Thai island Brits have no idea exists is like going back in time – and loved by famous footballer

BRITS heading to Thailand will head to Koh Samui, Koh Lanta or Koh Phi Phi.

But most Brits won't have heard of Koh Kood - apart from one famous footballer.

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The island was visited by footballer Chris Smalling back in 2018 with his girlfriend.

But other tourists have raved about it too, sayings its the prettiest island in the country.

One traveller, who has been to the popular islands like Krabi and Phuket, the most "beautiful island in Thailand".

Also known as Koh Kut, another said it was "" and loved it so much they ended up staying two weeks, rather than the planned four days,

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Masterchef star Diana Chan, called it a "hidden gem" where you can expect more Cambodian influences due to its proximity.

Despite being Thailand's fourth largest island (out of more than 1,400) it is often overlooked due to its location.

Tourists have to get a boat from Laem Sok Pier, which is near the Cambodian border, and the other side of Thailand compared to the popular holiday islands.

Soneva Kiri general manager Francisca Antunes : “Koh Kood feels a million miles from the real world.

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"It really is Thailand as it used to be 30 or even 50 years ago – untainted.”

But many have said it is worth it, for the quiet beaches no matter the time of year.

This includes Tinkerbell Beach, with calm waters surrounded by forests or the famous Ao Noi Beach with a pier.

There are also the famous Khlong Chao Waterfalls, which tourists often jump into to cool off, and the Ban Ao Yai fishing village with a few restaurants.

Expect lots of Thai salads and BBQ fish, due to the secluded nature of the island.

What you won't see are nightclubs and loud bars like other islands, with just hotels and resorts lining the beaches instead with some quieter beach bars being your only option.

There is no public transport either, and you might not even spot many cars.

Most people use motorbikes and scooters to get around, and you can rent them on the island.

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Boutique hotels can be found for as little as £16 a night, with Kuba Bungalows having private rooms and gardens.

Mid-range hotels include the four-star Koh Kood Paradise Beach resort for £86 a night.

Or you can go fancy and stay at the five-star High Season Pool Villa & Spa on the beach - from £308 a night - and the extreme luxury Soneva Kiri, from £710 a night.

Thailand was named a top destination to visit in 2025 by Travel + Leisure.

TUI has since launched more flights and holidays this winter and winter 2025 to Thailand due to demand.

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We spoke to Emma Walker, a Brit who moved to Chiang Mai which was named a top destination also.

And the Sun's Travel Reporter Hope Brotherton recently visited Thailand - here's what she thought.

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