The best beach in Koh Yao Yai

What is the best beach in Koh Yao Yai? 

That is very common question when traveling to any island. People like to visit the most beautiful yet not much crowded white sand beaches. 

I must admit that Koh Yao beaches are totally different to the ones on another islands. The seclude vibe of many beaches is something you will not experience elsewhere. It often looks the same like 100 years ago. Remember that all beaches are public in Thailand at least upon certain border of the land. 

Hint: Please check tide tables to find out when it is low tide which mostly means no swimming.  

Generally speaking all beaches on the west side are better during the high season. Less windy, less waves, less garbage that wind and waves bring. Obviously sunset watching is on the west side :)



Let me divide beaches in two categories. 

Wild beaches

Laem Haad Beach 

Must-see beach. I recommend to visit this beach during middle-tide time window 1,6 -2,0m when there is still enough water, but most of the white sand is uncovered to form beautiful sandy tail into the open sea. Walk through it and take memorable photos. 

The beach appeared in the Holywood movie Mechanic 2 which was shot here with Jason Statham and Jessica Alba. I was personally at the shooting which was obviously cool. It was then big dissappointment to find out that in the movie they stated it is Koh Lipe beach.



Ao Muang

This beach becomes popular only lately with opening Thai style bamboo beach bar offering basic drinks, beer and tasty Thai food for great prices. Local family offer beach chairs and seating with tables. Look for some corals on the right side of the beach near the rocks. Be careful while snorkeling not to get injured on sharp rocks.

Swimming is okay only during the high tide. There are many rocks.

Check my IG post.  


Son Bay

Located far from resorts this beach offers privacy and enough space to hide from anybody under the palm trees. There is usually one lady selling basic stuff and water. A simple structure with roof on concrete base provides shelter with not well maintained toilets. Bring some snacks with you, but please take all litterings with you back to resort. Waster management here still in early stages. 

Great sunset spot. 

Swimming is great during high tide like everywhere, but here you can walk a bit on fine sand even during the low tide. 

Go and check inland river mouth where mangrove kayaking route ends.

On the way back stop for tasty fruit smoothie in Ban Suan Na Khok Yor.

Check my IG post.

Ao Sai

Ao means bay. It is a small beach on the very south-east side with nearby fishermen village. Visit the village during this trip with respect to local community. Ao Sai offers snorkeling options during the high tide, but watch out for the rocks. It is very secluded and mostly nobody there if not curious eyes of local people. No bar so bring your water.

Visit Sea View Laem Laan restaurant with amazing view in this area. 

Loh Jak beach

Its located near Loh Jak pier with two beach bars and restaurants offering water sport activities. This is the place to rent jet ski. Not the best for privacy, but still not many people coming here. Mostly locals.

Resort beaches

Loh Pared

Public beach yet accessible directly from four resorts. Amazing sunsets with a lot of possibilities to sit in one of the beach bars and restaurants. Royal resort beach bar offer cocktails happy hour 4-6pm. 

The best beach to visit during the low tide and swim. Not good for snorkeling. 

The must visit is bamboo beach Gypsy bar with offer of alcohol drinks and food. Often this place creates some vibes with music until later night. Give it a chance. 


 

Elixir resort

This is resort beach and it feels like it is private. You are welcome to enter the resort and enjoy the time over there. It is nice and pleasant to get some refreshment from the restaurant not to look like invader. 


Summary:

1. Most beautiful from aerial view - Laem Haad Beach

2. Best for swimming at all times - Loh Pared Beach

3. Best for privacy and great sand - Son Bay

Tip for activity: Explore others beautiful places around Koh Yao Yai namely Phi Phi Islands, Krabi Railay Beach or James Bond Islands by guided speedboat tours with tours operator Elixir Divers.


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