The Hong Islands (Koh Hong) are a group of pristine islands located about 20km from Ao Nang, known for their:
Crystal-clear emerald waters
Powder-white sandy beaches
Dramatic limestone cliffs
Secluded lagoons
Excellent snorkeling spots
Koh Hong (主岛)
Features the famous Hong Lagoon, a stunning enclosed emerald pool
Beautiful 600-meter white sand beach
Designated national park area
Koh Pak Bia
Best snorkeling spot with vibrant coral
Shallow waters perfect for swimming
Koh Lao La Ding
Small island with magical sandbar at low tide
Romantic spot for photos
Koh Rai
Most secluded island
Peaceful beach escape
High season: November to April (calm seas, best visibility)
Shoulder season: May and October
Avoid: June-September (monsoon season, rough seas)
From Ao Nang:
Longtail boat (30-45 mins, 1,500-2,500 THB roundtrip)
Speedboat (20 mins, 3,000-4,000 THB private or 1,200 THB/person group tour)
From Railay: About 20 minutes by longtail boat
Tour Options:
Half-day tours (morning or afternoon)
Full-day island hopping tours
Private sunset cruises
Kayaking expeditions
Kayaking in Hong Lagoon
Paddle through the stunning enclosed lagoon
Best at high tide (check tide schedules)
Snorkeling
Best spots: Koh Pak Bia and near the lagoon entrance
See colorful fish, corals, and sometimes reef sharks
Beach Relaxation
Koh Hong’s main beach has soft white sand
Shallow, calm waters perfect for swimming
Photography
Drone shots of the lagoon (no restrictions)
Sandbar at Koh Lao La Ding during low tide
Sunset views
Reef-safe sunscreen
Water shoes (some rocky areas)
Dry bag for electronics
Snorkel gear (if you prefer your own)
Cash (no ATMs available)
Light snacks and water
Avoid Crowds:
Arrive before 10am or after 2pm
Visit on weekdays
Consider a sunset tour
Eco Tips:
Don’t touch or step on coral
Take all trash with you
Use biodegradable sunscreen
Other Tips:
No monkeys (unlike Phi Phi)
Limited facilities (bring what you need)
National park fee: 300 THB for foreigners
Private Longtail Boat
Most flexible option
Can customize itinerary
John Gray’s Sea Canoe
Eco-friendly tours
Includes lagoon exploration
Speedboat Group Tours
Good for solo travelers
Often includes lunch
Railay Beach (combine in one trip)
Phang Nga Bay
Koh Poda
The Hong Islands offer a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation, with their breathtaking lagoons, excellent snorkeling, and postcard-perfect beaches. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful escape or an active day of exploration, these islands are truly one of Krabi’s hidden gems.
Location: ~20 km from Ao Nang, part of Than Bok Khorani National Park.
Nearest piers: Nopparat Thara Pier (Ao Nang) or Railay Beach.
Cost: ~1,500–2,500 THB (roundtrip for 4-6 people).
Duration: ~30–45 mins from Ao Nang.
Pros:
Cheaper for groups.
Flexible timing (leave early to avoid crowds).
Cons: Slower than speedboats.
Where to Book: Ao Nang Beach or Nopparat Thara Pier (negotiate price).
Cost: ~3,000–4,000 THB (private) or ~1,200–1,800 THB/person (group tour).
Duration: ~20 mins from Ao Nang.
Pros:
Faster, more comfortable.
Often includes snorkeling gear & lunch.
Cons: More expensive.
Cost: ~1,000–1,800 THB/person (includes snorkeling, lunch, kayak).
Tour Types:
4-Island Tour (Hong Islands + Koh Pak Bia, Koh Lao La Ding).
Sunset Tour (Fewer crowds, magical lighting).
Cost: ~2,000–3,000 THB/person (guided).
Pros: Paddle into hidden lagoons & caves.
Best For: Active travelers who love exploration.
Option: Private longtail (~1,000–1,500 THB, ~20 mins).
Pros: Less crowded than Ao Nang departures.
Early Morning (7–8 AM): Beat crowds & enjoy empty beaches.
Afternoon (1–2 PM): Day-trippers leave, quieter lagoon.
Sunset Trip (3 PM onwards): Stunning golden-hour views.
✔ Negotiate at the pier (Longtail prices drop if you haggle).
✔ Private > Group Tour (More freedom to explore).
✔ Check weather (Monsoon season = rough seas).
✔ Bring cash (No ATMs on islands).
Overpriced tours (Compare prices before booking).
Last-minute bookings (High season = sell-outs).
Jet skis (Not allowed in the national park).
From Krabi Town: Take a taxi to Ao Nang first (~200 THB).
From Phuket: Not recommended (too far, better to visit from Krabi).
Explore the Famous Hong Lagoon
Must-do activity: Paddle a kayak or stand-up paddleboard through the stunning enclosed lagoon
Best at high tide when the water is calmest
Marvel at the towering limestone cliffs surrounding you
Snorkel in Crystal Clear Waters
Best spots: Koh Pak Bia and near the lagoon entrance
See colorful coral reefs teeming with tropical fish
Bring your own mask/snorkel for best fit and hygiene
Relax on Pristine White Sand Beaches
Main beach on Koh Hong has powder-soft sand
Shallow, turquoise waters perfect for swimming
Find shady spots under trees to escape the sun
Walk the Magical Sandbar at Koh Lao La Ding
Only visible during low tide
Perfect for Instagram-worthy photos
Feels like walking on water between islands
Take Breathtaking Photos
Drone photography allowed (no restrictions)
Best shots: From the hill viewpoint on Koh Hong
Sunset creates golden lighting on limestone cliffs
Enjoy a Picnic Lunch
Many tours include Thai-style beach lunch
Or bring your own snacks and drinks
Try fresh coconuts sold by local vendors
Swim in the Emerald Waters
Calm, clear waters ideal for swimming
Perfect temperature year-round
Great for floating and relaxing
Go Island Hopping
Visit all four islands in the group
Each offers something different (beaches, snorkeling, etc.)
Private boats can customize your route
Try Stand-Up Paddleboarding
Calm lagoon is perfect for beginners
Unique way to explore the scenery
Often included in tour packages
Watch for Wildlife
Spot tropical fish while snorkeling
Look for sea eagles soaring above
(Unlike Phi Phi, no monkeys to bother you!)
Pro Tips:
Arrive early (before 10am) to enjoy the islands without crowds
Weekdays are quieter than weekends
Bring waterproof bags for phones/cameras
Wear reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine life
Best Time for Activities:
Kayaking: High tide (check tide schedules)
Sandbar walking: Low tide
Snorkeling: Mid-morning when water is clearest
Photography: Early morning or late afternoon light
Getting There:
• Best accessed from Ao Nang or Railay Beach
• Speedboat (30 mins) or longtail boat (45 mins)
• Private boat charter: 1,500-3,000 THB for 4-6 people
• Group tours available from 1,200 THB/person
Must-See Spots:
Hong Lagoon – The stunning emerald centerpiece
Koh Pak Bia – Best snorkeling with vibrant coral
Koh Lao La Ding – Magical sandbar at low tide
Koh Hong Beach – Powder-soft white sand beach
Best Times to Visit:
• Ideal season: November to April
• Arrive before 10am to beat crowds
• Stay until sunset for magical lighting
• Avoid weekends if possible
Essential Packing List:
✓ Waterproof dry bag
✓ Reef-safe sunscreen
✓ Water shoes (sharp coral)
✓ Snorkel gear (or rent on tour)
✓ Cash (no ATMs available)
✓ Light cover-up (sun protection)
Top Activities:
• Kayaking through the lagoon
• Snorkeling at Koh Pak Bia
• Beach relaxation on Koh Hong
• Sandbar walking at low tide
• Drone photography (allowed)
Money-Saving Tips:
• Bring your own snacks/water
• Negotiate private boat prices
• Avoid peak season (Dec-Jan)
• Skip the expensive tours – DIY is easy
Local Secrets:
• The lagoon is most magical at high tide
• Best snorkeling is on the east side
• Vendors sell fresh coconuts (50 THB)
• No monkeys to steal your food!
Eco Tips:
• Never touch or stand on coral
• Use reef-safe sunscreen only
• Take all trash back with you
• Avoid feeding marine life
Where to Eat:
• Pack a picnic (limited options)
• Some tours include lunch
• Fresh seafood available at Koh Hong
Perfect Itinerary:
8:00am – Depart Ao Nang
9:00am – Arrive at Hong Lagoon
9:30am – Kayak exploration
11:00am – Snorkel at Koh Pak Bia
12:30pm – Beach picnic lunch
2:00pm – Sandbar walk (if tide is low)
4:00pm – Return with sunset views
Pro Tips:
• Book a private boat for flexibility
• Waterproof your electronics
• Bring extra memory cards
• The islands are monkey-free!
• Combine with Railay Beach visit
For the perfect trip, timing is everything. Here’s when to go for ideal weather, fewer crowds, and the best experiences:
Weather: Sunny skies, calm seas, low humidity.
Water Clarity: Crystal-clear (best for snorkeling & kayaking).
Temperatures: 28–34°C (warm but breezy).
Why?
Safe boat rides (no monsoon waves).
Best visibility for underwater life.
All activities (lagoon kayaking, snorkeling) available.
Risks:
Rough seas (some tours cancel if waves are strong).
Frequent rain (short downpours, but can disrupt trips).
Murky water (snorkeling less vibrant).
Silver Lining:
Fewer tourists (if you luck out with weather).
Cheaper hotel rates in Krabi.
Early Morning (8–10 AM)
Why?
Empty beaches (beat the tour crowds).
Cooler temperatures for hiking/kayaking.
Best light for photography.
Late Afternoon (3–5 PM)
Why?
Day-trippers leave by 3 PM.
Golden-hour lighting for photos.
Sunset boat rides (private tours only).
| Month | Weather | Crowds | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nov–Feb | Perfect | Moderate | Peak season (book boats early). |
| Mar–Apr | Hot, dry | Busy | Great for snorkeling. |
| May–Oct | Rainy | Quiet | Risky but cheapest. |
Avoid weekends (Thai tourists flock here on Sat/Sun).
Check tides (Hong Lagoon is best explored at high tide).
Sunset trips (private boats only) offer magical lighting.