Banyan Tree hotels in Ko Yao Yai

Ko Yao Yai may be the larger and more populated of Thailand's two Ko Yao islands, but it is still less developed than its neighbour, Ko Yao Noi. Even though over a dozen guesthouses and resorts have now popped up on Ko Yao Yai, farming and fishing still rank far above tourism in the ways the friendly locals earn their living. Rubber plantations, coconut groves, and villages filled with stilted wooden homes are the dominant scenes along the smooth main road.

Like its neighbour, Ko Yao Noi, motorcycling and beach-hopping are Ko Yao Yai's two main attractions.

During low tide, the calm and shallow bays next to most of the island's narrow beaches of white sand turn into mud flats. Loh Paret, a beach on the island's west coast, offers superb swimming all day long and spectacular sunsets. Some beaches also allow snorkelling.

A steep path through a rubber tree plantation between the piers of Klong Hia and Chong Lad leads to the Ko Yao viewpoint, which offers the best views of the entire island. Local operators also offer private mangrove and karst island kayaking excursions. A jet-ski operation has recently been added next to ATV off-roading, agricultural tours, and fishing excursions on Ko Yao Yai's growing list of outdoor activities.

Most Ko Yao Yai eating and drinking opportunities are located in the island's resorts. Aside from a coffee bar which serves Italian and American food, freshly caught seafood and traditional Thai cuisine are the most common menu items. A single liquor store recently opened close to Chong Lad village.

There is only one major shop on the island of Ko Yao Yai, and a handful of other places to shop in neighbouring Ko Yao Noi.