Ko Phayam (Koh Pha Yam) is a little island just of the coast of Ranong Province in the southwest of Thailand. It is situated just offshore in the Andaman Sea, not far from the Burma border and north of Phuket.
Ko Phayam’s main draw is its quiet beaches, with Ao Yai Bay being the main one at the south of Ko Phayam. It is nice and quiet and there are no bars or vendors to speak of at the beaches although you will find some in the main village. Ao Yai Bay also has a sea gypsy village.
The main thing to do on Ko Phayam is chilling out on the beaches and taking a walk inland. There are plenty of paths going off in all directions through rubber plantations and from one beach to the next.
Getting There & Away
The only way onto Ko Phayam is by boat. A slow ferry leaves from Saphon Pla pier in Ranong with a trip time of around 2 or 3 hours, depending on sea conditions. Spend a bit more and go by speedboat from Ton Son pier farther south, cutting the journey to just 20 minutes. Ranong has an airport with flights from Bangkok although the nearest major airport is Phuket International Airport, a few hours south by bus.
Things to Do
Ko Phayam Attractions
- Ao Yai
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The main beach in yai bay is the big attraction for tourists, a lovely beach with good swimming.
- Pearl culture farm
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Established by a japanese businessman, tours go by way of mangrove swamps.