Thailand

And what if paradise looked like a small, rocky island like Koh Nang Yuan? Discover the highlights of this destination.

The pristine and deserted island of Koh Nang Yuan perfectly fits the image of a terrestrial paradise. Those who think they've found happiness on the trendy beaches of Phuket or Koh Samui will admit they were wrong once they set foot here. The scenery consists solely of coral reefs, rocky outcrops, and crystal-clear waters. Yet, isn't it precisely this untouched natural beauty that gives Koh Nang Yuan its charm? There's nothing to do here except lounge on the white sand, turn over every quarter hour to perfect your tan, or read a paperback until sunset. Of course, if you're into scuba diving, you can join the group of enthusiasts who come to this piece of land to enjoy its abundant marine life. It's an unmissable destination, just 15 minutes by boat from Koh Tao!

A bit of geography

Koh Nang Yuan is made up of three tiny islands connected by narrow sandbars. The small, sandy beach appears at low tide but disappears under the waves when the tide rises. The largest of the three islands was once named "Haang Tao," which translates to "turtle's tail," chosen because its shape resembles the rear part of a turtle.

Today

The desire for a dreamlike setting draws many to Koh Nang Yuan, but a passion for underwater adventure is also a significant reason for tourism here. The waters surrounding the island are ideal for these activities.

For instance, the Japanese Garden spot is particularly sought-after. It's a small bay lined with granite rocks and perfectly clear waters. Among the aquatic species found on the island are parrotfish, butterflyfish, giant clams, and clownfish. Diving tours are often organized from Koh Tao, including visits to 3 or 4 spots for a price ranging between 1,000 and 1,200 baht per person.

Things to see and do on site

Unlike Phuket, Koh Nang Yuan is not a place for parties. People come here for seaside relaxation and scuba diving.

Relaxing by the beach

The island's highlight is its return to being deserted and wild as soon as the divers who invade the beach leave. It's a perfect man's land to disconnect, de-stress, and soak in the beauty. You can swim in the crystal-clear waters, relax on the beach while admiring the mountains, and let children play in the water and build sandcastles. The place is perfect for a romantic getaway in Thailand—watching the sunset together on the shore is a must! There's only one accommodation option, and the nightly rates are higher compared to those on the mainland, but the magic of this Polynesian-like setting makes it worth the price.

Scuba diving

Scuba diving is a sport to indulge in without moderation on Koh Nang Yuan. Nang Yuan Pinnacle is a popular spot that attracts many diving enthusiasts each year. It's easily accessible on the north coast between Koh Tao and Koh Nang Yuan. The area is characterized by large rocks, and the maximum depth is about 19 meters. It's frequented by green turtles, hawksbill turtles, and a variety of colorful fish. Besides Nang Yuan Pinnacle, divers will also enjoy spots like Shark Bay, Twin Peaks, Green Rock, and Chumphon Pinnacle.

Visit the famous viewpoint

If you want a breathtaking view of the ocean and the other two islands of Koh Nang Yuan, head to the famous viewpoint. Just follow the on-site directions, and you'll reach the top in less than 10 minutes.

Climate

Like the islands in the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Nang Yuan experiences a humid tropical climate. Since the destination is ideal for snorkeling and scuba diving, it's best to visit during high tide, which occurs between October and March. If you prefer lounging and sunbathing, plan your visit during the cooler season, from December to March, when temperatures are more comfortable.

How to get there?

Koh Nang Yuan is located northwest of Koh Tao, about a hundred meters from the coast. The longtail boat ride from Sai Ree Beach costs around 150 baht per person one way. Once there, you'll need to pay an entrance fee of 100 baht for adults and 50 baht for children because the island is managed by a private company. Tourist access hours are strictly from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Good to know

It's strictly forbidden to bring plastic bottles and snacks to Koh Nang Yuan due to environmental protection regulations. There is a restaurant on-site, but prices are slightly higher than on Koh Tao if you get hungry.

Koh Nang Yuan attracts many travelers, so to avoid crowds, consider arriving on the island right when it opens at 10 a.m. This way, you'll be among the first to discover the island's must-see attractions. During peak times, you may need to queue to visit the viewpoint.