By: Oli Gasparfull time traveler for 6 years. I visit every place I write about and share real tips, photos and advice from my travels.
Koh Nang Yuan is an iconic trio of islands connected by a thin stretch of white sand just 800 meters from Koh Tao in the Gulf of Thailand.
While visiting Nan Yuan is one of the best things to do on Koh Tao, you may be surprised to know that it is also accessible from Koh Samui or Koh Phangan, with options for day trips or even ferry stops on the way to Koh Tao.
Having spent a lot of time on Koh Tao with countless trips to Nan Yuan, I’ve put together this guide to simplify things. Here’s everything you need to know to get to Koh Nan Yuan from Koh Samui, Koh Phangan or Koh Tao.
How to get to Koh Nan Yuan from Koh Tao?
Getting to Koh Nan Yue from Koh Tao is easy as it is very close, just a 10 minute long boat ride.There are three main options I suggest.
- Longtail Boat Taxi:The most affordable and flexible option. Long tail boats are available from Sairee Beach and cost about 250-300 THB per person. You can often negotiate for 250 THB directly with the captains. The trip is quick and you can arrange your return time in advance.
- Snorkeling day tripMany tour operators offer full-day snorkeling tours that include a stop at Koh Nan Yuan. These trips usually include stops at other top spots around Koh Tao, and range from 800-1,500 THB to see more of the area, but check that the Koh Nang Yuan viewpoint hike is included if that’s on your list.
- Overnight at Koh Nang Yuan Dive ResortFor those looking to experience the island without the crowds, a stay at Koh Nang Yuan Dive Resort is ideal free return transfers from Koh Tao and you’ll have the island to yourself in the morning and evening after the day trippers depart at 5pm.Staying here also gives you access to some of Koh Tao’s best diving, right off the beach.
How to get to Koh Nan Yuan from Koh Samui?
It’s about Yuan 70 km from Koh Samuior a 1.5-hour speedboat ride away.So the trip will require some planning.Here are two main ways to get to Koh Nan Yuan, depending on whether you want a full-day adventure or an overnight stay.
Day trip from Koh SamuiThe easiest way to visit Koh Nan Yuan for a day is to book a full day diving and sightseeing tour. Most tours depart early from Samui’s Insea Speedboat Pier, which has convenient facilities and includes all the essentials for your day.
- What is included?Visiting the best snorkeling spots in Koh Tao, kayaking on the east coast of Koh Tao (during high season) and hiking to the iconic Koh Nan Yuan viewpoint.
- lunchA Thai-style buffet lunch on Koh Tao is usually included.
- Schedule:The day trip is designed to cover everything, making it a convenient option if you’re staying in Koh Samui but want to visit Koh Nan Yuan on an easy day trip.
Ferry transfer to LomprayaIf you’re also planning to visit Koh Tao, consider taking the Lompraya ferry. During high season, the Lompraya ferry from Samui offers a stop at Koh Nan Yuan on the way to Koh Tao (with a stop at Phangan on the way).
- How does it work?Check ferry details on booking platforms such as 12Go. If there is a stop at Koh Nan Yuan, the ferry will stop there first, allowing you to spend the day in Koh Nan Yuan before heading to Koh Tao in the afternoon.
- Flexible optionsYou can book a Lomprayah ticket directly to Koh Nan Yuan, enjoy your day there and then take the long boat to Koh Tao when you’re ready.Alternatively, you can spend the night at Koh Nang Yuan Dive Resort for a more relaxed experience , then depart for Koh Tao the next day.
How to get yuan from Koh Phangan?
Located about 45km (1 hour by speedboat) from Koh Phangan, Koh Nan Yuan can be reached via several great options, whether you’re planning a full-day snorkelling tour or a stopover on your way to Koh Tao, here’s how to get to Koh Tao Nan Yuan from Koh Phangan.
Snorkeling day tripSimilar to the Samu options, there are several full-day tours that visit Koh Nan Yuan and Koh Tao from Koh Phangan. This recommended tour visits the best snorkeling spots, making it a convenient way to experience all the highlights.
- Route:Begin with an air-conditioned transfer to Thong Sala Pier where you will enjoy a light breakfast before boarding the speedboat to Koh Tao.Your first snorkeling stop will be Lighthouse Bay, Mango Bay, Tanote Bay or Ao Hin Wong depending on the tides.
- Koh Nan YuanAfter exploring Koh Tao, you’ll head to Koh Nan Yuan, where you can hike to a viewpoint, take a dip in the Japanese garden’s reef, or relax on a sand dune.
- Lunch and returnA Thai dinner at a beach restaurant is included.After a day of snorkeling, hiking and sunbathing, you’ll be back in Koh Phangan by 4:30pm, depending on the weather.
Lomprayah ferry transferLike traveling from Koh Samui to Koh Phangan, those who will continue to Koh Tao can first take the Lompray ferry to Koh Nan Yuan. This is actually the same ferry.
Route:Samui > Phangan > Nan Yuan > Tao
- BookingCheck for ferry availability on 12Go or similar platforms as the Nang Yuan stop is seasonal and you should check.
- How? In the same way as I described for the trip from Koh Samui to Koh Nan Yuan, you will book a ferry ticket to Koh Nan Yuan, enjoy the island all day, then take a long boat to Koh Tao in the afternoon or stay overnight. In Koh Nan Yuan.
Reaches Nan Yuan from other parts of Thailand
If you are traveling from other parts of Thailand, you can use the Lompray ferry network to reach Koh Nan Yuan.
What I do is check the ferry route options on 12Go Asia.
However, as this is a very small island with limited accommodation, my recommended way to get to Koh Nan Yuan is to simply visit Koh Tao on a day trip. It is the most direct, flexible and easiest option.
Besides, staying in Koh Tao is worth it. this is one of the best places to explore in Thailand.
Where to stay on Koh Tao?
If you’re wondering where to stay on Koh Tao and want to be close to the main activities and beaches, choose a stay near Sairee Beach.
However, other great options include Mae Haad, or for a more secluded atmosphere, check out the southern beaches or even the east coast around Tanote Bay. Below are my top picks.
1. Jamakhiri Resort & Spa Luxury
A wonderful luxury dive resort in a quiet and secluded location on the beach of Shark Bay, away from the hustle and bustle.
2. Fandara Pool Villas Medium range
A luxury villa option for those who want their own kitchen and pool.Located on the hill to Wooden Rock Viewpoint.
3. Summer guest house Budget:
Located within walking distance of the dive shops and pubs on Saire Beach, this is the cheapest hostel option with a great atmosphere.
What to do in Koh Nang Yuan when you arrive?
Once you get to Koh Nan Yuan, there’s plenty to keep you busy.
- Go straight to the lookout pointIf you want to beat the crowds, take the direct path to the famous Koh Nang Yuan Viewpoint. It’s a short but steep climb up concrete steps, and the view from the top is one of the most iconic in Thailand.
- Snorkeling in Japanese gardensJust off the northern basin, this place has some of the healthiest corals in the area and tons of fish. I’ve seen everything from parrotfish to rays and even reef sharks here, and it’s a great place to snorkel, just remember; no fins or sail shoes are allowed.
- Relax at the SandbarThe connecting sandbank is the perfect place to cool off with clear water on either side.Bring a beach chair and umbrella (THB 100) for some shade if you plan to spend some time.
- Take a biteThere is a small restaurant and bar near the structure where you can get cold drinks and good Thai food.It’s not the cheapest or the best quality in my experience, but it does the trick for a post-surf break.
Hint: Note that Koh Nang Yuan is busy, so aim to do the lookout and snorkeling if you’re there early. After that, relax and enjoy the island. it is a unique place worth exploring.
Check out my guide to the best things to do on Koh Tao for unique adventures and hidden gems you won’t want to miss.