Hi, I’m Andy
Traveler and photographer.
I don’t travel just to see places. I travel because I want to know if there’s more than just everyday life. More about me
Discover Koh Yao Yai’s Beaches and Attractions
Located just around 30 minutes from the world-famous Phuket, Koh Yao Yai can easily be reached by speedboat. Despite its close proximity, the island remains largely untouched by mass tourism. Instead of crowded beaches and vibrant nightlife, you will find peaceful shores, authentic local life and a laid-back tropical atmosphere.
Koh Yao Yai is the perfect destination for travellers seeking tranquillity and an authentic Thai island experience. Unspoiled nature, friendly locals and breathtaking views of the iconic limestone cliffs of Phang Nga Bay are just some of the reasons why the island is well worth a visit. Together with its smaller sister island Koh Yao Noi, Koh Yao Yai is still considered one of Thailand’s hidden gems, far away from the crowds and mass tourism.
Not in the mood for reading? Then take a look at our Koh Yao Yai photo gallery and get inspired by the island’s tropical beaches, stunning scenery and relaxed island vibes.
What to Expect in This Koh Yao Yai Beaches & Attractions Travel Guide:
1. Loh Pared Beach – The Main Beach of Koh Yao Yai
Loh Pared Beach is something like the island’s main tourist beach, if such a thing even exists on Koh Yao Yai. Most beaches on the island are almost completely untouched by tourism, and Loh Pared Beach is no exception. However, you will find a handful of small restaurants, a few accommodations and a scooter rental nearby. The beach is also home to the luxurious Santhiya Koh Yao Yai Resort & Spa, which is considered one of the most exclusive resorts on the island.
In my opinion, Loh Pared Beach is one of the best swimming beaches on Koh Yao Yai. The beach is surrounded by lush greenery and remains largely undeveloped. Even during the day, you will rarely encounter many visitors, creating a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere. Compared to many other beaches on Koh Yao Yai, Loh Pared Beach is not quite as shallow, which makes it ideal for swimming and bathing.
The tropical surroundings, the golden almost deserted beach and the crystal-clear turquoise sea turn Loh Pared Beach into a true paradise. Together with Laem Had Beach, it is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful beaches on Koh Yao Yai.
Useful Facts About Loh Pared Beach
2. Loh Jak Beach – The Secluded Beach of Koh Yao Yai
Loh Jak Beach is surrounded by lush greenery, tropical trees and dense vegetation. Apart from a small resort and a few buildings, the beach remains largely untouched, which means that you will hardly encounter any visitors here. A ferry pier once divided the beach, but during my visit only an abandoned concrete structure remained, slightly affecting the otherwise picturesque scenery. For photography lovers, however, the decaying pier creates some unique and creative photo opportunities.
Thanks to its peaceful atmosphere and almost deserted surroundings, Loh Jak Beach is the perfect place to relax. Whether you want to unwind with a good book or simply listen to the gentle sound of the waves, this beach offers pure tranquillity.
The golden sandy beach slopes gently into the turquoise-blue sea, making it ideal for paddling and relaxing in the water. Better swimming conditions can mainly be found at the northern end of the beach. On the southern side, you will discover a rocky headland leading to the neighbouring beach. From there, you can enjoy beautiful views overlooking Loh Jak Beach and the surrounding coastline.
Useful Facts About Loh Jak Beach
3. No Name Beach – Next to Loh Jak Beach
If you follow the rocky headland at Loh Jak Beach towards the north, you will reach the neighbouring sister beach, which apparently still has no official name. There is not a single building along the shore, making this a truly untouched natural beach. The small bay is absolutely stunning and feels like a hidden little gem. I think the photos above speak for themselves.
A few local fishermen anchor their traditional longtail boats here and spend the day relaxing in hammocks beneath the shady trees. Friendly yet slightly surprised, they greet the occasional western visitors who make their way to this secluded beach.
The tropical scenery and crystal-clear sea almost invite you to jump into the water. However, just like many other beaches on Koh Yao Yai, the shoreline slopes very gently into the sea. There are also quite a few rocks in the water, which makes swimming a little less ideal. Nevertheless, a walk along this beach is simply magical and quickly makes you forget everyday life back home. Along the shore, you will also discover several beautiful postcard-like photo spots.
Useful Facts About This Koh Yao Yai Beach
4. Ao Muong Beach – Another Green Beach Highlight
Ao Muong Beach is located not far from Loh Jak Beach and looks very similar in almost every way. Apart from the access road, the area surrounding the beach consists entirely of lush tropical vegetation, countless trees and palm trees, but otherwise absolutely nothing else. The golden sandy beach offers spectacular scenery, untouched nature and hardly any visitors.
As breathtaking as Ao Muong Beach may look with its crystal-clear turquoise water, it is unfortunately not ideal for swimming. The sea remains very shallow for a long distance and there are many rocks and stones in the water, making swimming almost impossible, especially during low tide.
Nevertheless, this untouched tropical paradise is definitely worth a visit. Ao Muong Beach is perfect for relaxing, enjoying peaceful walks along the shore or capturing a few beautiful travel photos.
Useful Facts About Ao Muong Beach
5. Beach near Baan Taranya – The Best View on Koh Yao Yai
I could not find an official name for this beach, but you will discover it near the Baan Taranya Resort, right next to a small pier. Stretching for around 1.8 kilometres, it is the longest beach on Koh Yao Yai. Unfortunately, this beach also does not offer perfect swimming conditions. Especially during low tide, swimming becomes almost impossible as the sea retreats extremely far.
Instead, the beach is ideal for long walks along the shoreline or for wading through the shallow water. Throughout the entire walk, you can enjoy spectacular views of the distant limestone islands of Phang Nga Bay, as well as the small nearby island Ko Rang Nok located just offshore.
The stunning 360-degree panorama is truly unique and without doubt one of the best viewpoints on Koh Yao Yai. The incredible scenery alone makes this beach well worth visiting and provides countless fantastic photo opportunities.
Useful Facts About This Koh Yao Yai Beach
6. Laem Had Beach – The Island Highlight and Most Beautiful Beach on Koh Yao Yai
Laem Had Beach is without a doubt the ultimate beach highlight on Koh Yao Yai. The beach consists of two small bays that merge into a stunning sandbank stretching out into the sea. The western side features a beach of around 200 metres in length, while the eastern side is home to a several-kilometre-long sandy beach. The sand at Laem Had Beach is powdery soft and almost snow-white, while the sea shines in crystal-clear turquoise colours.
The entire area surrounding the beach is covered with lush tropical vegetation, green trees and palm trees, creating a truly idyllic setting. During high tide, Laem Had Beach offers fantastic swimming conditions in an incredibly beautiful tropical scenery.
The famous sandbank can only fully be admired during low tide, as it disappears beneath the water at high tide. At the tip of the sandbank, you are rewarded with spectacular views of the neighbouring island Koh Yao Noi. On both sides, breathtaking panoramic views open up across the two beautiful bays – an absolutely unforgettable sight.
The best part about this tropical paradise? Laem Had Beach is still relatively unknown, and even today you will rarely encounter many visitors here. Unfortunately, it probably will not remain a hidden gem forever.
Laem Had Beach completely amazed me with its unique and spectacular appearance. I have visited countless beaches during my travels, but Laem Had Beach definitely ranks among my absolute favourites. Without question, it is the most beautiful beach on Koh Yao Yai and the island’s top attraction.
Useful Facts About Laem Had Beach
7. Son Bay Beach – The Untouched Natural Beach
Son Bay Beach on Koh Yao Yai is another peaceful and almost deserted beach surrounded by lush tropical greenery. Apart from two small food stalls selling snacks and drinks, there is virtually no infrastructure at the beach. As a result, you will experience a completely untouched natural beach far away from mass tourism.
During high tide, the beach becomes relatively narrow, but it offers plenty of shaded spots beneath the trees and is great for relaxing or paddling in the water. At low tide, however, the sea retreats far from the shore, making swimming impossible. On the other hand, this creates perfect conditions for long beach walks along the coastline.
Useful Facts About Son Bay Beach Koh Yao Yai
8. Loh Balai Bay – Exploring by Scooter
Around Loh Balai Bay, which is also home to Cape Beach, a scenic coastal road runs directly alongside the shoreline. If you decide to explore Koh Yao Yai by scooter, I highly recommend following this road.
Along the route, you will be rewarded with fantastic views overlooking Loh Balai Bay, the coastline and the lush green hills rising in the background. You will also come across several small rocky beaches such as Cape Beach, as well as traditional wooden piers, stilt houses and local fishing boats that add to the island’s authentic atmosphere.
Useful Facts About Loh Balai Bay
9. Loh Balai – An Authentic Fishing Village
Located within Loh Balai Bay is a small yet authentic fishing village. Here, you will encounter simple wooden stilt houses rising out of the sea, as well as a colourful mosque that adds character to the village. Visiting Loh Balai offers a fascinating glimpse into everyday life on Koh Yao Yai and the daily routines of the local fishermen.
As very few western visitors make their way to the village, the locals will usually welcome you with a mixture of curiosity and friendliness. Even though hardly anyone speaks English here, many residents are genuinely happy to interact with visitors.
The fishing village also provides several fantastic photo opportunities and is located not far from Ao Sai Beach.
Useful Facts About the Fishing Village
10. Ao Sai Beach – Remote and Peaceful
Ao Sai Beach on Koh Yao Yai is a peaceful and hidden beach located around 500 metres from the nearby fishing village. After a short walk through a shaded forest path, you are rewarded with a stunning tropical panorama. Surrounded by palm trees and dense vegetation, the beach features soft golden sand and beautiful turquoise water. From here, you can enjoy impressive views towards the nearby islands Koh Phi Phi, Koh Lanta and the iconic limestone cliffs of Railay Beach.
Swimming conditions are somewhat limited due to rocks and stones in the water. However, Ao Sai Beach more than makes up for this with its peaceful and almost untouched atmosphere. Directly at the beach, you will find a small and simple beach bar with hammocks, perfect for relaxing in the shade. The owner is incredibly friendly and works hard to remove plastic and washed-up rubbish from the beach, helping to keep the area surprisingly clean for this region. The fresh coconuts served here are definitely among the best on the island.
One of the best things about Ao Sai Beach is its tranquillity. Often, only a handful of people make their way here, allowing you to enjoy the beach almost entirely for yourself. During low tide, the sea retreats far from the shore and reveals a rocky landscape. Yet this constant transformation is exactly what makes Ao Sai Beach such an interesting and unique place to visit. It is the perfect spot to slow down and fully appreciate the natural beauty of Koh Yao Yai.
Useful Facts About Ao Sai Beach
Hotel Recommendations for Koh Yao Yai
Here I Stayed – Budget-Friendly Accommodation
Heimat Garden is located close to the island’s “main beach” Loh Pared Beach and is a great option for budget-conscious travellers. The rooms are simple but practical and offer everything you need for a comfortable stay.
After a short 5-minute walk, you will reach the beach as well as the small village with a few restaurants and a scooter rental. Alternatively, you can also enjoy affordable meals at the hotel’s own restaurant.
The location is also ideal for exploring Koh Yao Yai by scooter. I was very satisfied with my stay at Heimat Garden and can honestly recommend it, as long as you are happy with a simple and basic accommodation.
Santhiya Koh Yao Yai – For Luxury Travellers
Also located at Loh Pared Beach, the Santhiya Koh Yao Yai Resort & Spa is the perfect choice for travellers looking for a more luxurious stay. The rooms are designed in a beautiful traditional Thai style, while some villas even feature a private jacuzzi or their own swimming pool.
Every room offers breathtaking views overlooking the coastline and the deep blue sea, creating an unforgettable tropical island atmosphere.
Koh Yao Yai Village – Fantastic Location and My Personal Favourite
Koh Yao Yai Village – Fantastic Location and My Personal Favourite
Koh Yao Yai Village is located in a fantastic setting with beautiful views overlooking the island’s west coast. One of the main highlights of the resort is its large infinity pool area, which truly leaves nothing to be desired. Since not every beach on Koh Yao Yai is ideal for swimming, the stunning pool area is a huge advantage for guests who enjoy spending time in the water.
The rooms are modern, bright and very comfortable, perfectly suited for travellers with higher expectations. Overall, the value for money at Koh Yao Yai Village is excellent.
For my next stay on Koh Yao Yai, this resort would definitely be among my top choices. In fact, I would most likely book this accommodation myself
Elixir Resort Koh Yao Yai
Elixir Resort Koh Yao Yai offers everything from standard bungalows to luxurious beachfront pool villas. The resort is located directly by the beach and is especially known for its peaceful and laid-back atmosphere.
The hotel also features its own restaurant, and you can conveniently rent a scooter directly at the resort to explore Koh Yao Yai on your own.
Although the resort belongs to the higher price category, it offers everything you need for a relaxing and memorable island holiday.
How to Get Around Koh Yao Yai
The easiest and most convenient way to get around Koh Yao Yai is by scooter. Most accommodations offer scooter rentals directly at the hotel, and you will also find a rental shop in the small village near Loh Pared Beach.
Rental prices usually range between 200 and 300 Baht per day. The road network on Koh Yao Yai is generally well developed, and most roads are in good condition. Therefore, even inexperienced scooter riders should have little trouble exploring the island on their own.
Taxis are relatively limited on Koh Yao Yai, which also means that prices tend to be higher. If you prefer using taxis, it is best to ask your accommodation directly about prices and transportation options.
How to Get to Koh Yao Yai
From Bangkok to Koh Yao Yai
The easiest way to travel from Bangkok to Koh Yao Yai is via Phuket. Alternatively, you can also reach the island from Krabi. More details can be found below.
From Phuket to Koh Yao Yai
From Phuket, speedboats operate hourly between 7:30 AM and 5:30 PM to Koh Yao Yai. The boats depart from Bang Rong Pier on Phuket’s north-eastern coast. The journey takes around 30 minutes and costs approximately 300 Baht.
Alternatively, you can also take a traditional longtail boat. These are slightly cheaper at around 150 Baht, but the journey takes approximately one hour.
You can reach Bang Rong Pier from Phuket International Airport by taxi in around 25 minutes, with prices starting at approximately 800 Baht. From Patong, the taxi ride takes roughly 45 minutes and usually costs around 1,200 Baht. Alternatively, you can also book tickets online in advance.
From Krabi to Koh Yao Yai
You can also travel to Koh Yao Yai from Ao Nang Beach in Krabi. Boats depart from Nopparat Thara Pier between 7:30 AM and 5:00 PM.
By speedboat, you can reach Koh Yao Yai in around 20 minutes, with ticket prices of approximately 300 Baht. The cheaper longtail boats take around 40 minutes and cost about 150 Baht.
There is also a ferry connection from Railay Beach to Koh Yao Yai, departing from the Railay East Floating Pier. Tickets can also be booked online in advance
Hinweis
Ferry schedules may change several times throughout the year. Therefore, it is always recommended to check the latest departure times locally before travelling.
During my trips, I usually check updated ferry schedules on 12Go Asia. The timetables are updated regularly, and if needed, you can also book your tickets online directly through the platform.
Recommended Length of Stay for Koh Yao Yai
To fully explore the tropical island of Koh Yao Yai, I recommend staying for around 4 to 7 days. This gives you enough time to discover the island’s beautiful beaches at a relaxed pace while also enjoying plenty of time to unwind by the sea.
By the way, a stay on Koh Yao Yai can perfectly be combined with a visit to its smaller sister island Koh Yao Noi. You can reach Koh Yao Noi from Chong Laad Pier, located near Hua Laem Beach. The boat transfer costs approximately 100 Baht.
Conclusion About Koh Yao Yai’s Beaches and Attractions
Although most beaches on Koh Yao Yai are not ideal for extensive swimming and bathing, they more than make up for it with their breathtaking scenery and peaceful atmosphere. Most beaches remain almost completely deserted, which makes the island feel incredibly authentic and relaxing. Especially the island highlight Laem Had Beach is one of the most beautiful places I have ever visited and remains unforgettable to me – an absolute gem and one of the greatest highlights of all my travels so far.
At times, the landscape of Koh Yao Yai is hilly and lush, while other areas are dominated by beautiful rice fields. The incredible views of the limestone cliffs rising from Phang Nga Bay are simply spectacular. Far away from mass tourism, Koh Yao Yai completely won me over with its natural beauty and relaxed atmosphere.
Do You Have Any Questions About Koh Yao Yai’s Beaches and Attractions?
Have you already visited Koh Yao Yai and discovered any additional tips worth sharing? Or are you planning a trip to the island yourself and still have some questions? Feel free to leave a comment – I’m looking forward to your feedback!
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