
4 Island Tour
The 4 Island Tour is one of the most popular day trips from Ao Nang and Krabi Town — a boat-hopping adventure through a cluster of stunning limestone islands just off the coast, known for turquoise water, white sand, and excellent snorkeling. Tours run by either traditional longtail boat or speedboat, both departing from Nopparat Thara Pier in Ao Nang.
The 4 Islands
Phra Nang Beach (Railay Peninsula) — technically part of the mainland peninsula rather than a true island, but always included as a stop. Home to the ultimate postcard beach of Krabi, dramatic limestone cliffs, and the Phra Nang Cave shrine, a small fertility cave filled with offerings.
Koh Poda — known for its sandy beaches, imposing rock formations, and clear turquoise waters, making it a paradise for sunbathers and snorkeling.
Koh Tup (Tub Island) — a tiny, striking islet famous for its white sandbar, which you can walk across to Chicken Island at low tide.
Chicken Island (Koh Gai) — named for its distinctive rock formation in the shape of a chicken's head, with a quiet beach and viewpoint
Timings
Departure: Hotel pickup around 7:50–8:30 AM, boarding the boat at Nopparat Thara Pier in Ao Nang.
Best time to visit: Morning departures are standard and ideal — calmer seas, clearer water for snorkeling, and cooler temperatures before midday heat. A few operators run evening/sunset versions of the tour, letting you watch the sunset from the boat — a lovely alternative if available.
Duration: Approximately 7 hours including pickup and drop-off, with 5-6 hours of actual island hopping, typically wrapping up by 4:00 PM.
Experiences & Highlights
Snorkeling at Koh Poda and Chicken Island — clear water with coral and tropical fish; masks and snorkels are provided (fins usually excluded to protect the reef).
Sandbar walk between Koh Tup and Chicken Island at low tide — walk on sand with the sea on both sides, a signature photo moment of the tour.
Phra Nang Cave — a short walk through limestone cliffs to a shrine with offerings, overlooking one of Krabi's most photographed beaches.
Thai-style picnic lunch on the beach, usually included in the package.
Photo stops at the dramatic limestone karsts and cliffs along the boat route between islands.
Good to Know
Best season: November to April (dry season) for calm seas and clear water; May–October (rainy season) can bring rougher conditions and possible cancellations.
Facilities: Basic restroom facilities exist on some islands (expect squat toilets); no accommodation is available on any of the islands — day-use only.
What to bring: Reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, swim shoes, a waterproof bag for valuables, and extra water beyond what's provided.
Good for: Families, snorkeling enthusiasts, and anyone wanting a well-rounded taste of Krabi's islands without a multi-day trip.






