Ko Yao

Travel Guide

A coastal landscape with a sandy beach, palm trees, and distant mountains.
An aerial view of a coastal area with a beach, dense forest, and clear turquoise waters.
A cruise ship's deck with a view of green mountains and calm water.
A woman on a swing overlooking a coastal landscape with mountains and water.
A beach with palm trees, clear blue water, and distant islands.

Head to Ko Yao for stunning beaches, local culture, and nearby adventures that promise a memorable getaway.

Ko Yao is an ideal destination for beach and outdoor travelers. You can visit Khai Island, known for its scenic beauty, or relax at Loh Paret Beach. For those interested in local life, Klong Hia Pier offers a glimpse into the daily activities of the island’s residents. Nearby, Banana Beach provides a venue for leisure, while Hanuman World is a popular spot for ziplining. If shopping is on your agenda, Central Phuket and Jungceylon Shopping Center are both accessible options.

Spend some time exploring the nearby areas, which offer a variety of experiences. Phuket is known for its vibrant outdoor activities, including attractions like Patong Go-Kart Speedway and Jui Tui Shrine. Krabi also offers beach experiences with places such as Ao Nang Beach and West Railay Beach. Additionally, nearby Ko Hong features outdoor adventures, making it a great complement to your time on Ko Yao.

The best time to visit Ko Yao depends on your preferences for rain and crowd levels. While the weather remains warm and relatively constant throughout the year, the heaviest rainfall occurs from May to November. Demand tends to peak from January to March, making these months busier. Conversely, you may find a quieter experience in May to June and August, providing a more relaxed atmosphere for your visit.

Santhiya Koh Yao Yai Resort & Spa - Up to THB 3,000 Resort Credit per Night , Mandatory Shared Speedboat from Ao Po Grand Marina, Phuket

Santhiya Koh Yao Yai Resort & Spa - Up to THB 3,000 Resort Credit per Night , Mandatory Shared Speedboat from Ao Po Grand Marina, Phuket

5 out of 5
88 Moo 7, Prunai Ko Yao Phang Nga
$266 nightly
The price is $288 total per night from Dec 12 to Dec 13
$288 total
Dec 12 - Dec 13
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this luxury resort in Ko Yao. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a full-service spa. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (1,090 reviews)
"Amazing experience at the Santhiya Resort! Service was first class from beginning to end. The rooms are incredible with intricate woodworking everywhere you look and wonderful views that make it easy to spend the entire time on your balcony if you want. The entire resort is focused on the amazing ..."

Reviewed on Nov 11, 2026

Santhiya Koh Yao Yai Resort & Spa - Up to THB 3,000 Resort Credit per Night , Mandatory Shared Speedboat from Ao Po Grand Marina, Phuket
Paradox Resort Phuket

Paradox Resort Phuket

5 out of 5
509 Patak Road Karon Phuket
$159 nightly
The price is $172 total per night from Nov 12 to Nov 13
$172 total
Nov 12 - Nov 13
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this luxury resort in Karon. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a full-service spa. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (999 reviews)
"The Paradox resort is very well located within proximity to Karon beach, shops, bars amd restaurants. Our room was upgraded to the penthouse suite which is very spacious and it even has a mini pool on the roof. Unfortunately, there was a lot of rain the first day and there were several leaks from ..."

Reviewed on Oct 31, 2026

Paradox Resort Phuket
Diamond Cliff Resort & Spa, Patong Beach

Diamond Cliff Resort & Spa, Patong Beach

5 out of 5
284 Prabaramee Road Patong Phuket
$160 nightly
The price is $172 total per night from Dec 7 to Dec 8
$172 total
Dec 7 - Dec 8
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this luxury resort in Patong. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and 2 outdoor pools. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff in our ...
Diamond Cliff Resort & Spa, Patong Beach
See all 7,891 properties in Ko Yao
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
HOMA Phuket Town

HOMA Phuket Town

4 out of 5
3/41 Moo 5, Soi Samkong 1 Ratsada Phuket
Book a stay at this family-friendly aparthotel in Ratsada. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and breakfast (surcharge). Popular attractions Patong Beach and Bangla ...
HOMA Phuket Town
Diamond Resort Phuket Official Account

Diamond Resort Phuket Official Account

4 out of 5
106 Soi Cherngtalay 14 Choeng Thale Phuket
Book a stay at this family-friendly aparthotel in Choeng Thale. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (166 reviews)
"A perfectly run hotel."

Reviewed on Nov 5, 2026

Diamond Resort Phuket Official Account
Boutique Resort Private Pool Villa

Boutique Resort Private Pool Villa

5 out of 5
72/11-18 T.Paklok A.Talang Pa Klok Phuket
Book a stay at this luxury villa in Pa Klok. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and 15 outdoor pools. Popular attractions Bang Pae Waterfall and Ton Sai Waterfall ...
Boutique Resort Private Pool Villa
See all properties in Ko Yao
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Stay near popular Ko Yao attractions

Khai Island

9.6/10 (12 reviews)
Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Khai Island during your travels in Ko Yao. Amble around this relaxing area's seaside and enjoy its top-notch restaurants.
See properties

Things to do

Phuket: Phi Phi Islands and Maya Bay Day Trip with Lunch

Phuket: Phi Phi Islands and Maya Bay Day Trip with Lunch

$36
per adult
92% of travellers recommend
Phuket: Phi Phi Islands and Maya Bay Day Trip with Lunch
Phuket: Phi Phi & Khai Speedboat, National Park Fee Included

Phuket: Phi Phi, Maya Bay & Khai Speedboat with Park Fees

$42
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Phuket: Phi Phi, Maya Bay & Khai Speedboat with Park Fees
Phuket: Paradise Trip ATV Jungle Adventure

Phuket: Paradise Trip ATV Jungle Adventure

$22
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Phuket: Paradise Trip ATV Jungle Adventure
Banana Beach

Coral Island Escape: Speedboat & Beach Discovery Tour

$48
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Coral Island Escape: Speedboat & Beach Discovery Tour
From Phuket: Phang Nga Bay and Canoeing Tour by Big Boat

From Phuket: Phang Nga Bay and Canoeing Tour by Big Boat

$48
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
From Phuket: Phang Nga Bay and Canoeing Tour by Big Boat
Phuket: James Bond Island Longtail Boat and Sea Canoe Tour

Phuket: James Bond Island Longtail Boat and Sea Canoe Tour

$46
per adult
94% of travellers recommend
Phuket: James Bond Island Longtail Boat and Sea Canoe Tour
See all activities in Ko Yao

Frequently asked questions

Is Ko Yao worth visiting?
Ko Yao is worth visiting for its delicious Asian and fresh seafood dining, offering dishes like curries and grilled fish. Travelers can also explore beautiful spots like Ko Yao Yai and relax at Six Senses Beach, enjoying the island's natural charm.
When is the best time to visit Ko Yao?
Ko Yao is enjoyable year-round, with warm weather from January through December. For fewer crowds and better value, the quieter months of May through August are a good option. During this time, travelers can still enjoy the destination with more tranquility.
What is Ko Yao known for?
Ko Yao is known for its beautiful islands, including Ko Yao Yai, along with stunning beaches like Six Senses Beach and Laem Had Beach. This destination, part of the Ko Yao archipelago in Thailand, offers travelers scenic coastal experiences.
What is a good itinerary length for Ko Yao?
A good itinerary length for Ko Yao is two to three days to explore Ko Yao Yai and relax on beaches like Six Senses Beach and Laem Had Beach. An extended stay of four to five days allows for more in-depth experiences, such as a beautiful day trip to Koh Yao Noi, a Community Connection, or a private tour to explore the area further. See Ko Yao Activities.
What are the top things to do in and around Ko Yao?
Ko Yao offers a mix of island exploration, beautiful beaches, and unique local experiences:

  • Explore Ko Yao Yai, the main island, known for its natural beauty.
  • Relax on Six Senses Beach, a tranquil spot perfect for unwinding.
  • Bike through Ko Yao Noi on a full-day tour with lunch.
  • Tour Phang Nga Bay by canoe and speedboat, including lunch.
  • Experience a community connection at Ko Yao Noi for local insights.

How do I plan a trip to Ko Yao?
To plan your trip to Ko Yao, search for places to stay and book your flights in advance. Consider booking activities like a Beautiful Day Trip in Koh Yao Noi early. For outdoor attractions such as Ko Yao Yai or Six Senses Beach, plan your visits for early morning or late afternoon. A rental car can help you explore the area.
What cuisines can you find in Ko Yao?
In Ko Yao you can find delicious Thai cuisine, featuring popular dishes such as Pad Thai, Green Curry, Tom Yum Goong, and Massaman Curry. Travelers can also enjoy a range of fresh seafood and various halal food options throughout the area.
Can I book a refundable hotel in Ko Yao?
Yes, Expedia offers many flexible booking options, and you can look for refundable hotels in Ko Yao by entering your dates and using the refundable or fully refundable filter. Always check the hotel's cancellation policy before you book, since terms can vary by hotel, and visit Expedia help center for further details.
Why book a trip to Ko Yao with Expedia?
Expedia makes it easier to plan your Ko Yao trip with travel tools, flexible search options, and bookable trip components all in one place. You can organize your plans in one account and use Expedia to help build a trip that fits your budget and travel style. Find out more about how by visiting Expedia's Trip Planner page.
Should I stay in a hotel or vacation rental in Ko Yao?
The best choice depends on your travel style. Hotels in Ko Yao can be a good fit for convenience, on-site amenities, and shorter stays, while vacation rentals may offer more space, privacy, and home-style amenities for longer trips, families, or groups. With Expedia, you can compare both options side by side, read traveler reviews, and filter by amenities to find the right fit for your trip.
How can I manage my Ko Yao trip on Expedia?
Once you've booked your Ko Yao trip, you can manage it through your Expedia account or the Expedia app. You can view your itinerary, access booking details, make eligible changes, and check for updates in My Trips. The Expedia app can also help you stay organized while you travel.
What if I need help during my Ko Yao trip?
Expedia offers customer support before, during, and after your Ko Yao trip. If your plans change or something unexpected happens, you can review your booking in My Trips and use Expedia help center channels for help with eligible changes, cancellations, or travel issues.
How can Expedia help me plan my first trip to Ko Yao?
If it's your first trip to Ko Yao, Expedia can help you plan by bringing together stays, flights, activities, traveler reviews, and trip-planning tools in one place. With Expedia's Trip Planner you can compare options, read reviews from other travelers, and build an itinerary that matches your interests and budget.
How can I save on my Ko Yao hotel booking with Expedia?
Join One Key™ for free to unlock instant discounts with Member Prices on select hotels. You can also earn and use OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings on Expedia. Booking in advance is usually another great way to save on your Ko Yao hotel.

*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

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