Hong Island is one of the most picturesque spots for a day trip from Krabi, and if you’re putting together a Thailand itinerary, this place definitely belongs on it. This little paradise stuns with its powdery white sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and dramatic limestone cliffs that create a picture-perfect backdrop. Whether you’re above or below the water, the island’s natural beauty is breathtaking. Snorkelers will love exploring the vibrant coral reefs and colorful marine life in the clear waters. One of the highlights is Hong Lagoon, accessible only by boat through a narrow opening, and don’t miss the 360-degree viewpoint offering spectacular views of the surrounding sea.
What makes Hong Island truly special is its untouched, secluded feel—far from the usual tourist crowds. Our day trip to Hong Island was one of our highlights while staying in Ao Nang Krabi, and we highly recommend it! In this post, you’ll find everything you need to plan your own perfect day trip to Hong Island from Krabi.
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Things to know before visiting Hong Island
Where is Hong Island?
Hong Island, or Koh Hong, is located just off the coast of Krabi in southern Thailand, nestled in the Andaman Sea. Only 6km from the mainland, it’s a quick 45-minute boat ride from Ao Nang or Krabi Town, making it an ideal day trip. Part of the Than Bok Khorani National Park, this uninhabited island belongs to an archipelago of over 20 islands, often called “The Emerald of the Krabi Sea.”
Koh Hong is the largest of four islands, including Koh Lao Lading, Koh Pak Bia, and Koh Rai. Each island has its own charm, and most island-hopping tours cover all four, with plenty of opportunities for snorkeling. These islands boast stunning beaches, vibrant marine life, and even occasional sightings of dolphins and sea turtles. Be mindful of the environment, wear reef-safe sunscreen, and take your trash with you to help preserve this pristine national park.
How to get to Hong Island from Ao Nang Beach, Krabi
The only way to reach Hong Island is by boat, either through a private hire or a group tour. You can choose between a traditional longtail boat or a speedboat. The trip from Krabi takes about 45 minutes by longtail boat or 30 minutes by speedboat.
When we were in Ao Nang, we noticed that island-hopping tours can be quite expensive, especially in this part of Krabi. Most of the tours cover multiple islands in one day, which felt a bit rushed to us. We prefer to take our time and really soak in the experience. So, we decided to focus on just one island. And the best part is—you don’t need to book a tour to visit Hong Island!
For a budget-friendly option, take a public longtail boat. It costs about 500 baht (~$14) per person. You can buy tickets at Ao Nang Longtail Boat Service or Ao Nang Boat Service Club. We recommend the booth near the main road because it usually has more people, making it easier to find a group to share the boat with. Since the boat only departs when there are at least six passengers. To avoid delays, it’s best to team up with others. If you don’t have six people, you can always split the cost with whoever is there. If you’re traveling with a group, you can rent a private longtail boat for around 3,000 baht, which covers up to six people.
NOTE | Both public and private longtail boats run daily from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The Best Hong Island Tours from Krabi
Another option to reach Hong Island is by joining an organized tour. These tours are available by longtail boat or speedboat, with speedboats being slightly more expensive. However, taking a tour is the most cost-effective way if you want to visit multiple islands in one trip. Most tours include hotel transfers, lunch, and snorkeling gear, making them a great value.
You’ll find plenty of day tours from both Phuket and Krabi to Hong Island. You can book through your accommodation or by visiting one of the many tour booths around town. Keep in mind, that prices are often high, so be prepared to negotiate. For convenience, you can also book online through platforms like GetYourGuide or Viator to avoid the hassle of shopping around.
Group tour prices start at around 1,250 Thai Baht (~$35 ), but prices vary based on the boat type, group size, season, and activities included. Remember, the entrance fee for the national park is usually not included in the tour price. You’ll need to pay 300 Thai Baht in cash when you arrive at Koh Hong, so don’t forget to bring it!
If you want more flexibility, you can rent a private longtail boat from Ao Nang Beach or Klong Mueang Beach. This gives you the freedom to create your own itinerary, explore at your own pace, and start early to avoid the crowds.
Top Hong Island Tours from Krabi
➤ Private Luxury Longtail Boat Island Hopping Tour – Ideal for a romantic trip, this tour includes a picnic lunch on the beach with sparkling wine. You can choose from three different island routes.
➤ Group Hong Islands Day Trip by Speedboat – A great value option that includes transfers, lunch, and snorkeling. Kayaking is available for an extra fee.
➤ James Bond and Hong Islands Group Tour by Speedboat – This tour visits Hong Islands, Koh Yao Noi, and James Bond Island. You can swim, snorkel, and enjoy lunch on the beach, all while avoiding the crowds.
➤ Private Hong Island Tour by Longtail Boat + Sunset at Railay & Night Snorkel – Perfect for groups, this tour offers great value. Visit secluded beaches, snorkel, and enjoy lunch at a lesser-known island.
➤ Group Hong Islands Sunset BBQ Tour – Includes a beachside BBQ dinner at sunset and snorkeling with bioluminescence.
Hong Island National Park Fee
Since Hong Island is part of Than Bok Khorani National Park, there’s an entry fee. It costs 300 Baht for foreigners (adults) and 100 Baht for children (from age 3 to 13). The good news is, you can use this same ticket to visit other islands in Krabi on the same day, so you only pay the park fee once. If you’re going on a tour, make sure to double-check if the fee is included, as it usually isn’t. Be prepared with cash when you arrive.
The best time to visit Hong Island
The ideal time to visit Hong Island is during the dry season, from November to April. During these months, the weather is mostly sunny and perfect for outdoor activities like snorkeling and kayaking. However, the peak season runs from December to February, so expect bigger crowds and higher prices. Booking in advance is a good idea during this time. If you want to avoid the crowds, consider visiting in April/May or September/October. It’s less busy, and while there might be some rain, the showers usually pass quickly.
Is Hong Island worth visiting?
Absolutely, yes! Koh Hong is one of our favorite day trips in southern Thailand. It’s less than an hour away by boat from Krabi or nearby islands like Koh Yao Yai, making it a super easy and accessible destination. The boat ride itself is already an experience, especially in a traditional longtail boat. Once you arrive, you’ll be greeted by a paradise island with soft white sand, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking limestone formations. Don’t miss the chance to visit the secluded Hong Lagoon, which can only be reached by boat through a narrow opening and is famous for its emerald-green water.
What to bring to Hong Island?
Since it’s a remote island, you’ll want to pack a beach bag or day pack with some essentials. Keep in mind the hot and humid climate of Southeast Asia and pack lightweight, breathable clothes like cotton or linen. There’s a small restaurant and a beach shack on the island selling drinks and snacks, but prices are higher, so feel free to bring your own.
Here’s a quick list of what to bring:
- Light daypack (like one from Deuter)
- Dry bag for valuables
- Sunscreen (reef-safe if possible)
- Sunglasses ( his / hers )
- Sunhat or cap
- Beach towel
- Swimsuit or swim shorts
- Scarf for quick cover-ups
- Water (we recommend getting the following Reusable water bottle) & snacks
- Cash for the national park fee and extra snacks
- Snorkeling gear (check if your tour provides it; if not, you can rent gear on the island)
- Comfy beach slippers or sandals – We chose Birkenstocks ( his / hers ) for comfort instead of flip-flops, especially if you plan to walk around or hike to the viewpoint.
5 Fun things to do on Hong Island, Krabi
Hong Island is one of the most stunning places we’ve ever visited. Koh Hong may be small, but it’s packed with stunning scenery and activities. You can easily spend an entire day enjoying its beaches, lagoons, and viewpoints. The crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming, kayaking, and snorkeling, especially when the tide is high. If you’re into photography, you’ll love the views all around the island. Don’t miss the charming beach swing on the east side – it’s the perfect spot for some memorable photos!
Despite being a remote paradise, Hong Island has a few facilities, including a nature trail, a restaurant, a cute beach bar, and toilet facilities. Prices are a bit higher than on the mainland, but that’s expected on a tiny island within a national park.
1. Swimming and relaxing at the beach
Hong Island has two main areas, divided by a huge rock. At low tide, you can walk across a sandbank toward this rock. On one side is the boat landing area, where you’ll pay the entrance fee. The other side features the island’s main beach, which boasts soft white sand and crystal-clear water, ideal for swimming. Hong Island’s dramatic cliffs create a secluded atmosphere, with two beautiful bays and a viewpoint nearby.
When we arrived around 10 a.m., the beach was rather packed with people. However, the boats come and go all day, so the crowds started to thin out, leaving us on a nearly empty beach at some points. The water was incredibly clear, revealing white sand beneath the surface. Shoals of fish swam near the jetty as we strolled toward the beach, adding to the magical vibe.
2. Hong Island viewpoint
Though Koh Hong is small, it boasts an amazing viewpoint. It’s said to be the highest viewpoint in the Andaman Sea, and the views are truly jaw-dropping. The trail leading up is easy to follow, with a staircase taking you to the top. While it was hot and humid, the climb took us only about 15 minutes. If you’re reasonably fit, you can reach the top in under 30 minutes.
There are a few resting spots along the way where you can take in the view. Once at the top, you’ll be rewarded with a 360-degree panorama of the lagoon, surrounding islands, and Krabi’s iconic limestone cliffs. The green water below looks even more stunning from above. The effort to climb was totally worth it!
3. Hong Island Lagoon
One of Hong Island’s most magical spots is its lagoon. Surrounded by cliffs and mangroves, this shallow pool of emerald water is only accessible by longtail boat through a narrow rock opening. The lagoon can only be entered at high tide, as the water is shallow, and this is actually what gave the island its name – “Hong” means “room” or “cavern” in Thai.
Once inside, you feel like you’ve entered another world. The calm, turquoise water reflects the towering limestone cliffs, and at the far end, you’ll find a mangrove forest with its unique roots sticking out of the water. We only had about 10 minutes to admire the view and snap some pictures before heading to the beach, as we were traveling by longtail boat taxi. Even though the stop was brief, the beauty of the lagoon left a lasting impression.
4. Snorkelling at Hong Island
After hiking to the viewpoint, we spent the rest of the day lounging on the beach and swimming with tropical fish. The water around Hong Island is so clear, and we saw plenty of fish, especially the black-and-yellow striped ones. If you love snorkeling, this is the place for you. The best spot is on the left-hand side of the beach, near the viewpoint entrance, where you’ll find the most fish darting around the coral reefs.
It was our first time on a tropical island together and snorkeling with fish, which made the experience even more special. Feeling the fish swim around us was surreal and unforgettable. Now, we’re excited to explore more underwater worlds on future trips!
5. Kayaking & jungle hike
If you’re looking for something more active, you can explore Hong Island by kayak or take a short jungle hike. Kayaks are available to rent from the park’s headquarters. As you paddle through the tranquil waters, you’ll uncover hidden coves, towering limestone cliffs, and peaceful beaches, particularly near the entrance to Hong Lagoon.
For a change of pace, there’s a nature trail on the island where you can hike and take in the unique fauna and flora. This short 500-meter hike offers a great way to escape the sun and enjoy the island’s lush greenery and dramatic limestone formations.
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Accommodation Options
Since Koh Hong is part of a national park, there aren’t any hotels or resorts directly on the island. However, you can easily stay on the mainland in Krabi and take a day trip to Hong Island from there. Below are a few great accommodation choices across Krabi’s most popular areas:
Ao Nang Beach – Ao Nang is the go-to spot in Krabi, offering a wide range of accommodations and dining options. For a beachfront luxury experience, stay at Centara Ao Nang Beach Resort. For something more picturesque, the Ban Sainai Resort is perfect for those Instagram-worthy moments. Travelers seeking cozy stays can try @Aonang Guesthouse, while Pagi Pagi Villas offer a budget-friendly option.
Railay Beach – Famous for its stunning limestone cliffs, Railay Beach can only be accessed by boat, making it feel like a hidden gem. If you’re after a luxurious escape, the Rayavadee on Phra Nang Beach is a postcard-perfect paradise. For a mid-range choice, Railay Phutawan Resort is a great option, while Diamond Cave Resort is perfect for budget-conscious travelers.
Klong Muang Beach – If you prefer a quieter, less crowded beach a bit away from the popular Ao Nang, Klong Muang is the ideal spot. For a laid-back, yet elegant stay, check out the Nakamanda Resort. On a budget? Mukrada House Boutique Hometel Krabi offers great value in this peaceful area.
Tab Kaek Beach – Tubkaek Beach is known for its luxury resorts, including the ultra-luxurious Phulay Bay Ritz Carlton Reserve. However, there are also stunning beachfront options at other price points, such as Amari Vogue Krabi ($$$), Krabi Home Resort ($$), and Chanapha Residence ($).
Krabi Town – For a more authentic Thai experience, Krabi Town offers excellent budget-friendly options. The Krabi SeaBass Hotel and River Front Krabi Hotel are both affordable picks, offering comfort and convenience at great prices.
Hong Island vs. Phi Phi Islands
When deciding which island to visit as a day trip from Krabi, you’ll find plenty of options, and it can feel overwhelming when passing by all the tour booths. To help narrow it down, let’s focus on comparing Hong Island and the famous Phi Phi Islands. There are a few key differences to consider before making your choice.
Size and Scenic Beauty
The Phi Phi Islands consist of six islands, whereas Hong Island stands alone. Both destinations boast stunning natural backdrops, with iconic limestone cliffs and turquoise blue waters. So, when it comes to breathtaking scenery, you can’t go wrong with either. If you have the time, both are worth visiting during your stay in southern Thailand.
Popularity and Crowds
Phi Phi Islands are arguably one of the most famous spots in Thailand, particularly known for Maya Bay, the beach made famous by The Beach movie. This has made Phi Phi a hotspot for tourists, and you can expect larger crowds, especially at Maya Bay, which recently reopened to the public. If you’re hoping for a more tranquil experience, a day trip to Hong Island might be more your style.
Accommodation and Overnight Stays:
While both islands can be done in a day, Phi Phi is much larger. The Phi Phi Islands also offer accommodations, restaurants, and resorts, making it possible to stay overnight. In fact, staying at Phi Phi is a great idea if you want to enjoy the scenery once the day-trippers leave, offering a quieter experience in the early morning or evening.
Choosing the Right Experience:
Ultimately, it comes down to the kind of experience you’re seeking. If you want a serene day trip without the hassle of fighting for photo spots, Hong Island is the better option. If you’re up for a bit more adventure and don’t mind the crowds, Phi Phi Islands offer a more vibrant and expansive experience, with the option to stay longer.
Both islands are stunning in their own right, so whichever you choose, you’re in for a memorable adventure!
Thailand Travel Resources
TRANSPORTATION | To book bus, minivan, and train rides online, we recommend using the website 12go.Asia. This platform has been our go-to across Asia. If you’re traveling during peak season, book tickets ahead as some routes in Thailand can get booked out quickly.
ACCOMMODATION | Finding affordable places to stay in Thailand is a breeze with Booking.com. It’s the ideal platform to discover budget-friendly hostels and hotels.
FLIGHTS | Discover the best flight deals to Thailand on Skyscanner. Benefit from their feature highlighting the cheapest days to fly and the flexibility to search by month or region.
TRAVEL INSURANCE | When it comes to travel insurance, especially for backpacking in Thailand, consider Heymondo. It’s our top recommendation for comprehensive and trustworthy coverage. Get 5% OFF through our link.
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TOURS & ATTRACTIONS | For the best and most affordable tours, day trip excursions and cooking classes in Krabi, check out GetYourGuide or Viator.
VISA ORGANIZATION | Before your trip, ensure you check the visa requirements for your passport nationality. Explore details on travel documents at iVisa.com.
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