
Located between Phuket, Krabi, and Phang Nga, Koh Yao Island boasts pristine turquoise waters. Despite being close to the famed Phuket, it offers a tranquil retreat. Enjoy a variety of activities, including kayaking, unlimited herbal steam baths, a swimming pool, beach BBQs, snorkeling, and sunset town tours.
Song Island is known for its unspoiled beauty and peaceful atmosphere. It has remained relatively untouched by mass tourism, making it a perfect spot for those seeking a tranquil escape. The island is also significant for its local fishing industry and the preservation of traditional lifestyles.
Song Island is located in the southern part of Thailand, in the Andaman Sea. It can be reached by a 1-2 hour boat ride from Krabi or Phuket, with ferry services available from the mainland. There are no public transport options directly on the island.
Song Island is open year-round. The best time to visit is during the dry season, from November to March, when the weather is ideal for outdoor activities. Avoid the monsoon season (May to October) for the best experience.
There is no entrance fee for Song Island itself. However, you may need to pay for boat rides or guided tours, which can be booked offline at local tour operators or directly from the mainland.
It is recommended to book boat tickets or guided tours in advance, especially during the peak tourist season (November to February). Bookings can usually be made a day or two before your visit.
You can explore Song Island in a day, with time to relax on the beaches, snorkel, and hike to viewpoints. For a more leisurely experience, a two-day trip is ideal.
Guided tours are available in English and Thai, and they typically include boat rides, snorkeling, and a hike to the viewpoint. Audio guides are not available, but tour guides provide informative commentary about the island’s ecology and history.
Start with a morning boat trip to Song Island, then relax on the beach. Afterward, take a guided tour to the viewpoint for panoramic views. In the afternoon, explore the underwater world with a snorkeling or diving trip before returning to the mainland.
Song Island is generally not visited at night due to its remote location and lack of accommodations. There are no light shows or special nighttime tours available.
Song Island is relatively quiet compared to other tourist destinations. To avoid crowds, visit during weekdays in the shoulder seasons (April and October), outside of the main holiday periods.
There are basic facilities on the island, including small food vendors selling local snacks. Rest areas are available, but there are no large shops. It's advisable to bring your own water and snacks for longer stays.
The island is best suited for visitors who are comfortable with moderate physical activity, as some areas require walking or light hiking. It may not be ideal for elderly or disabled visitors due to the uneven terrain.
Cash is recommended on Song Island as cards and mobile payments are rarely accepted. Make sure to bring enough cash for boat rides, food, and souvenirs.
There are small local food stalls and cafes on the island serving traditional Thai dishes. For more dining options, the mainland (Krabi or Phuket) has a variety of restaurants and cafes.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available at local food stalls. Halal food may be available in larger towns on the mainland but is less common on the island.
There are no hotels on Song Island itself. However, accommodations are available in nearby Krabi or Phuket, including luxury resorts, guesthouses, and budget hotels.
Souvenir shops are limited on the island, but you can find small handmade items such as jewelry, beachwear, and crafts. For more variety, souvenir shops are available on the mainland.
After visiting Song Island, you can take a return boat ride to Krabi or Phuket. From there, you can continue your journey by taxi, bus, or domestic flight to other destinations in Thailand.