“Ko Mattra stands out for its soft white sandy beaches and shallow coral reefs that remain remarkably well-preserved. It is home to a wide variety of marine life, including the rare giant clam. The island also hosts a ranger station that allows visitors to stay overnight in park accommodations or camping areas.”
Ko Mattra — also known locally as Ko Tang Kui — is one of the largest islands within Mu Ko Chumphon National Park. The island is distinguished by its soft white sand beaches interspersed with natural rock formations, most notably on the island’s western and southern shores, creating a landscape that is both serene and scenic.
The surrounding waters are home to some of the most beautiful shallow coral reefs in the park, where visitors can enjoy snorkeling among coral species such as staghorn coral and sea anemones. The area is also inhabited by a colorful array of tropical fish and the rare giant clam, symbolizing the island’s healthy marine ecosystem.
One of the island’s unique residents is the “chicken crab” (Birgus latro) — a land crab known for its peculiar behavior of climbing trees and making sounds similar to a rooster’s crow, giving rise to its local nickname.
In the central-western part of the island lies Bungalow Lung Khao, the only private accommodation available on Ko Mattra. Additional facilities include park-operated lodging and a designated camping area near the headland, where visitors can stay overnight and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere under a star-filled sky.
Ko Mattra is a perfect destination for sea lovers and snorkeling enthusiasts. The coral reefs are close to the shore, making it easy to explore marine life safely. After sunset, visitors often enjoy squid fishing, a popular nighttime activity that offers both fun and a taste of local fisherman culture.
How to Get There
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Getting to the Pier: Visitors must first travel to one of the main piers at Hat Sai Ri Beach or Pak Nam Chumphon, both of which serve as departure points for boats heading to the island.
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By Boat: You can charter a private long-tail boat or join a snorkeling day tour, with options for day trips or overnight stays. The boat ride typically takes around 15–30 minutes, depending on the type of vessel and weather conditions.
Travel Tips
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The best time to visit is from January to May, when the sea is calm and the water is at its clearest.
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Visitors planning to stay overnight should book accommodation or bring camping gear and contact the park rangers in advance.
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Please help protect the coral reefs by not touching or collecting marine life.
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Open fires and littering are strictly prohibited on the island.
Entrance Fee
Entrance fees for Mu Ko Chumphon National Park:
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Thai visitors: Adults 40 THB / Children 20 THB
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Foreign visitors: Adults 200 THB / Children 100 THB
Additional costs may include boat rental or overnight accommodation fees, depending on your travel plan.
Opening Hours
- Ko Mattra is open for visitors year-round. However, during the monsoon season (October–December), boat services may be suspended for safety reasons.
- Visitors are advised to check weather conditions and contact the park office before planning their trip.