Thailand’s last unspoilt islands: Koh Yao Noi

Despite the millions visiting Thailand each year, there are still islands untouched by mass tourism. Gemma Bowes finds a perfect example right in the middle of Phang Nga, while Laura Barton discovers unspoilt Koh Kood

Finding the perfect unspoilt Thai island is not as easy as it once was. Many have allowed their pristine worlds to be eaten away by flash resorts, watersports and nightlife. Now you have to search a little bit harder, venture a little bit further to find footprint-free sand.

There is a smattering of still-magical islands towards the Cambodian or Burmese borders, but others lie where you’d least expect, such as slap-bang in the middle of the country’s most developed bay. Phang Nga is home to ritzy Phuket in the west and busy
Krabi to the east, but at its watery heart the sister islands of Koh Yao Noi and Koh Yao Yai pull in just a trickle of travellers, with a few basic beach-hut complexes, bars and cafes, and the odd barefoot-chic resort.

guardian.co.uk