How to Visit Koh Nang Yuan, Thailand: Best Tips, Costs & Things to Know

How to visit Koh Nang Yuan, Thailand? If you’re planning a trip to this stunning trio of islets near Koh Tao, you’re in for a breathtaking experience. Known for its crystal-clear waters, soft white sands, and incredible snorkeling and diving opportunities, Koh Nang Yuan is a must-visit destination in Thailand. However, visiting this private island comes with specific rules, entrance fees, and transportation options that every traveler should know in advance. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to plan your trip, from how to get there and the best time to visit to essential travel tips and activities you shouldn’t miss.

Where is Koh Nang Yuan?

Koh Nang Yuan is a small island located off the northwest coast of Koh Tao, in the Gulf of Thailand. It consists of three tiny islets connected by sandbanks that emerge above the turquoise waters, creating one of the most iconic landscapes in Thailand.

📍 Location: About 15 minutes by boat from Koh Tao
🚤 Nearest Island: Koh Tao (1.5 km away)
✈️ Nearest Airport: Koh Samui Airport (USM)

Since it is a privately owned island, visitors must adhere to specific rules, including entrance fees and restricted activities (such as not bringing plastic bottles).

How to Get to Koh Nang Yuan

From Koh Tao (The Easiest Option)

The best way to visit Koh Nang Yuan is by taking a short longtail boat ride from Koh Tao.

• Travel Time: ~15 minutes
• Cost: 250–400 THB per boat (round trip)
• Where to Book: Directly at Sairee Beach or Mae Haad Pier

Alternatively, if you're staying at a dive resort in Koh Tao, they often include a trip to Koh Nang Yuan in their dive packages.

From Koh Samui or Koh Phangan

If you’re staying in Koh Samui or Koh Phangan, you’ll need to take a ferry to Koh Tao first.

• Ferry Operators: Lomprayah, Seatran Discovery
• Duration: 1.5 to 2.5 hours
• Cost: 600–800 THB per person

Once in Koh Tao, you can hire a longtail boat to reach Koh Nang Yuan.

From the Mainland (Chumphon or Surat Thani)

Travelers coming from Bangkok or other mainland destinations can take a ferry from Chumphon or Surat Thani to Koh Tao and follow the same route.

• Ferry Time: ~3-4 hours
• Cost: ~800-1,000 THB

Koh Nang Yuan Entrance Fee & Rules

Since Koh Nang Yuan is a privately owned island, there are specific rules you must follow:

✔️ Entrance Fee: 250 THB per person
✔️ Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
❌ No Plastic Bottles Allowed (Bring a reusable water bottle)
❌ No Drones Allowed (Unless special permission is granted)
✔️ Only One Restaurant Available (Prices are higher than on Koh Tao)

💡 Pro Tip: Visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds, as many group tours arrive between 10:30 AM and 3:00 PM.

Best Time to Visit Koh Nang Yuan

The best time to visit Koh Nang Yuan is during the dry season (December to April) when the seas are calm and visibility is excellent for snorkeling and diving.

🌞 High Season (December – April): Best weather, but also the most crowded
🌧️ Rainy Season (May – November): Fewer tourists, but some days may be rainy and choppy.

Things to Do in Koh Nang Yuan

Hike to the Koh Nang Yuan Viewpoint

The most famous viewpoint on Koh Nang Yuan offers a stunning panoramic view of the three connected islands.

• Hiking Time: 10-15 minutes
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate (some steep steps)
• Best Time to Go: Early morning before 10 AM for fewer crowds

Snorkeling at Koh Nang Yuan

Koh Nang Yuan is famous for some of the best snorkeling in Thailand, with vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life.

Best Snorkeling Spots:
🐠 Nang Yuan Pinnacle: One of the top diving/snorkeling spots in the Gulf of Thailand
🐢 Japanese Gardens: Shallow reef, perfect for beginners
🦑 Twin Peaks: Great for spotting colorful fish and occasional reef sharks

💡 Tip: Bring your own snorkeling gear to avoid rental fees.

Scuba Diving Around Koh Nang Yuan

Several dive schools in Koh Tao offer dive trips to Koh Nang Yuan’s famous underwater sites.

• Best Dive Sites: Green Rock, Red Rock, and Japanese Gardens
• Visibility: 10-30 meters (depending on the season)

Relax on the Sandbank Beach

The island’s sandbank beach changes shape depending on the tide, making it one of the most unique natural wonders in Thailand.

💡 Tip: The sandbank can get very hot under the sun, so bring sandals or reef shoes!

Enjoy a Drink at the Koh Nang Yuan Restaurant

The only restaurant on the island offers Thai and Western food, along with fresh coconuts and fruit shakes.

💰 Prices: Higher than on Koh Tao (~150–300 THB per dish)
⏳ Best Time to Eat: Before noon or after 2 PM to avoid the lunch rush

Where to Stay Near Koh Nang Yuan

While staying overnight on Koh Nang Yuan is generally not permitted (unless you book the exclusive Nangyuan Island Dive Resort), nearby Koh Tao offers a variety of accommodations to suit different budgets. Here are some highly-rated options:​

Budget-Friendly

Koh Tao Silver Na’s Hostel (Sairee Beach)
Ranked as one of the best hostels in Koh Tao, this place is praised for its cleanliness, friendly staff, and welcoming social atmosphere. Guests describe it as a “beautiful homey hostel, super clean and comfy. Book here.

Wonderland Jungle Hostel
This hostel is known for its laid-back vibe, great location, and friendly staff. Guests often say they were hesitant to leave because of the warm atmosphere. Book here.

Mid-Range

MAR24 Koh Tao Hotel
A small, well-managed hotel offering great value for money. Guests appreciate the clean rooms, excellent service, and quiet yet convenient location. Book here.

Mae Ya Resort
Highly rated for its breathtaking views and helpful owners. Guests love the spacious rooms, private balconies, and peaceful surroundings. Book here.

Luxury

Ecotao Lodge
A beautiful eco-lodge nestled in the hills, offering panoramic views and tranquility. Guests praise the large rooms, stunning scenery, and attentive service. Book here.

The AVA Resort Koh Tao
A luxurious and peaceful resort known for its elegant suites and relaxing ambiance. Guests frequently highlight the serene setting and comfortable accommodations. Book here.

Essential Travel Tips for Koh Nang Yuan

✅ Bring reef-safe sunscreen (regular sunscreen is banned)
✅ Arrive before 10 AM to avoid crowds
✅ Bring cash (no ATMs on the island)
✅ Wear light clothes and a hat for the hike
✅ Stay hydrated – reusable water bottles are recommended
✅ If you want to avoid the entrance fee, book a diving tour with a Koh Tao dive shop.

Final Thoughts

Koh Nang Yuan is a breathtaking destination that offers everything from world-class snorkeling and diving to stunning viewpoints and unique sandbanks. Whether you're coming from Koh Tao, Koh Samui, or Koh Phangan, planning your trip in advance will help you make the most of this paradise.