Ao Khao Kwai

Ao Khao Kwai is a secluded bay on the northeast coast of Koh Phayam, a small island in the Andaman Sea off Ranong province. There’s no road access — you arrive by longtail from the island’s main pier — and the bay has just a handful of bungalow operations spread along a quiet, palm-backed beach.

What to Do

Not much, and that’s the point. Ao Khao Kwai suits people who want to read, swim and eat without a plan. The beach is long, clean and usually empty midweek. Snorkelling is decent around the rocky headlands at either end. A few of the bungalow restaurants serve fresh seafood at local prices.

Walking trails connect to the island’s other beaches and the interior cashew plantations. Motorbikes can be rented at the main pier for exploring the rest of Koh Phayam.

Getting There

Boats from Ranong pier to Koh Phayam (1.5-2 hours), then a longtail or motorbike taxi to Ao Khao Kwai (15 minutes). Ranong has a small airport with flights from Bangkok.

Insider Tip: Book bungalows directly with the owners by phone — many of the smaller operations here don’t appear on booking platforms. November to April only; most places close in the monsoon.