Best Way to See STUNNING Hong Island in Krabi, Thailand
If you’re in Krabi and wondering which island tour is actually worth it — Hong Island should be near the top of your list.
It’s got calm turquoise waters, dramatic limestone cliffs, a peaceful lagoon, and a short hike to a stunning viewpoint. The best part? You don’t need to cram it into an exhausting all-day itinerary with a zillion other stops.
I went on a small-group Hong Island tour by longtail boat and it was hands-down one of the most relaxed, well-paced island trips I’ve had in Thailand.
After living in Thailand for years (partially in Krabi) I finally got to visit again and check out Hong Island! Here’s what I loved and what I recommend.
Planning Your Hong Island Trip NOW?
Here is the quick lowdown if you’re in a hurry!
🗺️ Top Experiences:
- Luxury longtail boat around Hong Island – This is the exact tour I did. Half day, amazing chill boat, no rushing.
- Regular longtail boat – Similar trip, but on a smaller, less comfortable boat.
- Speedboat Tours: Hit Hong Island plus a few extra spots but on a speedboat.
- Sunset Kayaking: Do the exact tour I did, but select the kayak option for a fun sunset paddle!
🏨 Where to Stay
These are the two best spots. Most tours offer free pickup from hotels here, too!
- Best Krabi Town Hotels – The inland town where there are a ton of markets and the airport.
- Best Ao Nang Hotels – The main beach town area, and where the pier for most tours to Hong Island is.
🛟 Safety
Travel insurance is a must, and it doesn’t have to cost much—Here’s what I use.
Table of Contents
Where Is Hong Island and Why Go?
Hong Island (or Koh Hong) is part of the Than Bok Khorani National Park, located off the coast of Krabi.
The name “Hong” means “room” in Thai — referring to the enclosed lagoon that sits like a hidden pocket in the middle of towering cliffs.
It’s a dreamy spot for swimming, snorkeling, lounging on white sand beaches, and snapping a few scenic shots without needing to elbow past 50 other people to get them.
It’s also just the right size for a half-day trip, so you’re not spending hours bouncing between islands just for 10-minute photo ops.
RELATED: 9 Krabi Island Hopping Tours That Will Make Your Jaw Drop (Thailand)
The Longtail Experience: Small Group, Big Upgrade
You can visit Hong Island a few different ways, but I went with a luxury longtail boat — and what a difference!
Unlike the usual leaky longtails with wooden benches and only a sliver of shade (been there, done that), this one had comfy seating, lots of space to spread out, a clean toilet onboard (!!!), and a crew.
A captain, two helpers, and a guide who explained the schedule and stops in English and helped coordinate meet-up times at each stop.
The whole experience felt way more organized and chill. Plus, fruit, snacks, and real coconuts were served on board, not just a bottle of warm water and a box of mystery rice.
Hong Island Beach
We first docked at the main beach on Hong Island. This stretch of sand is long, soft, and shaded in parts, so it’s perfect for walking around barefoot or just flopping down with a fruit shake from the little beach shack.
The Viewpoint is a Must
There’s a short but rewarding hike to a viewpoint overlooking the cliffs and lagoon — highly recommend making time for it. The stairs are well-maintained and don’t take long to hike up. The views from the top are next-level.
TIP: Definitely bring a dry bag! I never adventure without one, especially on boat and beach trips.
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Hong Lagoon
This spot is surrounded by towering karst cliffs that your longtail boat will navigate through — or around, depending on the tides. Even if the boat can’t enter the lagoon, just cruising around it is a beautiful experience on its own.
Some tours include kayaking through the cliffs, which adds a fun bit of adventure to the day. However you get there, this place feels like a secret cove carved out just for you.
TIP: Book the sunset kayak option if you really want to see the lagoon. A kayak can always fit through the narrow cliffs, but not all boats. We didn’t get to go through the lagoon on my boat trip.
Don’t be disappointed, the trip is still worth it either way! But just a heads up.
👉 BOOK IT: Longtail Boat Trip to Hong Island (Option to add kayak!)
Snorkeling Spot
Next, you’ll head to a snorkeling area nearby. It wasn’t the coolest coral reef I’ve ever seen, but the water was clear and there were still plenty of fish darting around.
The crew had masks and fins ready, and it was, at the least, a refreshing midday dip in the perfect water on a hot day!
For those who just wanted to chill, you could hang back on the boat with a snack and a drink — no pressure to jump in if you weren’t feeling it.
Why the Morning Half-Day Tour Works So Well
This tour only lasted about 5 hours total, and honestly, that was perfect. We were back by early afternoon, right as the sun was starting to get really hot.
The timing meant fewer crowds, better lighting for photos, and enough time at each stop without feeling rushed.
It’s ideal if you’re not looking to spend your entire day on a boat — or if you just prefer a more relaxed pace.
Hong Island Tour Options
Which one is the vibe for your trip?
- Luxury longtail boat around Hong Island – This is the one I went with: a relaxing half-day ride on a spacious, well-kept boat with plenty of time to enjoy each stop.
- Regular longtail boat – A more budget-friendly option if you’re cool with a simpler setup and less space onboard.
- Speedboat Tours – Want to see more islands in one go? This tour covers more ground, but be ready for a faster pace on a speedboat.
- Sunset Kayaking – Book the same tour I did but choose the kayak add-on to paddle through the lagoon during golden hour—totally worth it.
Where to Stay
You’ll likely get free pick up no matter which tour you choose if you’re in these two spots:
- Best Krabi Town Hotels – The inland town with the airport.
- Best Ao Nang Hotels – The main beach town area.
👉 More Accommodation Around Krabi
Where Else to Go Around Krabi?
READ MORE:
- 11 MUST-VISIT Beaches in Krabi, Thailand
- 9 Krabi Island Hopping Tours That Will Make Your Jaw Drop (Thailand)
- 1-7 Day Krabi Itinerary and Guide
- Where To Stay In Krabi, Thailand For Any Budget
- Best Way to See STUNNING Hong Island in Krabi, Thailand
