Had Yao Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to visit, where to stay and eat, and how to get around while exploring Had Yao, Krabi Province, Thailand.


Introduction to Had Yao

Located in Krabi Province, Had Yao is a hidden gem on the Andaman coast of Thailand that is still relatively undiscovered by mass tourism. Nestled between the famous beaches of Ao Nang and Railey, this secluded beach offers visitors a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

The white sand beach stretches for 5 kilometers and is fringed by tall limestone cliffs. The crystal-clear water is perfect for swimming, and the beach is an ideal spot to relax and soak up the sun.

List of Places to Visit in Had Yao

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

While Had Yao is primarily known for its stunning natural beauty, there are also a few cultural attractions that are worth checking out.

  1. Wat Sai Thai - This beautiful temple is a popular spot to witness traditional Thai architecture. Visitors can marvel at the intricate murals and statues that adorn the temple’s walls and interior.

  2. Shell Cemetery - The Shell Cemetery is a prehistoric site that features large fossilized shells that are millions of years old. This is a must-see attraction for geology enthusiasts and those interested in Thai history.

Natural Attractions of Had Yao: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Had Yao is a paradise for nature lovers, with plenty of outdoor activities that take advantage of the stunning scenery.

  1. Kayaking in Had Yao Bay - Enjoy the serenity of Had Yao Bay while paddling through crystal-clear waters on a kayak. Visitors can explore the secluded cave, hidden lagoon, and vibrant coral reefs.

  2. Sunset at Klong Muang Beach - This is one of the best spots to watch the sunset in the Krabi Province. Klong Muang Beach is a peaceful and quiet beach with a wide open view of the horizon.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Had Yao

Had Yao offers several hiking/biking routes that take visitors through stunning landscapes and showcase the region’s natural beauty.

  1. Jungle Trekking in Thung Teao Forest Natural Park - The park offers four different hiking trails through lush forests and around a freshwater lagoon.

  2. Biking to Noppharat Thara Beach - Visitors can rent bikes in Had Yao and ride to Noppharat Thara Beach. This route takes you through authentic Thai villages and beautiful countryside.

Best Things to Do in Had Yao: Activities and Tours

Had Yao offers a range of activities and tours for visitors to experience the best the region has to offer.

  1. Island Hopping - Had Yao is a great starting point for island hopping tours. The tour takes visitors to the famous islands of Phi Phi and James Bond Island.

  2. Muay Thai Boxing Class - Learn the art of Thai boxing from local experts in Had Yao. This class covers the basics of Thai boxing and is suitable for beginners and experienced fighters alike.

Week-Long Itinerary for Had Yao

Day 1: Arrival and check-in at a hotel in Had Yao Day 2: Relax at the beach and enjoy the serenity of the surroundings Day 3: Kayaking tour in Had Yao Bay Day 4: Jungle trekking in Thung Teao Forest Natural Park Day 5: Island hopping tour Day 6: Biking to Noppharat Thara Beach Day 7: Departure from Had Yao

Food and Drink Scene of Had Yao

Had Yao offers a variety of local dishes and drinks that are unique to the region.

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Tom Yam Goong - A spicy and sour soup made with shrimp, lemongrass, and chili.

  2. Massaman Curry - A rich and flavorful curry made with beef or chicken, potatoes, and peanuts.

Local Beverages

  1. Chang Beer - A crisp and refreshing beer that pairs perfectly with spicy Thai food.

  2. Thai Iced Tea - A sweet and creamy beverage made with black tea, condensed milk, and sugar.

Where to Stay in Had Yao: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Had Yao offers a range of accommodation options to suit various budgets and tastes.

  1. The Elements Krabi Resort - A luxurious resort located in a tranquil and secluded area of Had Yao.

  2. Bailey’s Bungalows - A budget-friendly option that offers clean and comfortable bungalows just a few meters away from the beach.

What to Buy in Had Yao: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors to Had Yao can take home a piece of their experience with them by purchasing souvenirs and local products.

  1. Handmade Jewelry - Had Yao has a thriving artisan community that produces beautiful handmade jewelry made from natural materials.

  2. Traditional Thai Fabrics - Visitors can find a variety of traditional Thai fabrics such as silk and cotton that are woven by local artisans.

Local Culture and Customs of Had Yao

Had Yao is a traditional Thai village, and visitors should respect the local customs and cultures.

  1. Dress Conservatively - Visitors should dress modestly when visiting temples or other cultural sites.

  2. Remove Your Shoes - It is customary to remove your shoes before entering homes, temples, or other sacred places.

Best Time to Visit Had Yao

The best time to visit Had Yao is between November and April, when the weather is dry and sunny with cool sea breezes. It is also the peak season, so visitors should book their accommodations and tours well in advance.

Do’s and Don’ts of Had Yao

Do:

  1. Respect the local cultures and customs
  2. Be mindful of the environment and practice responsible tourism

Don’t:

  1. Disrespect the local cultures and customs
  2. Litter or damage the environment

Safety and Health

Safety in Had Yao

Had Yao is a safe place to visit, but visitors should still exercise customary safety precautions.

  1. Be aware of your surroundings.
  2. Keep valuables in a secure place.

Health in Had Yao

Visitors should be up to date on routine vaccinations before traveling to Thailand. It’s also recommended that visitors consider getting vaccinated for Hepatitis A and Typhoid. It’s best to drink bottled water and make sure to wash hands frequently.

Getting to Had Yao: Transportation Options and Logistics

Had Yao is easily accessible by air, land, and sea.

Airports Near Had Yao

  1. Krabi Airport - Located approximately 50 kilometers from Had Yao, Krabi Airport is the closest airport.

  2. Phuket International Airport - Located approximately 190 kilometers from Had Yao, Phuket International Airport is an alternative option.

Bus Stations Near Had Yao

  1. Krabi Bus Terminal - Located approximately 50 kilometers from Had Yao, Krabi Bus Terminal is the closest bus station.

  2. Surat Thani Bus Terminal - Located approximately 197 kilometers from Had Yao, Surat Thani Bus Terminal is an alternative option.

Other Options

Visitors can also book private transfers or join a shared van service for transportation from the airport or bus station to Had Yao.

How to Get Around in Had Yao

The best way to get around in Had Yao is by foot or bicycle. Visitors can rent bikes or scooters to explore the nearby areas, including Klong Muang Beach and Ao Nang.

Where to Go Next from Had Yao: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Had Yao is an excellent starting point for exploring other destinations in the Krabi Province.

  1. Ao Nang - A bustling beach town with a lively nightlife scene and a variety of shops and restaurants.

  2. Railey - Known for its dramatic limestone cliffs and crystal-clear water, Railey is a popular spot for rock climbers, adventurers, and beachgoers.

Conclusion

Had Yao offers visitors a serene and relaxing getaway from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural history, and friendly locals, it’s no wonder why this hidden gem of Krabi Province is becoming increasingly popular amongst tourists. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure, cultural immersion, or simply a place to unwind, Had Yao has something for everyone.