Stay at the country’s most elegant hotels with top-notch service, surrounded by beauty
Koh Yao is two large islands, Koh Yao Noi and Koh Yao Yai, off the east coast of Phuket.
They are probably the ultimate Thailand island escapist fantasy: palm-fringed sandy beaches and a warm azure sea. They are gloriously peaceful and away from the madding crowds. If you get the location and the season right, there are also excellent local places to eat and drink within walking distance. It’s the best of both worlds here.
Koh Yao Yai is very similar to its neighbour Koh Yao Noi, but larger hence its name which means ‘Big Long Island’. Both islands are a predominantly untouched wilderness, and they are known for being the natural habitat for at least four species of hornbills, which are a common sight.
The best way to see the island is to hire a bike and cycle around the network of bumpy roads. Otherwise, tuk-tuks are available to escort you around. There are plenty of activities to try, from hiking to kayaking, as the island is mountainous in the centre.
A delightfully understated resort, and a firm Experience Travel Group favourite, is Koyao Island Resort. It’s a short boat ride from Phuket or Krabi, but a world away and is quiet, peaceful and relaxed. There are some low key places to eat and a small town to give you options on eating out.
If you’re looking for a relaxing island getaway while in Thailand, our experts can include a stay here in your next tailor-made holiday.
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Thailand
Saffron & Silk: Elegant Thailand
It’s all about refined, luxurious discovery: gorgeous locations, elegant boutique hotels, wining, dining, beach reclining. And a dash of adventure!
Highlights
Bangkok
Sail down the Chao Phraya River and explore life along smaller klongs (canals)
Chiang Mai
Connect with villages at a community project in Northern Thailand as you spend a day learning about Thai cuisine in a local home
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Thailand
Jungle & Secret Island Adventure
A beach and jungle-focused family adventure, hopping through Southern Thailand. Ideal for couples or families who love nature and island life. Expect plenty of fun, great food, hands-on experiences, and some unusual but quality hotels throughout.
Highlights
Khao Sok National Park
Sleep in a treehouse hotel, surrounded by the sounds of the jungle
A tropical Thai island
Slip into island time on a little-known Thai island, far from the usual crowds
Bangkok
Discover calm oases and tucked-away treasures within the buzzing city
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Thailand
Classic Family Thailand Adventure
A little bit of everything in ‘The Land of Smiles’: from Bangkok’s sizzling street food and countryside cycles to off-the-beaten-track idyllic beaches of warm water and golden sands.
Highlights
Bangkok
Sample sizzling street food with a fun foodie guide
Chiang Mai
Meet free-roaming elephants and learn about how they’re protected
Koh Yao Noi
Glorious beach time on an unspoilt island with great snorkelling
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