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If you love authentic Thai culture, fewer crowds, and the freedom to explore at your own pace, Koh Yao Noi is the place to be. This laid-back island boasts stunning beaches, incredible food, and easy access to some of Thailand’s most breathtaking national parks. Whether you’re scootering along quiet coastal roads, enjoying fresh seafood at a beachside restaurant, or kayaking through towering limestone karsts, Koh Yao Noi offers a peaceful and unforgettable experience.
We love discovering off-the-beaten-path destinations—places that are quieter, more authentic, and rich in local culture. Koh Yao Noi was all that and more! Nestled in Phang Nga Bay, between Phuket and Krabi, this hidden gem remains largely untouched by mass tourism, making it perfect for travelling families.
Best time to go
The best time to visit Koh Yao Noi is between November and April, when the weather is dry, sunny, and ideal for outdoor activities. During these months, you can expect warm temperatures, calm seas, and clear skies—perfect for island hopping, swimming, and exploring. The monsoon season runs from May to October, bringing heavier rains and rougher seas, which can limit boat trips and activities. However, this is also the quietest time on the island, offering fewer crowds and a more peaceful experience
How to get there
Koh Yao Noi is easily accessible from both Phuket and Krabi by speedboat or longtail boat. The journey is quick, scenic, and relatively affordable.
From Phuket:
- Head to Bang Rong Pier (about 30 minutes from Phuket Town or Patong).
- Speedboat: Runs regularly, takes 30–45 minutes, and costs 300–400 THB per person.
- Longtail boat: A slower but scenic option, taking 1–1.5 hours, costing 150–200 THB per person.
From Krabi:
- Depart from Tha Len Pier or Ao Nang.
- Speedboat: Takes 30–40 minutes, costing 300–400 THB per person.
- Longtail boat: Slightly longer ride (45 minutes to 1 hour) for 150–250 THB per person.
For convenience, you can book speedboat tickets online, through your hotel, or buy them directly at the pier.
What we did?
Flying from Australia to Phuket, we spent one night at an airport hotel before taking a taxi to the pier, where we boarded a long-tail boat to Koh Yao Noi. Our accommodation on the island arranged to meet us upon arrival, and we hopped into the back of a truck for the final leg of our journey
Getting around
By far the easiest, cheapest and most enjoyable way to explore Koh Yao Noi is by scooter. The island is small enough that it only takes about 45 minutes to go the whole way around it. Traffic is so light that if its your first time riding (like me) its the perfect place to practice. I never knew riding a scooter could be so fun and am now hooked!
- Scooter rental 250-350 THB per day
- Tuk-tuk rides: 50-150 THB per trip
Make sure your travel insurance covers scooter riding and don’t forget to wear your helmet. We use world nomads and they have been brilliant!
Where to Stay
Most visitors to Koh Yao Noi stay on the eastern side of the island for quick access to the beaches and cafes. However, we opted for a more budget-friendly stay, knowing we’d be out exploring during the day rather than spending time at our accommodation. We spent six nights at Baan Bang Hon, a two-bedroom, air-conditioned house. Its central location made it the perfect base for discovering the island and setting off on day trips.
The best part of our stay was our wonderful hosts, Roh and her son, Yan. They greeted us warmly and immediately helped us settle in, arranging scooter rentals that were delivered right to our doorstep. Every morning at 7 AM, Roh arrived to cook us a delicious homemade breakfast, tidy up, and wish us well for the day ahead. It was such a simple yet thoughtful touch that made a huge difference.
Yan organised private long-tail boat tours with his friends, giving us an off-the-beaten-path experience in Phang Nga Bay—at an incredible price. One day, I even came home to find that Roh had washed all my clothes! Their kindness and hospitality made our stay truly special, and we can’t recommend Baan Bang Hon enough for anyone visiting Koh Yao Noi.
What to Do in Koh Yao Noi
Koh Yao Noi is a hidden gem in Phang Nga Bay, offering a perfect balance of adventure, relaxation, and authentic Thai culture. Whether you’re exploring secluded beaches, hopping between tropical islands, or indulging in delicious local food, this island has something special for every traveler.
Explore the Island on Scooter
The best way to experience Koh Yao Noi is by renting a scooter and driving around. The island is small, making it easy to navigate with one main road that will take you the entire way around the island. Drive past rice paddies, rubber plantations and local fishing villages. Visit The Big Tree, an ancient tree in the middle fo the island, stop at viewpoints for stunning photos and explore off-the-beaten-path dirt roads. The island feels very safe and you’ll be welcomed in your exploring and adventuring.
Find a Secluded Beach
One of the best things about Koh Yao Noi is its untouched beauty, and nothing showcases this better than its hidden, secluded beaches. Unlike the crowded shores of Phuket or Krabi, Koh Yao Noi offers travelers a chance to discover their own private slice of paradise.
The best way to find a secluded beach is by renting a scooter and exploring the island’s many dirt roads. Some trails will lead you directly to the ocean, while others may require a short walk through the trees. Some of the best hidden beaches can be found on the island’s southern and eastern coasts.
Best Beaches to Explore in Koh Yao Noi
- Pasai Beach – While not entirely secluded, it’s one of the most beautiful and quiet beaches on the island, with soft sand and shallow water perfect for families.
- Tha Khao Bay – A peaceful stretch of coastline with minimal tourists, great for relaxing and watching the local fishermen at work.
- Son Bay Beach – A hidden gem with stunning views of Phang Nga Bay. This beach is a bit tricky to find, but if you’re up for an adventure, the reward is well worth it!
Swimming & Ocean Conditions
The water around Koh Yao Noi is warm and clear, making it perfect for swimming. However, be aware of seasonal jellyfish—locals say that certain times of the year bring large numbers of them, which are then harvested and sold as food. During our visit, we experienced mild sea lice bites, but they were harmless and didn’t take away from the joy of swimming.
Explore Phang Nga Bay
A private long-tail boat tour is the best way to explore Phang Nga Bay, a breathtaking region of towering limestone cliffs, sea caves, and hidden lagoons. We booked tours when we arrived on the island. Speak to your host about a private tour and they will point you in the right direction.
We booked a tour with Boi, a local guide whose family has been navigating these waters for generations. He took us to secret spots unknown to most tourists, ensuring we arrived at popular locations before the crowds. This particular tour was to go Kayaking through caves. We had two double kayaks which our tour guide provided.
Kayaking Through Caves & Lagoons
With head torches in hand, we paddled through pitch-black caves that opened up into serene lagoons, completely hidden from the outside world. It felt like discovering a secret paradise! We loved sitting quietly in our kayaks listening for, then spotting, monkeys in the trees!
James Bond Island: Worth It?
While many visit the famous James Bond Island, we opted for a quick drive-by instead. It was overcrowded and required an extra fee, so we preferred to spend our time kayaking, swimming, and soaking up the natural beauty instead.
💡 Tip: Private tours often include fresh fruit and water—bring extra snacks and water too as its a long day.
Go Island Hopping
Koh Yao Noi is surrounded by stunning islands, each with its own unique charm. We booked a private long-tail boat, which included a driver and guide, to explore more of stunning Phang Nga Bay. Our guides name was Sak and he took us to some of the most beautiful spots in the area!
Koh Hong Lagoon
The vibrant emerald water here is unreal—you’ll want to jump straight in! We were the first to arrive, which was lucky because it quickly becomes crowded. We also found lots of starfish, making it even more magical.
Koh Hong Island
Just around the corner from the lagoon is Koh Hong Island, a popular stop with facilities, a small shop (a lifesaver since we left ALL of the food in the scooter’s storage!), and even a bathroom.
A 300-baht National Park fee is required (100 baht for kids), but it’s worth it. While we love off-the-beaten-path destinations, some busy spots are popular for a reason.
Walking around the island, we saw tsunami evacuation signs, which sparked an important conversation with our kids about the devastation of the 2004 tsunami and the resilience of the Thai people.
Koh Lao Lading
This tiny island features towering limestone cliffs and crystal-clear water—absolute paradise. There’s a small shop and even a local woman selling grilled corn on the cob. We were so grateful for this after forgetting to pack snacks!
💡 Beware of the Monkeys!
After an hour on Koh Lao Lading, we stopped at a small sandbar. What we didn’t realize? This was monkey territory.
A bold monkey charged at Alessia, stealing her corn on the cob! Even from 20 meters away, they were fearless. It was a lesson learned—monkeys here are aggressive and can carry rabies, so keep your food and distance!
Koh Nok
Just off Koh Yao Noi’s southeast coast is Koh Nok. This tiny island features a lookout with an incredible 360-degree panoramic view! It’s a steep and sketchy scramble to the top, but the reward is absolutely worth it.
💡 Tip: Bring good shoes for the climb and a swimsuit—you’ll want to cool off in the water afterward!
Savour Delicious Thai Food
Food is a highlight of any trip to Thailand and Koh Yao Noi did not disappoint. Offering everything from sizzling street food to cozy cafés with ocean views. Whether you’re craving fresh seafood, authentic Thai dishes, or a refreshing tropical smoothie, the island has plenty to offer.
Best Cafés & Restaurants in Koh Yao Noi
- Chaba Café & Gallery – A vegan-friendly café offering organic dishes, smoothie bowls, and great coffee.
- Kaya Café – Known for its delicious breakfast options, fresh juices, and relaxed atmosphere.
- Rice Paddy Restaurant – A must-visit for authentic Thai cuisine served in a peaceful, scenic setting.
- Sunset Bar – Panoramic views and a relaxed atmosphere
Eating out on Koh Yao Noi is both affordable and a fantastic way to experience the island’s culture and flavors. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite at a street stall or enjoying a meal with a view, every dish is packed with local ingredients and vibrant flavors.
💡 Tip: While our accommodation did have a kitchen it was often easier and cheaper to eat out!
A Day Trip to Koh Yao Yai
Just a short boat ride from Koh Yao Noi is Koh Yao Yai – a fantastic destination for a day trip, offering even more untouched beaches, scenic viewpoints, and authentic Thai culture. The island is larger and less developed than its neighbor, making it perfect for those looking to escape the crowds.
Rent a scooter and explore quiet fishing villages, rubber plantations, and hidden coves. Relax at Laem Haad Beach, a stunning white sandbar with crystal-clear waters, or visit Ao Sai Beach for a peaceful swim.
Slow down and Enjoy Island Life
One of the best parts of Koh Yao Noi is embracing the slow, laid-back lifestyle. Read a book by the beach, play with the kids on the sand, chat with the friendly locals or swing in a hammock.
Unlike Phuket or Krabi, Koh Yao Noi reminds a peaceful retreat, offering a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re here to explore, unwind, or simply enjoy the stunning scenery, this island is perfect for families, couples, and anyone looking for a quieter side to Thailand.
Final Thoughts: Why We Fell in Love with Koh Yao Noi
Koh Yao Noi is the epitome of island life. There aren’t any fancy all-inclusive resorts, nor is there much nightlife or entertainment—which is exactly why we loved it. Be prepared for some culture shock, especially if you’re coming straight from another country.
Here are some tips to make your trip easier:
Respect the local culture – The island is a traditional Muslim fishing community, so dress appropriately. Swimwear is fine at the beach, but cover up when walking around town.
Bring cash – Not all places accept cards, and there are only a few ATMs on the island.
Pack a well-stocked medical kit – There is a small clinic on the island, but it’s always wise to travel with a basic first aid kit. Check-out our post ‘Essential Travel Medical Kit: What Every Family Needs On The Road’.
Prepare for spotty WiFi – Connection can be unreliable, so having a Thai SIM card is recommended.
Stock up on essentials – There are no big supermarkets, so if you need specific items, such as children’s formula, bring them with you. However, fresh food is plentiful.
Expect occasional power outages – We experienced this a couple of times, so bringing backup chargers is a good idea.
Sun protection is a must – Pack reef-safe sunscreen, hats, and rash guards for swimming to stay protected from the strong sun.
Download google translate – Many on the island don’t speak English so trust me, this app will be a life saver.
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