Island hopping off Thailand’s west coast

Itinerary

Itinerary:
Bangkok - Phuket - Koh Yao Yai - Ko Lanta - Ko Hai - Ao Nang - Krabi
Duration:
14 days / 13 nights (flexible)
Price:
From £ 1,599.- per person (excluding flights)
When to go:
November - April

Just off Thailand’s west coast lie picture-postcard tropical islands, encircled by white sand beaches and clear waters. It can be tricky to decide which island to stay on, but why choose just one when you can island hop between several? This two-week itinerary hops between four different beaches where you’ll have the opportunity to snorkel, learn how to cook Thai food, and just simply relax.

The best time to visit these islands, and Thailand’s west coast, is between November and March when dry, sunny weather is the order of the day. If you’re planning a trip between May and August, we’d recommend our East Coast island hopping roundtrip.

Ko Hai beachfront bungalow accommodation

Days 1-3 – Bright lights of Bangkok

You will arrive at the airport in Bangkok to find our local agent waiting for you in the arrivals hall. During your transfer, you’ll get your first taste of the unmistakably Thai atmosphere. You’ll stay in a boutique hotel close to the Chao Phraya River and only a 10-minute walk to the famous Khao San Road.

On your first full day, you will get to know the city more authentically, uncovering its hidden side. Wander through small alleyways and learn about guardian spirits and amulets at local markets with a local guide, visit the famous Giant Swing and take in the Buddhist culture and history found around every corner. Later that afternoon you will explore Bangkok’s maze of canals or Klongs, visiting a canal-side artist community, art studios and galleries. Marvel at the magnificent Wat Arun also known as the Temple of Dawn and the 17th century Wat Po. The afternoon ends in style as you take in the view from a rooftop bar overlooking the Chao Phraya River and across to the glistening Wat Arun.

On your final day in Bangkok, you will board a domestic flight from Bangkok to Phuket.

Days 4-6 – Secret islands and snorkelling lagoons

After a transfer and ferry ride, you’ll arrive on the idyllic island of Ko Yao Yai, located between Krabi and Phuket. We’ve found a quiet, white sandy beach with palm trees and a small resort with air-conditioned bungalows. On the second day, you’ll be taken on a boat trip around the bay to various hidden lagoons, deserted beaches and remote snorkelling spots. The resort has its own open-air restaurant, serving up local delights, including fantastic fresh fish caught daily. In the evening you can relax beside the beach and gaze at the stars.

Days 6-8 – Discover the flavours of Ko Lanta

Take the ferry from Ko Yao Yai to the island of Ko Lanta. On arrival, make your own way to your resort, which is about 25 mins from the ferry port. You’ll stay in a comfortable bungalow resort situated on a quiet stretch of coast. During your stay in Ko Lanta, you’ll have the opportunity to get a real taste of Thailand on a half-day cooking class. You’ll be picked up from your resort and transferred to the class ready for a 4 pm start. In a small group, you’ll be taught about the exotic herbs and secret spices that make Thai cuisine so delicious. The class finishes around 9.30 pm after you’ve enjoyed the food you’ve helped to cook, and you’ll be transferred back to your resort. Profits from the cookery school go to Lanta Animal Welfare.

The rest of your time on the island is free for you to do as you please. Your resort is the perfect spot for some rest and relaxation. You’ll find a good-sized swimming pool and a restaurant serving up a tasty array of Thai and European food. Your bungalow is en-suite and fully air-conditioned. In the evenings you can take a short walk to the beach and watch the sun sink slowly beneath the horizon.

Days 8-11 – Ko Hai island escape

Time for some serious R&R, on a paradise island with picture-perfect beaches. You’ll start out in the town of Trang where we’ll arrange your transport by bus and boat to the dozens of islands surrounded by clear blue water that make up the Trang archipelago. You’ll spend three nights on Ko Hai, away from the tourist throngs. This peaceful island has idyllic beaches and warm clear blue waters; a snorkelling paradise. At night you’ll sleep in a charming, comfortable bungalow on the beach. As you stand out on your own private veranda you’ll look out upon a long white sandy beach.

Days 11-13 – Relax on Ao Nang, Krabi

The final tropical beach on this island hopping itinerary is Ao Nang in Krabi. From Ko Hai you’ll take the ferry to Trang and then transfer by car to the beach in Ao Nang. Here you’ll stay in a comfortable hotel with a swimming pool, that’s near the beach. There are plenty of restaurants and shops within a stones throw. You can take day trips to surrounding islands where you can snorkel, or canoe by the mangroves. You are also very close to the well-known Railay Bay.

Day 13 – Departure

After one final dip in the sea, check out of your beach resort and head to Krabi airport for a flight to Bangkok, where you’ll pick up your flight home.