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Koh Pha Yam

Koh Pha Yam is another small Island about 10 km to the south of Koh Chang (small) in the Andaman Sea. Koh Pha Yam Along with 14 neighbouring islands forms Mu Koh Pha Yam National Park. The Island is quiet, although a little less quiet than neighbouring Koh Chang.

Resorts and bungalow outfits are mainly on Ao Kao Kwai in the northwest and Ao Yai in the southwest. There are a couple of others on the east coast but that seemed too remote for me.

The beaches here are relatively empty and unspoiled. There are no vendors trying to sell you stuff. There are also no cars so you must walk. There are mopeds which you can rent but nothing is too far so we walked. There are paths leading everywhere so expect a bit of trial and error. The town at the ferry pier has a couple of bars and restaurants, some internet and a couple of shops for basics.

To get to the Island take the 8am or 2pm ferry from the Koh Chang Koh Pha Yam ferry pier at the southern end of Ranong. There is also a speedboat option. Upon arrival on the Island, there are a number of people with photos of the resorts in case you don't have a place booked. The ride takes just over an hour and a half in a longtail.

So get ready to lie in a hammock doing absolutely nothing but watching the beautiful sunsets with a cold beer. Actually, there is a little more to do. You can go for a hike in the jungle, explore the mangroves, watch some birds, go fishing, visit a cashew or rubber plantation, check out the sea gypsies,or do some snorkelling. After all of that, you can still do the sunset and beer thing. There is even a bar or two on Ao Yai.

Cashew Festival: I was told by a couple of Islanders that there is a cashew festival in the middle of May. I don't know the details but if you love cashews, it has to be good.