Never heard of Koh Jum? That’s because it’s southern Thailand’s best-kept secret. There are a few theories as to why the island has escaped the heavily-touristed fate of its immediate neighbours Koh Phi Phi and Koh Lanta, but perhaps this hidden gem just got lucky. A safe haven from commercial chaos, the island is a throwback to the chilled out Thailand of the 1990s. Close to international airports, and home to calm turquoise seas, laidback locals and golden sandy beaches that you might have all to yourself, Koh Jum has all the necessary ingredients to become the 'Next Big Thing' in Thai tourism. For now, however, it flies blissfully below the radar.
While it’s true that idyllic Koh Jum feels like a blast from the past, there is nothing old-school about the eco-luxe accommodation at Koh Jum Beach Villas – unequivocally the best place to stay on the island. Each of the 24 villas varies in size and layout, ranging from stylish honeymoon hideaways to sprawling family houses. All have stunning jungle surroundings and gorgeous design inside. At the centre of the resort lies the beachfront restaurant, main pool and bar – an idyllic place to kick-back and drink top-notch cocktails at sunset. There's a good wellness programme from yoga and meditation to massage and life coaching. Plus, mere footsteps away, a 700m-long beach to laze away your days in paradise.
Highs
- Located on a tranquil and totally unspoilt island within easy reach of international airports
- Stylish and breezy villas for all group sizes (2-10) – some are designed specifically for families, and lots have private pools
- The friendliness of the staff (and the islanders)
- A good range of dining options for all tastes, including self-catering, plus the cocktails at the bar are fabulous: sundowners of your dreams!
- Excellent eco-credentials without compromising on luxury – the resort has its own wind turbine, beach clean-up schemes, no single-use plastics and an organic garden that supplies the restaurant
Lows
- Koh Jum is not a party island – if you are looking for a full moon rave party, look elsewhere
- At low tide the reef is exposed so it's not possible to swim in the sea – use this time to do the lovely 4km walk along the beach to make the most of no noise pollution from boats and daytrippers
- Sections of the beach are rocky, but there are plenty of sandy spots
- You’re close to nature, so you might share your room with the occasional (harmless) grasshopper or gecko
Best time to go
Seas are calmest, temperatures are balmiest, and the weather is most predictable from November to April. Thailand’s low (or “wet”) season from June to October gets an unfair reputation, as you may luck out with piercing blue skies and only a short afternoon downpour.
Our top tips
Koh Jum is home to some of the friendliest, most genuine people we’ve had the pleasure to meet in Thailand. Grab one of the free bikes and do the easy 15-minute cycle ride into the main village to meet the islanders. At one point, a local approached us out of the blue, not to sell us something but to invite us to join in a lively board game!
Our guests' ratings...
Based on 5 independent reviews from i-escape guests
Feedback is only from guests who have booked and stayed through i-escape