Opened in 2009, the Koyao Island Resort is a lovely, rustic addition to the handful of guesthouses and resorts on laid-back Koh Yao Noi. This is not Phuket, and that's precisely why the resort appeals to travelers wanting total tranquility and to be surrounded by nature. Guests are primarily European, and mainly consist of couples and honeymooners. The property is set within a large area of private gardens and has just 19 rooms, so even when it’s at capacity, the resort feels quiet and intimate. From when guests first enter the open-air lobby, there is a feeling of serenity. The natural materials plus the cool white and pale green color scheme used in the design add to the calm feel, and there are pretty tropical plants all around. Many previous guests have commented on how the staff go the extra mile to provide exceptional service. Staff generally familiarize themselves with the names of all guests, and cool towels and fruit are brought to those sunbathing around the pool.

Koyao Island Resort is on the east coast of Koh Yao Noi (meaning Little Long Island). It’s an unspoiled, peaceful island with little tourism and a sleepy pace of life. The island sits in stunning Phang Nga Bay, surrounded by quiet beaches and coconut palms. The hotel has its own stretch of white sand beach, which is often deserted, even when the hotel is full. It's kept immaculately clean. Some guests choose to stay in the resort for the duration of their stay, but those who want to get out and explore will find a number of local restaurants within a five to 15-minute drive. It's worth renting a moped to explore the island. It takes about 90 minute to reach Phuket International Airport, including a boat trip to Bang Rong Pier, followed by a 30-minute taxi ride. 

There are 19 villas at the resort, all built with local materials and traditional style with mangrove palm leaf roofs, designed to keep them cool and breezy. The style is definitively rustic, but with plenty of upscale polish. Expect to see lots of natural wood, gauzy white fabrics, and lovely pieces of heavy hardwood furniture. What little color there is beyond the earthy hues comes in pale green in the soft furnishings. Little details, like brass bells and detailed wall hangings give the simple spaces their personality. All villas are open and airy, with large verandas and spectacular garden or sea views of the famous Phang Nga Bay. 

Accommodation is available in various categories. The Sea Breeze Studios have tea and coffee making facilities, a desk, and a balcony with a daybed. The Studios do not have air-conditioning, but fans are provided. They are less private than the other accommodation options, and can be slightly noisy at times, as they're close to the bar and restaurant. The Beach Villas are directly on the beach and have spectacular views over the James Bond archipelago. They have the additions of a separate living room, and indoor and outdoor shower in the private garden. There’s also a Family Beach Villa which sleeps four and has stunning sea views beyond the garden. These higher category rooms have air-conditioning. Only some rooms have televisions, and safes come standard (as do Nespresso machines and electric kettles). Many rooms also have outdoor showers in spacious bathrooms that have plenty of counter space.

The most lavish option is the Private Beach Lodge -- a luxury safari tent, in seven completely private acres of coconut plantation. It’s located 20 minutes by car or private boat from the main resort and even has its own private beach. Staff are on call 24-hours a day for guests in the lodge, and there’s free tuk-tuk service between the lodge and the resort.

The hotel provides many free activities and facilities, including massages, yoga classes, trips to neighboring islands, and the free use of kayaks, bikes, and snorkeling equipment. Other activities can be booked too, ranging from Batik painting classes to rock climbing. There’s an infinity pool which offers spectacular views over the Andaman Sea and the Pakoh Islands, and the soft sand beach is backed by turquoise water. Like most area resorts, the sea is shallow here and not exactly ideal for swimming. Wading and splashing, of course, are a go. The hotel also has extensively landscaped gardens, a library, and a spa with two treatment rooms. The latter is a lovely space, with treatments available in a garden pagoda ringed by a lotus pond. The hotel's Pum Pui Restaurant serves a wide range of authentic Thai food and the Gecko Bar serves light snacks and has a good cocktail menu. Guests can also request to dine on the private island of Ko Nok, a 15-minute boat ride away. There’s free Wi-Fi throughout the property.