Are you looking for a tropical escape in Thailand that is away from the crowds and close to nature? If so, you should definitely visit Hong Islands, a group of four islands in Krabi that offer stunning scenery, relaxing atmosphere, and diverse activities. In this article, we will show you how to plan a perfect day trip to Hong Islands, what to see and do there, and where to stay nearby. Read on to discover why Hong Islands are one of the best destinations in Krabi and how to make the most of your visit.
Hong Islands, also known as Koh Hong or Koh Lao Bi Le, are located in the Andaman Sea, about 25 km from Krabi town. They are part of the Than Bok Khorani National Park, which protects the rich biodiversity and natural beauty of the area. The islands are named after the Thai word for "room", which refers to the hidden lagoon inside the main island. The lagoon is surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and filled with turquoise water, creating a stunning sight that will take your breath away. The islands also have pristine white sand beaches, lush green forests, and colorful coral reefs, making them ideal for swimming, snorkeling, hiking, and kayaking.
Why Visit Hong Islands
There are many reasons why Hong Islands are a must-visit destination for anyone who loves nature, adventure, and culture. Here are some of the unique and appealing aspects of Hong Islands that make them worth visiting:
- Natural beauty: Hong Islands are blessed with some of the most beautiful landscapes in Thailand, from the breathtaking lagoon to the serene beaches to the dramatic rock formations. You will feel like you are in a paradise as you admire the views and soak up the sun.
- Tranquility: Hong Islands are relatively less crowded and more peaceful than other popular islands in Krabi, such as Phi Phi or Railay. You will have more space and privacy to enjoy the islands and relax without the hassle of noisy tourists and vendors.
- Wildlife: Hong Islands are home to a variety of wildlife, both on land and in the water. You can spot monkeys, birds, lizards, and crabs on the island, and fish, turtles, rays, and sharks in the sea. You can also feed the friendly fish with bread or bananas at the lagoon or the beach.
- Activities: Hong Islands offer a range of activities and attractions for all ages and preferences, such as swimming, snorkeling, hiking, kayaking, and exploring the lagoon. You can also visit nearby islands, such as Lading Island, Pak Bia Island, and Paradise Island, which have their own charms and features.
How to Get to Hong Islands
Getting to Hong Islands from Krabi or Phuket is easy and convenient, as there are several options to choose from, depending on your budget, preference, and schedule. Here are some of the best ways to get to Hong Islands:
- Longtail boat: This is the cheapest and most authentic way to get to Hong Islands, as you will ride a traditional wooden boat with a long propeller. You can hire a longtail boat from Ao Nang or Nopparat Thara beach, and it will take about an hour to reach the islands. The cost is around 3000 baht for a private boat or 600 baht per person for a shared boat. The boat can accommodate up to 10 people and you can decide your own itinerary and time. The downside is that the longtail boat can be slow, noisy, and uncomfortable, especially in rough seas.
- Speedboat: This is the fastest and most comfortable way to get to Hong Islands, as you will ride a modern and powerful boat that can reach the islands in about 20 minutes. You can book a speedboat from Ao Nang or Nopparat Thara beach, or online, and it will cost around 5000 baht for a private boat or 1000 baht per person for a shared boat. The boat can accommodate up to 20 people and you will usually join a tour that includes other islands, lunch, and snorkeling equipment. The downside is that the speedboat can be expensive, crowded, and noisy, and you will have less flexibility and privacy.
- Kayak: This is the most adventurous and eco-friendly way to get to Hong Islands, as you will paddle your own kayak across the sea and explore the islands at your own pace. You can rent a kayak from Ao Thalane or Tha Len pier, which are about 40 km from Krabi town, and it will take about two hours to reach the islands. The cost is around 800 baht for a single kayak or 1200 baht for a double kayak. You can also join a guided kayak tour that includes lunch, drinks, and a guide. The downside is that kayaking can be tiring, challenging, and risky, especially for beginners or in bad weather.
The best time to visit Hong Islands is from November to April, when the weather is dry, sunny, and calm, and the water is clear and warm. The worst time to visit Hong Islands is from May to October, when the weather is wet, cloudy, and windy, and the water is murky and cold. You should also avoid visiting Hong Islands on weekends or public holidays, when the islands can be very crowded and noisy.
What to See and Do on Hong Islands
There are plenty of things to see and do on Hong Islands, whether you are looking for relaxation, adventure, or culture. Here are some of the highlights and tips for each activity and attraction:
- Exploring the lagoon: The lagoon is the main attraction of Hong Islands, and you should not miss it. You can access the lagoon by boat or kayak, through a narrow opening in the cliffs. Once inside, you will be amazed by the beauty and tranquility of the lagoon, which is shaped like a half-moon and filled with emerald water. You can swim, snorkel, or feed the fish in the lagoon, or just admire the views and take photos. The best time to visit the lagoon is in the morning or afternoon, when the tide is high and the water is deep. You should also avoid visiting the lagoon when there are too many boats or kayaks, as they can spoil the atmosphere and damage the environment.
- Relaxing on the beach: The beach is another attraction of Hong Islands, and you should spend some time there. The beach is located on the main island, and it is a long stretch of soft white sand, fringed by palm trees and clear blue water. You can relax, sunbathe, or picnic on the beach, or swim, snorkel, or kayak in the sea. The beach is also a good spot to see the monkeys, birds, and crabs that live on the island, but be careful not to feed or touch them, as they can be aggressive or carry diseases. The best time to visit the beach is in the morning or evening, when the sun is not too hot and the light is soft and golden. You should also avoid visiting the beach when there are too many tourists or vendors, as they can make the beach dirty and noisy.
- Snorkeling in the coral reef: The coral reef is another attraction of Hong Islands, and you should try it. The coral reef is located on the south side of the main island, and it is a rich and diverse ecosystem, home to many fish, turtles, rays, and sharks. You can snorkel in the coral reef, and see the colorful and fascinating marine life up close. You will need to bring your own snorkeling equipment, or rent it from the boat or the tour operator. The best time to snorkel in the coral reef is in the morning or afternoon, when the water is clear and calm, and the visibility is good. You should also avoid snorkeling in the coral reef when there are too many snorkelers or boats, as they can scare away the fish and damage the coral.
- Hiking to the viewpoint: The viewpoint is another attraction of Hong Islands, and you should check it out. The viewpoint is located on the north side of the main island, and it is a short and easy hike up a hill. Once at the top, you will be rewarded with a panoramic view of the island, the lagoon, and the sea. You can enjoy the scenery and take photos, or just relax and breathe in the fresh air. The best time to hike to the viewpoint is in the morning or evening, when the temperature is cooler and the light is better. You should also avoid hiking to the viewpoint when there are too many hikers or guides, as they can make the trail crowded and noisy.
- Kayaking around the island: Kayaking is another activity that you can do on Hong Islands, and you should give it a try. Kayaking is a fun and adventurous way to explore the island and its surroundings, as you can paddle your own kayak and discover hidden coves, caves, and beaches. You can rent a kayak from the boat or the tour operator, or bring your own kayak if you are experienced and confident. The best time to kayak around the island is in the morning or afternoon, when the wind is mild and the water is smooth. You should also avoid kayaking around the island when there are too many kayakers or boats, as they can create waves and collisions.
What to Bring to Hong Islands
There are some essential items that you should bring to Hong Islands, to make your trip more enjoyable and comfortable. Here are some of the things that you should pack for your day trip to Hong Islands:
- Sunscreen: The sun can be very strong and harsh on Hong Islands, especially in the middle of the day, so you should protect your skin from sunburn and damage. You should bring a sunscreen with a high SPF and apply it generously and frequently throughout the day. You should also bring a hat, sunglasses, and a cover-up to shield yourself from the sun.
- Water: The heat and humidity can make you dehydrated and thirsty on Hong Islands, especially if you are doing physical activities, such as hiking or kayaking. You should bring enough water to drink and stay hydrated throughout the day. You can also bring some electrolyte drinks or coconut water to replenish your fluids and minerals.
- Snacks: There are no restaurants or shops on Hong Islands, so you should bring some snacks to eat and keep your energy levels up. You can bring some fruits, nuts, granola bars, or sandwiches, or buy some from the boat or the tour operator. You should also avoid bringing any plastic or disposable items, as they can pollute the environment and harm the wildlife.
- Swimwear: Swimming is one of the main activities on Hong Islands, so you should bring your swimwear and enjoy the water. You should also bring a towel, a change of clothes, and a waterproof bag to keep your belongings dry. You should also wear a rash guard or a t-shirt to protect your skin from the sun and the coral.
- Camera: Hong Islands are very photogenic and scenic, so you should bring your camera and capture the memories. You can bring a DSLR, a smartphone, or a GoPro, depending on your preference and skill. You should also bring a waterproof case, a spare battery, and a memory card, as you might not have access to electricity or internet on the islands. You should also be respectful and mindful of the environment and the wildlife, and not disturb or damage them for the sake of a photo.
- Cash: You will need some cash to pay for the boat, the tour, the entrance fee, or the rental equipment on Hong Islands, as there are no ATMs or credit card machines on the islands. You should bring enough cash to cover your expenses, and some extra in case of emergencies. You should also keep your cash in a safe and dry place, such as a wallet, a pouch, or a ziplock bag.
Where to Stay near Hong Islands
If you want to extend your trip to Hong Islands and spend more time there, you will need to find a place to stay nearby, as there are no accommodation options on the islands. Luckily, there are some great places to stay near Hong Islands, depending on your budget, preference, and style. Here are some of the best places to stay near Hong Islands, with links to book them:
- Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Krabi: This is a luxury resort that is located on a private beach, only 15 minutes by boat from Hong Islands. The resort offers spacious and elegant rooms and villas, with balconies, jacuzzis, and stunning views of the sea and the cliffs. The resort also has a pool, a spa, a fitness center, and several restaurants and bars. The resort is ideal for couples, families, and groups who want to enjoy a relaxing and comfortable stay near Hong Islands.
- Railay Bay Resort & Spa: This is a mid-range resort that is located on Railay Beach, one of the most beautiful and popular beaches in Krabi. The resort offers cozy and modern rooms and cottages, with air-conditioning, minibars, and garden or sea views. The resort also has a pool, a spa, a restaurant, and a bar. The resort is ideal for solo travelers, backpackers, and adventurers who want to enjoy a lively and convenient stay near Hong Islands.
- Koh Jum Beach Villas: This is a budget resort that is located on Koh Jum, a small and quiet island near Hong Islands. The resort offers simple and rustic bungalows and villas, with fans, mosquito nets, and hammocks. The resort also has a garden, a restaurant, and a library. The resort is ideal for nature lovers, eco-travelers, and minimalists who want to enjoy a peaceful and authentic stay near Hong Islands.
Conclusion
Hong Islands are one of the best destinations in Krabi, and you should not miss them. They offer a perfect combination of natural beauty, tranquility, wildlife, and activities, that will make your trip unforgettable. Whether you want to explore the lagoon, relax on the beach, snorkel in the coral reef, hike to the viewpoint, or kayak around the island, you will find something to suit your taste and mood. You can also visit nearby islands, such as Lading Island, Pak Bia Island, and Paradise Island, which have their own charms and features. You can also find some great places to stay near Hong Islands, such as hotels, resorts, or bungalows, that will make your trip more comfortable and enjoyable.
We hope that this article has given you some useful and practical information and tips on how to plan a perfect day trip to Hong Islands. If you have any questions, comments, or experiences to share, please feel free to leave them below. We would love to hear from you.
