Koh Yao Noi from Phuket: the comparison
| Option | Duration | Price seen | For whom | Good to know |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cycling on Koh Yao Noi from Phuket (boat, guide) | Day | from about 100 USD | Active, curious | About 12 km by bike, villages, mangrove, rubber trees; hotel pick-up according to the listing |
| Private longtail Koh Yao Yai/Noi, island hopping (4.8 from about 300 reviews) | About 5 h | about 187 to 197 USD for 2 | Couples, small groups | Departs from the island (Manoh pier on Koh Yao Noi); no transfer from Phuket |
| Private longtail to the Hong islands, day (5 h) | About 5 h | about 249 to 256 USD for 2 | Lagoon and snorkelling | Lunch, snorkel gear and park fee included according to the listing; departs from the island |
| Night on the island | 2 days or more | depends on lodging | Calm, cycling, sea | Book ahead in high season |
Where to sleep for this itinerary. Stay in Karon: it is the most practical area for leaving in the morning and getting back in the evening. Compare hotels with free cancellation in Karon and see our where-to-stay guide (Phuket) to pick the neighbourhood.
What to do on the island
Koh Yao Noi is explored by bike or scooter: quiet roads, rice fields, plantations and small villages, a much slower life than Phuket. The population is largely Muslim: dress modestly away from the beach. No nightlife like Patong.
The Hong islands and the private boat
From the island, a private longtail reaches the Hong islands, Koh Lao Lading and Pak Bia with swimming and snorkelling. It is the most expensive option but the most comfortable: a boat to yourselves, a schedule of your choice. For the same scenery from Phuket without an overnight stay, see Hong Island from Phuket and Phang Nga Bay. When visibility is poor, some travellers find the snorkelling disappointing: choose November to April.
When to go
Dry season, November to April, when the sea is calmest; in the monsoon, crossings may be cancelled. See the best time to visit Phuket.
FAQ
How do I get to Koh Yao Noi from Phuket?
By speedboat or ferry from the north-east coast of Phuket, or through a tour that includes the transfer. Check times and season.
Is one day enough?
Yes for cycling; to sleep quietly and do the Hong islands, allow two days.
Koh Yao Noi or Krabi?
Koh Yao Noi for calm, Krabi for beaches and island chains: see Krabi from Phuket.
Do I need a private boat?
Not necessarily, but it is more flexible and less crowded than a group tour.
