Koh Yao Yai – a hidden paradise just minutes from Phuket!

We spent a wonderful four weeks in Thailand. Our adventurous journey through this country started in Phuket. Phuket offers its visitors a number of beautiful beaches, sights, activities, as well as night markets that are definitely worth a visit. Among other things, there is the famous “Patong Beach”, which is one of the most visited party places in Thailand. And it’s really crazy out there! 😀

However, there are also people who visit Phuket, but do not look for crowded places and more enjoy local islands, where there is authentic Thai life, nice beaches and peace and quiet to relax. We have found such a place! And it is located just 30 minutes from the famous Phuket. Have you heard about Koh Yao Yai?

Koh Yao Yai island

Approximately 25 km from Phuket, in the middle of Phang Nga Bay is located Koh Yao archipelago, which consists of two islands – Koh Yao Yai and Koh Yao Noi. Koh Yao Yai translates to Big Long Island, which makes it clear to you that it is the larger of the two islands. Even though there are several hotels and resorts on the island, it’s still a relatively quiet place that seems like a good alternative for people who want to escape the crowds on Phuket.

What to do on Koh Yao Yai

The island offers many beautiful beaches, a few local shops, but also activities such as kayaking, snorkeling, or day boat trips to nearby islands. Here’s a list of our tips:

1. Walk along Laem Haad Bech – definitely the most beautiful beach on the whole island. It’s a long sandbank that is truly magical at high tide.

2. Renting a scooter and exploring the island – our favourite activity in Thailand. A scooter ride, during which we always discover beautiful places. Renting a scooter on the island cost us about 7€ per day. As the island is quite large, you should be prepared for the fact that a scooter is definitely an essential part of your visit. Since it is a local island, don’t expect any regular public transport or tuktuks.

3. Sunset at Loh Had Beach – definitely the most beautiful spot to watch the sunset on the island. There is also a marina and a few small shops.

4. Lunch or dinner at Laem Laan Restaurant – this restaurant offers great food and spectacular views. What more could you ask for?

5. Hire a private boat and explore the surrounding area – definitely the best and cheapest way to visit the surrounding islands, which most people visit from Krabi or Phuket. On Koh Yao Yai you will find several companies that offer group tours or rent private boats. We definitely recommend this one.

Private boat

A private boat for 6 hours with a driver and lunch cost us a whopping 60€. In Krabi or Phuket we would pay at least double for it. Koh Yao Yai has a great location and gets you to famous places in the Krabi region in minutes. We visited Hong Island, Koh Lao Lading and Monkey Beach and since we left early in the morning we were almost alone!