What to do in

Koh Yoa Yai

the Island Activities

Discover

Local Activities Yao Yai

 Welcome to Yao Yai, Thailand, an island gem off the coast of Phuket, where adventure and excitement are just a heartbeat away!  Are you seeking the ultimate unique vacation? Look no further as we present your ultimate guide to help you discover local activities on Koh Yao Yai that will add a spark to your island experience.

Relax

and Unwind

When it’s time to unwind, our island presents many options. Relax on our beautiful white sandy beaches. Bask in the sun and dip in the clear green ocean. What better way to relax after a day of snorkelling, kayaking or hiking than a rejuvenating massage at our spa? Past visitors have said it is the best massage on the island! But don’t take our word for it; try for yourself. 

Exploring

Yoa Yai

Our island is graced with breathtaking landscapes, pristine sandy beaches, and crystal-clear waters, forming the perfect playground for water sports enthusiasts. Whether you’re into snorkelling, diving, or kayaking, we’ve got it all. But that’s just the beginning – Koh Yao Yai offers much more. Embark on a hike to our highest peak for panoramic views or explore our lush forests teeming with diverse plant and animal life.

Discover Local Activities

Take in the Beauty Of Laem Haad Beach

Laem Haad Beach, where the film Mechanic starring Jessica Alba and Jason Stratton  was filmed and is the crown jewel of Koh Yao Yai. Nestled on a distinctive stretch of sand that extends into the azure bay, this beach offers a mesmerising view, especially during low tide when the sands almost connect to the nearby Ko Yao Noi, creating a moon-like crescent that’s a visual delight for any Instagrammer.

Discover Local Activities

Tranquility On The Shores

The backdrop is a picturesque blend of lush tropical vegetation adorned with a grove of coconut palms along the shoreline – a perfect spot to sway in your hammock and immerse yourself in tranquillity.

Top Beaches on Koh Yao Yai

Loh Paret Beach

Loh Paret Beach, situated along the central west coast of Yao Yai, beckons with stunning sunset views and day-long opportunities for swimming in its golden sands. While the beach features some rocky sections, the water remains crystal clear.

Top Beaches Yao Yai

Explore Ao Muang Beach

Ao Muang Beach, a charming strip of sand nestled in Bole Bay, Loh Jark, can be accessed from the Bole Bay road, approximately 200 meters down a dirt track. 
Look out for a small hand-painted sign at the road to guide your way.” If you run out of refreshments, don’t worry there is a small beach-side hut that sells shakes and soft drinks

Best Beaches on Koh Yao yai

Son Bay Beach

Son Bay Beach is a beautiful bay on Koh Yao Yai’s west coast. If you arrive at low tide, you will enjoy the peaceful, long, vast stretch of beach. The other side of the island, where the Santhiya Hotel sits, can be seen from this viewpoint. You are in the perfect spot after you have worked up an appetite for chasing small crabs, collecting shells and swimming! As we fondly call her, the chicken lady has a small hut at the beach’s edge. It may look basic, but she serves the best fried chicken, sticky rice and papaya salad! Take it!

Best Beaches on Koh Yao yai

Elephants Up Close & Personal

Visit Koh Yao Yai’s first elephant sanctuary and get acquainted with this fantastic animal, known in Thai as Chang. There is no elephant riding or circus tricks. However, you can book a spa bathing session with the elephants, a fantastic experience for adults and children.
Beyond the activities at the Elephant Sanctuary, the elephant holds a profound place in Thailand’s rich history. Revered as a national symbol of strength and intelligence, the elephant is the ‘official animal’ of Thailand, gracing national and provincial flags throughout the years. 

Elephant Spa Experience

Explore the Activities: See What's Included!

The Elephant Care Centre, situated in Ban Pru Nai, Koh Yao, offers a unique opportunity to visit elephants in their natural surroundings, emphasising a compassionate approach with no shows, tricks, or elephant riding. Instead, you can opt for an Elephant Spa experience, indulging in delightful activities like mud baths, bathing sessions, and a refreshing trunk shower if you’re fortunate.

Elephant Spa Experience

What the activity elephant includes

Enjoy a unique experience at the  Elephant Sanctuary activity, beginning with a  welcome drink and delightful local dessert. Gain insights into the sanctuary and elephants through an informative introduction and briefing. Then, enjoy a scenic walk with the elephants, forming a unique connection with these majestic creatures. The adventure continues with a playful mud spa session, followed by a memorable bathing time spent with the elephants. It’s a journey filled with joy, learning, and unforgettable moments.
Price for Adult: 1400 THB     
Children Aged 4-12- 900 THB
 

Kayaking

Kayaking Through Mangroves

Ao Phang Nga is also home to Thailand’s largest native mangrove forests. Covering an expansive 400 km², Ao Phang Nga National Park is not just about its islands. It’s also home to Thailand’s largest native mangrove forests, where the tangle of roots and the lush green canopy create an enchanting world of their own. These dense, tangled ecosystems are teeming with life. Explore the mangroves by boat or kayak to witness the intricate dance of land and sea.

Book your Mangrove Experience 
Price includes fruit and drink and Pick-Up
Adult: 1,300 THB Per Person
Child: 700 THB Per Person

Discover Yao Yai

Explore Yao Yai Local Culture

The community of Koh Yao Yai are welcoming and takes pride in their local culture and traditions. There are many local activities available such as Thai cooking classes and Maui Thai boxing.
Please take the opportunity to engage with the locals and learn about their way of life. Visit the local markets to sample delicious street food, browse through handicrafts, and interact with friendly vendors. If your visit coincides, you may witness traditional ceremonies or festivals where you can participate in cultural activities such as traditional dance or music performances, giving you a deeper understanding of the island’s heritage.

Discover Yao Yai

Explore Yao Yai Local Culture

The community of Koh Yao Yai are welcoming and takes pride in their local culture and traditions. There are many local activities available such as Thai cooking classes and Maui Thai boxing.
Please take the opportunity to engage with the locals and learn about their way of life. Visit the local markets to sample delicious street food, browse through handicrafts, and interact with friendly vendors. If your visit coincides, you may witness traditional ceremonies or festivals where you can participate in cultural activities such as traditional dance or music performances, giving you a deeper understanding of the island’s heritage.
10 am-14:00
Pick up from the resort and enjoy a scenic route to the
Fisherman Village.
Set out for the day’s fishing activities on a  traditional Thai long-tail boat.
Arrive at Leam Larn Cape for the first fishing point.
Enjoy a picnic lunch & free time for swimming & snorkelling.
Fishing at the second point – Koh Nui Nok.
Return to the pier & transfer back to  Yao Bada Badoo Resort.
Price Per Person-3,500 THB
What’s Included:
Picnic Lunch & drinking water
Seasonal fruit
Fishing equipment & bait
Life jacket
Snorkeling equipment

Find out more

about our beautiful resort

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Limited-Time Offer: 10% Off Stays December–March

Book your dream escape directly with us between 10 June and 31 July and enjoy an exclusive 10% off your stay from December to 28 February 2026.

Lock in the sunshine early — limited-time offer!