Looking for a special day trip in Krabi? The Hong Islands are a must-see. Think hidden beaches, crystal-clear water, and stunning viewpoints you won’t forget.
In just 20-25 minutes by longtail boat, you’ll reach a place full of nature, beauty, and photo-worthy spots. From snorkeling among colorful fish to relaxing on the beach with a fresh coconut or shake, there’s a little something for everyone.
Curious to see what makes the Hong Islands so special? Scroll down to discover all the highlights and more details!
The Hong trip has 4 special stops
Hong Island - The Main Beach
Hong Island has a main beach where you can climb up to an amazing viewpoint. The climb has 420 steps, leading to one of the most beautiful 360-degree views in the area. Along the way, there are three resting points. People over 60 years old have also made it to the top.
From personal experience, Leon has climbed this viewpoint five times already – “Every time, I’m amazed by the view!”
On the island, there’s a local Thai restaurant serving a variety of snacks, and a stand with refreshing shakes, ice cream, coconuts, and good coffee.
The beach itself is clean and well-kept. You can spend plenty of time here, surrounded by tall, impressive rocks and stunning turquoise water. It’s recommended to bring towels, a wallet, and snorkeling gear if you want.
Phak Bia:
A smaller beach, it can be a bit crowded but very beautiful, so it’s not worth missing. Mainly good for swimming, with amazing photos between rocks and pretty small fish. This is also where you stop to eat.
Phak Bia:
A smaller beach, it can be a bit crowded but very beautiful, so it’s not worth missing. Mainly good for swimming, with amazing photos between rocks and pretty small fish. This is also where you stop to eat.
Lao Lading Island:
A special bay, a small and beautiful beach, a paradise among tall palm trees and scenic rocks, clear water, and dreamlike photos. Here too – you can bring your snorkeling gear.
Private or Shared Trip in Krabi?
A trip to the Hong Islands is an experience you can do in two ways: as a shared trip with other tourists or as a private trip. Each option has its own advantages. We personally recommend a private trip. It is especially good for couples looking for a romantic and quiet experience, families who want comfort and flexibility when traveling with kids, groups of up to 10-12 people, and solo travelers who want to treat themselves after a busy year.
Why a private trip?
- Comfort and Flexibility:
On a private trip, you decide – if you want to stay longer at one beach or shorten the time at another, or even return early if the child is tired or something goes wrong, you control the schedule. On shared boats, however, there is a fixed and strict schedule, so usually it doesn’t fit the whole group.
We have often seen people running to make it to a viewpoint, or giving up on it from the start because there is simply “no time.”
- A More Intimate Experience:
Couples can enjoy a quiet and romantic atmosphere – imagine a bottle of wine, a fruit plate, and calm on the water.
Families enjoy that the kids don’t have to be limited in a place with other tourists on the boat, which reduces stress and increases enjoyment. Solo travelers who chose the private option also said it was one of the special experiences they had.
- Who You Travel With:
On a private trip, you know exactly who is on the boat with you. On shared trips, tourists come from all over the world, and you have no control over who will be part of the group, which can sometimes affect the experience. Many tourists told us this is one of the things that lowered their stress and gave them real quality time.
- Costs:
You might be surprised to hear, but in many cases, a private trip can be more affordable, especially if you are a group of four people, making the experience not only personal but also cost-effective.
Even if the cost is higher, when you consider all the main benefits we told you about here – comfort, the intimate experience, and the peace that can’t be replaced – you find that the price difference between a private trip and a group trip is small compared to the value you get.
What about a shared trip?
A shared trip is a great option for those who want to meet new people or save money. It’s a popular way to travel between the islands and there is nothing wrong with it. If you decide to go for it, we’ll be happy to help you sign up for a shared trip – just keep in mind that we don’t control what happens during the trip, and in the high season, the boats fill up completely. You can also look for shared trips on sites like Klook.
Another thing to know is that shared trips can include between 25 to 45 people.
Practical Information – Costs and Types of Boats for the Hong Islands Trip.
The following prices are for illustration only, to give you a general idea of the costs. The final price changes depending on the number of people and the type of boat you choose. But they will help you understand the picture better.
Entrance Fee to the Sites - (National Park Fee):
The islands are part of a national park, and there is a fixed entrance fee.
The prices for the Hong Islands National Park:
Adult (age 11+): 300 baht
Child (age 4-10): 150 baht
Child under 3 years: Free
Shared Trip:
The prices (about) include entrance fees to the sites:
Adult (age 11+): 1800 baht
Child (age 4-10): 1500 baht
Child under 3 years: free
Private Trip - Upgraded Longtail Boat:
We work with an excellent local company that runs the trip from the pier closest to Hong and offers it as a full package.
The boats include a chill-out area at the front, lunch, fruit, water and ice, and of course snorkeling gear and life jackets.
Times: The trip is about 4-5 hours.
Departure in the morning is usually at 8:00, or in the afternoon for a sunset trip (extra 500 baht) around 14:00.
What about private speedboat?
A private speedboat is also an excellent way to explore Hong Island in Krabi. This longer 6-hour trip is ideal for families or larger groups and offers a faster, smoother, and more stable ride – perfect for anyone who prefers more comfort or feels unsure about a traditional longtail boat. If you’re looking for a safe, spacious, and convenient way to discover the Hong Islands, a private speedboat is a great choice.
We think we’ve given you a clear picture of the Hong Islands trip in Krabi and the types of boats available.
Do you have more questions, want to make plans, or book a boat?
Come visit us at Vibe Café & Travel Hub – enjoy a coffee while chatting about your trip!
Or simply leave your details below and we’ll get back to you soon.
Escape to the Hong Islands
Answer a few questions below and we’ll contact you soon
