• Dress modestly in villages
  Koh Yao Yai has a strong Muslim culture—cover shoulders and knees when outside resort areas as a sign of respect.
• Book boats and transfers in advance
  Ferries and speedboats can fill up, especially in peak season. Booking early ensures smooth travel.
• Wake early to catch island life
  Locals start their day at dawn, and the early morning light over the sea is breathtaking. It’s also the best time for markets and wildlife spotting.
• Avoid the midday heat
  From 12–3 PM, it's hot and humid—plan beach time for mornings and late afternoons.
• Use mosquito repellent
  Especially near mangroves and inland areas—repellent is widely available at minimarts.
• Respect nature and marine life
  Avoid stepping on coral or disturbing marine animals. Many tours are eco-certified, so choose operators who protect the environment.
• Support local businesses
  Eat at local Muslim-run family restaurants, book tours with island guides, and shop at the morning market for a genuine experience.
• Try a herbal Thai massage
  Local spas offer relaxing and affordable massages using lemongrass, turmeric, and coconut oil.
• Use cash for small purchases
  Many smaller shops and cafés don’t accept cards. There are ATMs in main villages.
• Take it slow
  Island life here is laid-back. Don’t expect fast service or big schedules—relax, breathe, and let the island set the pace.

• Eid al-Fitr (End of Ramadan)
  As a majority-Muslim island, this holiday is celebrated with feasting, prayer, and family gatherings. Visitors are often welcomed with sweet treats.
• Songkran (Thai New Year – April 13–15)
  Though not as wild as in Bangkok, locals still celebrate with water splashing, family meals, and blessings at temples.
• Loi Krathong (November)
  Lanterns and floral floats are released into the sea to honor water spirits. Some resorts host small, respectful ceremonies.
• Local Fishing Festivals
  Held in small villages throughout the year to bless boats, celebrate the sea, and share fresh catches. Expect music, BBQs, and community spirit.
• Vegetarian Festival (October)
  Observed by the Chinese-Thai community with colorful parades, meat-free food, and traditional rituals.

Do you need a visa to visit the island?
Most travelers do not need a visa for stays under 30 days (including citizens of the US, UK, EU, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand). Longer stays may require a visa extension. Thailand's visa policies apply on Koh Yao Yai, just like the mainland.

What is the best way to get to the island?
Fly into Phuket International Airport (HKT) or Krabi International Airport (KBV), then take a taxi to a nearby pier (Bang Rong Pier from Phuket or Thalane Pier from Krabi). From there, a 30–45-minute speedboat or longtail boat brings you to Koh Yao Yai.

Should I rent a scooter on the island?
Yes—absolutely recommended. The island is quite large, and renting a scooter is the easiest and most affordable way to explore beaches, viewpoints, and villages. Roads are quiet and mostly paved.

Is the island wheelchair accessible?
Partially. Some resorts and restaurants are accessible, but public transport and many natural areas are not well-suited for wheelchairs. It’s best to contact accommodations directly to confirm accessibility features.

What are the island’s most famous landmarks?
Notable sights include Laem Had Beach, the Big Tree Viewpoint, Ao Sai Pier, floating fishing villages, and the traditional rubber plantations inland. The island’s simplicity is its charm—it’s all about natural beauty and authentic Thai culture.

What are the best beaches on the island?

• Laem Had Beach – A photogenic sandbar with calm, clear waters
• Loh Paret Beach – Great for swimming and beachfront resorts
• Ao Muang – A peaceful bay with views of Phang Nga cliffs
• Son Bay – Remote and undeveloped, ideal for quiet beach days
• Klong Son Beach – Good for walking, with rustic seaside cafés

What is unique about the island’s wildlife?
You might see hornbills, sea eagles, water monitors, monkeys, and mudskippers in the mangroves. The island’s coral reefs also attract snorkelers and divers. Conservation is a local priority, and eco-tourism is encouraged.

What traditional foods should you try on the island?
Try Gaeng Som (sour curry), grilled seafood, mango sticky rice, and roti with condensed milk from roadside stalls. Local Muslim dishes like chicken biryani and beef satay are delicious and widely available.

Can you drink tap water on the island?
No. Tap water is not safe to drink—stick to bottled water, which is cheap and available everywhere.

What is the nightlife like on the island?
Very low-key. This is not a party island—expect beachfront bars, fire shows, and sunset cocktails, not clubs. Most places close early, and the vibe is calm, romantic, and peaceful.

How can I stay connected to the internet on the island?
Most hotels and resorts offer Wi-Fi, and mobile coverage is generally good with Thai SIM cards (AIS, TrueMove, DTAC). For faster access, head to cafés or co-working lounges in popular areas.

What are some local souvenirs to bring home?
Buy handmade soaps, local textiles, coconut oil, handicrafts made from palm leaves, and dried seafood or spices from village markets.