Six reasons to visit Koh Yao Noi

Travel blogger Phoebe Lee from Little Grey Box discovers a quieter side of Thailand during a recent visit to Koh Yao Noi.

The tranquil island of Koh Yao Noi lies between Phuket and Krabi, making it a true island paradise. Sun-drenched beaches and turquoise waters create a dreamlike setting for vacationers and perfectly complement the island's peaceful atmosphere. Here are six reasons to visit Koh Yao Noi.

Koh Yao Noi is still a real hidden gem! The island feels more spacious because there are no high-rises, crowded bars, mega-resorts, bustling shopping streets, traffic jams, or throngs of people. Instead, Koh Yao Noi is relaxed and tranquil, giving visitors a sense of peace and serenity. Since the population is predominantly Muslim, there are only three bars on the island (don't worry, you can still enjoy cocktails at your hotel!). This attracts a different crowd than party hotspots like Phuket.

Every single person we met was incredibly kind and welcoming. The hotel staff were also unbelievably friendly and contributed significantly to our pleasant and unforgettable stay. During our explorations of the island, we met several locals who were all very open and willing to share their stories, their lives, and their culture with us. Koh Yao Noi has a strong sense of community and an authentic way of life that makes you feel instantly at ease. You can completely relax and immerse yourself in local life.

On Koh Yao Noi, it's all about relaxation – but boredom is guaranteed to be out of the question! Explore the island by scooter, passing rice paddies and farms, experience the thrill of rock climbing, or go diving, swimming, and snorkeling. Take a Muay Thai boxing class or unwind with yoga and meditation. Treat yourself to a spa day, attend a Thai cooking class, or simply relax by the pool.

Explore the many islands of Phang Nga Bay, just like we did. The boat trip to the islands was an incredible experience in itself. Sailing along the coast of Koh Yao Noi, we gained a whole new perspective on the beauty of this area. We visited Kudu Island, jumped off the boat into the turquoise water to cool off, and then explored the island with snorkeling gear before enjoying a picnic on the beach.

From fantastic Khao Soi and delicious Pad Thai to all kinds of tropical fruits – everything we ate was simply delicious. We even visited a farm where visitors can sample locally grown produce.

With fewer tourists around, Koh Yao Noi felt much more special, almost as if we had the whole island to ourselves. Zipping around on a scooter, meeting locals, and exploring every corner of the island made me incredibly happy and carefree. The island also exudes a special sense of peace and tranquility, allowing you to completely relax and soak up the atmosphere.

You can find the full article on the Little Grey Box blog. It contains important travel tips on getting there, accommodation, and even a packing list.