The tropical paradise of Thailand’s Koh Yao Yai island
Situated in the Andaman sea between Phuket and Krabi lies the Koh Yao islands, this guide will focus on the larger of the two, Ko Yao Yai, which translates to big Long Island. (although it’s not really that big as it is only 30 kilometers from one end to the other). You can get a real sense of local life on Koh Yao Yai as it is still in the process of developing in comparison to other spots like Phuket and Krabi.
Table of contents
- Is Koh Yao Yai worth visiting
- How to get to Koh Yao Yai Island
- When you arrive on Koh Yao Yai
- When you want to leave Koh Yao Yai
- How to get around Koh Yao Yai
- where to stay on Koh Yao Yai
- where to eat on Koh Yao Yai
- Is it worth visiting Koh Yao Yai
Is Ko Yao Yai worth visiting
In short, yes absolutely. Ko Yao Yai is a hidden gem in Thailand. Whether you seek relaxation or adventure, Ko Yao Yai has something for everyone, whether it be relaxing on its secluded shores, indulging in water sports like snorkeling and kayaking, or embarking on a jungle trek. Koh Yao Yai has such a welcoming local community and a real authentic Thai culture. To give a sense of the type of island Ko Yao Yai is, the local children waved at us and shouted friendly hello’s to us every time we drove past them on our scooter.
How to get to Koh Yao Yai
Although Koh Yao Yai is part of Phang Nga province, there is no direct boat from Phang Nga. You can travel to Koh Yao Yai by boat, from Phuket and Krabi. Boats depart from three piers in Phuket and from two piers in Krabi bound for Ko Yao Yai. Below are the departure schedules for the piers.
From Phuket to Koh Yao Yai
| Time | Departure Pier (Phuket) | Destination Pier (Koh Yao Yai) | Boat Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| 08:30 AM | Bang Rong Pier | Khlong Hia Pier | Speedboat |
| 09:30 AM | Bang Rong Pier | Khlong Hia Pier | Speedboat |
| 10:30 AM | Bang Rong Pier | Khlong Hia Pier | Speedboat |
| 11:30 AM | Bang Rong Pier | Khlong Hia Pier | Speedboat |
| 12:30 PM | Bang Rong Pier | Khlong Hia Pier | Long-tail boat |
| 01:30 PM | Bang Rong Pier | Khlong Hia Pier | Speedboat |
| 02:30 PM | Bang Rong Pier | Khlong Hia Pier | Speedboat |
| 03:00 PM | Bang Rong Pier | Khlong Hia Pier | Speedboat |
| 04:30 PM | Bang Rong Pier | Khlong Hia Pier | Speedboat |
| 05:40 PM | Bang Rong Pier | Khlong Hia Pier | Speedboat |
| 07:20 AM | Chianwanich Pier | Loh Jark Pier | Speedboat |
| 08:00 AM | Chianwanich Pier | Loh Jark Pier | Speedboat |
| 08:30 AM | Chianwanich Pier | Loh Jark Pier | Ferry |
| 10:00 AM | Chianwanich Pier | Loh Jark Pier | Speedboat |
| 11:30 AM | Chianwanich Pier | Loh Jark Pier | Speedboat |
| 02:00 PM | Chianwanich Pier | Loh Jark Pier | Ferry |
| 03:00 PM | Chianwanich Pier | Loh Jark Pier | Speedboat |
| 03:30 PM | Chianwanich Pier | Loh Jark Pier | Speedboat |
| 05:00 PM | Chianwanich Pier | Loh Jark Pier | Speedboat |
| 05:45 PM | Chianwanich Pier | Loh Jark Pier | Speedboat |
| 06:15 PM | Chianwanich Pier | Loh Jark Pier | Speedboat |
From Krabi to Koh Yao Yai
| Time | Departure Pier (Krabi) | Destination Pier (Koh Yao Yai) | Boat Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9:15 AM | Thalane Pier | Chong Lad Pier | – |
| 10:15 AM | Thalane Pier | Chong Lad Pier | Long-tail boat |
| 11:15 AM | Thalane Pier | Chong Lad Pier | Long-tail boat |
| 1:00 PM | Thalane Pier | Chong Lad Pier | Long-tail boat |
| 2:00 PM | Thalane Pier | Chong Lad Pier | Long-tail boat |
| 2:30 PM | Thalane Pier | Chong Lad Pier | Long-tail boat |
| 4:00 PM | Thalane Pier | Chong Lad Pier | Speedboat |
From Koh Yao Noi to Koh Yao Yai
You can get from Koh Yao Noi to Koh Yao Yai at any time of the day by heading to the pier and catching a long tail boat for about 100 THB per person and it takes about 5 minutes.
Leaving Koh Yao Yai
Speedboat trips cost between 120-200 THB per person. It costs 140 THB for the transport of a scooter, and 400 THB one way fare for a car including the driver. The car ferry fills up pretty quickly, so you should call ahead of time to reserve a spot. Calls are made direct to the boat captains, not a lot of English is spoken so you will need to be able to speak Thai, or ask your accommodation staff, or a friendly local for help. Below are the timetables for departing Koh Yai Yai.
From Koh Yao Yai to Phuket
| Time | Departure Pier (Koh Yao Yai) | Destination Pier (Phuket) | Boat Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| 06:30 AM | Klong Hia | Bang Rong | Speedboat |
| 07:30 AM | Klong Hia | Bang Rong | Speedboat |
| 07:50 AM | Klong Hia | Bang Rong | Speedboat |
| 09:00 AM | Klong Hia | Bang Rong | Speedboat |
| 10:20 AM | Klong Hia | Bang Rong | Speedboat |
| 11:30 AM | Klong Hia | Bang Rong | Speedboat |
| 13:30 PM | Klong Hia | Bang Rong | Speedboat |
| 14:00 PM | Klong Hia | Bang Rong | Speedboat |
| 15:00 PM | Klong Hia | Bang Rong | Speedboat |
| 16:00 PM | Klong Hia | Bang Rong | Speedboat |
| 16:40 PM | Klong Hia | Bang Rong | Speedboat |
| 08:00 AM | Laem Yai | Laem Hin | Speedboat |
| 08:30 AM | Loh Jark | Chianwanich | Car Ferry |
| 10:00 AM | Loh Jark | Chianwanich | Car Ferry |
| 14:00 PM | Loh Jark | Chianwanich | Car Ferry |
| 17:00 PM | Loh Jark | Chianwanich | Speedboat |
From Koh Yao Yai to Krabi
| Time | Departure Pier | Destination Pier | Boat Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:20 AM | Klong Hia | Tha Len | Speedboat |
| 15:25 PM | Klong Hia | Nopparat Thara | Speedboat |
Below is the boat departure schedule for Koh Yao Yai’s Chong Lard Pier:
When you arrive in Koh Yao Yai
When you arrive on Koh Yao Yai’s pier, you can rent a scooter or take a songathew to your final destination on Koh Yao Yai. Friendly locals may also be available to offer assistance and provide information about the island’s attractions and activities. When we arrived at Koh Yao Yai, we opted to take a songathew, and the driver made a stop at a local stall to buy us some coca cola.
How to get around Koh Yao Yai
You can get around by bicycle or scooter or songathew. I recommend renting a scooter, even if you have never rode a scooter before, Ko Yao Yai is the perfect place to learn as the roads are quiet. I tried the bicycle for my first day in Koh Yao Yai and quickly I realized I could not bicycle my way around to see things, without dropping dead from the exhaustion, especially in that heat. So on my second day, I gave the bicycles back and rented a scooter and learned to ride it. You can rent a scooter at the pier and most places that offer accommodation, offer scooter rental also. The price is about 250-300 THB (US$7.70 – $9.20) per day.
While you can use private songthaews for transportation which your accommodation can help arrange for you, it’s important to know that this way of getting around is limited. They mainly take you from one place to another without showing you much of the island. If you want to truly explore and discover Ko Yao Yai, it’s better to rent a scooter.
Ko Yao Yai has just one main road that goes almost all the way around it, along with a few smaller side roads. Wherever you drive, you’ll be surrounded by lush jungle scenery. Sometimes you’ll come across a small village, but mostly you’ll see clusters of simple houses and maybe a couple of village shops. Exploring the island by road gives you a chance to enjoy the stunning natural landscapes and experience the laid-back rural life of Ko Yao Yai.
Where to stay on Koh Yao Yai
If you are renting a scooter, you can stay anywhere on Koh Yao Yai and be less than a 30 minute drive from anything! However, if you are not renting a scooter, you should consider the following when choosing which area of Koh Yao Yai to stay in.
Chong Lad Bay Area-NorthEast– you will have views across Phang Nga bay and Koh Yao Noi. You will be close to the signature Laem Haad beach also.
Loh Poh Bay Area- Mid-West– the coast of this area is mainly muddy mangrove type land. You will be able to experience amazing sunsets and watch boats passing. You can’t sunbathe or swim in this area so if sunbathing and beach days are your thing, this is not the area for you.
Loh Paret Area-central-west coast just below the skinny mid section- Loh Paret beach is located here and has soft white sand and beautiful waters where you can enjoy swimming at any tide level. Also located nearby is Laem Yai headland and pier, where you can watch beautiful sunsets.
Loh Jark area- South West– This area is close to Loh Jark Pier. This area of Koh Yao Yai has the most commotion compared to the rest of the island, although it is still very quiet area. Here you can find gorgeous white sandy beaches and sunset spots.
Bole bay area- Further southwest than Loh Jark area- here you will find lots of mangrove forests and a few quiet, sandy beaches
Where to eat on Koh Yao Yai
so what are some good places to eat on Koh yao yai?
Mama’s Seafood
This restaurant is on Loh Pared beach. It is a great spot to go to for sunset. Despite the name, they do serve more than just seafood. The fruit shakes from this restaurant are so good.
Seating area at Mama’s seafood restaurant.
Bear Bar Beer and Restaurant
This restaurant is located just a few km south of Laem Haad beach. The owners are so friendly and the food is delicious. (Especially the spring rolls).
They even have a cute furry friend who comes over for some head rubs.
Ban Tapkad Restaurant
This restaurant in located in the Loh Poh Bay Area, just across from Bear Bar Beer and Restaurant. This restaurants food is incredibly delicious and the owners are so friendly.
Santhiya Resort
At Santhiya resort, located on Loh Pared beach, you can indulge in Thai cuisine, seafood and international cuisine also. (They have an amazing vegetarian Pad Thai).
Watermelon and Pineapple fruit shakes at Santhiya resort. (ft my boyfriend).
Things to do/see on Koh Yao Yai
1. visit the beaches of koh yao yai
So what are the Best Beaches on Koh Yao Yai?
1. Laem Haad Beach
Laem Haad Beach in Koh Yao Yai is not only known for its pristine shoreline and crystal-clear waters but also for its enchanting sandbanks. The sandbanks offer an opportunity for you to venture further out into the sea.
The shallow waters surrounding the sandbanks are ideal for wading and relaxing.
The sandbanks also provide a unique perspective of the beach, offering panoramic views of the coastline and the vast expanse of the Andaman Sea. It’s a perfect spot for photographers, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a serene and unforgettable experience.
Make sure to check the tide schedules when planning your visit to Laem Haad Beach, as the sandbanks are best explored during low tide.
2. Loh Pared Bay beach
Loh Pared Beach in Koh Yao Yai offers a range of activities. Relax on the soft sand, snorkel in the clear waters, enjoy beach picnics, or explore the island’s nature. The nearby resorts are GLOW Elixir and Santhiya Koh Yao Yai. You are able to rent kayaks/paddle boards on the beach from Santhiya Resort.
Paddle boarding at Loh Pared Beach with a paddle board rented from Santhiya Resort for 400 TBH per hour.
This is free if you are a guest and they charge a fee of 400 THB per hour if you are not a guest staying there.
Ao Muang Beach
Ao Muang Beach in Koh Yao Yai is a hidden gem with exclusive resorts and local fishermen
The beach is accessible by a dirt road lines with picturesque palm trees. This beach is absolutely stunning, offering pristine white sands and beautiful palm trees. It’s a secluded paradise where you can enjoy peace and tranquility surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. Ao Muang Beach is the perfect destination for a memorable and relaxing coastal getaway.
Loh Jark Beach
Below Loh Pared beach and before you reach AO Muang beach, lies the west facing beach of Loh Jark.
Loh Jark beach is a cool spot facing the setting sun where you can have a blast with jet-skis and snorkeling during the day, and catch some mind-blowing sunsets later on.
Chill out on comfy sunbeds at not one, but two fancy beachfront resorts and soak in the awesome view that’ll take your breath away. And guess what? There’s a secret part of Loh Jark Beach hiding behind Heaven Resort. Take a little walk there and find yourself in a quiet, tucked-away piece of paradise that’s all yours to explore.
2. TAKE A BOAT TOUR
Embark on unforgettable boat tours from Koh Yao Yai and explore the stunning surrounding islands.
Join a full-day Phi Phi Islands tour for approximately $80 per person, where you’ll visit Maya Bay, Bamboo Island, and enjoy snorkeling in pristine waters.
For a half-day adventure, opt for the James Bond Island tour at around $60 per person, including a visit to Khao Phing Kan and the floating village of Koh Panyi.
Discover the magical Hong Islands on a full-day tour for approximately $70 per person, featuring scenic lagoons and hidden beaches. You can also head down to the pier and chat with the locals and enquire about renting a longtail boat for the day. I personally did this with two other people and this costed us 1000 THB each for 4 hours. Lunch and snorkeling gear are included in this price.
I found this was the best way to see the Hong Islands as you can choose where you want to go and how long to spend at each place.
These boat tours offer incredible experiences and breathtaking destinations, ensuring an exceptional journey from Koh Yao Yai.
3. RIDE YOUR SCOOTER AROUND KOH YAO YAI
Explore the beautiful island of Koh Yao Yai on a scooter and have an amazing adventure! With your scooter, you can discover the stunning landscapes, like lush green fields and breathtaking ocean views. You have the freedom to go wherever you want, at your own pace, and escape the crowded tourist areas.
Scooter riding allows you to find hidden beaches and peaceful spots where you can relax and enjoy the tranquility. Plus, you can immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting villages, trying authentic food, and meeting friendly locals. Scooter riding is also an eco-friendly way to explore the island and be more sustainable in your travels.
4. TAKE A TRIP TO KOH YAO NOI
Take a trip to Koh Yao Yai’s sister island, Koh Yao Noi. You can get here from Chong Lard Pier on Koh Yao Yai, at any time of the day, by going down to the pier and asking for a longtail boat. This will cost you about 100 THB per person one way.
Lorraine’s Travels 
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