One of the best ways to discover the beauty of Koh Muk without spending a fortune is to explore the island on foot. The Koh Mook Jungle Track is a must-see for any backpacker. This trail, rated 4.4 stars, offers an unforgettable hiking experience through the lush jungle. According to reviews, the path is well-marked with red arrows for easy orientation. The trail is free, making it an ideal option for frugal travelers. Be sure to bring enough water, snacks and mosquito repellent.

Another must-see is Viewpoint Koh Mook, rated 4.5 stars. This viewpoint offers breathtaking panoramas of the island and surrounding waters. The road to the top takes about an hour from the port, but the views are worth the effort. Remember good shoes and plenty of water, especially on hot days.

For those looking for less-traveled trails, Lo Dung Beach is a great alternative. This beach, rated 4.5 stars, is accessible via an interesting trekking route. While it can be a challenge to get there, the reward of a peaceful, scenic beach is well worth it. It's the perfect place to picnic and relax away from the crowds.

Comparing these trails, Koh Mook Jungle Track is the easiest and most accessible, ideal for beginners. Viewpoint Koh Mook offers the best views, but requires more effort. Lo Dung Beach is the least traveled, offering the most privacy, but also the hardest to find.

Whichever route you choose, trekking on Koh Muk is a great way to experience the island without spending money on transportation. Remember to always inform someone of your trekking plans and take along basic equipment such as water, snacks and mosquito repellent. Exploring these trails not only saves you money, but it's also a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the island's natural beauty and experience it away from the tourist paths.

For backpackers and frugal travelers, finding cheap but comfortable accommodations is key. We have some great options on Koh Muk that won't strain your budget.

Koh Mook Bungalows is one of the best choices, with a 4.8 star rating. They offer new, atmospheric bungalows located in a jungle setting. The price includes breakfast, which is a great value for frugal travelers. The location is excellent - just 300 meters from the east beach. Guests praise the cleanliness, comfortable mattresses and friendly atmosphere. This is an ideal place for those looking for simplicity combined with comfort.

Another great option is Nature Hill, rated at 4.9 stars. This place offers an unforgettable contact with nature. Guests praise the traditional Thai food, spacious rooms and proximity to Charlie Beach. Nature Hill is the perfect place for those who appreciate tranquility and authenticity.

For those looking for even more budget options, Koh Mook Villa Cashew Nut (rated 4.9) offers both bungalows and tents. This is a great option for backpackers who want to keep their lodging expenses down as much as possible. The owner, Yai, is extremely helpful and often offers free tours of the island, which adds tremendous value to your stay.

Comparing these options:

• Koh Mook Bungalows offers the best value for money, with breakfast included and a good location.
• Nature Hill is the top-rated option, ideal for those who appreciate proximity to nature and tranquility.
• Koh Mook Villa Cashew Nut is the cheapest option, ideal for backpackers on a very tight budget, offering a unique experience thanks to the owner's commitment.

When choosing accommodations, look out for additional amenities such as bicycle or motorcycle rentals, which can help you save on transportation around the island. Also remember that prices can vary depending on the season, so it's worth booking in advance, especially during the high season (November-April).

Regardless of the option you choose, budget accommodation on Koh Muk offers not only savings, but also an authentic experience of island life. It's a great opportunity to experience the local culture and connect with other travelers.

One of the main reasons backpackers choose Koh Muk is its beautiful beaches. Fortunately, most of them can be visited completely free of charge, making them ideal for frugal travelers.

Sabai Beach, rated 4.6 stars, is a true paradise for wildlife lovers. Access to the beach requires a short hike through the jungle, which adds to its charm and makes it less crowded. Guests praise the crystal clear water and beautiful sand surrounded by steep cliffs. It's an ideal place to relax and swim, although beware of jellyfish, which sometimes appear in the water. Remember to bring your own food and water, as there are no facilities on the beach.

Another must-see is the beach at the famous Emerald Cave (หาดสวรรค์ ในถ้ำมรกต เกาะมุก), rated 4.6 stars. It's a unique place that has to be accessed by boat, and then swam through a dark cave. Although access requires the purchase of a tour (about 350 baht per person), the view of the emerald water and hidden beach is worth every penny. It's an unforgettable experience that is sure to stay in your memory for a long time.

Lo Dung Beach, with a 4.5-star rating, is another beautiful, though lesser-known beach on Koh Muk. It is more difficult to access, which means you can often have it almost to yourself. It's an ideal spot for those looking for peace and privacy. However, it's worth remembering that the lack of infrastructure means you'll need to bring your own supplies.

Comparing these beaches:

• Sabai Beach offers the best combination of accessibility and wildlife.
• Emerald Cave Beach is the most unique experience, but requires additional costs.
• Lo Dung Beach is the most isolated, ideal for adventurers and tranquility seekers.

Whichever beach you choose, remember a few important things:

1. take enough water and snacks with you, especially for the more isolated beaches.

2. Use sunscreen and bring headgear - the sun on Koh Muk can be very intense.
3. Respect the environment - take all trash with you.

4. Check the times of the tides, especially if you plan to swim or snorkel.

Exploring the beaches of Koh Muk is not only a way to save money, but more importantly an opportunity to experience the true, untouched beauty of nature. Each of these beaches offers something unique and is sure to leave unforgettable memories of your backpacker adventure on this paradise island.