Making the most of Koh Yao Noi
Use these notes to shape a realistic day ashore, then confirm any time-sensitive information for the date of your call.
Arriving at the port
Passengers arrive by tender, using Tha Khao pier as the landing jetty.
Watch the available video.
Ko Yao, also written Koyao, is an island group between Phuket and Krabi. Its two principal islands are Ko Yao Noi, meaning "Small Long Island", and Ko Yao Yai; Noi is the more developed of the two.
Ko Yao Noi is an attractive island where many residents believe it should be protected from human damage. It is often regarded as one of the region's final islands to have escaped excessive development.
Mountains occupy Ko Yao Noi's centre, with beaches on both sides. East-coast shores suit swimming and snorkelling, while western rice flats and mangroves create a picturesque landscape. At least 4 hornbill species find sanctuary here and are seen very frequently.
Getting around
During daylight, regular long-tail boats connect Chonglad Pier on Ko Yao Yai with Manok Pier on Ko Yao Noi. The trip takes 10 to 15 minutes and costs 20B per person.
Ko Yao Noi extends over approximately 50 square kilometres.
Tuk-tuks wait beside the tender pier.
Hiring a scooter is the most efficient way to explore. Island rentals cost 200/300B per day, generally require no licence and include a helmet.
Money
The Thai Baht is the local currency, divided into 100 satang, and ATMs are widespread.