Ko yao noi

“Koh Yao Noi” (engl. long, small island) is located in the Bay of Phang Nga, between Krabi and Phuket, in southern Thailand. One of the largest islands in the Phang Nga Bay archipelago, it is easily accessible from Phuket and Krabi provinces and boasts some of the most beautiful seascapes in Southeast Asia. By taking the public ferry or private queue boat, you can reach this paradise in one hour Most of the island’s 4,000 residents make their living from rubber. tree and fishing industry.

A little rice cultivation and some fruit, palm and coconut plantations can be seen around the island, and boat building and farming techniques were passed down from father to son. Being here makes your life special. Most residents are Muslim and speak one of the southern dialects of the Thai language. Due to the forthcoming number of foreign visitors, English is also well known on the island.

What to see?

Ko Yao Noi is mountainous in the middle and has beaches on both sides. The east side has beaches suitable for swimming and snorkeling, and the west side is a scenic mix of rice fields and mangroves. The island is a haven for at least four species of hornbills, which are very common sights. The beaches on the east side are (from north to south): Hat Ao Loh Ha, Hat Sai Kaew, an unnamed beach south of Hat Sae Kaew, Hat Tha Kao, Hat Klong Jaak, and Hat Pasai. Hat Ao Loh Ha is fully occupied by Paradise Koh Yao Resort and is not open to the public.

It can be reached by boat or via a 10km rugged jungle trail. Hat Sae Kaew and the unnamed beach south of it are absolutely deserted and beautiful. Motorbike (if you have the right driving skills) but not by car (at least out of season the road is in terrible condition). Literally off the main road, Hat Tha Kao, Hat Klong Jaak and Hat Pasai are equipped with bungalows. , bars and shops.

The beaches of Yao Noi are attractive golden sands but tend to line shallow bays. At low tide the rocky and muddy coast is exposed, ideal for crabbing but not so good for swimming. Relaxing on the beach and boat trips to Phang Nga Bay are the main attractions on Ko Yao Noi, apart from simply enjoying the scenic rides on the island’s quiet roads by motorbike or bicycle. Noi, and the island is also home to a yoga retreat and a Muay Thai boxing training camp. A few shops offer reasonably priced Thai massages, or a pampering spa session can be arranged at one of the luxury resorts.

Ride Around Koh Yao Noi

The best way to explore Koh Yao Noi is to rent a scooter and explore at your own pace. A ring road goes around the island, with a few side roads you can take and explore further. You can rent a scooter for 200 Thai Baht per day. You can pick up a map from your hotel with some highlights to see along the way or pick a direction and go. Along the way, you will see rows of farms, small fishing villages, some buffalo, and many great beaches, local communities, and you might even meet some friendly locals.

Bring a helmet and check that your travel insurance covers motorcycling if you rent a scooter.