Beaches · Koh Tao
Koh Nang Yuan
Three islands, one sandbar, and the most photographed view in the Gulf.
Beaches · Koh Tao
Three islands, one sandbar, and the most photographed view in the Gulf.
Koh Nang Yuan is the postcard: three little islands joined by a triple sandbar of white sand, just off Koh Tao northwest coast. It is the most photographed view in the Gulf of Thailand, and one of the easiest half-days you can add to a Koh Tao trip.
The famous shot comes from the viewpoint on the largest island, a short but steep scramble up rocks and steps. Go early to beat both the heat and the day-tour crowds, and wear proper shoes rather than flip-flops. The reward is the full sweep of the sandbar from above.
The snorkeling straight off the sandbar is superb: coral, reef fish and clear water in the shallows, ideal for beginners. Nearby sites like Japanese Gardens are gentle enough for first dives too. Bring or rent a mask, the water does most of the work.
It is a ten to fifteen minute boat ride from Koh Tao. Most people go on a half-day snorkel trip that includes the viewpoint and a couple of snorkel stops, or take a longtail across independently. The island is privately managed, so there is a small entrance fee on arrival.
Single-use plastic bottles are not allowed on the island, so bring a refillable one. Do not stand on the coral, take your rubbish back with you, and use reef-safe sunscreen. It stays this beautiful because visitors look after it.
Early morning or late afternoon for the best light and the smallest crowds. The calm-sea months from February to April give the clearest water; the November to December monsoon is the roughest window.