Ao Nang: 4 Islands Day Tour by Speedboat or Longtail Boat

Exploring Krabi’s stunning islands doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. For around $35, you can join a 4 Islands tour departing from Ao Nang that takes you on a scenic boat ride through some of the most iconic spots in the region. Expect visits to Tup Island’s sandbar, Chicken Island’s famous rock formation, the pristine beaches of Ko Poda, and the fascinating Phra Nang Cave Shrine. The tour lasts about 5 to 5.5 hours, making it a perfect half-day escape from the bustle of your hotel.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it combines easy accessibility with authentic island experiences. The hotel pickup is a huge plus, removing the hassle of finding your way to the departure point. Plus, the included delicious Thai buffet lunch—with vegetarian options—means you won’t go hungry after snorkeling or lounging on the sands. Another highlight? The knowledgeable guides, who keep the atmosphere lively, informative, and safe.

One thing to consider is that weather and tide conditions can change the itinerary unexpectedly, and park entrance fees aren’t included (around 200 Thai Baht). While the tour is suitable for most people, it’s less ideal for pregnant women, individuals with mobility issues, or those with certain health concerns. If you’re after a relaxed, value-packed trip with plenty of time for swimming, snapping photos, and soaking in scenery, this tour hits the mark.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy small-group adventures, want to avoid long and complicated arrangements, and appreciate good value for money. It’s especially perfect for families, first-time visitors, or anyone looking to see the highlights without rushing.

Key Points

• Convenient hotel pickup and drop-off simplifies your day.
• Multiple island stops provide a variety of scenery, from sandy beaches to caves.
• Snorkeling gear, snacks, and lunch are included, enhancing the overall experience.
• Knowledgeable guides help enhance the trip with helpful info and friendly assistance.
• The speedboat offers a smoother, drier ride compared to longtail boats.
• Weather conditions may affect the schedule or stops.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

Starting the Day: Smooth Logistics and Early Departures

The tour begins with hotel pickups in the Ao Nang area, with options from Ao Nang, Ao Nammao, Krabi Town, and Klong Muang/Tubkaak Beach. The pickup times are early—around 07:45 to 08:30 am—giving you plenty of time to relax before the boat departs at 09:00 am from Railay East’s floating blue pier.

Many reviews highlight how seamless this process is. Monica notes, “great that we were picked up at our hotel, and dropped off after the tour,” which sets a positive tone for the day. The provided cookies, biscuits, and coffee at the start add a cozy touch, helping everyone settle in before the adventure begins.

Tup Island: Picture-Perfect Sandbar

Your first stop is Tup Island, famous for its sandbar that appears at low tide, connecting it with surrounding smaller islands. Here, you’ll get about 15 minutes for photos, swimming, and taking in the views. This spot is quintessential Krabi—turquoise waters, soft sands, and the chance to stand on a natural bridge in the middle of the sea.

This part of the trip often receives praise for the breathtaking scenery. Jeroen mentions, “the coast was beautiful; I personally liked snorkeling the most,” which hints at how refreshed and invigorated you might feel after the stop.

Chicken Island: The Iconic Rock & Snorkeling

Next, you’ll visit Chicken Island, notable for the rock formation resembling a chicken’s head. The island offers a scenic drive and scenic views on the way, along with 45 minutes to explore. Many travelers love this part for its photo opportunities and snorkeling. The coral reefs and marine life, although not explicitly detailed in reviews, are generally of good quality for beginners.

Reviews like Lisa’s describe the whole trip as “fantastic,” and many mention the snorkeling gear being in good condition, making this activity enjoyable. However, some travelers note that snorkeling might not be spectacular due to cloudy waters at times, which can be influenced by weather.

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Ko Poda: Relaxing Beaches & Delicious Lunch

Afterward, the tour moves to Ko Poda, a white-sand paradise. It’s the longest stop—about 1.5 hours—giving ample time for swimming, relaxing, and enjoying a hearty Thai lunch served right on the beach. The buffet offers halal and vegetarian options, catering to diverse dietary needs.

Reviews consistently highlight the quality of the food. Caitlin says, “the lunch was really good, and our guide New was very helpful and energetic,” which makes the meal feel less like a chore and more like part of the experience. The beach here provides a peaceful environment to unwind after the busy morning.

Phra Nang Cave Shrine: Cultural & Scenic Highlight

The last stop is Phra Nang Cave Beach, famous not only for its stunning cave shrine but also for the phallic symbols and scenic walk along the coast. You’ll have about 30 minutes for photos, a walk, or a quick swim. Many reviews point out that this part of the tour offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural intrigue.

While some travelers wish they had more time here—Lisa notes, “I wish we had more time at Phran Ang Cave, as this was probably the most beautiful”—it remains a favorite due to the unique cave shrines and the remarkable landscape.

Returning to Ao Nang

The day winds down with the boat returning to the starting point, with pickups scheduled for the late morning and the tour concluding around 2:30 pm to 3:00 pm. Many reviewers mention how efficient and enjoyable the whole process was, with some appreciating the shuttle service back to their hotels.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

Value for Money is undeniable, especially with the inclusion of hotel transfers, snorkeling gear, a tasty lunch, and soft drinks. Many travelers comment on how the guides—whether named Maya, Peachy, or Nadia—are friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive, making the experience more engaging and relaxed.

The speedboat option is especially popular among reviews, with travelers like Bryan noting, “the speed and comfort of the speedboat is far better than a longtail boat,” particularly in choppy waters. It keeps the trip more comfortable and less wet, which can be a big plus if you prefer to stay dry or dislike splashes.

Authenticity & Scenic Beauty

You’ll love the diverse scenery—from the iconic stone at Chicken Island to the white sands of Ko Poda and the caves at Phra Nang. The trip offers a good balance of sightseeing, swimming, and cultural sites, making it suitable for a variety of interests.

Possible Drawbacks

The main issue is weather dependency. The itinerary is subject to change based on tides and weather conditions, which might mean less time at certain stops or altered routes. Also, park entrance fees (around 200 Thai Baht for adults) are paid separately, adding a small extra cost. Finally, the short amount of time at each stop might leave some travelers wanting more—especially at Phranang Cave, noted as “not enough time” by some.

Who Should Book This Tour?

If you’re after a well-organized, budget-friendly way to see multiple islands in a single morning or afternoon, this trip is ideal. It suits families, first-timers, and those who want a comfortable, guided experience. It’s especially good if you value good food, friendly guides, and scenic boat rides.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off within Ao Nang, Ao Nammao, Krabi Town, and Klong Muang/Tubkaak Beach.

What should I bring? Bring sunglasses, swimwear, towel, sandals, camera, sunscreen, waterproof bag, and cash for the park entrance fee.

Is snorkeling equipment provided? Yes, snorkeling gear and life jackets are included in the package.

Can I cancel the tour? Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

What’s the length of the tour? Approximately 5 to 5.5 hours, starting around 09:00 am with pickups beginning earlier.

Are vegetarian options available? Yes, the buffet lunch includes both Halal and vegetarian options.

Is this tour suitable for children? Yes, but be aware of the water activities and boat rides—it’s best suited for children who can handle a full day of sightseeing and swimming.

Are there any restrictions? It’s not suitable for pregnant women, people with back problems, mobility issues, or pre-existing medical conditions.

Final Thoughts

This Ao Nang 4 Islands tour offers an accessible way to experience some of Thailand’s most iconic sights in a single, well-organized trip. For just $35, you get multiple island visits, snorkeling, a delicious Thai lunch, and friendly guides—all wrapped into a half-day adventure that’s hard to beat in value.

While the schedule can be affected by weather, the balance of scenic beauty, cultural interest, and fun activities makes it a solid choice for most travelers. It’s especially well-suited for families, first-time visitors, or anyone looking for a relaxed yet engaging way to see Krabi’s islands without breaking the bank.

If you love authentic travel experiences with a touch of comfort, and you’re ready to bounce between beaches, caves, and marine wonders, this tour could be just what you need for a memorable day.

You can check availability for your dates here: