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White sand beach in Koh Yao Yai on a sunny day, Thailand

Things to do in  Ko Yao Yai

Laid-back island bliss

Experience laid-back island life and let your cares melt away on Ko Yao Yai. Accessible from both Krabi and Phuket, this small Thai island is great for day trips or longer stays. Things to do on Ko Yao Yai range from beach hopping, snorkeling fishing trips, hiking, and running, to more relaxed pursuits such as yoga retreats and Thai massage spas. It’s also an ideal base for exploring James Bond Island (Ko Khao Phing Kan) and Ko Phi Phi.

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Local Currency
Thai Baht (THB)
When to visit

Southwestern Thailand has two seasons; dry and wet. The dry season runs from November to April, and the best months to visit are typically December and January. The rainy season covers the rest of the year. Keep in mind that prices are a lot higher in peak season, so if you want a cheaper option, choose the rainy season. Just make sure to bring a lightweight poncho, since it’s still hot.

Getting around

For the most exciting way to get around Ko Yao Yai, rent a motorbike or a moped and scoot from beach to beach, feeling the sea-scented wind on your face. If that doesn’t appeal, or if you have a larger group, taxis are the other option to get around Ko Yao Yai. There’s no public transportation on the island, so taxis and motorbikes are the choices you’re dealt with.

Traveler tips

You can make your trip as cheap or as fancy as you like, and spend either a day or multiple days on the island. Relatively inexpensive day trips from Krabi or Phuket are worth it for the karst-dotted cruise over. Rent a moped, then hit Lam Haed beach and walk the sandbar, or Loh Had beach and grab some crab fried rice or street-side coconut tarts. You can rent either simple bungalows or splash out on a fancy villa or upscale resort.

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People Also Ask
Q:Is Ko Yao Yai worth it?
A:

Ko Yao Yai is worth a trip if you like beach-hopping, snorkeling, or fishing, it’s got you covered. Runners and hikers will enjoy all the trails covering the island, and there are plenty of places to enjoy yoga and spas on the island, too.

Q:When should I go to Ko Yao Yai?
A:

The driest and warmest months to visit Ko Yao Yai are December and January. The dry season is officially from November through April. It’s also possible to enjoy the island in the rainy season—it doesn’t rain all day and it’s still hot, but prices are cheaper.

Q:How many days should I spend on Ko Yao Yai?
A:

You can either do a day trip from Krabi or Phuket or extend your stay Ko Yao Yai for some tranquil island relaxation. There’s plenty to do to fill up a few days, like exploring different beaches, snorkeling, hiking, and taking boat trips to the nearby James Bond Island.

Q:What activities can I do on Ko Yao Yai?
A:

There’s much more to do on Ko Yao Yai than just eating and lying on the beach. There are tons of trails for hiking or running, centers for yoga, and spas for Thai massage. You can also use the island as a base for scuba trips or tours to James Bond Island (Ko Khao Phing Kan).

Q:How should I spend a day on Ko Yao Yai?
A:

Explore the island by moped if you have one day. Rent both a scooter and snorkel gear at your hotel or a local shop. Compare beaches and snorkel conditions at Laem Haad, then scoot to Loh Pared for a bite and drinks, and then finish at shady Klong Son Beach.

Q:How do I get to Ko Yao Yai?
A:

Ko Yao Yai is easy to get to from Krabi or Phuket. Just head to Railay Beach Pier in Krabi, or Bang Rong Pier in northeast Phuket, where you can hop on a ferry. Speedboats tend to run to Ko Yao Yai daily, but schedules vary at different times of the year.

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