About Koh Yao Noi
Koh Yao Noi is a small, quiet island in Phang Nga Bay, about 30 minutes by speedboat from Phuket’s east coast. The island has stayed largely undeveloped compared to Phuket, with rice paddies, rubber plantations, and a small Muslim fishing community.
There are no big resorts or shopping centres on Koh Yao Noi. Accommodation ranges from simple guesthouses to a handful of boutique hotels. The beaches are quiet, the roads are mostly empty, and the pace of life is slow. It feels like a different world from Phuket, even though it is just a short boat ride away.
The island is small enough to explore by scooter in a few hours. The east coast has the best views, looking across the water at the limestone karsts of Phang Nga Bay. The west coast is where the sunset bars are, facing back toward Phuket. Cycling, kayaking, and cooking classes are popular activities.
Koh Yao Noi works well as a day trip from Phuket, but staying a night or two gives you a much better feel for the island’s character. For the full guide, see Koh Yao Noi.

