Overview
Ko Yao is a rare find: a group of twin islands (Ko Yao Noi and Ko Yao Yai) between Phuket and Krabi that remains beautifully undeveloped. Often described as one of the last unspoiled islands in the region, it offers mountain interiors, mangrove-fringed coasts, beaches on the east side for swimming and snorkelling, and at least four species of hornbills visible in the trees.
Beach · Budget Travel · Day Trips · Diving · Island
Before you go
Accommodation
Budget bungalows start around 500-900 baht. Mid-range options 1,000-2,500 baht. Luxury Six Senses resort starts at 20,000+ baht.
Connectivity
24-hour electricity, internet access, and mobile telephone connection available on Ko Yao Noi.
Food
Seafood restaurants 150-500 baht. Local noodle shops budget-friendly. International options (Italian, Japanese) available at various price points.
Money
ATMs available on Ko Yao Noi. Cash may still be preferred at local establishments. Standard Thai baht currency throughout.
Safety
Some beach paths are rough and deteriorate off-season. Boat service between islands only during daylight hours.
Transport
Access is exclusively by boat. Slow boats from Phuket's Bang Rong Pier cost 120 baht; speedboats 200 baht. Longtail between islands is 20 baht per person.
Weather
Beach access and path conditions vary by season. Longtail service limited to daylight hours.