The Ultimate Guide to Koh Yao Yai: Best Beaches and Activities
Koh Yao Yai is a hidden gem in Thailand, known for its serene atmosphere, pristine beaches, and an authentic island vibe. This peaceful island offers an escape from the crowded tourist spots, making it the perfect place to unwind, explore untouched nature, and immerse yourself in local culture.
During our 3-week trip through Thailand, we spent 3 relaxing days on Koh Yao Yai, a peaceful retreat where we mainly enjoyed lounging on the beautiful beaches. In this guide, we’ll share with you how to make the most of your time here, from must-visit beaches to exciting activities that showcase the island’s natural beauty.
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Loh Paret Beach
Loh Paret Beach is a calm and picturesque spot, perfect for sunbathing and swimming. It’s also a great spot to watch the sunset, with stunning views across the Andaman Sea.
Location: West side of Koh Yao Yai
How to Get There: Easily accessible by scooter, with rentals costing around 300-400 THB per day (approx. $9-12 USD). You can also hire a taxi from the pier, or use local songthaews (small shared buses) which occasionally operate. A taxi ride costs about 200-300 THB (approx. $6-9 USD). Scooters are the most flexible and affordable way to move between the island’s beaches.
Laem Haad Beach
Known for its unique sandbar that appears during low tide, Laem Haad Beach is a scenic and peaceful spot perfect for walking and admiring the surrounding nature.
Location: Northeastern tip of Koh Yao Yai
How to Get There: This beach is a 30-minute scooter ride from the main pier, and you can also reach it by long-tail boat if you prefer to arrive by sea. Taxis from the pier are available, costing around 300-400 THB (approx. $9-12 USD). Songthaews occasionally go to this area, but they are less frequent, making scooters the best option.
Ao Sai Beach
Ao Sai Beach is a quieter, more remote beach, ideal for travelers looking for solitude and nature. It’s a wonderful place to relax and take in the untouched beauty of the island.
Location: Southern coast of Koh Yao Yai
How to Get There: Around a 20-minute scooter ride from the pier, costing about 300-400 THB per day for scooter rental (approx. $9-12 USD). Taxis are also an option but can be pricier at around 400-500 THB (approx. $12-15 USD) one way. There are no buses to this part of the island, so renting a scooter or hiring a taxi is the best option.
Kayaking Around the Mangroves
Explore the island’s rich ecosystem by kayaking through the mangroves. This peaceful experience allows you to connect with nature while spotting local wildlife like birds and small fish.
Price Range: 500-700 THB (approx. $15-21 USD) for a half-day rental
Snorkeling at Koh Khai Nok
A popular excursion for snorkeling, Koh Khai Nok offers crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life. You can take a day trip to this nearby island to enjoy some of the best underwater views in the region.
Price Range: 1,200-1,500 THB (approx. $36-45 USD) for a guided tour
Phuket Travel Guide
Railey beach in Krabi
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Chiang Rai best activities
Day Excursion: Island-Hopping Tour to the Phi Phi Islands
One of the best excursions from Koh Yao Yai, this day trip takes you to the world-famous Phi Phi Islands. Expect pristine beaches, snorkeling opportunities, and stops at iconic spots like Maya Bay and Monkey Beach.
Price Range: 1,500-2,000 THB (approx. $45-60 USD) for a full-day tour
Thai cooking class
Immerse yourself in local culture by learning how to cook authentic Thai dishes. With a local chef guiding you, you’ll source fresh ingredients and create delicious meals that you can recreate at home.
Price Range: 1,000-1,500 THB (approx. $30-45 USD) per class
Where to Stay in Koh Yao Yai
We carefully select accommodations based on location and amenities to provide you with the best experience on the island.
Santiya Koh Yao Yai Resort & Spa – $$$
Our stay at this luxurious resort was unforgettable. The resort boasts incredible facilities, including infinity pools, amazing sea views, restaurants, and a private beach, making it perfect for those looking to splurge.
Koh Yao Yai Village – $$
A charming eco-resort nestled in nature, offering cozy bungalows and an infinity pool. Ideal for a relaxing getaway.
Thiwson Beach Resort – $$
Located on a peaceful stretch of beach, this resort offers cozy bungalows and a beachfront restaurant for a laid-back stay.
Betterview Bed Breakfast & Bungalow – $
A comfortable, budget-friendly option with lovely sea views and a relaxed atmosphere.
Glow Elixir Koh Yao Yai – $
This beachfront resort offers affordable rooms and a large pool, perfect for travelers looking for comfort without breaking the bank.
Baan Taranya Resort – $
A cozy resort with a traditional Thai design, offering a blend of comfort and local charm.
How to Get to and Move Around Koh Yao Yai
By Plane :
There is no airport on Koh Yao Yai. The closest option is Phuket International Airport. From there, you’ll need to take a ferry or speedboat to reach the island.
By Ferry :
Ferries are the most common way to reach Koh Yao Yai, connecting it to several nearby islands and coastal towns.
Phuket to Koh Yao Yai: Takes about 30-45 minutes, with tickets costing 200-400 THB (approx. $6-12 USD)
Krabi to Koh Yao Yai: Around 1 hour, with prices between 300-500 THB (approx. $9-15 USD)
Koh Phi Phi to Koh Yao Yai: About 1 hour, tickets priced between 400-600 THB (approx. $12-18 USD)
Where to Eat in Koh Yao Yai
Budget friendly restaurants ($)
The Good View Koh Yao Yai: Traditional Thai cuisine with a great view of the sea.
Chantara Restaurant: A vegetarian-friendly option with a good mix of Thai and international dishes.
Yao Yai Seafood: Fresh seafood in a relaxed beachfront setting.
Mid range restaurants ($$)
Kaya Restaurant: A cozy spot with both Thai and Western dishes, perfect for families.
Saaitara Restaurant: Delicious Thai food with great vegetarian options.
Khantoke Restaurant: Authentic Thai dishes served in a beautiful open-air setting
