Where to stay on Koh Yao Yai

Koh Yao Yai is the larger, quieter sister of Koh Yao Noi, a long, green island of rubber plantations and fishing villages in Phang Nga Bay. It has more beaches than its neighbour and far fewer visitors, so it's a good choice if you want space and a slow pace.

All the places we list are in the north, close to Laem Had, a sandbar beach that curves out into the bay at low tide, and Chong Lad pier for boats to Koh Yao Noi.

From Phuket
Boats from Bang Rong or Tien Sin piers, roughly 30 to 60 minutes
To Koh Yao Noi
Short longtail crossing from Chong Lad pier to Manoh pier
Getting around
Scooter hire or arranged transport; distances are longer than on Koh Yao Noi
Good to know
A mainly Muslim island; dress modestly in villages

Places to stay in Koh Yao Yai

4 hotels

"Our order" puts hotels we have fully written up first. Commission doesn't affect the order.

Koh Yao Yai, area by area

The north of the island faces Koh Yao Noi and has the famous sandbar at Laem Had. The west coast, facing Phuket, has the sunset beaches.

Laem Had and the north

Best for sandbar beaches and island-hopping

Laem Had is a curving spit of sand that stretches into the sea at low tide, with views across to Koh Yao Noi and the karst islands. Chong Lad pier, nearby, has the shortest crossing to Koh Yao Noi.

The west coast

Best for sunsets towards Phuket

The west coast faces Phuket across the bay, with quiet beaches such as Loh Pared and sunsets over the water. It's spread out and best explored by scooter.

Questions about staying in Koh Yao Yai

Should I stay on Koh Yao Yai or Koh Yao Noi?

Koh Yao Noi has more cafes, restaurants and places to stay; Koh Yao Yai is bigger, quieter and has more beaches. Staying in the north of Koh Yao Yai lets you visit Koh Yao Noi easily.

What is Laem Had Beach?

A sandbar beach in the north of Koh Yao Yai that extends out into the bay at low tide, with views of Koh Yao Noi and the limestone islands.

How do I get to Koh Yao Yai?

By boat from Phuket's east-coast piers, or from Krabi. Check current timetables, as services vary by season.

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