A magical day trip to the stunning Hong Islands was the highlight of my month-long journey to Krabi, Thailand.
Situated in the Andaman Sea near Krabi, this cluster of small islands boasts pristine white sandy beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, dramatic limestone cliffs, and lush green jungles – the quintessential Thai island paradise!
While perhaps not as well-known as the Phi Phi islands, the Hong Islands are closer to Krabi, less crowded, and equally breathtaking, making them some of Thailand’s most beautiful destinations.
If you’re seeking a blissful island-hopping day trip from Krabi, the Hong Islands are ideal! This guide provides all the essential information for visiting this tropical paradise.
A Guide to the Hong Islands, Krabi
Where are the Hong Islands?
Part of the Than Bok Khorani National Park, the Hong Islands lie in the Andaman Sea, just off Krabi’s coast in southern Thailand. Only 6km from the mainland, the islands are about a 30-minute boat ride from Ao Nang or Krabi Town, making them perfect for a day trip.
The Hong Islands include several small islands, with four main ones to visit:
- Koh Hong
- Koh Lao Lading
- Koh Pak Bia
- Koh Rai
Koh Hong Island
Koh Hong is the largest of the four and offers a beautiful beach, a 360-degree viewpoint, and an otherworldly lagoon. The beach features silky white sand and shallow turquoise waters, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs. Facilities include a nature trail, a Thai restaurant, a beach bar, juice stand, and toilets.
Hong Island Viewpoint
Reaching the 360-degree viewpoint involves a steep but short hike up 420 steps. The panoramic views of the islands and the Andaman Sea make it worth the effort. There is also an easy, mostly flat nature trail around Koh Hong.
Hong Lagoon
Accessible only by longtail boat through a narrow rock opening, the stunning Hong Lagoon is a shallow emerald pool surrounded by mangroves and rainforest-covered cliffs. Most tours include a quick stop here.
Koh Lao Lading
This island features a dreamy beach nestled between limestone cliffs and clear blue waters ideal for swimming. It also has a jetty for easy access, a snack bar, and toilets.
Koh Pak Bia and Koh Rai
These small islands are so close to each other they can be seen simultaneously. Koh Pak Bia has a sandbar connecting it to a tiny islet, while Koh Rai features a dramatic limestone rock surrounded by jungle with a small white sand beach. Both islands are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling, depending on the tide.
How to Get to the Hong Islands
The only way to reach the Hong Islands is by boat – either a private boat or a group tour. The islands are about 30 minutes away by longtail boat from Krabi. Several companies offer day trips, with tours typically departing from Nopparat Thara Pier and sometimes including pickups from various beaches and Krabi Town.
The Best Hong Island Tours from Krabi
Tour options range from budget-friendly group tours on modern speedboats to customizable private tours on traditional longtail boats. The best tours visit all four main islands, Hong Lagoon, and include snorkeling or kayaking, lunch, and refreshments. Transfers from your hotel and an English-speaking guide are also typically included.
Best Time to Visit The Hong Islands
The ideal time to visit is between December and April when the weather is sunny, dry, and not too hot, and the sea is calm. This is also peak season, so expect more crowds and higher prices. Visiting during the low/rainy season from May to October can be unpredictable, but you might enjoy fewer tourists and lower prices.
Accommodation Options
As part of a national park, the Hong Islands only allow day trips with no accommodation available on the islands themselves. Nearby places to stay include Ao Nang Beach, Railay Beach, Klong Muang Beach, Tubkaek Beach, Krabi Town, Koh Yao Noi, and Koh Yao Yai.
Conclusion
The Hong Islands, with their pristine and less crowded environment, offer an experience that can rival the famous Phi Phi islands. They are a must-visit for anyone traveling to Krabi. For more tips on planning your trip to Thailand, check out related travel guides and itineraries.
