Ko Yao Noi

Ko Yao Noi lies approximately 50 kilometres from both Phuket and Phang Nga town, separated from its larger sibling Ko Yao Yai by a narrow sound to the south. The island's population of roughly 18,000 people across both Ko Yao islands is predominantly Muslim, with the community tracing its roots partly to Moken sea-gypsy peoples and Malay migrants who settled here between the 17th and 18th centuries. Limestone karst towers emerging from the surrounding bay provide a dramatic backdrop visible from the island's beaches and rice paddies. Ko Yao Noi has more tourist facilities than Ko Yao Yai, though both islands maintain a slow-paced rural character with limited development. The island is accessible by longtail boat from Bang Rong Pier on Phuket's northeast coast, a journey of approximately 30 minutes.