Koh Nang Yuan is, hands down, one of the most scenic islands you can visit in Thailand. The island used to be one of those that you just hopped on from Koh Tao or Koh Samui, but it has now become a standalone hub of fun, amazing experiences, and a beach time. Five things are most wondrous about Koh Nang Yuan that attract visitors from all over – the WOW beaches, viewpoint, snorkeling, diving, and rock jumping.
The viewpoint
Most tourists swear by the breathtaking panorama that awaits hikers on the island. The best adventure is to hike to the top of Koh Nang Yuan for the jaw-dropping view that covers the entire island chain and neighboring Koh Tao. Not to mention that the hike is pretty easy and fast, taking around 20 minutes to reach at most. The concrete path and the few stairs that lead to the top are pretty easy, even for the beginners.
The beaches
Koh Nang Yuan is, in fact, an island chain of two larger islands and one tiny isle in between, all connected by a strip of powder-soft sands. The scenery is otherworldly, making Koh Nang Yuan one of the most Instagrammable places. You would think much of the view too when you see how the natural rocky boulders align up in and around the waters at Koh Nang Yuan for an exquisite feel. Simply lazing on the beach will not leave you disappointed either. Soak in the entire beautiful landscape from any of the three beaches. You get to sight the lush vegetation and fascinating waters from different locations as you stroll the white sands of Koh Nang Yuan. Paradise is right here all around you.
Snorkeling & Diving
The waters around Koh Nang Yuan stay crystal clear and calm almost all year round. That is probably why this is one of the best snorkeling locations in all of Thailand. One of the most popular snorkeling spots in Koh Nang Yuan is the aquamarine waters of the Japanese Garden. This small bay is surrounded by granite boulders of the east side of Koh Nang Yuan, and it is the ultimate snorkeling spot. Japanese Garden is also a delight for divers, especially beginner divers, so that you can take your scuba gear along too. The reason for that is not far-fetched – seeing as there are hundreds of beautiful fishes to see underwater, an intact coral reef, the right depth, and tide.
Kayaking & Rock Jumping
With an extensive coral reef and beautiful appeal for you to stare at, you don’t need to go below to enjoy time around the waters. Koh Nang Yuan is famed for being one of the best places for some watersports too. From kayaking to enjoying fast-paced boat tours around the island on the water, the fun is almost endless. The more adventurous tourists can enjoy the rock jumping at diverse locations across the island. Even if you haven’t tried this before, you can get started at any of the Twin Pinnacle or Japanese Greenhouses.
Getting to Koh Nang Yuan
Travelers will love the ease with which you can get to Koh Nang Yuan. If you are staying on any of the neighboring islands, such as Koh Tao, Koh Phangan or Koh Samui, we recommend booking a day trip boat tour so that you can see the beauty of this island and come back to your main island for the night. No matter why and how you find yourself here, though, the fun stays the same. Lest we forget, you might not have to pack your food with you if you feel like eating the local delicacies. Since the island comes with a resort/ restaurant of its own, they take care of all feeding needs while there. Note that the food can get pricey too, which is common in a case like this.
When having your fun, though, be sure to engage in all activities of choice before 5 pm. Being a private island, the authorities of Koh Nang Yuan will close its doors to all tourists at this time. It is, thus, a little surprise why we recommend that you book a tour which takes you there early enough (from 9 am – 10 am) so that you can get the best of your Koh Nang Yuan experience. Otherwise, when in Thailand and around this incredible location, know that Koh Nang Yuan is one place you don’t want to leave without exploring.