Deserted Beauty

Though Kata Beach was beautiful, it is crammed with tourists. Searching for something less paved-over, we settled on Koh Yao Noi, which was billed in our guidebook as "Phuket, 20 years ago and undeveloped." Undeveloped it was, with a single road that looped the island and spectacular views. However, it is low season in Thailand (hot and rainy), and low means "semi-deserted" on Koh Yao Noi. It was lonely, and the accommodation options were two: arm and a leg luxury resorts, or extremely buggy. We soon left for Krabi and nearby Railay, which is just as beautiful but less expensive and more populated.

Stunning scenery and deserted beaches are Koh Yao Noi's biggest attractions.