Koh Yao Noi Definitive Guide 2025

The Realistic Guide to Koh Yao Noi

How to navigate ferries, find ATMs, and respect local culture on Thailand's quietest island.

Last Updated: Dec 2024 • 5 Min Read

Ferry Time

30 Mins

ATM Count

Only 3

Religion

90% Muslim

Best Month

February

Koh Yao Noi is the Thailand of 20 years ago. There are no McDonald's, no neon walking streets, and very few cars. It is a working fishing community that happens to welcome tourists.

However, because it is undeveloped, logistics can be tricky. Ferries stop early, ATMs run out of cash, and finding a beer at sunset requires knowing exactly where to go. This guide covers the practical survival tips you won't find on Instagram.

Jump to Section:

• Ferry Timetables
• ATMs & Cash
• Where to Stay
• Alcohol Rules

1. How to Get There (Don't Miss the Boat)

You have two main entry points: Phuket or Krabi. Most travelers come from Phuket.

Option A: From Phuket (Bang Rong Pier)

Boats leave from Bang Rong Pier on the northeast side of Phuket. You need to take a taxi/Grab to get to the pier (approx 400 THB from Airport, 800 THB from Patong).

• Speedboat: 30 minutes. ~300 THB. Leaves roughly every hour from 07:30 to 17:00.
• Longtail Boat: 60 minutes. ~200 THB. Slower, louder, but cheaper.

Warning: The last boat usually leaves at 5:30 PM. If your flight lands after 4:00 PM, you will likely miss the connection and be stuck in Phuket.

Check Live Speedboat Schedules
Via 12Go Asia - Supports Mobile Tickets

Option B: From Krabi (Tha Len Pier)

Boats leave from Tha Len Pier. It is less frequent than Phuket. If you are coming from Ao Nang, allow 45 minutes to get to the pier by taxi.

2. ATMs & Money (Cash is King)

Do not rely on your card. While resorts accept Visa/Mastercard, 90% of local restaurants, scooter rentals, and tour boats are Cash Only.

The ATM Situation: There are only a few ATMs on the island (Government Savings Bank & Krungsri).

The Risk: On long weekends or holidays, they often run out of cash.

The Fix: Bring at least 5,000 THB in cash with you from the mainland.

Withdrawal Fees: Thai ATMs charge 220 THB ($6 USD) per withdrawal for foreign cards. To avoid losing money on exchange rates, we recommend using a travel card like Wise.

See How to Avoid ATM Fees with Wise

3. Where to Stay (Strategic Choices)

The island is split into two vibes: The "Sunset Side" (East) with beaches, and the "Mangrove Side" (West) with views but no swimming.

For Luxury (The "Six Senses" Vibe)

If you want the famous view of the limestone karsts from your bed, you pay a premium.

• Top Pick: Six Senses Yao Noi (The ultimate splurge)
• Runner Up: Koyao Island Resort (Luxury but more grounded)

For Budget & Backpackers

You can still find bungalows under 1,000 THB if you look near Pasai Beach.

• Top Pick: Sabai Corner Bungalows (Great value, good food)
• Runner Up: Nam Tok Bungalows

Search All Koh Yao Noi Deals

4. Alcohol & Local Culture

Koh Yao Noi is predominantly Muslim. This is not Phi Phi Island. You will not find "Buckets" of vodka or full-moon parties.

• Halal Restaurants: Most family-run places do not sell alcohol. Please do not bring your own beer into a Halal restaurant unless you ask permission first.
• Where to Drink: Hotels, resorts,