The Koh Yao island group consists of 44 islands with a total area of 142 Square kilometers (one third of Phuket size). Koh Yao Noi (Little Long Island) and Koh Yao Yai (Big Long Island) are the two largest islands in the group. These 2 sleepy islands still enjoying a slow pace of life, located in Phang Nga Bay, only one hour boat ride away from the international resort island of Phuket.

The moment you step on to these islands the usual stress and worries of everyday life melts away and the island pace of life gets a hold of you. While Thailand is a predominantly Buddhist country these islands are mainly populated by peaceful Muslim communities that make a living from fishing, rice farming and rubber tree plantations. The recent arrival of tourism to these islands hasn't affected the warm welcoming locals.

Koh Yao Noi is the center of government offices and more developed while Koh Yao Yai is less developed with the minimum touch of the tourist industry. The total population of Koh Yao Yai is approximately 15,000 with 3,040 household and it main industries are fishing and rubber plantation. A little rice farming and some fruit and coconut farm can also be found.

Koh Yao Noi is the center of government offices and more developed while Koh Yao Yai is less developed with the minimum touch of the tourist industry. The total population of Koh Yao Yai is approximately 15,000 with 3,040 household and it main industries are fishing and rubber plantation. A little rice farming and some fruit and coconut farm can also be found.

Average temperatures vary from 26 degree C. to 29 degree C., with mid day highest temperatures in March/April reaching 32 degree C. High level of sunshine all year round, including monsoon period. Rainy: June - October during south-west monsoon. Dry: November - April with cooler, calm weather conditions, May and October are transition months. Average rain fall is between 2,000-2,400 mm. per annum, (mostly May thru October). Koh Yao Yai remains a geological wonderland with the countless hidden treasures of indigenous plant, animal and marine life largely intact and a friendly island people that await the eco-conscious traveler. It’s one of the country’s best kept secrets, even though it’s only a short boat’s trip distance from bustling Phuket.