Ko Hong, often called Hong Island, is a small group of limestone islands north of Ao Nang that make up one of the best-loved marine areas on the coast. The name means room in Thai, and the central island lives up to it: a sheltered lagoon rings with tall cliffs, with water so clear and calm that it looks like a swimming pool. Around it are beaches, viewpoints and reef where snorkellers see colourful fish. The Viator speedboat tour from Ao Nang, rated 4.5 from 73 reviews, picks you up from your hotel around 9 a.m., runs about six hours in total, and visits Hong Island several times along with Ko Lao Lading. It includes a mini lunch buffet, fruit and snacks, soft drinks and water, and snorkelling gear, with a maximum group of 35. Kayaking is an optional extra. National park entrance fees are paid at check-in and are not part of the ticket, and the tour page lists a private option for groups who prefer their own boat.
What you do: after the boat ride you drop anchor at the lagoon, swim or snorkel in water that is calm even when the open sea is choppy, and move on to a second stop with a beach and a short walk. Ko Lao Lading is the free stop of the day, with a small beach and a rock formation nearby. Bring a camera that tolerates water, a long-sleeved rash guard for the sun and some cash for the park fee and any kayak upgrade.
Speedboat or longtail: the speedboat saves time and gets you to the lagoon before it fills, while a longtail is quieter and slower and takes more of the day. Some Hong tours include several stops across the group of islands, so check the itinerary for how many beaches you get rather than comparing price alone. If you want fewer people, the small-group and private options cost more but give you time at each stop that the large boats cannot.
Timing and weather: the dry season from November to March gives the best visibility. Boats in the monsoon months from May to October are often cancelled when the sea is rough, so always read the refund terms. Pair Hong with a sunset kayak at Ao Thalane or a rest day on Railay, because it is a long, sunny outing and an easy one to overdo. If you have two island days, do Hong on one and Four Islands or Phi Phi on the other for a good contrast between a lagoon and a coast.
What to expect
The experience
A guided speedboat day trip from Ao Nang with hotel pickup, a lagoon swim, snorkelling, a mini buffet lunch and stops at Hong Island and Ko Lao Lading.
Best time
November to March for calm seas and clear water; go midweek when boats are fewer.
How long
About six hours including roughly an hour and a quarter of boat travel.
Tips
Pay the park fee in cash at check-in, wear a rash guard, apply sunscreen before you board and ask about the optional kayak.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Swimmers and snorkellers who want calm, clear water and a postcard lagoon.
- Families
- Fine for older children who can swim; the speedboat ride can be bumpy for toddlers.
- Couples
- Splash out on the private option for a quiet lagoon swim and a leisurely day.
- Pair with
- Ao Thalane sunset kayaking, a Railay rest day and a cooking class.
- Time needed
- A full morning and early afternoon.
Good questions
How far is Hong Island from Ao Nang?+
It is roughly 45 minutes by speedboat. The tour page lists about an hour and a quarter of total boat travel across the day.
Is the national park fee included?+
No, the fee is paid in cash at check-in and is not part of the ticket. Check the current amount with the operator before you go.
Is Hong Island better than Phi Phi?+
It is quieter and calmer, with a hidden lagoon and clear water, while Phi Phi is bigger and more famous. Many travellers do both on separate days.
Can I kayak at Hong Island?+
Yes, kayaking is an optional extra on the tour, paid on the day. Ask your guide to arrange it when you board.
Is the tour private?+
The standard tour is a shared group with a maximum of 35 travellers. A private Hong Islands tour is also listed on the same page for groups.
