Koh Yao Yai/Noi: Ko Hong & Island Hopping by Long Tail Boat

Introduction: A Look at the Koh Yao Yai/Noi: Ko Hong & Island Hopping Tour

If you’re dreaming of exploring Thailand’s Gulf islands without the crowds and chaos, a longtail boat trip around the Hong Islands and nearby spots promises a more relaxed, authentic escape. While we haven’t personally tried this exact tour, reviews and detailed descriptions give us a good picture of what you can expect.

What makes this journey appealing are the stunning lagoon views at Hong Island, the chance to lounge on peaceful beaches like Koh Lading, and the unique experience of walking along Laem Hads famous sandbar. We also appreciate the inclusion of a local traditional boat — giving the whole trip a genuine, laid-back vibe.

On the flip side, one potential issue is unexpected additional costs, like the 300 Baht fee at Hong Island that some travelers mention. Plus, the 4.5-hour duration might feel longer if you’re not particularly into boat rides or if the weather isn’t perfect.

This tour is best suited for travelers seeking a scenic, leisurely day on the water, with an interest in snorkeling, beach lounging, and exploring smaller islands near Ko Yao Yai. It could be ideal if you prefer a more relaxed pace over fast-paced speedboat trips.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Stunning Lagoon Views: The highlight is swimming in the Hong Islands’ clear, limestone-framed lagoon.
• Relaxed Island Hopping: Stops at Koh Lading, Koh Nok, and Laem Hads provide diverse scenery and tranquility.
• Authentic Experience: Traditional longtail boats contribute to an authentic Thai island vibe.
• Flexible & Informative: Includes snorkeling, beach time, scenic sightseeing, and a scenic lunch.
• Potential Extra Cost: Be prepared for additional fees like the 300 Baht charge at Hong Island not included in the tour price.
• Group Size & Guides: The experience involves a live English-speaking guide, with reviews noting the boat often felt like a private trip due to limited others.

What to Expect on the Tour

Starting the Day: Hotel Pickup & Transfer

The tour kicks off with a convenient pickup from your hotel on Ko Yao Yai, making it a hassle-free start. After a short transfer to Chong Lard Pier, you’ll meet your crew and hop aboard a traditional longtail boat. The relaxed, informal atmosphere immediately sets the tone for a laid-back day.

Hong Islands: The Main Highlight

The first stop is the famous Hong Islands, where a beautiful lagoon awaits. Travelers love the crystal-clear water and limestone cliffs, perfect for swimming and snapping photos. One reviewer noted, “the views are worth the trip,” emphasizing the lagoon’s visual appeal.

However, be aware that during peak times, the 300 Baht entrance fee (not included) applies, which some guests found unexpected. This fee grants access to the island’s facilities, but it’s good to factor that into your budget.

The guide typically leaves plenty of time for swimming, relaxing, and sightseeing around the lagoon. It’s a highlight for many, especially if you enjoy calm waters and scenic limestone formations.

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Koh Pakbia & Koh Rai: Beach & Monkey Encounters

Next, the boat passes by Koh Pakbia, a peaceful island perfect for beach downtime. It’s not overly developed, so expect natural beauty and quiet. Some reviews suggest that the stops here are more about enjoying the scenery than doing anything particularly special, but it’s ideal for a quick, relaxing break.

Koh Rai, often called Monkey Island, is a short pass-through where monkeys may sometimes be seen along the shoreline. If you’re a wildlife enthusiast or just enjoy spotting animals, this adds a fun element to the trip.

Koh Lading: The Scenic Lunch Spot

Koh Lading is frequently highlighted as a stunning, tranquil island with pristine beaches. Here, you’ll enjoy a delicious local lunch in a scenic setting. The overall experience is about relaxing in nature, away from crowded tourist spots.

Guests often describe the lunch as scenic and peaceful, an ideal way to refuel while soaking in the island views. The time allocated here is about an hour, enough for a leisurely meal and some beach strolling.

Koh Nok & Laem Hads: Calm Waters & Unique Sandbar

After lunch, the tour continues to Koh Nok, a quiet island near Ko Yao Yai. It offers calm waters and untouched scenery, perfect for a gentle swim or relaxing walk.

The final stop is Laem Had, where the sandbar stretches out on both sides of the coastline. This spot is particularly favored for photos and strolling along the shifting sands, which change with the tide. One reviewer appreciated this as a “unique coastal landscape”, ideal for a relaxed end to your day.

Returning to Ko Yao Yai

In the late afternoon, the boat returns to Chong Lard Pier, followed by your transfer back to your hotel. The entire experience spans roughly 4.5 hours, but some travelers noted they were out longer, especially if they lingered at stops or if the weather caused delays.

The Practical Side: Transport, Group Dynamics & Value

The longtail boat is the star of the experience—traditional, charming, and offering an authentic Thai coastal vibe. The guide, speaking fluent English, provides explanations and safety instructions, although one reviewer mentioned that the captain’s limited English sometimes meant gestures were the main communication.

Group size tends to be small, sometimes feeling like a private tour if you’re fortunate, which adds to the relaxing vibe. The tour is priced with the understanding that additional fees might apply, such as the 300 Baht entrance fee at Hong Island, so it’s wise to budget accordingly.

The duration of 4.5 hours makes this a manageable half-day activity, perfect if you’re looking to combine it with other sightseeing or relaxing in Ko Yao Yai.

Authenticity, Value, and Who Should Join

This tour offers a genuine, laid-back experience of the Hong Islands and nearby spots, emphasizing natural beauty and quiet beaches over crowds. The inclusion of a scenic lunch and opportunities for swimming and photos make it a balanced option for reasonable value.

If you’re someone who loves picture-perfect lagoons, calm waters, and peaceful island scenery without the rush of speedboat crowds, you’ll find this tour satisfying. It’s especially suitable for travelers who enjoy relaxing on beaches or exploring unspoiled islands.

However, if you prefer a faster-paced, more energetic tour with lots of activities packed into a short time, this might feel too slow or relaxed. Also, the extra fees and the potential for longer-than-expected hours are points to consider.

This experience is best for those craving a gentle, scenic adventure that highlights Thailand’s natural coastal charm. It’s a wonderful way to appreciate the beauty of the Hong Islands and their surroundings without feeling overwhelmed.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup on Ko Yao Yai, making the start of your day simple and stress-free.

How long does the tour last?
The scheduled duration is 4.5 hours, but some guests report they were out longer depending on weather and stops.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, at Hong Island, you’ll need to pay an entrance fee of approximately 300 Baht, which isn’t included in the tour price.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel and sunscreen for comfort during beach stops and swimming.

Is the tour suitable for families?
While not explicitly specified, the relaxed pace and scenic stops make it generally family-friendly. However, always consider children’s comfort with boat rides.

Can I expect a guide to speak good English?
Yes, the guide is described as speaking fluent English and providing explanations during the trip, although the boat captain’s English may be limited.

Final thoughts

This longtail boat tour offers an authentic, scenic look at some of Thailand’s most peaceful islands near Ko Yao Yai. You’ll love the stunning lagoon views, tranquil beaches, and the local boat experience that sets it apart from speedier, more commercial excursions. The combination of swimming, relaxing, and sightseeing makes it an appealing choice for travelers who value quality over quantity.

If you’re after a laid-back day in nature, with plenty of opportunities to capture memorable photos, this tour is likely to meet your expectations. Keep in mind the extra costs and slightly longer duration, but overall, it provides a peaceful, picturesque escape into Thailand’s Gulf islands.

Perfect for those seeking a gentle, scenic adventure that balances sightseeing with relaxation, this tour is a great way to add a touch of natural beauty to your Thailand trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: