Hong Island Krabi – the hidden lagoon and its secrets

Koh Hong lies northwest of Ao Nang and is part of Than Bok Khorani National Park. By speedboat it takes around 30 to 45 minutes depending on the sea. There is a national park checkpoint on the island’s beach, where an entrance fee is usually charged.

The Hong group includes several islands, among them Koh Lao Lading and Koh Pakbia, which combine perfectly into a day trip.

The lagoon is the heart of the island. Boats glide through a narrow entrance, and suddenly you are surrounded by near-vertical, overgrown cliffs, the water emerald green and mirror-smooth. It is a magical place, especially when only a few boats are inside.

Access depends heavily on the tides. At high tide the lagoon is easily navigable and feels like a still lake. At low water it becomes shallow, parts dry out and larger boats cannot get in. The right timing is therefore crucial to the experience.

The main beach on Koh Hong has fine sand and is framed by rocks. You can snorkel off the beach and along the rocks, often with plenty of fish. From the beach a path with steps leads to a viewpoint with a wonderful view over the bay and surrounding islands. The climb is sweaty but short.

The Hong trip is one of the most popular group tours from Ao Nang. Most boats arrive in the late morning, and many move on after lunch. Start early and you often have the lagoon almost to yourself. The alternative is a late visit, when the groups are already heading home.

Hong Island is also a popular base for evening outings to watch the sunset and bioluminescent plankton, as the waters around the islands are dark and calm at night.

The best snorkel spots on Koh Hong are along the rocks to the left and right of the main beach. The water here is often clearer than in the lagoon, with reef fish right above the rocky bottom. It is clearest in the morning in the dry season, before many boats land and stir up the water.

For relaxing, the beach has shade under trees and along the rocks. If you want quiet, head to the far end of the beach, away from the national park checkpoint. Only swim in the swimming areas – boats come and go in front of the beach regularly.

Besides the classics like sunscreen and water, snorkel gear, water shoes for rocky entries and decent shoes for the viewpoint are useful on Hong Island. Bring cash for the national park fee in case it is not included in the tour price.