🌏 Introduction

Located in the middle of Phang Nga Bay, between Phuket and Krabi, Koh Yao Yai (เกาะยาวใหญ่) is one of Thailand’s most peaceful and authentic islands.
Unlike Phuket or Phi Phi, Koh Yao Yai remains beautifully quiet — with palm-lined roads, rubber plantations, untouched beaches, and traditional Muslim fishing communities.

If you want an island with:

• zero crowds

• natural beaches

• affordable resorts

• local culture

• easy access from Phuket & Krabi

…then Koh Yao Yai is the perfect paradise.

This island is trending in 2025 thanks to its calm vibe and beautiful beaches — great for SEO and long-tail travel searches.

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🏖 Top Beaches on Koh Yao Yai

1. Loh Paret Beach

The island’s most beautiful sandy beach — long, peaceful, and great for swimming.
Perfect for families and couples wanting quiet beach time.

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2. Ao Sai Beach

Clear water, soft sand, and deep peace.
You’ll often see long-tail boats resting along the shore — a perfect place for photography.

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3. Laem Had Beach (Famous Sandbank)

A stunning white-sand peninsula pointing into turquoise water.
At low tide, it becomes a dreamy sandbar — one of the best beaches in Phang Nga Bay for drone shots.

👉 SEO keywords: Koh Yao Yai sandbar, Laem Had Beach.

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🌅 Top Things to Do in Koh Yao Yai

1. Island-Hopping Tours

Take a speedboat or long-tail boat to explore:

• Koh Hong

• Koh Phak Bia

• Koh Nok

• Chicken Island

• Railay Beach

• Phang Nga Bay limestone cliffs

These are some of Thailand’s best island landscapes.

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2. Motorcycle Ride Around the Island

Koh Yao Yai is perfect for calm motorbike trips through:

• coconut plantations

• rubber farms

• quiet villages

• forest roads

• coastal viewpoints

No traffic — pure freedom.

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3. Kayaking & Paddleboarding

Rent a kayak to explore mangroves and quiet bays.
Sunrise and sunset paddleboarding is popular among travelers.

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4. Local Villages

Experience real Thai Muslim culture:

• local markets

• handmade snacks

• fishing village life

• friendly community

A completely authentic island experience.

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5. Viewpoint Café Stops

Many cafés sit on hilltops overlooking Phang Nga Bay.
Perfect for sipping coffee with scenic ocean views.

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🌿 Nature & Wildlife

Koh Yao Yai is home to:

• hornbills

• monitor lizards

• tropical birds

• sea eagles

• mangrove forests

• coral reefs

Snorkeling is great around nearby small islands.

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🏡 Where to Stay

Luxury

• Santhiya Koh Yao Yai Resort & Spa – one of Thailand’s most beautiful 5-star hillside resorts

• Koh Yao Yai Village – luxury eco-resort with sea-view villas

Mid-Range

• Tho Mai Resort

• Esmeralda View Resort – excellent ocean views

Budget

• Yao Yai Island Resort

• Better View Bed & Breakfast

All resorts are calm, nature-friendly, and have beach access.

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🍽 Food & Best Local Dishes

Try:

• fresh grilled seafood

• spicy Southern Thai curry

• fried fish with turmeric

• coconut desserts

• roti & chai (Thai Muslim style)

Beach restaurants serve sunset seafood dinners with ocean views.

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🚤 How to Get There

From Phuket:

1. Taxi → Bang Rong Pier

2. Speedboat → Koh Yao Yai (20–25 minutes)

From Krabi:

1. Taxi → Thalane Pier

2. Speedboat → Koh Yao Yai (20–30 minutes)

The island is very easy to reach from both Phuket and Krabi.

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🕒 Best Time to Visit

• November–April: Best weather, calm seas, sunny days

• May–October: Rainy season, but still green and beautiful — fewer tourists