Koh Yao Yai vs. Koh Yao Noi: Serene Thai Island Escapes in Phang Nga Bay
Though I've visited Thailand three times, its vast array of islands continues to captivate me. I've explored Koh Chang in the Gulf, Koh Tao, Koh Phangan, the Phi Phi Islands, Koh Poda, and Koh Lanta. My wishlist still includes Koh Lipe, Koh Mook, Koh Kood, Koh Samet, and Koh Mak.
During a recent trip from Singapore, I opted for new discoveries over familiar spots. Mapping out options, I selected the Yao Islands in Phang Nga Bay, between Krabi and Phuket: Koh Yao Yai (Big Long Island) and Koh Yao Noi (Little Long Island). Part of a 44-island group, only these two are inhabited, surrounded by stunning limestone karsts typical of the Andaman Sea.
Their proximity to Phuket International Airport made access straightforward: a taxi to Bang Rong Pier, then a 30-minute speedboat to Koh Yao Yai, followed by a short hop to Koh Yao Noi. It was seamless, and visiting both revealed distinct vibes despite their closeness. If time is limited, this guide compares them, including transport, stays, and my preference.
Koh Yao Yai: Jungle Serenity and Solitude
Arriving first on Koh Yao Yai, the songthaew ride from the pier revealed lush jungles akin to Koh Chang. A single main road loops the island, fringed by greenery, villages, and simple shops. Population: about 8,000.
Staying on the west coast meant missing sunsets, but our beachside bungalow resort offered peaceful walks, kayaking, and pool lounging. Most resorts are similar secluded enclaves, so scooter rental (THB 250-300/USD 7.70-9.20 per 24 hours) is essential for exploration. Overcoming my scooter hesitation, I navigated quiet roads to hidden beaches with ease.
We followed signs to viewpoints and beaches, encountering few tourists. White Sand Beach on the west coast is ideal for sunsets, with swings and stalls—busier in peak season (Dec-Mar), but calm during our visit.
Main village Phru Nai features Iyara Cafe for coffee and bites. Chada Cafe, a cool AC spot roadside, was perfect for refueling.
After exploring, we ferried to Koh Yao Noi.
Koh Yao Noi: Laid-Back Bliss and Boutique Luxury
A private long-tail boat (10 minutes) delivered us to Koh Yao Noi. Our bungalow near the main beach was walkable to eateries. The 1km tourist strip has hotels, bars, and restaurants along a quiet road—never crowded.
Smaller yet more developed, it boasts cafes, street food (roti, skewers), and shops. Faye’s Taste of Koh Yao serves organic delights.
Scootering revealed rubber farms, buffaloes, deserted beaches, stilt villages, and serene rice paddies.
Luxury resorts like Cape Kudu blend seamlessly into the landscape. Dining highlights: Cafe Kantary, Chaba Cafe & Gallery for smoothies and salads, Baan Chang and Kaya for Thai fare. Kayaked to Koh Nok for views; climbed a viewpoint via ropes.
Low-key vibe: sunset beers, beach walks, waterfall hunts, low-tide walks to Ko Nok. Freedom to roam scooter paths was ideal.
Koh Yao Noi vs. Koh Yao Yai: Which Is Better?
I preferred Koh Yao Noi's vibe—better food, nicer nearby beaches. Koh Yao Yai suits total seclusion; a day trip suffices. I'd allocate more time to Koh Yao Noi next visit.
Who Visits Which?
Koh Yao Yai: For untouched paradise, fisherman life, ultimate quiet. Koh Yao Noi: Balanced amenities, beaches, dining in a relaxed setting—no malls.
Practical Info
Getting There: Ferries from Phuket (Bang Rong Pier, taxi THB 500/USD 16; speedboat 30min, slow 1hr) or Krabi (Tha Krao Pier, THB 200). Hourly daylight service; Yai first, then Noi (8min).
WiFi: Free at hotels/cafes.
ATMs: Available on both (Noi: several; Yai: limited, some may be out). No banks/exchange.
Where to Stay: Koh Yao Yai
Budget:
- Backpack Guesthouse KohYaoYai ($22/room)
- YaoIsland Resort & Farm ($32/room, breakfast)
- Esmeralda View Resort ($48/bungalow)
- Koh Yao Yai Modern Inn ($45/room)
- Resting Place Koh Yao Yai ($70/bungalow, breakfast)
- Koh Yao Yai Village ($73/room, breakfast)
Splurge:
- Koh Yao Yai Hillside Resort ($80, breakfast)
- Santhiya Koh Yao Yai Resort & Spa ($95, breakfast)
- Glow Elixir Koh Yao Yai ($126, breakfast)
Where to Stay: Koh Yao Noi
Budget:
- Tha Kao Pier Bungalow ($28/room)
- Tha Khao Bay View ($29/room, breakfast)
Value:
- Koh Yao Seaview Bungalow ($43/bungalow)
- The Simple Koh Yao Noi ($58/room)
- Suntisook Resort ($66, breakfast)
- Awana Villa Resort ($89, breakfast)
- Paradise Ko Yao ($159, breakfast)
- Purana Resort ($165, breakfast)
- Cape Kudu Hotel ($209, breakfast)
- Laguna Villa Yao Noi ($253, breakfast)
- The Island Hideout ($277, breakfast)
- Coastal Escape ($479/bungalow, breakfast)
- Six Senses (from $669/villa)
Have you visited the Koh Yao Islands? Which preferred?
