7 Must See Islands Near Krabi

Although there are about 200 islands off Krabi’s coast, some of them are just tiny rocky areas that can’t be accessed while others are spectacular little tropical paradises of sandy beaches and excellent snorkeling and swimming activities. In addition, some islands feature interesting caves or are next to impressive coral reefs.

By exploring the islands through a tour or on your own by renting a small boat, you can better appreciate all that Krabi has to offer. Note that due to irregular weather conditions, some islands can’t be accessed from May to October, which is the monsoon season.

Here are some of the best islands near Krabi:

1. Chicken Island (Hua Khwan or Koh Gai)

Great beaches are located on one end of this strangely named island, which gets its moniker from an unusual rock formation. The other end of the island is rocky, but still interesting. No hotels, huts, or resorts are available here, but its beaches make Chicken Island a nice place to stop on a day trip or island hopping tour. Try some snorkeling while you are here, since plenty of fish and other marine life swim through the nearby coral reefs. This island is free from monsoon weather, so it can be visited at any time of year.

2. Koh Poda

This is another beach with a good coral reef that invites snorkeling. Koh Poda is more popular than Chicken Island but it isn’t crowded. The island is quite small and can be reached from Krabi’s coast in under half an hour. Palm trees and white sand make Koh Poda another beach you have to see to believe. Like Chicken Island, it can be visited year-round.

3. Koh Tap and Koh Mor

Koh Tap and Koh Mor are good spots for beginners’ snorkeling. The two islands are usually separated by sea, except at low tide.

4. Koh Hong

A series of small islands, a visit to Koh Hong takes you a little further away from Krabi than other destinations. It is about twenty-five kilometers from Ao Nang. It’s worth the trip, since there are not only the usual sandy beaches but also lagoons and caves that are great for kayaking and spotting fish. Since the islands are part of the National Park, there is a fee for entering.

5. Koh Lanta

An increasingly popular but still uncrowded destination, Koh Lanta is actually 52 islands. It offers many secluded beaches, quite villages, and private areas that have not been taken over by tourists. Numerous tours and activities are available throughout Koh Lanta.

6. Koh Talu

Koh Talu is a tiny island and is famous for its rocky landscape and the large hole that passes through its center. This is a good site for birdwatchers, as many swifts live here.

7. Bamboo Island (Koh Phai)

Bamboo Island is actually part of the Phi Phi chain of islands. All around Bamboo Island is a border of sand while the center of the island has plenty of plant life, including bamboo trees. The island offers access to good snorkeling areas thanks to its rich coral reefs. There are some accommodations, bars, and other services available on Bamboo Island.

Bonus Islands – Koh Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Leh

The Phi Phi islands are our editors top pick for best islands in Thailand. We recommend that you stay at least one night on Phi Phi Don, and do a half day trip to Phi Phi Leh (where the movie “The Beach” was filmed).

These are two islands you do not want to miss.

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