Hong Island Krabi
Named ‘the island of rooms’ the captivating Hong Island, or Koh Hong, lies less than an hour north of Krabi’s mainland. It’s an ideal spot for a day trip, especially for adventurous souls seeking exciting activities both on the island and in the refreshing, crystal-clear waters that embrace it.
Hong Island Beaches and Attractions
This small yet perfectly formed island is famed in Thailand for its intense natural beauty. Hong Island is blessed with shallow coral reefs, making this the perfect place to try snorkeling. The water here is particularly clear, and visitors who take the time to explore the aquatic underworld will be greeted by the sight of marine creatures in a wide range of colors. The fish here are extremely inquisitive, and will even eat treats such as bread and pieces of banana right out of your outstretched hand.
Pilae Beach
A number of pristine sandy beaches are located on the very edge of Hong Island, and these are perfect places to simply spread out and soak up the sun for a while. One of the most enchanting of these is Pilae Beach, which is renowned for its fine white sand, enticing surf, and waving palm trees. Colorful coral can be found just off the beach, which is home to several varieties of tropical fish.
Hong Lagoon
Hong Island has been formed in the shape of a half circle, and a stunning natural lagoon can be found in the very center. The lagoon is framed by dramatic limestone cliffs, and this gives the area a delightfully enclosed feel. While some visitors are content to simply sit on the beach here and work on their tans or share a picnic with friends, others will have the chance to climb the cliffs or take part in water sports such as snorkeling, kayaking and even sailing.
Hong Island is blessed with two main beaches, one at the front and the other at the back of the island. Boats tend to moor at the first of these two islands, and visitors will want to follow the winding paths to the other side of the island to swim, sunbathe and perhaps paddle around the lagoon in a canoe.
How to Get to the Hong Island
Depending on where you are staying in Krabi, make your way to either Ao Nang or Nopparat Thara Beach. These are popular departure points for boat tours to Hong Island.
Look for tour operators or long-tail boat services along the beach area. You can also book boat tours in advance through Getyourguide.
Once you’re on the boat, get ready for a scenic 30-minute ride to Hong Island. The journey itself is a highlight, with breathtaking views of the Andaman Sea and limestone karsts dotting the horizon.
Boat Tours to Hong Island
Trips to the enchanting Hong Island are offered by a number of different operators on Krabi. These excursions tend to depart from Ao Nang, Talan, or the neighboring islands of Koh Yao Yai and Noi (big and small). Lasting for either half a day or an entire day, these excursions are the perfect way to see the intense natural beauty of the area.
The trip from Ao Nang to Hong Island typically takes around an hour by traditional longtail boat but can be longer by wind-powered yacht (around 30 minutes). Trips are usually limited to a dozen people, meaning that there will be plenty of space to spread out on the boat and watch in wonder as the scenery slides part.
Excursions are usually run by knowledgeable local guides, who will talk about the area on the way, highlighting points of interest. Lovers of bird’s nest soup may even be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of men risking life and limb as they shimmy up bamboo poles to collect these treasures that can be found hidden in the cliff faces of Hong Island.
What Else Is There to See Near Koh Hong?
After taking the time to fully explore all that Hong Island has to offer, visitors who have booked a day trip to the area will now have the chance to visit some of the other surrounding islands.
Next on the list is Pakbia Island, which offers stunning views of the area. While the island is often deserted, well-worn sandy paths lead the way to the top of tall cliffs, and visitors who make their way to the very top will be able to gaze out at the ocean and the tiny splits of land that are scattered across its surface.
Landing Island is also just a few minutes away by longtail boat, and this also offers pristine white sandy beaches. Visitors who are feeling the scorching effects of the sun on their skin will want to take the chance to cool down here with a swim in the waiting waters.
Where to Stay Near Hong Island
There is no accommodation on the island at the current time, limiting the number of visitors that travel here. For now, at least, this is the perfect place to escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life for a while. Anyone who entertains fantasies of visiting a deserted tropical island for a while will find that Hong Island is close to heavenly.
Krabi (Ao Nang area) is the closest you can live to Hong Island.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Hong Island Krabi
Where Is Hong Island Located in Krabi?
Hong Island, also known as Koh Hong in Thai, is situated just an hour to the north of Krabi’s mainland in Thailand.
How Can I Get to Hong Island from Krabi?
To reach Hong Island, you can book a boat tour from Ao Nang. The boat trip takes from 30 to 60 minutes and offers scenic views. However, some people can get seasick, so we recommend taking precautions.
What Activities Can I Do on Hong Island?
Hong Island offers a range of activities, including snorkeling in the clear waters, exploring pristine beaches, hiking to the hidden gem of Hong Lagoon during low tide, and enjoying the serene and untouched natural surroundings.
Is Hong Island Suitable for a Day Trip?
Yes, Hong Island is perfect for a day trip from Krabi. Its proximity to the mainland allows to enjoy a memorable island experience without an overnight stay.
Are There Any Facilities on Hong Island?
Hong Island is a natural paradise, and while there are no luxurious facilities, you can find basic amenities like toilets and small food stalls. Remember to bring essentials like sunscreen, water, and snacks.
What’s the Best Time to Visit Hong Island?
The best time to visit Hong Island is during the high season (November to April) when the weather is pleasant, and the sea conditions are ideal for boat trips and water activities.
Can I Book Boat Tours in Advance?
Yes, you can book boat tours to Hong Island in advance online. This is a recommended option because it allows you to secure your spot and plan your itinerary in advance.
Is Hong Island Suitable for Families and Kids?
Yes, Hong Island is family-friendly, with calm waters and opportunities for kids to explore and play on the beaches. However, always supervise children during the boat transfer.
Are There Any Eco-conscious Practices on Hong Island?
To preserve the island’s natural beauty, visitors are encouraged to practice eco-conscious behaviors, such as avoiding littering and respecting wildlife and marine life.
What Should I Bring to Hong Island?
Essential items to bring include sunscreen, swimwear, comfortable footwear for walking on the beach, a camera to capture the stunning views, and drinking water to stay hydrated.
