Koh Yao is a group of islands located in the Andaman Sea, off the coast of Thailand. This tranquil destination is perfect for those seeking relaxation, tranquility, natural beauty, and local culture. Koh Yao Noi and Koh Yao Yai are the two major islands of this group, which are known for their pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, tropical forests, and dramatic limestone cliffs. Away from the crowded tourist destinations of Thailand, Koh Yao offers a laid-back lifestyle and an ample opportunity to enjoy the rustic charm of small local villages. Visitors can explore the magnificent scenery, enjoy Thai cooking classes, indulge in spa treatments, go snorkeling, or simply relax on the beach and soak up the sun.

From Phuket, visitors can take a ferry or speedboat to Koh Yao Noi or Koh Yao Yai. The journey takes around 30-40 minutes. Alternatively, visitors can take a private long-tail boat from Ao Po Pier, which takes around 1 hour or more depending on the tides.

The best time to visit Koh Yao is from November to March when the weather is dry and sunny, with less humidity. The monsoon season lasts from May to October.

Koh Yao has a tropical climate, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 32°C throughout the year. The dry season from November to March is sunny and mild, with occasional rainfall. The wet season from May to October is humid with heavy rainfall, although it is also a good time for surfing and water sports.

Accommodation in Koh Yao ranges from budget hostels to luxury resorts. A typical budget hostel costs around 200-400 baht per night, while mid-range hotels and resorts cost around 1,000-2,000 baht per night. Luxury resorts and villas can cost between 5,000-15,000 baht per night.

Food in Koh Yao is inexpensive, with plenty of local restaurants serving authentic Thai cuisine. Street food and local markets are also popular options. A basic meal can cost around 50-100 baht, while a mid-range restaurant meal costs around 150-300 baht.

Koh Yao is generally considered safe, with a low crime rate. There are no major safety concerns for women, LGBTQ travelers, or racial minorities. However, visitors should take care of their belongings and avoid leaving valuables unattended on the beach or in crowded places.

The population of Koh Yao is mainly composed of Muslim and Buddhist communities. The local language is Thai, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas. The islands have a small population of around 10,000 people, with a mix of ethnicities and nationalities.

Activities in Koh Yao include exploring the natural beauty of the islands, hiking, cycling, kayaking, snorkeling, diving, fishing, bird watching, and cultural tours to local villages. Visitors can also relax in a spa, practice yoga, or take cooking classes to learn Thai cuisine.