00-17:00 | 200 THB (foreigners) |
3-Day Itinerary: Trat, Thailand’s Highlights & Hidden Gems
Day 1: Island Introduction & Coastal Charm
- Morning: 7:30 AM ferry from Laem Ngop to Koh Chang (300 THB, 45 minutes). Rent motorbike at White Sand Beach (250 THB/day) and explore Klong Prao waterfall.
- Afternoon: Lunch at Nong Bua Seafood (try their garlic pepper squid – 180 THB) followed by snorkeling at Koh Wai (500 THB tour).
- Evening: Sunset cocktails at Oodie’s Place (mai tai 150 THB) and dinner at Blue Lagoon (massaman curry 220 THB).
Day 2: Jungle Adventures & Local Culture
- Morning: 8:00 AM hike to Klong Nonsi waterfall (free) – bring waterproof shoes for the rocky trail and natural pools.
- Afternoon: Visit Ban Kwan Chang elephant sanctuary (900 THB, includes lunch) and traditional fishing village at Salak Kok Bay.
- Evening: Night market in Trat town for street food feast (try khanom jeen – fermented rice noodles with curry – 40 THB).
Day 3: Remote Island Escape
- Morning: Speedboat to Koh Kood (600 THB, 1 hour). Explore Klong Chao waterfall and nearby mangrove forests by kayak (200 THB/hour).
- Afternoon: Seafood lunch at Beach Natural Restaurant (grilled lobster 450 THB) and swimming at Taphao Beach.
- Evening: Sunset at Klong Hin Dam and final dinner at Siam Beach Hut (green curry with fish 180 THB).
Cultural Insights & Etiquette
- Language: Basic Thai phrases: “Sawasdee” (hello), “Khop khun” (thank you), “Tao rai?” (how much?). Locals appreciate attempts to speak Thai.
- Customs: Remove shoes before entering homes/temples. Don’t touch heads or point feet at people. The monarchy is deeply respected.
- Tipping: Not expected but appreciated: 20-50 THB for meals, 50-100 THB for guides, round up taxi fares.
- Dress Code: Cover shoulders/knees at temples. Beachwear only at beaches. Smart casual for nicer restaurants.
- Business Hours: Shops 9:00-19:00, government offices 8:30-16:30. Banks close weekends. Major holidays: Songkran (April), Loy Krathong (November).
Where to Eat: Trat, Thailand’s Best Bites
Trat’s cuisine reflects its coastal location and agricultural heartland—expect incredibly fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and Thai-Chinese influences from historic trade routes.
Must-Try Local Specialties
- Pla kaphong kamin: Turmeric-marinated sea bass grilled over coconut husks—best at Rim Nam Trat Restaurant
- Khanom jeen: Fresh rice noodles with southern-style fish curry—find authentic versions at Trat Morning Market
- Goong pao: River prawns stuffed with lemongrass and grilled in banana leaves—specialty at Koh Chang Seafood
Restaurant Recommendations by Budget
| Type | Restaurant | Specialty | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Budget | Trat Night Market (downtown) | Street food variety | 40-100 THB |
| Mid-range | Ruan Thai (Koh Chang) | Traditional Thai seafood | 180-350 THB |
| Fine dining | Soneva Kiri (Koh Kood) | Gourmet Thai fusion | 800-1,500 THB |
Where to Stay
Accommodation ranges from basic beach bungalows to luxury eco-resorts. Book early during peak season (Dec-Jan) when the best properties fill quickly. Compare prices and book at Booking.com or Airbnb for apartments.
Best Neighborhoods for Accommodation
- White Sand Beach (Koh Chang): Most developed area with restaurants, bars, and various accommodations—ideal for first-time visitors and nightlife
- Klong Prao (Koh Chang): Peaceful mid-range area with luxury resorts and beautiful beaches—perfect for couples and families
- Koh Kood: Remote luxury eco-resorts and basic bungalows—best for honeymooners and digital detox seekers
A statue of a person with a purple mask on top of a building, Trat, Thailand
FAQs: Your Trat, Thailand Questions Answered
1. Is Trat, Thailand safe at night?
Extremely safe—violent crime is rare. Exercise normal precautions: avoid isolated areas, don’t flash valuables, and use registered taxis. The main risk is road accidents, so drive carefully.
2. What currency is used and are credit cards accepted?
Thai Baht (THB). Credit cards accepted at hotels and upscale restaurants, but carry cash for markets, local transport, and smaller establishments. ATMs widely available in towns.
3. How do I get from the airport to the city center?
Trat Airport to city center: taxi (400 THB, 20 minutes). From Bangkok airports: direct minivans (350 THB, 4 hours) or combination flight+taxi. Book airport transfers at GetYourGuide for convenience.
4. Do I need to speak the local language?
Not necessary—basic English is widely understood in tourist areas. Learning a few Thai phrases enhances the experience. Locals are patient and appreciate effort.
5. What’s the appropriate dress code?
Lightweight, breathable clothing. Cover shoulders and knees at temples. Swimwear only at beaches/resorts. Bring rain jacket (May-Oct) and sweater for air-conditioned transport.
Final Thoughts: Trat, Thailand Awaits
Trat represents Thailand’s last unspoiled coastal frontier—a region where traditional fishing villages coexist with luxury eco-resorts, where dense jungles meet pristine beaches, and where the pace of life still follows the tides. Beyond the famous islands lie hidden waterfalls, authentic markets, and some of Thailand’s warmest hospitality. Whether you seek adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, Trat delivers an authentic Thai experience that mass tourism hasn’t diluted. Come for the islands, but you’ll return for the magic that happens between them.
Keywords
Trat, Thailand travel guide, Trat, Thailand attractions, things to do in Trat, Thailand, Trat, Thailand itinerary, Trat, Thailand restaurants, Trat, Thailand hotels, visit Trat, Thailand, Trat, Thailand tourism, Trat, Thailand vacation, Trat, Thailand trip planning
