Koh Yao Noi - 7 attractions and beaches you must see!
- Noa
Koh Yao Noi is an island that feels a bit like old Thailand – simple, local, slow and relaxed. It is very close to Krabi and also to Koh Lanta. I got there relatively by chance, when I was looking for other magical islands in the area, in the style of Koh Jum. The island is right next to Koh Yao Yai, they are very similar but personally I liked Koh Yao Noi more.
This post contains affiliate links 🔗
If you choose to purchase through one of the links, I may receive a small commission. It won’t cost you anything more, but it will allow me to continue sharing tips and information with the world. Thanks 🩷
Table of Contents
Weather in Koh Yao Noi
The peak season is the dry season, between November and April . During this season the weather is perfect – sunny, warm with a relatively low chance of rain. The rainy season is from May to October , when there are many beautiful days but also many unexpected rains and typhoons.
How to get to Koh Yao Noi?
The most convenient way is to take a speedboat from Phuket Marina (Bang Rong Pier), a trip of about an hour.
You can also get there from Krabi , the boats depart from Tha Len Pier.
The boats operate all day, quite frequently, and you can always find a taxi from the marina to your accommodation.
To get from Koh Yao Noi to Koh Yao Yai, or vice versa, simply go to Chong Lard Pier and take a speedboat which takes fifteen minutes.
Recommended hotels in Ko Yao Noi
Accommodation on the island is relatively simple, but you can find really nice and comfortable places at good prices.
⭐ Rating of 9.1 on Booking.com
✅ Huts among rice fields
✅ Comfortable private rooms
✅ There is a balcony
Compare to get the best price:
⭐ Rating of 9.8 on Booking.com
✅ Facing the sea
✅ Large and spacious rooms
✅ Perfect for couples
Compare to get the best price:
⭐ Rating of 8.7 on Booking.com
✅ 4-star resort with pool
✅ Surrounded by quiet and beautiful beaches
✅ Super luxurious villas
Compare to get the best price:
Attractions and beaches in Koh Yao Noi
This is not an island of postcard-perfect beaches, but that’s where the magic lies. The beaches are wild, quiet, don’t try to impress, and the views from them are perfect.
Tha Khao Beach
It is very worth coming at sunset when the sea is at its lowest, when all kinds of interesting animals are revealed to explore – crabs, snails and fish. At low tide, you can also walk to the tiny island of Ko Nui.
Sunset from Chill out corner koh yao noi
Chill out corner is a perfect place to watch the sunset and have a drink.
Little Long Beach
A quiet, small, and calm beach, almost private. It’s relatively clean there, but I still recommend bringing a bag and picking up some trash along the way
Hornbill view point
Hornbills are very common on the island and have become a part of the culture there! This is a great spot to watch these birds and also a good spot for sunset.
Bike trip around the island
Cycling is the perfect way to discover hidden spots on the island and explore it in depth. This way you will get to know many beautiful, empty beaches, local restaurants, and get some exercise along the way. You can rent bicycles at Eco Island Bicycles.
All tours include professional guides, convenient schedules, and excellent value for money.
⭐ Recommended by 99% of travelers with over 80 great reviews!
✅ Professional guide, small groups, and bikes that are suitable even for those who are not in peak shape
✅ Stops along the way for tastings, photos, farm tours and a visit to a fishing village
✅ Includes hotel pickup, island cruise, Thai picnic and drinks along the way
Reserve your spot now! ￬
⭐ A pleasant and relaxing tour on a longtail boat to the most beautiful islands in the area!
✅ Includes hotel pickup
✅ Swimming and snorkeling at sites like Lading, Hang and Lagoon
✅ Includes snorkeling equipment, lunch, fresh fruit and cold water throughout the trip
✅ Departs from both Koh Yao Noi and Koh Yao Yai
Reserve your spot now! ￬
Restaurants in Ko Yao Noi
There are delicious local Thai restaurants and really good places for breakfast all over the island! What should you try?
Sawasdee kohyao Restaurant
Delicious Thai food and the restaurant is located above the river so there is also a stunning view! Perfect place for dinner and lunch.
Chaba Café and Gallery
A super special place with healthy and creative food and pastries they make there! Perfect breakfasts and sandwiches.
Kindee Thai Cuisine
A restaurant with Thai food in a fancy atmosphere. I think it’s a bit expensive, but overall it’s delicious.
Krua Koh Yai - ร้านอาหารครัวเกาะยาว
An excellent local restaurant with lots of delicious Thai dishes at good prices.
Earth and Plants Restaurant
Simple and delicious Thai food, massam curry is recommended!
Where to go next?
If you have more time in southern Thailand, you should continue to the following destinations:
- Krabi Town \ Ao Nang Beach – a must-see destination for anyone in the area
- Koh Lanta – a large but quiet and pleasant island with perfect food
- Koh Mook – a small and unique island with stunning beaches
- Koh Hai – the most beautiful island in Thailand
- Koh Jum – a small and authentic island, very close to Krabi
- Koh Yao Yai – the island opposite Koh Yao Noi
Frequently Asked Questions about Koh Yao Noi
What is the difference between Koh Yao Noi and Koh Yao Yai?
Koh Yao Noi is considered smaller and calmer, with more places to stay for tourists. Koh Yao Yai is larger, less developed for tourism, and suitable for those looking for almost complete peace. It is also possible to move between the islands easily by local boat.
How to get to Koh Yao Noi?
The easiest way is to take a speedboat from Bang Rong Pier in Phuket – a 30-minute ride. You can also get there from the Krabi or Ao Nang side via Tha Len Pier.
Is there an ATM on the island?
Yes, there are ATMs, but sometimes they are not always available or have withdrawal restrictions. It is recommended to arrive with cash in advance or at least make sure you have enough.
How much time is recommended to spend visiting the island?
At least 2-3 nights. It is a calm island suitable for slowing down, but it can be experienced in a few days.