Hong Island

Hong Island, at less than a kilometer long and wide, is quite a small island in comparison to many in Phang Nga Bay. This lovely island in idyllic setting is located about half the distance between Ko Yao Yai Island on the west and the Nong Thale Sub district in Krabi Province. There are many picture-perfect beaches located around the island’s perimeter. Though the island is small, its unique shape gives it a very long coastline. This tiny island has over five kilometers of coastline and has land area of 365,000+ Sq m.

The beaches and water are clean, and make for excellent snorkeling, so bring your snorkeling gear. You can probably rent snorkeling equipment on the boat you take to Hong Island or bring your own. Kayaking, swimming, free-diving and island exploring are the main activities. If you have a Frisbee or something else to throw on the beach, bring it by all means. This is a fairly popular location, so it won’t be your own little private oasis but it’s worth a trip if you’re going to be close-by. The opening into the big lagoon is fantastic with sheer limestone karst-like cliffs towering above your boat.

There are no accommodation on Koh Hong and the island doesn’t have any permanent residents. Wildlife includes a wide assortment of birds, gibbons, lizards, geckos, skinks and butterflies. Mornings are best to avoid the bulk of the crowds.

There are no shops, markets, restaurants or food stalls on Hong Island, it is as natural as it gets. Bring picnic food in your backpack and be sure to check with the tour boat you’re traveling with as some offer lunch and snacks included with the fees.

Tour Companies for Hong Island Day Trips:
– Phuket All Tours (www.phuketalltours.com) offers Kayak (sea canoe) trips through Hong Island. Fee includes round-trip from hotel, lunch, snacks and free soda. See Hong and Panak islands. Schedule: 10 am. to 7 pm. they provide approved guides, and a tour includes life jacket and insurance.
– John Gray Sea Canoe (www.johngray-seacanoe.com) – Hong by Starlight Tour. Includes light lunch, dinner, and sunset on Phang Nga Bay. Schedule: 11:30 am. pickup; 10 pm. drop off at hotel.