Hat Yao, or ‘Long Beach’, is on the southwest shore of Thailand’s Phi Phi Don Island. With white sands, outstanding views and easy access to Ton Sai Village, this is one of the best places to be based on the island.
Most of the accommodation is bungalow-style, reinforcing the rustic atmosphere that’s intentionally maintained here. Tourists are just far enough from Ton Sai Village to feel secluded, but close enough to enjoy the dining and nightlife opportunities. Ton Sai Village is a mere five minutes away by longtail boat.
That distance is important as it separates Hat Yao from the influx of day-trippers that dominate the streets of Ton Sai Village. Half a dozen resorts dominate the waterfront so there are ample beach facilities and waterfront restaurants to look after guests.
Getting there
Ton Sai Village (a mere five minutes away by longtail) is the Phi Phi transportation hub. From here ferries and sea planes depart for Phuket (2 to 3 hours), where the international airport operates hour-long flights to the well-connected international airport at Bangkok.
Hat Yao attractions
Shark Point: this limestone rock formation juts out of the water roughly 600 feet from the shore and attracts harmless black-tip reef sharks up to four-feet long.
Snorkeling: Hat Yao has the best short order snorkeling offerings, with beautiful coral reefs within short swimming distance of your beach chair.
Massage: Thai massage on waterfront pavilions add a whole new dimension to relaxing on the beach.
Sea kayaking: this is a great way to see the beaches in between Hat Yao and Ton Sai Village. Ao Poh is a popular destination by kayak.
In brief
What to do: relaxing on the beach, snorkeling at Shark Point, sea kayaking.
Best time to go: from December to March when the waters are calm.
How long? Two or three days is enough to enjoy the area.
Trivia: the famous Long Beach Bar at Hat Yao was carved from the front end of a longtail boat.