Just 30 minutes by boat from Phuket, the Koh Yao Islands — Koh Yao Noi (the smaller, but more developed one) and Koh Yao Yai (the larger, quieter sister) — feel like stepping back in time. With rice paddies, rubber plantations, and fishing villages set against the backdrop of Phang Nga Bay’s limestone cliffs, the islands are the perfect antidote to Phuket’s bustle. Life here is slow, authentic, and deeply connected to nature.
Why Visit Koh Yao
- Escape the crowds without going far from Phuket.
- Authentic Thai island life with fishing villages and rice fields.
- Gorgeous views across Phang Nga Bay.
- Boutique eco-resorts and wellness retreats.
- Cycling, kayaking, and soft adventure.
Top Things to Do
- Cycling through rice fields – One of the best ways to experience Koh Yao Noi.
- Kayaking in Phang Nga Bay – Paddle into lagoons and mangroves.
- Village life – Visit local markets, watch fishermen at work, and try homestays.
- Beaches – Koh Yao Noi has quiet stretches with stunning Phang Nga views. Koh Yao Yai offers longer, emptier sands.
- Yoga & Wellness – Many retreats and resorts focus on mindfulness and relaxation.
- Island Hopping – Use the Yao islands as a base for day trips around the bay.
Food & Drink
- Local restaurants serving southern Thai curries and fresh seafood.
- Beach shacks on Koh Yao Yai for simple, tasty meals.
- Boutique dining at resorts like Six Senses Yao Noi, blending Thai and international cuisine.
- Don’t expect nightlife — evenings are peaceful.
Where to Stay
- Budget: Family-run guesthouses and homestays.
- Mid-Range: Beachfront bungalows on Koh Yao Yai.
- Luxury: Six Senses Yao Noi (eco-luxury villas with jaw-dropping views), Santhiya Koh Yao Yai (grand Thai-style resort with pools and sea views).
- Perfect for couples, wellness travelers, and anyone seeking balance between comfort and authenticity.
Getting Around
- Boats to Koh Yao depart from Bang Rong Pier in Phuket or Ao Nang in Krabi.
- Longtail boats or speedboats are available for transfers.
- On the islands: rent a scooter or bicycle to explore at your own pace.
Tips for Digital Nomads
- Good WiFi in resorts, but patchy elsewhere.
- A few cafés with decent connections on Koh Yao Noi.
- Great for short retreats to work in peace, but not ideal for a long-term base.
- Amazing setting if you need a quiet place to recharge creatively.
Local Tips & Warnings
- Muslim-majority islands: Dress modestly when visiting villages.
- Quiet nights: Entertainment is minimal — it’s all about relaxation.
- Transport: Scooters are best, but roads can be rough in some spots.
- Best Season: November–April for calm seas and clear skies.
Final Thoughts
The Koh Yao Islands are Phuket’s laid-back neighbors, offering a taste of slow life with world-class views. Here you’ll find quiet beaches, warm local hospitality, and resorts that melt seamlessly into nature. If Phuket feels too fast, Koh Yao Noi and Koh Yao Yai are the perfect escape — close enough for a weekend, but far enough to feel like another world.