A boat trip to Hong Islands is one of the most amazing things you can do in Krabi! This small group of islands is known for its impressive limestone formations, stunning Emerald lagoon, and glorious beaches. We dare say Hong Islands are just as beautiful as Phi Phi Islands and Phang Nga Bay, with the advantage of being far less known by tourists.
Also read: Top 17 Most UNIQUE Things to Do in Krabi
The Hong Islands
The Hong Islands are part of an archipelago that comprises twenty-plus islands! Bordered by the provinces of Phang Nga in the north, Phuket in the west, and Krabi in the east, the islands are usually visited as part of a day tour from one of these locations. All of the islands are uninhabited and protected as part of a National Park.
Note: a National Park fee of 300 baht per adult is required to visit the archipelago.
How to Visit
The best way to visit is by hopping on a tour. This is the one we did from Krabi and we really recommend it, but if you want the place all to yourself, arranging a private longtail tour is the best option to avoid the crowds. Tours typically include round-trip transportation, snorkeling gear, and lunch. Speedboats and longtails are the primary modes of transportation to reach the island.
Note: there are no accommodations on the Hong Islands. Please check our Where to Stay in Krabi and Where to Stay in Phuket guides for hotel recommendations.
Koh Hong
Known as the “The Emerald of Krabi’s Sea”, Koh Hong is the biggest island in the group and also the most visited. Its main beach is shaped like a wing, and just like the famous Koh Phi Phi, an emerald-green lagoon hides in the heart of the island, which offers plenty to do!
Here are some of the must-dos on Koh Hong Island:
1. Hong Island’s Viewpoint
The most recent addition to the island, the 360º viewpoint offers panoramic views of the Krabi islands, Phang Nga Bay, and surrounding islands on the archipelago. We can guarantee that the 419 sweaty steps up there are worth it – this is arguably one of the best viewpoints in Thailand!
Tip: The way up takes around 20 minutes but it can be a bit challenging due to the heat. Make sure to bring some water!
2. The Hong Lagoon
Right at the heart of the island sits a gorgeous inland emerald lagoon, which can only be accessed through a very narrow opening between towering limestone cliffs. The Hong Lagoon is Koh Hong’s best-hidden secret!
Tip: You can access the lagoon by kayak or by boat, and most tours include both options.
3. Kayaking Exploring
Exploring Koh Hong’s coastline by kayak is a must-do activity! Paddle through the calm waters and discover hidden coves, limestone cliffs, and secluded beaches (make sure to visit the ones right before and after the entrance to the Hong Lagoon!).
4. Visit the Neighboring Islands
Most of the tours to the Hong Islands include a stop at these two other islands on the archipelago:
Koh Lao Lading: this small island located near Hong Island boasts a stunning beach! Unfortunately, the small beach is often occupied by tour boats, and the remaining half tends to be quite crowded so a private tour would be the most recommended for this island.
Koh Phakbia: just like the beautiful Tub Islands in Krabi, Koh Phakbia is also known for the sandbank that connects the two parts of the island. Of all the islands on the archipelago, this is the best for swimming and snorkeling.
Note: Koh Hong, Koh Lao Lading, and Koh Phakbia all offer public toilets and a small shadowed sitting area. There’s a small restaurant on Koh Hong and a small food stall on Koh Lao Lading.
5. Snorkeling on the Hong Islands
The snorkeling spots around the islands that are visited on a typical tour of the Hong Islands are honestly not the best – the bottom is mostly sandy with just a few corals and fish. Now, the island of Koh Daeng (Red Island), situated between Hong Islands and Krabi, is a great alternative that you can add to your itinerary!
Pro tip: If you’re based in Krabi and would like to do some snorkeling-focused tours, we would recommend reading the 4-Islands Tour in Krabi!
