About Ko Naka Yai
Ko Naka Yai is a small coastal island in Phang Nga Bay off the east coast of Phuket, within Pa Khlok Subdistrict, Thalang District, near Ao Po. Known for its quiet sandy beaches, shallow clear waters and long-established pearl farm, the island offers a low-density alternative to Phuket's west-coast beaches. It hosts a few resorts, fishing villages and coconut plantations, and is visited mainly on half-day boat trips for swimming, sightseeing and views of surrounding limestone karsts.
Visitors guide
Visitors reach Ko Naka Yai by longtail boat or speedboat from Ao Po Pier (5-10 minutes). The island has a rural coastal setting with sandy beaches on the east and west coasts, shallow turquoise water, coconut groves, small fishing settlements and the Naka Pearl Farm. Facilities are limited to a few resorts and beach restaurants. Visitors can swim, walk along beaches, photograph Phang Nga Bay karst scenery, visit the pearl farm exhibition and shop, and enjoy quiet beach relaxation away from crowds.
Key highlights
- 01
Quiet sandy beaches with shallow clear water suitable for swimming
- 02
Naka Pearl Farm - long-running South Sea pearl cultivation and showroom
- 03
Views of Phang Nga Bay limestone karsts and nearby Ko Naka Noi
- 04
Low-density island with coconut plantations and fishing village atmosphere
- 05
Short boat access from Ao Po Pier ideal for half-day trips
History of Ko Naka Yai
Ko Naka Yai has been known for several decades for South Sea pearl farming, with the Naka Pearl Farm established as one of Phuket's notable pearl cultivation sites, contributing to the local economy alongside fishing and coconut farming.
Culture & Context
The island reflects traditional coastal livelihoods of Pa Khlok area, including small-scale fishing, coconut agriculture and pearl farming, maintaining a rural island community character distinct from Phuket's developed west coast.
Route
| By air |
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