Best Hotels and Resorts in Koh Yao Yai
Koh Yao Yai boasts some of Thailand's most exclusive and luxurious resorts, each offering a unique blend of world-class amenities, stunning views, and authentic Thai hospitality. Here are our top picks for an unforgettable island stay:
Treehouse Villas Koh Yao
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Adult-only luxury resort nestled in tropical forest
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Unique treehouse-style villas with private pools
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Direct access to pristine private beach
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Intimate and romantic atmosphere perfect for couples
Anantara Koh Yao Yai Resort & Villas
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Stunning panoramic views of Phang Nga Bay
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148 spacious suites and villas with contemporary design
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Exceptional dining options and wellness facilities
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Extensive range of water sports and island activities
Santhiya Koh Yao Yai Resort & Spa
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Traditional Thai-style eco-luxury resort
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Seawater pool villas with ocean views
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Set within beautiful rainforest surroundings
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Award-winning spa and wellness treatments
Unforgettable Things to Do in Koh Yao Yai
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Discover Hidden Beaches - Explore pristine stretches of powder-soft sand at Laem Haad Beach, where a magical sandbar emerges at low tide connecting you to tiny uninhabited islands
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Island-Hop Through Paradise - Embark on exhilarating speedboat tours through Phang Nga Bay's limestone karsts, visiting secret lagoons and breathtaking hidden coves
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Embrace Local Culture - Immerse yourself in authentic Thai village life, watching local fishermen tend their nets and visiting traditional rubber plantations that dot the island
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Adventure by Land - Explore the island's lush interior by ATV or bicycle, winding through jungle paths and discovering spectacular viewpoints over the Andaman Sea
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Dive Into Azure Waters - Snorkel or dive in crystal-clear waters teeming with tropical fish, or kayak through mysterious mangrove forests along the coastline
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Indulge in Fresh Seafood - Savour the catch of the day at charming beachfront restaurants, where local fishermen bring their bounty directly from boat to kitchen
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Witness Spectacular Sunsets - Find your perfect spot on a secluded beach to watch the sun paint the sky in brilliant hues as it sets behind dramatic limestone formations
Family-Friendly Activities
Koh Yao Yai offers an ideal setting for families seeking both adventure and relaxation, with activities carefully designed to engage visitors of all ages whilst maintaining the island's peaceful atmosphere. The combination of natural wonders and modern amenities ensures that children and parents alike can create lasting memories together.
Safe, shallow swimming beaches
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Long stretches of gentle sloping beaches perfect for paddling
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Clear waters with excellent visibility
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Regular lifeguard patrols at resort beaches
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Calm seas during high season (November-April)
Educational village tours
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Interactive coconut farm visits
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Traditional batik painting workshops
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Local cooking classes suitable for children
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Meet friendly local families and learn about island culture
Gentle nature walks
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Well-marked trails through rubber plantations
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Butterfly and bird watching opportunities
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Easy coastal walks with stunning views
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Guide-led jungle adventures tailored for children
Kid-friendly resorts with pools
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Dedicated children's swimming pools
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Supervised kids' clubs with daily activities
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Family entertainment programmes
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Child-friendly dining options and menus
Easy snorkelling spots
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Equipment rental and basic lessons available
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Shallow reef areas perfect for beginners
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Colourful fish visible close to shore
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Professional guides for family snorkel trips
How to Get to Koh Yao Yai
Your journey to this tropical paradise begins at Phuket International Airport, where your island adventure takes shape. The well-established route to Koh Yao Yai offers a seamless blend of land and sea travel, allowing you to experience the beauty of the Andaman Sea before even reaching your destination.
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Arrive at Phuket International Airport as your starting point
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Journey by taxi to Bang Rong Pier (approximately 30 minutes)
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Choose your sea transfer:
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Quick speedboat service (20-minute journey)
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Traditional longtail boat experience (40-minute journey)
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Arrive at Chong Lard Pier, your gateway to Koh Yao Yai
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Note: Boat services operate daily from 8am to 5pm
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Travel tip: Book your transfers in advance during peak tourist season (November-April)
Best Time to Visit
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Peak Season (November-April): Experience idyllic conditions with sunny skies, minimal rainfall, and tranquil seas ideal for water activities
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Shoulder Season (May-June): Enjoy great value with occasional brief tropical showers between long sunny spells
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Green Season (July-October): Take advantage of quieter beaches and lower rates while enjoying the lush tropical scenery, despite some daily rainfall
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Year-round Climate: Embrace consistently balmy temperatures ranging from 25-32°C (77-90°F), perfect for beach activities any time of year
Dining and Cuisine
Koh Yao Yai offers a diverse culinary landscape that combines the freshest local seafood with authentic Thai flavours. From casual beachside dining to elegant resort restaurants, the island caters to every taste and occasion while maintaining its genuine charm.
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Beachfront Seafood Havens - Savour the catch of the day at charming waterfront restaurants where local fishermen deliver fresh seafood directly from their boats
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Authentic Village Dining - Experience traditional Thai cuisine at family-run eateries nestled in local villages, serving generations-old recipes
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Luxury Resort Dining - Indulge in international and fusion cuisine at sophisticated resort restaurants, offering both indoor and alfresco dining experiences
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Local Market Experience - Immerse yourself in Thai culture at vibrant night markets, where street food vendors serve authentic local delicacies
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Sunset Lounging - Unwind at stylish beachfront bars offering crafted cocktails and spectacular views of the Andaman Sea