Koh Lak Rad, also known locally as “Koh E-Rad,” is a small limestone island located off the coast of Chumphon within the Mu Ko Chumphon National Park. The island rises dramatically from the sea and has no beaches or shaded areas, but what it lacks in land attractions, it more than makes up for beneath the surface.

The underwater world surrounding Koh Lak Rad is exceptionally rich and diverse, making it one of the top diving sites in southern Thailand. The reef features both hard and soft corals in vivid hues of pink, purple, yellow, and green. Among them, the Porites coral, also known as the “coral boulder,” is the star attraction. These massive, dome-shaped corals can reach over two meters in diameter and are considered rare natural treasures due to their slow growth and striking colors.

Divers and snorkelers can enjoy spotting a wide variety of marine life, including parrotfish, butterflyfish, lionfish, and schools of colorful reef fish swimming among the coral formations. Sea anemones are also abundant, home to playful clownfish that make for excellent underwater photography opportunities.

When sunlight filters through the crystal-clear waters, the scene becomes even more enchanting — coral gardens glow beneath the surface, and the deep blue sea reflects like a shimmering mosaic. Whether you’re snorkeling near the surface or diving deeper (8–20 meters), Koh Lak Rad offers an unforgettable underwater experience.

The island is typically included in One-Day Diving Trip programs organized by local tour operators. These tours often combine Koh Lak Rad with nearby islands such as Koh Mattra, Koh Lawa, and Koh Langka Jiew, allowing visitors to explore several spectacular dive sites in one trip.

Because there are no facilities or beaches on the island, activities are focused entirely on marine exploration. Most tours provide lunch and refreshments on board the boat, along with professional dive guides who help ensure safety and environmental conservation.

• Koh Lak Rad can only be accessed via organized tour boats. Independent travel to the island is not permitted.

• Departure Points: Boats to the island depart from major piers such as Hat Sai Ri Pier and Pak Nam Chumphon Pier.

• Booking Tours: Contact a local tour company in Chumphon and book a One-Day Snorkeling or Diving Tour of the Chumphon Archipelago. Most itineraries include Koh Lak Rad as one of the stops.

• Travel Time: The journey takes about 15–20 minutes by speedboat or around 40 minutes by longtail boat from the mainland.

• Koh Lak Rad is for diving and snorkeling only – there are no beaches or resting areas on the island.

• Bring or rent proper snorkeling/diving gear from your tour operator.

• Both shallow and deep-water zones are available, suitable for beginners and advanced divers alike.

• The best time to visit is from March to September, when the sea is calm and visibility is at its clearest.

• Always follow the instructions of dive guides and park officers to protect the coral reefs and marine life.

Entrance Fee

As Koh Lak Rad is part of Mu Ko Chumphon National Park, visitors must pay the park entrance fee (not including tour or boat costs)

• Thai Nationals: Adults 40 THB, Children 20 THB

• Foreigners: Adults 200 THB, Children 100 THB

Opening Hours

• Open for diving and snorkeling during daylight hours according to the tour schedule, generally between 08:00 AM – 04:00 PM.