Koh Nang Yuan is a breathtaking island just a 10-minute boat ride from Koh Tao, visible from Sairee Beach and the pier. Known for its unique V-shaped white sandbar connecting three small hills, Koh Nang Yuan is often considered one of the most stunning beaches in the Gulf of Thailand and is frequently featured in travel photos and promotions for Thailand. This island offers visitors a truly unforgettable experience with its vibrant marine life, iconic viewpoints, and crystal-clear waters.
Koh Nang Yuan is just 10 minutes away from Koh Tao and can be easily spotted from Sairee Beach or the pier. Probably this is the best beach in the Gulf of Thailand and one of the most famous ones in the country. You have almost certainly seen it in your Instagram feed or in some image used to promote the country. If you decide to go there, you won’t be disappointed.
You can easily negotiate with one of the many taxi boats in Sairee Beach or Mae Haad Beach. The price would be around 800 bahts both ways for 2 persons, but you’ll need to negotiate with the taxi boat. The more you are, the cheaper it will be.
Another option is to join one of the many snorkeling trips around the island to get the chance to enjoy Koh Nang Yuan. All of them stop there, and besides having the chance to snorkel, you’ll have some free time to explore the tiny island and take some breathtaking pictures.
Yes, you can. The company Lomprayah and some other ones offer special tours to visit Koh Nang Yuan from the neighboring Koh Samui and Koh Phangan. However, you have to take into consideration that the island is not within close proximity, therefore expect to spend the whole day there.
If you are travelling in high season, bear in mind that the island will be busier. Although it doesn’t have the same amount of tourists as Maya Bay (famous for the film “The Beach” with Leonardo Di Caprio), you can also expect many people in Christmas time or in August.
Visit the Viewpoint
A short hike up from the beach takes you to Koh Nang Yuan’s famous viewpoint, where you can capture one of the most iconic views in Thailand. The viewpoint offers panoramic views of the island’s V-shaped sandbar and the surrounding turquoise waters, making it a must for photography lovers.
Snorkeling
Koh Nang Yuan is renowned for its excellent snorkeling conditions, thanks to the clear blue waters that make it easy to spot an array of tropical fish and marine life. You’ll also find dive boats nearby, as the island is close to popular dive sites like White Rock, Nang Yuan Pinnacle, Green Rock, Japanese Gardens, and Twin Peaks.
Dining and Refreshments
The island has a restaurant and bar where you can purchase food, smoothies, and drinks. Since plastic items are not allowed on Koh Nang Yuan, visitors are encouraged to buy their meals and drinks here. You can also rent hammocks, sunbeds, and umbrellas for a day of relaxation on the beach.
Snorkeling Trips
Many snorkeling tours around Koh Tao include Koh Nang Yuan as a stop, allowing you to explore the vibrant underwater world and enjoy free time on the island.
Staying Overnight
For those looking to extend their visit, Koh Nang Yuan has a top-notch resort, offering a peaceful retreat for nature lovers and those who want to enjoy the island’s beauty after the day crowds have left. Spending the night here is a unique way to experience Koh Nang Yuan’s tropical charm in a more serene setting.
Koh Nang Yuan is a small, scenic island located just 10 minutes by boat from Koh Tao in the Gulf of Thailand. It’s easily visible from Sairee Beach and the Mae Haad pier on Koh Tao.
There is a 100 THB per person entrance fee to visit Koh Nang Yuan. This fee is collected by the island’s owner, the Lomprayah company, which also operates ferries in the region.
No, plastic bottles and other single-use plastics are not allowed on Koh Nang Yuan to help protect the island’s pristine environment. Visitors are encouraged to purchase drinks and food on the island at the local restaurant and bar, which adheres to these eco-friendly policies.
Koh Nang Yuan offers essential amenities for a day trip, including a restaurant, bar, and rentals for sunbeds, hammocks, and umbrellas. Visitors can enjoy refreshments, meals, and relaxing beach facilities.
Yes, Koh Nang Yuan can be quite busy, particularly during high season (Christmas and August). The island is popular for day trips from Koh Tao, and tour boats from nearby islands like Koh Samui and Koh Phangan also stop here. For a quieter experience, consider visiting early in the day or staying overnight at the island’s resort.
Koh Nang Yuan can be reached by water taxi from Koh Tao (typically around 800 THB round-trip for two people) or as part of a day tour from Koh Samui or Koh Phangan. Lomprayah and other companies offer these organized tours, which generally include snorkeling stops and sightseeing around the island.
Yes, Koh Nang Yuan has a small, high-quality resort for those who wish to stay overnight. This option is ideal for visitors who want to enjoy the island’s natural beauty in the quieter evening and morning hours.
