Koh Yao Noi Thailand, Koh Yao islands, climb Thailand, kayak Thailand, DWS, boulder

One of the last unspoiled beach destinations in South Thailand.

If you need to escape from the crowds of Phuket, or you feel trapped by the concrete of Patong, or Krabi Town, you can breathe here.

Koh Yao Yai is the larger of the only two inhabited islands in Phang-Nga bay. It is roughly 3 times the size of Koh Yao Noi, and at least a quarter the size of Phuket!

There is reliable electricity 24 hours a day, a good supply of fresh water, and mobile reception in all parts (but really you come here to get away from that!).

There are no cash machines, as they do not have hard phone lines to the mainland yet.

Koh Yao Yai has a large road running the length of it. It is easy to reach the main beaches by motorcycle.

For the adventurous, you can leave the main road and take on the smaller, more wild trails to see the really untouched parts.

This is great terrain for mountain bike enthusiasts. There is no problem taking bikes on any of the ferries or longtails that service Koh Yao Yai

The locals rely on rice farming and rubber tree tapping for income. Tourism is a new thing to this beautiful island.

In fact, children will wave at you as you drive around from beach to beach.

Locals do not mind if you take photos, as long as you smile!