12 Emerging Southeast Asian Islands That Belong on Your Must-Explore List

4. Koh Yao Noi, Thailand

Resting quietly in the Andaman Sea, Koh Yao Noi offers a rare combination: it’s just a short boat ride from Phuket or Krabi, yet it feels worlds away from crowded party hubs. Here, travelers pedal past rice paddies, sample fresh seafood in family-run cafes, and soak up slow-paced village life. There’s a sense of authenticity you won’t find in Thailand’s busier resorts. Mangrove forests line the coast, hiding secluded beaches where you might be the only visitor. Cycling remains one of the best ways to explore the island’s tranquil backroads. Responsible tourism plays a big role—new boutique hotels favor local design and many guesthouses practice sustainable hospitality. Despite its growing popularity, Koh Yao Noi has retained its welcoming, down-to-earth spirit. Ferries run several times a day from Phuket or Krabi, and the dry season (November to April) brings the clearest skies. The island rewards curiosity and patience, offering a peaceful pause far from the bustle, yet close enough for easy day trips to Phang Nga Bay or neighboring Koh Yao Yai.