Ko Yao Yai

Ko Yao Yai is the larger of the two main islands in Ko Yao District, Phang Nga Province, located in Phang Nga Bay between Phuket and Krabi. The island is known for its quiet sandy beaches, traditional Muslim fishing villages, rubber and coconut plantations, and views of limestone karsts. It offers a low-key alternative to busier tourist islands, with beachfront resorts, local restaurants, and access to bay islands and marine activities.

Visitors can expect a large, rural island with long sandy beaches on the east and west coasts, small fishing villages, rubber plantations and coconut groves inland, and panoramic views of Phang Nga Bay's limestone karsts. The island has scattered resorts and guesthouses, local restaurants, mosques, and piers at Klong Hia, Loh Jark and Chong Lard. Activities centre on beach relaxation, swimming, kayaking, cycling, and boat trips to nearby islands. The atmosphere is quiet and traditional compared to Phuket and Krabi.

Ko Yao Yai has historically been a fishing and agricultural community with settlement by Muslim families engaged in fishing, rice farming and later rubber and coconut cultivation. It remains part of the long-established island communities of Phang Nga Bay.

The island has a predominantly Muslim population with traditional fishing villages, mosques, and a lifestyle based on fishing and farming. Visitors encounter local customs, modest dress norms, and community-based tourism.