After almost a year on the island and a lot of trips to Koh Tao, I can tell you that the best way to get to Koh Nang Yuan from Koh Tao is by taking a longtail boat taxi in Sairee. It’s the cheapest and quickest option and lets you be flexible with your timing.
But, there are other options worth considering as well. In this guide, I’ll break down all the ways to get to the island from Koh Tao, plus give you tips on where to book your return ticket for the longtail without getting ripped off.
Koh Nang Yuan from Koh Tao: Overview
Koh Nang Yuan is one of the most popular day trips from Koh Tao, and with good reason—the island is stunning but can get crowded. Here’s a quick overview about getting there, from options to key details to keep in mind.
- Access: Koh Nang Yuan is about 800 m off the northwest coast of Koh Tao and only reachable by boat.
- Islands: Made up of three smaller islands connected by a thin white sandbar (isthmus), it’s famous for the Koh Nang Yuan viewpoint hike and amazing snorkeling.
- Transport Options: Longtail boat, snorkeling day trip, or by staying at the Koh Nang Yuan Dive Resort (free return trip transfers).
- Opening Times: Open to day trippers daily from 10 am to 5 pm.
- Entrance Fee: 250 THB per person (National Park fee).
- Strict Rules: No single-use plastic, reef shoes, fins, or plastic water bottles allowed (staff check bags at the pier).
- Longtail Price: Around 250 THB per person round trip (keep reading for tips on where to book).
Note: The Lomprayah ferry does not go to Nang Yuan from Koh Tao. But, if you want to visit from Koh Samui or Koh Phangan you can. Read my full guide on how to get to Koh Nang Yuan Island.
Option 1: Longtail Boat Taxi to Koh Nang Yuan from Sairee
Taking a longtail boat taxi from Sairee Beach is by far the best and cheapest way to get to Koh Nang Yuan. The standard price right now is 250 THB for a round trip, though most boat captains will initially quote you at 300 THB—so be ready to negotiate a bit.
Where to Book: Although many tour shops and hostels will offer to book your longtail, they often add a markup. In my experience, it’s best to go directly to the boat captains on the beach. After several trips, I recommend the boat captain stationed near Sairee Beach, right next to Kayo Healing Massage (look for it on your left facing the beach).
Tips for Booking with the Captain:
- His sign advertises 300 THB per person, but he’s flexible and will almost always agree to 250 THB for a round trip if you ask.
- You can book as a single traveler or as a group, and he’s usually flexible with return times, so just let him know when you’d like to come back and he'll arrange to pick you up at Koh Nang Yuan pier.
- You'll receive a "ticket" with a boat number on it. When you want to return to Koh Tao from Koh Nang Yuan, show this ticket to the boat drivers at the pier and they'll point you to the right boat.
- For the best experience, I suggest departing at 9:40 am to arrive when the island opens at 10 am, giving you a head start before the crowds arrive.
Most of the time, I’ve gone with just Haylea, and we left straight away without waiting to fill the boat. The captain will depart with just a few people on board if you’re there early, so it’s a super convenient option.
The journey only takes about 10 minutes to reach Koh Nang Yuan from Koh Tao, with scenic views of western Koh Tao along the way. Look out on the mountain to the right as you approach to spot the epic Top Point viewpoint boulder!
Tip: If you are staying at one of the more remote hotels on the island, it's worth asking them to arrange a trip as often they will give you transport. Read my guide to the best places to stay on Koh Tao.
Option 2: Book a Koh Tao & Koh Nang Yuan Snorkeling Trip
If you’re looking for a full day of exploring Koh Tao’s top snorkeling spots with the added convenience of everything included, a snorkeling tour that includes Koh Nang Yuan is a solid option.
Many boats offer snorkeling trips, but to get the best experience, I’d recommend booking a reputable tour in advance online. You can also book at your hotel or hostel, but again, there's often a markup in price.
My Recommended Tour: There’s a snorkeling tour in particular I like that offers a nice, shaded boat that’s never too crowded, which is a big plus when you’re on the water all day. Food is included as well, which is great value and lets you focus on the experience.
Typical Stops: Most snorkeling tours visit Koh Nang Yuan plus some of Koh Tao’s best snorkeling spots including:
Keep in mind, though, that stops can vary depending on weather conditions.
This is a good option if you want to make the most of your time without worrying about logistics. Many of these tours include the Koh Nang Yuan viewpoint hike as well, so be sure to check what’s included. It’s a great way to spend the day if you want to explore Koh Tao’s highlights directly from the boat!
Option 3: Stay at Koh Nang Yuan Dive Resort (Free Transfers from Koh Tao)
If you’re looking to escape for a night or two, staying at Koh Nang Yuan Dive Resort is a great option.
Not only do you get FREE return transfers from Koh Tao included, but staying here means you don’t have to worry about transport arrangements or haggling over prices. In my opinion, if you have time and you’re planning to visit Koh Nang Yuan anyway, it’s worth staying the night.
Why Stay Here? - The best part about staying on the island is that you’ll have it all to yourself after the day-trippers head back at 5 pm. Early mornings and late afternoons become calm and peaceful, giving you the perfect chance to catch sunset at the viewpoint without the usual crowd.
Also, since it’s a dive resort, it’s also one of the best spots to learn to dive or try a discover scuba course. You’ll be right at one of Koh Tao’s top dive sites, which is well-protected and ideal for beginners, with the reef just steps from your room.
Are There Any Other Ways to Get to Koh Nang Yuan from Koh Tao?
The three main options—a longtail boat, a snorkeling day trip, or staying at Koh Nang Yuan Dive Resort—are essentially the only ways to reach Koh Nang Yuan from Koh Tao.
There aren’t any regular ferries or public transport options directly between the two islands, so all transport relies on these private or organized boat routes.
I've tried to kayak to Koh Nang Yuan from the northern end of Koh Tao after renting one from Dusit Buncha Resort (my favorite sunset spot on Koh Tao), but they didn't allow me to embark onto the island unfortunately– so this one is a no-go.
Tip: If you are visiting Koh Tao after Koh Samui or Koh Phangan, the Lomprayah Ferry usually stops at Koh Nang Yuan first before disembarking at Mae Haad on Koh Tao. A popular option is to visit Koh Nangyuan on the way to Koh Tao. You can book directly on the 12Go website.
Check out my guide to the best things to do on Koh Tao for unique adventures and hidden gems you won’t want to miss!