Meaning ‘Large Long Island’ in English, Ko Yao Yai is nothing remotely like its New York counterpart, and while it is the bigger of the two islands which make up Ko Yao, it is somewhat less developed than its neighbour Ko Yao Noi.
In fact, the island is regarded as one of the most beautiful remaining unspoiled natural landscapes in all of Thailand. Unspoiled is as unspoiled does, and in the case of Ko Yao Yai that means perfect beaches and untouched scenery, making it the ideal place for those who want a contrast to the more hectic and tourism-focused nearby islands of Phuket and Phi Phi.
Ko Yao Yai is a great place to escape the world and relax among the natural beauty of the island. There are a number of roads and dirt tracks which allow visitors to get around the island, either by bike, scooter or motorbike, which need to be hired on Phuket and brought across to the island by ferry.
Getting There & Away
Ko Yao Yai is an easy transfer by boat from Phuket Island, Krabi or Phang Nga. Motorbikes and scooters can be transported on all boats and the journey is short. Longtail boats connect Ko Yao Yai to its sister island, Ko Yao Noi. Phuket International Airport is a 1-hour, 20-minute flight from Bangkok, Thailand’s main international gateway.
Things to Do
Ko Yao Yai Attractions
- The beaches
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With their perfect sands and unblemished natural beauty, the pristine beaches are ko yao yai’s biggest draw.