“Ko Phithak is famous for its homestays, offering visitors an authentic experience of local fishing life, and for the special phenomenon where the island can be reached on foot during low tide.”
Ko Phithak is a small island located in Thong Krok Bay, just a few hundred meters from the coast of Lang Suan District. It was originally called “Ko Phi Thak” according to local legend, which says a spirit once appeared to warn sailors for safety during storms. Later, locals renamed it “Ko Phithak” for good fortune. The island village is a small fishing community that maintains a simple lifestyle and deep connection with the sea.
Visitors can stay in a homestay with local fishermen to experience a warm family atmosphere and learn traditional fishing life, such as fishing, raising sea bass in cages, seafood processing, as well as eco-tourism activities like kayaking, snorkeling over shallow coral reefs, and night squid fishing. Most meals served are fresh seafood from local fishermen, including blue crabs, prawns, and freshly caught fish.
Another marvel of Ko Phithak is the “walk-across phenomenon”, which occurs only at the lowest tide, revealing a sandbar stretching from the Bang Nam Chuet coast to the island. Visitors can walk to the island in just a few minutes, enjoying the stunning scenery of the sea on both sides. This is a unique and exciting experience of the island.
On the island, there are no cars or large vehicles, so it is quiet and ideal for those seeking to escape the bustle and relax in nature. Visitors can walk around the island in about 40–60 minutes to see the sea, mountains, and the cozy fishing village.
How to Get There
- Private car or public transport: From Chumphon city, take Highway 41 toward Lang Suan District, then continue along the coastal road to Ban Ko Phithak pier or Thong Krok Bay pier. Vehicles can be parked at the pier’s parking area. Then contact a homestay long-tail boat or local ferry to cross to the island, which takes only 5–10 minutes.
Travel Tips
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Book homestays in advance, as most packages include 2–3 meals and boat transfers.
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Popular activities include kayaking, snorkeling, and walking across the island at low tide.
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There are no cars on the island; pack light and convenient luggage.
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To experience the walk-across phenomenon, check with locals for the exact lowest tide times.
Entrance Fee:
- Free (no entrance fee for the island itself, but boat transfer and homestay fees apply).
Opening Hours:
- The island can be visited year-round, but the walk-across sandbar usually occurs between March – May (boat schedules depend on arrangements with homestays).