Welcome to the hidden treasure of the Koh Yao Islands, where solitude and local charm await your discovery. Often overshadowed and offered only as day trips, the Ko Yao Islands have a secret that can only be truly experienced by venturing beyond the beaten path. If you yearn for an authentic island adventure, away from the influx of day tourists, Koh Yao Yai island, the larger sister island, is the perfect destination for you. Getting there is not at all difficult, so prepare to immerse yourself in the tranquility and allure of this little gem!
What to expect of Koh Yao Yai?
Koh Yao Yai island is the largest and less developed of the two Koh Yao Islands (make sure to bring cash!), it offers an authentic glimpse into local life. Spending one or two days here is ample time to explore its treasures. Here, you’ll witness scenes straight out of a comic post card: children playing on the sandy beaches after school, mischievenous monkeys herding goats with ropes (yes, you read that right, we saw it with our own eyes!) and other animals enjoying their lazy island life in a hammock.
While some coastal areas may experience occasional rain showers, the Koh Yao Islands often remain untouched by rainy clouds. Being slightly farther out at sea has its perks, ensuring you’ll bask in the warm sun and make the most of your tropical getaway.
Scooter rental on Koh Yao Yai island
To truly unlock the island’s treasures, renting a scooter is an absolute must. Upon arrival at the Koh Yao Yai Pier, you’ll find scooter rental services readily available. Just be prepared to start your journey without minimal fuel in the tank. It’s part of the Thai way, as filling up your scooter is a cheap and easy task for tourists. Fuel stations on the island look a bit like those colorful candy slush drinks. A local will assist you in pouring fuel into your scooter through a tube. With your scooter ready to roll, it’s time to start your adventure on this island!
Things to do in Koh Yao Yai
1. Explore the island on scooter!
Upon arriving on the island and searching for activities to engage in, I must admit that I felt a sense of unease, a nagging feeling that perhaps I had made the wrong choice coming here. It seemed as there was nothing ‘to do’ when I looked several activities on my phone, searching for ‘ Things to do on Koh Yao Yai island’. However, it didn’t take me long to realize that one of the greatest joys of the Koh Yao Islands, lies in the freedom to simply explore.
2. Visit the stunning beaches
As you ride your scooter, let the island’s atmosphere and chill vibe envelop you. You can cross the island in less than an hour by scooter, so you’ll have plenty of time to make several stops on the way. However, the one thing you absolutely can’t miss and brought us to the island in the first place is the breathtaking beach called Lam Haed Beach.
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Unfortunately you’ll have to pass the plastic litter first, but beyond lies one of Thailand’s most secluded and stunning beaches. The expansive sandbank seemingly stretches to the adjacent island, creating a mesmerizing illusion of walking on water. The water is the clearest we have seen in Thailand. It’s the perfect spot for a sport or yoga session, or watching the sunset.
insert pic koh yao yai lam haed beach beachwalk
3. Go snorkeling
If you like snorkeling, make sure you are visiting one of the beaches on the left side of the island such as Ao Muong Beach. It’s beautiful and you can see really cool fishes here if you go swimming between the rocks!
insert pic ‘Koh yao yai Ao Muong Beach’
4. Enjoy the restaurants
Whether you’ll simply want to enjoy the view with a fresh pineapple juice (they are the best in Thailand!) or want to taste the local cuisine during a 3 course menu, all restaurants on the island have a cozy island vibe and you’ll like to spend time here.
4. Ferry from Koh Yao Yai island to Koh Yao Noi
If you have the time, we highly recommend taking a ferry ride to the smaller sister island Koh Yao Noi. It’s a 10 minute boat ride to the Manoh Pier at Koh Yao Noi and will cost you around 100 baht. The boat goes several times per day and when we arrived, they just set sail to the other island, just for the two of us.
5. Enjoy the restaurants
Whether you’ll simply want to enjoy the view with a fresh pineapple juice (they are the best in Thailand!) or want to taste the local cuisine during a 3 course menu, all restaurants on the island have a cozy island vibe and you’ll like to spend time here.
Best restaurants in Koh Yao Yai
A Pole House Café with a View
As you make your way to the small port, on the north side of the island you’ll see a pole house café boasting a breathtaking view. Take a moment to soak in the mesmerizing surroundings while sipping on a refreshing pineapple juice. However, be mindful that this spot serves as the starting point for day tourists, so it’s best to arrive before 10 am to relish the tranquility and avoid the crowds.
insert pic ‘koh yao yai pole house cafe with a view’
Local Markets
As you cruise along on your scooter, make it a point to stop by the small markets scattered across the island. The mostly unknown snacks are not only delicious but also support the island’s community.
Chill Chill @ Pai
“Chill Chill @ Pai,” is a charming café nestled along the roadside. It’s the ideal place to refuel and recharge while treating your taste buds to amazing dishes. From delectable Thai specialties to international favorites, this café caters to every palate. And if you’re seeking the ultimate dessert experience, don’t miss out on their delicious fried banana.
Baan Rim Nam
Among the island’s renowned dining establishments, Baan Rim Nam stands out as one of the most visually stunning restaurants. Although it is recommended as one of the best restaurants on Koh Yao Yai, specialized in sea food on the island, we were a bit disappointed to eat here.
The portions are extremely small compared to the expensive prices and the quality of the food isn’t even that good. However, if you have a more generous budget and a love for seafood, this is a place worth considering. Our more budget friendly suggestion is to have a refreshing drink here during the day and enjoy the stunning view.
The best island vibe: Koh Yao Yai or Koh Yao Noi?
If you like the solitude and local vibe, I would definitely recommend Koh Yao Yai island. However, even though we like nature and tranquility as well, we preferred Koh Yao Noi. It’s a bit more developed as Koh Yao Yai, having a little bit more activities to do.
