Breezy Cool
The lowdown
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Getting There
Koh Jum is surprisingly accessible. This unspoilt gem is only 90 minutes by road and sea from Krabi Airport, accessible via daily flights from Bangkok or Singapore.
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When to go
The best weather is typically found between December and April but don’t rule out the “green season”. Weather patterns are changing and travelling in the summer months will mean you get even more of the island to yourself.
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Insider tip
Take one of the complimentary bikes and cycle the short distance to the island’s port and main village. Here you’ll find Koh Jum Seafood, serving up fantastic grilled king prawns overlooking the neighbouring islands.
If you spent time in Thailand in your younger years, perhaps with a dusty backpack in tow, you’ll recognise the vibe on Koh Jum. It’s laidback to the point of being horizontal, tourism is minimal and low-rise and there’s a smattering of feet-in-the sand beach bars where time seems to stand still.
That’s not to say you’ll have to stay in a beach hut though. Quite the opposite. We’ve discovered breezy, cool Koh Jum Beach Villas, a set of spacious wooden houses from one-bedroom to five-bedroom, some with private pools, hidden in tropical foliage opening out onto a swathe of glorious beach. A good fit for families or couples alike, the villas are beautifully furnished in polished teak, colourful local batik and carved wooden ornaments. All have screens and folding doors that open up, letting the surrounding nature and sea views in.
Days fall into an easy rhythm here on Koh Jum. The white-sand beach beckons for sun worshippers, although swimmers should note that during low tide sea access is limited. The restaurant serves up zingy Thai classics and the bartender is always primed to dish out cocktails and cold beers. Should the need for activity strike you, you can kayak the mangroves, take a snorkelling trip to Phi Phi National Park or explore sleepy Koh Jum by bike, discovering secret beaches. There’s also a challenging trek up the mountain of Koh Pu, in the north of the island, which will reward you with astonishing views.
Most of all, though, the real joy of Koh Jum Beach Villas lies in doing very little, using your tropical home as an opportunity to truly switch off.
Matt Fisher
Director
matthew@realholidays.co.ukA hidden gem on a unique and unspoilt Thai island. Perfect for anyone looking to truly switch off and enjoy lazy days on the beach.
