How to Make the Most of a Day Island

Thailand is a wonderful country and an obvious destination to visit in Asia. The sights, sounds, and sea all contribute to the attraction of so many people to Thailand every year, and it is little wonder that the country is among the top ten most visited in the world. While the plethora of fun activities, iconic landmarks, and amazing food are all part of the appeal, many travellers visit the country, especially the southern regions, to experience island-hopping excursions as well. Island-hopping from Ao Nang is one of the most rewarding ways to experience southern Thailand. With careful planning, you can enjoy a full day exploring multiple islands without feeling rushed, especially if you are lodging at one of the Ao Nang hotels.

Choosing the Right Islands

The first step in planning your day is deciding which islands to visit, because the number of islands may overwhelm you if you have no plan. Some of the most popular destinations include Koh Poda, Railay Beach, Thale Waek, as well as the Phi Phi Islands for longer trips. Koh Poda is just 8 km off Ao Nang and has gorgeous white sandy beaches and clear waters ideal for swimming and snorkelling. Thale Waek, also known as the “Separated Sea,” is famous for its sandbanks that appear at low tide, connecting islands such as Ko Kai, Ko Thap and Ko Mo. Lodging at a central location, such as Avani Ao Nang, makes the process quite smooth and easy, especially with the support of the staff.

Selecting Your Boat

The type of boat you choose for these island-hopping adventures will also play a part in terms of your level of comfort and the speed at which they travel. Choosing a longtail boat, for example, is a great option, but they are generally slower and feel more ancient, while giving you a more relaxed experience. Selecting one of the speedboats and private tours, on the other hand, is faster and more comfortable, allowing you to cover more ground in a day. Some resorts can even arrange trusted local operators for both private and shared tours, ensuring safety and reliability at all times. Travel times vary according to the boat and distance. Koh Poda or Thale Waek are usually 20–30 minutes away, while Phi Phi Islands require a longer trip.

Planning Your Itinerary

The next important aspect when it comes to island-hopping is the planning of the times and sequence of events for the day. A good approach to getting the most out of your time would be to start each day as early as possible, especially to take advantage of cooler temperatures and calmer waters. Begin with the farthest islands or the ones you most want to explore, then move closer to Ao Nang later in the day. Starting with an island like Koh Poda, for example, which is ideal for swimming and snorkelling, then visiting Thale Waek for sandbank exploration at low tide. Railay Beach is an excellent place for a leisurely lunch and some sightseeing, including cliff walks and caves. 

Budget Considerations

When planning your trip, it’s always important to sit down and think about your budget. The total cost of island-hopping can change depending on things like the type of boat you choose, how many people are in your group, and whether you prefer a shared or private trip. Traditional longtail boats tend to be more affordable, though they move more slowly and offer fewer comforts than speedboats, which are faster but cost a bit more. You’ll also want to keep some extra money aside for small park or entrance fees that many islands charge. These small charges can add up over the day if you plan to visit several spots.

Snorkelling and Water Safety

One of the key aspects to look forward to during island-hopping adventures is the chance to snorkel. Be sure to always follow your guides’ instructions regarding safe entry points, currents, as well as the areas to avoid. Be sure always to use reef-safe sunscreen, as it protects both your skin and the delicate marine ecosystem in and around Thailand.