After almost a year on the island and many trips to Koh Tao, I can tell you that the best way to get from Koh Tao to Koh Nan Yuan is: taking a long boat taxi In Sair. It is the cheapest and fastest option and allows you to be flexible with your time.
However, there are other options worth considering. In this guide, I’ll cover all the ways to get to the island from Koh Tao, as well as give advice on where you can book your return ticket without breaking the bank.
From Koh Nang Yuan to Koh Tao. Overview:
Koh Nan Yuan is one of the most popular day trips from Koh Tao, and for good reason, the island is stunning, but it can get crowded.Here’s a quick overview of getting there, from options to key details to keep in mind.
- Access:Koh Nang Yuan is located about 800m off the northwest coast of Koh Tao and is only accessible by boat.
- IslandsConsisting of three small islands connected by a thin white sandbar (isthmus), Koh Nan Yuan is famous for its viewpoint hiking and wonderful snorkeling.
- Transportation optionsLong boat, snorkeling day trip or stay at Koh Nang Yuan Dive Resort (free return transfers).
- Opening hours:Open for day-trippers daily from 10 am to 5 pm.
- Entrance fee250 THB per person (National Park Fee).
- Strict rulesNo single use plastic, sailing shoes, fins or plastic water bottles are allowed (crew checks bags at the dock).
- Longtail Price:Around 250 THB per person round trip (read on for tips on where to book).
Note: The Lomprayah ferry doesn’t go to Nan Yuan from Koh Tao, but if you want to visit from Koh Samui or Koh Phangan, you can. Read my full guide on how to get to Koh Nan Yuan.
Option 1: Longtail Boat Taxi to Koh Nang from Yuan Sairee
Taking a long boat taxi from Sairee Beach is the best and cheapest way to get to Koh Nan Yuan. The standard price is currently 250 THB for the tour, although most boat captains will charge you 300 THB initially, so be prepared to negotiate a bit.
Where to book? Although many tourist shops and hostels will offer to book your long tail, in my experience it is better to go directly to the boat captains on the beach. near, right next to Do you have a therapeutic massage? (look for it on your left, towards the beach).
Tips for booking with the captain.
- His sign advertises THB 300 per person, but he is flexible and will almost always agree 250 THB per round trip if you ask
- You can book as a solo traveler or in a group and he is usually flexible with return times, so just let him know when you would like to return and he will arrange to pick you up from Koh Nan Yuan Pier.
- You will receive a “ticket” with the boat number on it.When you want to return to Koh Tao from Koh Nan Yuan, show this ticket to the boat drivers at the pier and they will direct you to the correct boat.
- For the best experience, I suggest departure at 9:40 to arrive when the island opens at 10am, giving you a chance before the crowds arrive.
Most of the time I only went with Hylea and we left right away without waiting to fill the boat.The captain will only take a few people on board if you are there early so it is a very convenient option.
The journey takes just 10 minutes to get to Koh Nan Yuan from Koh Tao, with scenic views of western Koh Tao on the way.Look to the right on the mountain as you approach to spot the epic boulder of the Top Point Viewpoint.
Hint: If you’re staying at one of the more remote hotels on the island, it’s worth asking them to arrange a trip as often as they’ll give you transport. Read my guide to the best places to stay on Koh Tao.
Option 2: Book a Koh Tao & Koh Nang Yuan Snorkeling Trip
If you’re looking for a full day to explore Koh Tao’s best snorkeling spots with the added convenience of all-inclusive, a snorkeling tour that includes Koh Nang Yuan is a good option.
Many boats offer snorkeling trips, but for the best experience I would recommend booking a reputable tour online in advance.You can also book through your hotel or hostel, but again, there are often price markups.
My recommended tour. I especially like the snorkeling tour, which offers a nice, shaded boat that’s never too crowded, which is a big plus when you’re out on the water all day, and meals are included, which is great value and lets you focus on the experience :
Typical stops: Most snorkeling tours visit Koh Nan Yuan as well as some of the best snorkeling spots on Koh Tao including:
However, please note that stops may vary depending on weather conditions.
This is a good option if you want to make the most of your time without worrying about logistics. Many of these tours also include a Koh Nang Yuan viewpoint hike, so be sure to check out what’s included. It’s a great way to spend the day if you want explore Koh Tao’s highlights right from the boat.
Option 3: Stay at Koh Nang Yuan Dive Resort (free transfers from Koh Tao)
If you want to escape for a night or two, staying at Koh Nang Yuan Dive Resort is a great option.
Not only you get FREE return transfers from Koh Tao is included, but staying here means you don’t have to worry about arranging transport or haggling over prices.In my opinion, if you have the time and plan to visit Koh Nan Yuan anyway, it’s worth staying overnight.
Why stay here? – The best part about staying on the island is that it will be all to yourself after the day trippers return at 5pm. The early mornings and late afternoons become quiet and peaceful, giving you the perfect opportunity to see the sunset in plain sight. of the crowd
Also, as it’s a dive resort, it’s also one of the best places to learn to dive or try a scuba diving course. You’ll find yourself in one of Koh Tao’s best dive sites, well protected and ideal for beginners, with the reef only a stone’s throw from your room. is a few steps away.
Are there other ways to get to Koh Nan Yuan from Koh Tao?
The three main options, long tail boat, snorkeling day trip or staying at Koh Nang Yuan Dive Resort, are essentially the only ways to get to Koh Nang Yuan from Koh Tao.
There are no regular ferries or public transport options directly between the two islands, so all transport depends on these private or organized boat routes.
I have tried kayak to Koh Nang Yuan After renting one from Dusit Buncha Resort on the north end of Koh Tao (my favorite sunset on Koh Tao) but they wouldn’t let me go to the island unfortunately so this one is off limits.
Hint: If you are visiting Koh Tao after Koh Samui or Koh Phangan, the Lomprayah ferry usually stops at Koh Nang Yuan before disembarking at Mae Haad on Koh Tao. A popular option is to visit Koh Nang Yuan on the way to Koh Tao. You can order directly on the 12Go website.
Check out my guide to the best things to do in Koh Tao for unique adventures and hidden gems you won’t want to miss.Oh, and if you haven’t made it to the island yet, here are some tips for getting to Koh Tao easily and affordably.