Escape on a day trip to Koh Hong Island. From crystal-clear waters outside the island to the brilliant emerald waters of the inner lagoon, the island remains pristine and untouched, as if mankind has never set foot there. Less touristy than Koh Lanta or Koh Phi Phi, it offers landscapes that remain remarkably preserved. A postcard-perfect setting where you can immerse yourself for a few hours to enjoy the sea, play explorer, or simply relax on the beach.

Koh Hong, an Island Still Unspoiled

Although it's the most popular island for day trips departing from Krabi, Koh Hong Island, located in Phang Nga Bay, remains largely untouched by mass tourism. Its emerald waters that reveal incredibly white sand between towering limestone cliffs at low tide will enchant even the most skeptical visitors.

The island is typically explored in two distinct sections, each offering very different landscapes:

• The beach, where your boat will drop you off upon arrival. This area provides postcard-perfect panoramic views while allowing you to cool off in the sea. You also have the option to go snorkeling.
• The lagoon: this is an emerald-green body of water surrounded by limestone peaks that gives visitors the impression of being in a natural chamber. The island owes its name, Koh Hong (meaning "chamber" in Thai), to this slice of paradise.

You can follow a trekking path, climb to a breathtaking viewpoint, or rent a kayak on-site to paddle around the island by sea.

Attention: Due to currents and the fact that the beach is the most frequented part of Koh Hong, the water can sometimes be relatively murky, which may disappoint those hoping to observe fish. For snorkeling, we recommend heading to a destination that specializes in this activity instead.

How Your Koh Hong Excursion Unfolds

Most excursions to Koh Hong Island include these stages:

• Hotel pickup
• Speedboat transfer (watch out for seasickness—consider taking medication before departure)
• Picnic lunch

Moreover, you'll likely be accompanied by an English-speaking guide. Most tour operators provide snorkeling equipment on board. However, diving gear isn't always included, so be sure to check in advance if you plan to explore the underwater world during your excursion.

About

Koh Hong Island is located within Than Bok Khorani National Park. The park is open from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The earlier you arrive, the fewer tourists you'll encounter. Your visit will be all the more enjoyable.

National Park entry fee: 300 THB per adult and 100 THB per child.

Than Bok Khorani National Park Entrance: 300 THB per adult and 100 THB per child. Open 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Go early or around 4 p.m. for fewer crowds.

For the transfer, you have two options:

• Travel to Koh Hong by traditional longtail boat. This option is slower, less polluting, and offers a private, authentic experience. However, longtail boats depart only from Ao Nang, so you'll need a minivan transfer from Krabi if starting there.
• Take a speedboat tour, which is faster. This mode of transport is necessarily shared since private charters are very expensive. Expect around twenty tourists on board, but once on the island, everyone goes their own way and you'll likely have plenty of peace.

For group speedboat tours, prices typically range from 1,500 to 2,500 THB per person, depending on the boat type and daily itinerary offered by your tour operator.