Ko Phayam

Ko Phayam brings together coastal areas, nature watching and insights into local traditions. When choosing a destination for your stay, the island offers various seaside options and activities connected with nature and agriculture. The mangrove-rich east coast of Ko Phayam is ideal for sea kayaking. There is also surfing during certain periods, walks at Ao Hin Khao and a chance to learn about the traditional processing of cashew nuts. This mix can help you decide which experiences you want to shape your trip.

Sunset and rock formation at Ao Khao Kwai

Ao Khao Kwai is a sunset viewpoint. The Hin Thalu rock formation is also located there: a small rock whose tip has been eroded to form an opening. Visitors can walk through it. The site combines an evening viewpoint with an unusual rock formation that you can walk through, rather than simply look at.

Walks, coral and snorkeling

You can go for a walk at Ao Hin Khao, where a large white rock stands by the sea. The west coast of Ko Phayam is fringed by soft and hard corals, and snorkeling is available there. The two experiences are distinct: at Ao Hin Khao, the focus is on the walk and the rock by the sea; on the west coast, it is on the coral and snorkeling. This gives you both a specific place for a walk and an underwater natural feature to explore.

Surfing at different times of year

Surfing on Ko Phayam is beach-break surfing with consistent waves, suitable for both beginners and professionals. Surfing is possible from mid-October to mid-December, and from April to May. These two periods fall at different times of year and give you a seasonal reference for planning your trip. One specific surfing bay is Ao Yai, in the southwest of the island: you can relax by the sea there, and the waves are also suitable for surfing. Ao Yai is therefore a named location for anyone who wants to consider a specific coastal spot as well as the seasonal timeframe.

Cashew processing and Wat Ko Phayam

For many Ko Phayam residents, growing cashew nuts is a source of livelihood. Agritourism activities include tours through cashew plantations, and demonstrations show how the nuts are traditionally processed over a wood fire. Visitors can boil and steam cashew nuts, roast them—including over an open fire—and then crack them open. This combines an introduction to cultivation with the opportunity to learn about individual processing steps.

Wat Ko Phayam is another cultural attraction. The temple has an ordination hall over the sea. On its roof stands a walking Buddha statue facing the sea. For travelers interested in religious architecture, the hall’s location and the statue’s orientation are notable features of the temple.

Mangroves, sea kayaking and wildlife watching

The east coast stands apart from coastal areas associated with sunsets, rocks or coral because of its mangroves. Visitors can go sea kayaking there and also visit a nearby Moken village. Ko Phayam is also a place where you can spot great hornbills. These add a village visit and another opportunity for nature watching to the island’s seaside activities.

Getting there by boat

You can reach Ko Phayam by boat from the pier on the Ranong River in about one to two hours. This is an approximate duration, and schedules may vary. Check the schedule for your travel date before departure. This lets you include the crossing in your plans without mistaking the approximate duration for a fixed departure time.

Discover more destinations: Ratchakrut, Bang Rin, Na Kha, Ban Na.

Go to the regional travel overview: Ranong.