Koh Yao Yai Village, Ko Yao Island

The Koh Yao Yai Village is an excellent, laid back resort that blends charming accommodation and a beautiful, remote location.

It is situated on the quiet shores of Koh Yao Yai – a stunning island in the middle of Phang Nga Bay, between Phuket and Krabi. Access is by a 30-minute speedboat ride from either Phuket or Krabi, followed by a traditional ‘songtaew’ which the hotel uses for the short journey to and from the pier.  

Spread over a vast, verdant patch of tropical jungle, the Koh Yao Yai Village offers a myriad of facilities: there are two swimming pools - the largest of which is free-form in shape and, at 700 square metres in size, one of the most unique we have come across. Flanking the restaurant and connected at one end to a large jacuzzi and pool-bar, the pool has slopes along one side making it ideal for children and adults alike. The resort also has a lovely jungle spa, a gym and a library room with internet access. The main restaurant serves a simple range of Thai and European cuisine.

The activity centre at Koh Yao Yai Village offers a vast range of excursions including snorkelling, cycling, hiking, boat trips, island hopping and kayaking. The sweeping, private beach looks out to the famous limestone rocks of Phang Nga Bay. Swimming is possible at high tide but tricky at low tide, but the pools more than makeup for this.

The 70 rooms at Koh Yao Yai Village are divided into three categories. The Deluxe Bungalows consist of an air-conditioned room, a spacious en-suite bathroom, outdoor shower and a large, thatched veranda with daybeds. The Seaview Bungalows have larger bedrooms, separate living rooms and a large veranda deck. These are located at the front of the resort, closest to the beach and have great views. The final category is the Family Villa, which features two bedrooms and a spacious lounge with sofas that convert into extra beds. Koh Yao Yai Village is an excellent option for families, with extra beds possible in all room types. 

Koh Yao Yai Village is a great value, idyllic beach escape ideal for couples or families. Koh Yao Yai itself a beautiful, sleepy fishing island; a far cry from developed Phuket.