On our most recent island-hopping trip through Thailand in July 2024, we visited Koh Yao Yai with our two daughters (then 3 and 7 years old). The island completely surprised me, and I’m so glad we decided to give it a chance.
If you’re wondering how to have a great time with young kids in Koh Yao Yai, which activities you shouldn’t miss, and what you should avoid, you’ll find all that in this blog: Things to do in Koh Yao Yai With Kids – 2024 Guide!
Koh Yao Yai in a Nutshell
Location: Koh Yao Yai is a Thai island located in the Andaman Sea, nestled halfway between Phuket and Krabi. Ko Yao Yai covers about 137 square kilometers, making it the bigger one of the two Koh Yao islands (Koh Yao Noi and Koh Yao Yai). It sits in Phang Nga Bay, around 30 kilometers from Phuket and 25 kilometers from Krabi.
Population: The island is home to about 8,000 people. Most of them are Muslim, making up around 90% of the population. Life here is traditional and slow-paced, which adds to the charm.
Tourism: Tourism is growing, but Koh Yao Yai is still far quieter than places like Phuket. The island saw about 120,000 visitors in 2023. That’s a small number compared to the millions of tourists who visit Phuket every year.
Economy: While tourism is growing, fishing and farming are still the main livelihoods. Many locals work in rubber production and coconut farming. Fishing is also important—local fishermen catch over 100 tons of seafood each year, that’s why you’ll see small fishing villages everywhere! Tourism now makes up about 35% of the island’s economy, and it’s helping support the community.
Accommodations: Koh Yao Yai has around 40 places to stay, from simple guesthouses to luxury resorts. The island is known for its eco-friendly, beachfront hotels. One of the most famous is Santhiya Koh Yao Yai Resort & Spa, where you can get private villas starting at around $150 per night.
Transport: Even for inexperienced scooter riders, getting around Koh Yao Yai is easy. The roads are mostly in good condition, with only a few steep sections, and best of all, there’s very little traffic. If you’re not comfortable riding a scooter, you can always ask your hotel to arrange a taxi (Songtaew) for you.
How to get to Koh Yao Yai
You can only reach Koh Yao Yai by boat. Ferries and speedboats run regularly from Phuket and Krabi. The speedboat trip from Phuket takes around 30-45 minutes, and from Krabi, it’s about 30 minutes.
We took the speedboat from Krabi’s Nopparat Thara Pier to Koh Yao Yai’s Chong Lard Pier with the operator “Green Planet.” When we left, we traveled from Chong Lard Pier to Phuket’s Bang Rong Pier using the “Koh Yao Sun Smile” service. For those who book through a travel agent, it’s possible to get a lower rate on ferries or speed boat services, especially during the off-season.
Things to Do in Koh Yao Yai with Kids
At first, I thought the island wouldn’t have much to offer, and we’d be bored to death during our three days there. But it turned out to be the complete opposite! Our days were packed with activities, and by the end, we even felt like we hadn’t experienced everything.
Here are my favorite activities to do with kids in Koh Yao Yai.
Explore the Beaches
We’ve been living in Thailand since 2019, and when we saw this beach, we honestly asked ourselves, “Is this even real?” Wow, what a stunning place with a massive, crescent-shaped sandbank that stretches far into the sea with palm trees swaying nearby.
My tip: Make sure to arrive in time for sunset and take a walk along the sandbank in the shallow waters. It’s absolutely breathtaking.
A dreamy beach on the west side of the island, lined with pine trees. There’s even a beach restaurant here, perfect for a relaxing day.
A beautiful long beach with a wide, sandy area, ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and catching the sunset. It’s a bit livelier, with resorts and restaurants nearby, but still a fantastic spot.
Mangrove Forest Kayaking
This was by far our favorite activity on the island. We booked a private mangrove kayaking tour with the provider “Yamee Village Kayaking.” In the afternoon, we met our local guide, Nat, who had everything ready for us—kayaks, life vests (even in kids’ sizes), snacks, and water. And then off we went, paddling for 2.5 hours through a maze of mangrove forests.
We didn’t just spot a huge snake sleeping in a tree, different types of fish (including those that can climb on land!), and birds, but we also had a very special encounter with a monkey family. The monkeys were super curious about us and came right up to our boats!
Even our kids, including the three-year-old, didn’t get bored. Guide Nat told us lots of interesting facts and even fished out fishing nets and trash from the water along the way. I love going on tours with people who truly care about nature.
I recommend this tour for families with kids from around 2.5 years old. Tours are offered twice a day—once at 8 AM and again at 3 PM (timed with the tides).
Cycling Around the Island
We saw quite a few cyclists, even families with kids. While we didn’t go on a bike tour ourselves, we definitely would have if our youngest had been a bit older. The roads are in good condition, relatively safe, and there’s hardly any traffic. Plus, riding a bike is such a great way to enjoy the scenic countryside views of the island from a different perspective.
Visit Rubber Plantations
Rubber tree farming is a big part of life in Koh Yao Yai, and many locals rely on it for their livelihood. Rubber trees are ready for tapping after about 5-6 years and can produce rubber for 25-30 years. You’ll easily spot the plantations with their tall, thin trees neatly lined up. The real clue, though, is the small cups attached to the trunks—sometimes they’re even made from halved coconut shells!
You can watch a rubber tapping demonstration and see firsthand how the farmers live—a simple life, fully connected to nature. Tours can be booked through Koh Yao Yai Village.
I’d recommend this experience for kids aged 4 and up.
Take Thai Cooking Classes
If you’re looking for a fun and tasty experience on Koh Yao Yai, booking a Thai cooking class is a must! It’s a great way to learn how to prepare authentic Thai dishes using fresh, local ingredients. Friendly local chefs will guide you step-by-step through cooking some classic Thai meals, like Pad Thai, Tom Yum, or green curry.
And the best part? You get to enjoy the delicious food you’ve made at the end. This is a perfect activity for food lovers and families with older kids who want to dive into the local cuisine together. Kohyaotravel is one of the providers who offer cooking classes.
Traditional Batik Painting
If you’re interested in getting a bit creative, you should definitely check out “Batik de Koh Yao.” This small, family-run batik shop is open daily from 9 AM to 8 PM. Not only can you buy ready-made artwork and batik clothing here, but you can also create your own.
First, you choose the size of the cloth you want to work with. Then, the cloth is stretched on a wooden frame, and you draw your design with a pencil. Kids can pick from many templates and simply trace the pattern. Afterward, the lines are outlined with candle wax, and then you get to fill in the design with batik colors.
The lovely lady who runs the shop was so kind to wash and prepare our finished artwork and even delivered it to our hotel. Such great service!
To be honest, the first two steps, with the pencil and wax, were far too tricky for my daughters, so I ended up doing those for them. But they absolutely loved the painting part afterward.
Considering that you’ll need to help your kids with the earlier steps, I recommend this activity for families with kids as young as 2 years old, since the painting part is super simple. The highlight? You leave with a handmade souvenir from Koh Yao Yai that you can proudly show off!
Feed Goats at a Farm
Visiting YaoIsland Resort and Farm is a fantastic way to connect with nature and have some hands-on fun. You can book an experience during feeding times and get the chance to feed chickens, goats, and other animals on the farm. It’s the perfect activity for families with kids of all ages.
You’ll get up close with the friendly farm animals, learn about how they’re cared for, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the farm. It’s a fun and relaxing way to spend 1-2 hours on Koh Yao Yai!
Island Hopping Adventures
I know we’re focusing on activities on Koh Yao Yai, but the island is so close to other amazing spots that a day of island hopping is definitely worth it. You can easily take a day trip from Koh Yao Yai to explore the nearby islands. There are various tours available that take you to stunning places like Phang Nga Bay, James Bond Island, or the beautiful Koh Hong Islands. Different operators offer a range of trips, so you can choose the one that fits your interests and schedule best.
I even saw an ad for a tour where they’ve built a white bed on a longtail boat for couples to enjoy a romantic getaway. Here’s one of the many travel agencies that offer island trips.
Where to Stay? Family-Friendly Resorts on Koh Yao Yai
Budget Accommodation
Sunrise Beach Koh Yao Yai
A simple, beachfront resort offering basic bungalows and stunning sea views, great for budget travelers who want to enjoy the ocean without splurging.
Yaoisland Resort and Farm
A peaceful, family-run resort surrounded by nature. It offers Thai-style bungalows with views of mangrove forests and mountains.
Green Mountain Resort Koh Yao
This budget-friendly guesthouse offers family-friendly accommodations surrounded by greenery. Guests appreciate the peaceful setting and helpful staff.
Mid-Range Accommodation
Thiwson Beach Resort
A mid-range beachside resort with spacious family rooms, a pool, and a relaxed atmosphere. Ideal for families or couples looking for comfort without breaking the bank.
Yao Yai Beach Resort
A beachside resort offering family-friendly bungalows and a kids’ pool, perfect for families seeking a comfortable and enjoyable mid-range stay.
Baan Taranya Koh Yao Yai
Set in a quiet location, this resort offers family rooms, a pool, and free kayak rentals, great for families or small groups looking for adventure. We stayed here, and I can highly recommend booking the loft upstairs. It has it’s own outdoor whirlpool.
Luxury Accommodation
Santhiya Koh Yao Yai Resort & Spa
A stunning luxury resort offering private pool villas, a kids’ club, and family suites. Perfect for families who want a luxurious and relaxing stay.
Koh Yao Yai Village
This luxury resort offers spacious villas, a stunning infinity pool, and a variety of family-friendly activities for young guests, including cooking classes and nature walks.
Glow Elixir Koh Yao Yai
A beachfront resort offering private villas, large pools, and luxurious family-friendly amenities. Ideal for families seeking a high-end, serene experience.
Anantara Koh Yao Yai Resort & Villas
A top-tier luxury resort offering beachfront villas, a family pool, and personalized experiences such as cooking classes and island tours. Perfect for families looking for a five-star experience with plenty of family-friendly activities.
Best Restaurants and Cafes in Koh Yao Yai
Top Places for Breakfast in Koh Yao Yai
Cozy Coffee
A sweet café serving excellent coffee, fresh pastries, and light breakfast options like avocado toast and croissants.
Chada Cafe
Located by the beach with scenic views, this café is ideal for enjoying a simple breakfast with fresh juices, toast, and tropical fruits.
Top Places for Dining in Koh Yao Yai
Saaitara Restaurant
Located in the Santhiya Resort, this upscale restaurant offers a range of delicious Thai and international dishes, perfect for a special family dinner.
Ban Rim Nam
Located near the pier, this family-run restaurant serves fresh seafood and delicious Thai dishes, offering a homely and casual dining experience.
Seaside Restaurant and Bar
Famous for its fresh seafood and waterfront dining, this spot is great for families looking to enjoy traditional Thai cuisine in a relaxing environment. It’s a bit on the pricey side, but it’s totally worth it. We loved the veggie Pad Thai.
Top Vegetarian/Vegan-Friendly Spots in Koh Yao Yai
Unfortunately, I couldn’t find any vegan places on the island. But I found it very easy to order vegan or vegetarian versions of meals. Simply tell them that you’re vegetarian and that you don’t eat fish, meat, fish sauce, or oyster sauce (yes, you have to add this!).
Here’s what you can say:
- mang-sa-wi-rat – vegetarian
- mai tan nua sat – I don’t eat meat
- mai sai hoi nang rom – No oyster sauce
- mai sai nam pla – No fish sauce
Important Things to Know About Koh Yao Yai
One thing to keep in mind is that the local prayers from the mosques are very loud every morning at 5 a.m., so be prepared for an early start to the day.
Koh Yao Yai is a peaceful and less touristy island. However, the lack of tourists also means that the locals are incredibly friendly and welcoming. They love to help and chat with visitors. We had a situation where we were trying to fill up our scooter’s gas tank at one of the red gas stations scattered around the island, and when the machine wouldn’t accept our 20 baht note, locals quickly stopped to help us.
As Koh Yao Yai is a predominantly Muslim island, I didn’t feel as free to wear my usual outfits. In tourist-heavy Buddhist areas, it’s common to see people in bikinis or crop tops, but here, I felt more comfortable dressing conservatively out of respect for the local culture.
Conclusion on Things to do in Koh Yao Yai with Kids
Koh Yao Yai is truly a hidden gem for family vacations. Whether you’re kayaking through mangroves, exploring quiet beaches, or trying your hand at traditional batik painting, there’s something for everyone—kids and parents alike! We loved how family-friendly the island is, with its laid-back atmosphere and safe, quiet roads.
If you’re looking for a destination in Thailand that’s less crowded but full of charm, Koh Yao Yai is a perfect choice. So pack your bags, and get ready for an amazing time with your family on Koh Yao Yai!
Are you planning to visit Koh Yao Yai? Do you have any questions? Let me know in the comments!
Thank you so much for reading and for making me a part of your day!
Yours,
Lulu
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Are there any wellness options on Koh Yao Yai?
Yes, there are plenty of local massage parlors on the island. Also, many resorts offer wellness treatments. At Anantara Spa, you can enjoy signature treatments, including relaxing coconut hair treatments, or sign up for private sessions like yoga and meditation.
What is the best time to visit Koh Yao Yai?
The best time to visit is during the high season, from November to April, when the weather is cooler, and you can fully enjoy the island’s beautiful beaches and tranquil bay. However, if you’re looking for a better rate or a lower rate on accommodations, visiting during the off-season can be a great option.
Are there any water parks on the island?
While Koh Yao Yai doesn’t have large water parks, several family-friendly resorts feature kid-friendly pools with slides. For example, resorts like Santhiya and Anantara have giant waterslides and pools where kids can play safely.
What should I pack for my trip to Koh Yao Yai?
Light clothing, sunscreen, and swimwear are must-haves. Many accommodations offer amenities like air con and spacious living areas, so you don’t have to worry about comfort. A pair of sandals and a hat will be helpful for exploring the island’s small town and beaches.
