Hidden in an inland sea south of Thailand, Ko Yao Yai is an idyllic spot for travelers who like maintaining a distance from crowded beaches and bustling tourists. Embraced by desolate rocky islands perching from the water – this stunning island has a fictional aura attached to it that makes Ko Yao Yai all the more enticing. The mysterious caves and hidden bays further enhance the interest.
Things to Do: Ko Yao Yai is best known for its snorkeling adventure. The crystal clear waters provide visitors with an amphitheater views of the stunning aquatic life. However, for this ravishing adventure, you will be required to set off in a long tail boat for Ko Hang – an island comprising of two stunning white beaches and a beautiful lagoon. Embark on this stunning snorkeling adventure in the deep turquoise waters of this island.
Getting There: Your journey to Ko Yao Yai begins from Phuket or Krabi, hop onto a ferry that will take you to this paradise. Enthrall in the beauty of the stunning limestone rock faces that emerge from the water during this one and half hour boat ride.
When travellers talk dreamily about the amazing Andaman, they usually mean Krabi, with its trademark karst formations curving along the coast like a giant limestone fortress of adventure. Rock climbers will find their nirvana in Railay, while castaway wannabes should head to KoLanta, Ko Phi-Phi or any of the other.
Things to Do:Swim, snorkel, kayak and scuba dive the warm waters, meet the friendly locals while enjoying this tropical beach paradise. Visit the local night market and taste the local street food.
Getting There: The most common way to travel to Krabi is by car, minibus or take the local ferry.
The beautiful Similan Islands Marine National Park lies 70km offshore from Phang-Nga Province. It's smooth granite islands are as impressive above the bright aqua water as below, topped with rainforest, edged with blindingly white beaches and fringed by coral reefs.
Things to do: Similan beaches and dive sites get completely packed with day trippers. There are huge queues to climb viewpoints and plenty of snorkelling outlets around the island.
Getting There: The Similan Islands are about 65km offshore, about 75 mins by fast speedboat, in the Andaman Sea with the main departure pier being Tab Lamu, which is about 20 minutes from KhaoLak which is the most popular starting point