Hong Islands, the wild jewel
If you've ever seen photos of turquoise lagoons surrounded by vertical cliffs in Thailand, chances are it's Koh Hong. The island is aptly named: "hong" means "room" in Thai, because the lagoon is literally enclosed within the island, accessible via a single canal.
Inside, emerald water, mangroves, total silence when the boat stops. It’s a “cathedral” effect that you don’t find anywhere else in the Andaman Sea.
Railay as a bonus
The Railay peninsula is a little world apart:
- Railay West: postcard beach, longtails lined up, legendary sunset
- Phra Nang Beach: the princess's cave, traditional offerings
- Railay East: mangrove, less swimming, more bars
- Tonsai: the spot for climbers, backpacker atmosphere
Our excursion targets Railay West + Phra Nang in 1h30 — just what you need to taste. If you want more, consider sleeping at Railay for 1-2 nights.
Our tip: Hong Islands + sunset in Railay is the perfect combo. We shift the excursion (10 a.m. → 5 p.m.) and you finish with a sunset at the Last Bar at Tonsai Beach. Ask me.
Detailed programme
9h00
Departure Ao Nang
Boarding, safety briefing.
9h45
Lagoon Koh Hong
Entrance into the closed lagoon, emerald waters, swimming.
10h45
Pakbia Island — snorkel
Very fishy reef, top visibility.
11h45
Lading Island + Lunch
Lunch on a secluded beach, free time.
13h30
Railay West & Phra Nang
Docking at Railay, visit Phra Nang Cave, swimming.
15h00
Chicken Island (bonus snorkel)
If the weather is ok, bonus snorkeling.
16h00
Return to Ao Nang
Landing.
Included / Not included
Included
- Shared speedboat (max 16 pax) or private longtail
- Driver + assistant
- Hong Islands National Park Fees
- Lunch on the beach (pad thai, rice, fruit)
- Water + soft + fruit on board
- Snorkeling equipment
Not included
- Hotel transfer (+ 200 THB / person)
- Railay climbing (provide dedicated session)
- Tips