Everything You Need to Know About Thailand’s Four Island Tour

Thailand’s Four Island Tour from Krabi is the ultimate way to explore the stunning islands off the coast. Crystal-clear waters, beautiful beaches and plenty of adventure. This day trip takes you to some seriously breathtaking islands, each with its own vibe and beauty. Whether you’re flying solo, with family or with friends, it’s one of those experiences you’ll never forget.

In this post, I’ll share everything you need to know before you embark on Thailand’s Four Island Tour – tips, what to expect, how to prepare and everything in between.

Ready to jump into a longtail boat and head out on the Andaman Ocean? If you’re planning your trip, be sure to check out my 2-week Thailand itinerary guide for more travel tips and recommendations!Thailand's Four Island Tour - Traditional Thai longtail boats moored by the sandy shores of a tropical island, surrounded by turquoise waters

Why the Four Island Tour?

So you’ve decided you’re taking the Four Island Tour. Good choice! This day trip takes you to four stunning islands (did the name of the tour give that away?) Each island has its own unique beauty. You’ll discover towering limestone cliffs, gorgeous beaches and vibrant coral reefs – a dream for any photographer and the perfect way to see the diversity of Thailand’s coastline. We went as a family of four and this was the first big adventure of our holiday. Our teens said this was one of their favourite experiences – it was the perfect mix of fun, relaxation and exploration!

Booking the Tour: When and How?

Booking the Four Island Tour is easy, and I recommend doing so a few days in advance, especially if you’re travelling during the high season (November to April). You can book directly through tour operators or online platforms like Get Your Guide or Viator. Personally, I think the experience is much more authentic in a long-tail boat – it’s part of the charm of the whole adventure. That said, if you’re keen to experience the thrill of a speedboat ride, the Phi Phi Islands Tour is exclusively by speedboat, so you’ll get your adrenaline fix there.

Be sure to check if the tour includes pick-up from your hotel or a meeting point. You can also inquire about any extras like lunch or snorkeling equipment. Booking in advance means less stress and a guaranteed spot, especially during busy times.

You’ll visit the following islands:

  • Phra Nang Cave Beach
  • Chicken Island (Koh Gai)
  • Poda Island
  • Tup Island

The Boat Ride

The Four Island Tour is usually done by long-tail boat or speedboat, depending on your tour operator and what you’re after. We went for a private long-tail boat, just the four of us. It cost a bit more, but honestly, it was worth every penny. Having our own boat meant we could go at our own pace, stay longer at the spots we loved and just take it easy without feeling rushed. It really made the day feel more relaxed and enjoyable.

The boat ride itself is scenic and gives you the chance to enjoy the turquoise waters and surrounding landscapes. Expect the boat to pick you up from your hotel or a designated meeting point around 8:00 AM, and you’ll likely be back by 3:30 PM after a full day of exploration.Close-up of a woman savouring pineapple, with sandy shores in the background and sitting on the edge of a longtail boat, surrounded by clear waters and tropical scenery during Thailand's Four Island Tour

Itinerary Breakdown

The tour usually follows a similar itinerary, though times and stops can vary slightly based on the operator. Here’s a rough breakdown of what to expect:

Phra Nang Cave Beach

Phra Nang Cave Beach is famous for its cave shrine dedicated to the spirit of the sea. Inside, you’ll spot stunning stalactites, stalagmites, and some rather, let’s say, unique offerings. We kept the kids away from that part, but the beach itself? Gorgeous. Perfect for a swim, sunbathing, or just soaking up the scenery. It’s an iconic spot, so have your camera ready. Oh, and as you head to the beach, watch out for the monkeys – they’re cheeky little things who might be after your snacks!

Chicken Island (Koh Gai)

Chicken Island is famous for its quirky rock formation that’s said to look like a chicken’s head—though, if you ask me, it’s more like a turkey head! This spot is a dream for snorkellers and swimmers, with vibrant coral reefs and loads of colourful fish to discover. Not into snorkelling? WSell then there’s plenty of space to kick back on the beach and soak up the relaxed island vibes.

Poda Island

Poda Island is a little slice of tropical bliss. The beach is spotless, the shallow waters are perfect for a dip, and the vibe couldn’t be more laid-back. If you’re in the mood to relax, grab an umbrella and chill out on the sand. Want to explore? A walk around the island offers stunning views, with those towering limestone cliffs providing a picture-perfect backdrop. And yes, you’ll want your camera ready – this place is a beauty.

Tup Island

Tup Island feels like pure magic. At low tide, a sandbar appears, connecting it to Chicken Island—it’s like walking on water. This unique spot is a snorkeler’s paradise, with vibrant coral and marine life just waiting to be explored. Whether you’re up for an adventure or just want to relax and take in the views, Tup Island is the perfect mix of both.A scenic view of Phra Nang Beach, featuring soft white sand, turquoise waters, and towering limestone cliffs.

A Bit Of Bollywood Magic

For Bollywood fans, here’s a cool bit of trivia – Phra Nang Cave Beach and Tup Island were both featured in the iconic film ‘Kaho Naa Pyaar Hai’. Phra Nang’s stunning cave and crystal-clear waters set the stage for a romantic song with Hrithik Roshan and Ameesha Patel. Just a short hop away, Tup Island’s unique sandbar also made its way into the same song. If you’re into movie locations, Railay Beach and James Bond Island, though not part of this tour, were also used in the film.

Best Time to Go

The best time to do the Four Island Tour is during the dry season, from November to April. The weather’s great, with clear skies and calm waters—perfect for exploring. If you’re visiting in the wet season (May to October), just keep in mind there’s a chance of rain, and some islands might close if the sea gets too rough.

To avoid the crowds, I’d say go on a weekday and book an early morning tour. You’ll get more of the islands to yourself before everyone else shows up. It’s so worth it.

Tips for the Tour

  1. Bring the Right Gear

You’ll be spending a lot of time in and around the water, so make sure you’re prepared. Here’s what to bring:

  • Swimwear – You’ll definitely want to swim and snorkel, so make sure you’re in something comfortable.
  • Water Shoes – These are great for walking on rocky beaches or getting in and out of the boat.
  • Snorkel Gear – While most tours will provide you with basic snorkel gear, you might want to bring your own for comfort.
  • Towel – Always good to have one for drying off after a swim.
  • Sunscreen – The sun can be strong, so make sure to apply sunscreen before you leave and reapply during the day.
  • Waterproof Bag – To keep your phone, camera and valuables safe from water.
  1. Don’t Forget Your Camera

The Four Island Tour is a photographer’s dream. From the emerald waters and towering cliffs to the underwater life, you’ll want to capture it all. If you can, bring a waterproof camera or a GoPro to snap photos while snorkeling.

  1. Wear Light and Comfortable Clothes

Since you’ll be hopping between islands and moving around a lot, make sure to wear something light and comfortable. I went for a bikini with a cover-up and flip-flops, which worked perfectly for the hot weather. But make sure your shoes are sturdy enough for walking on uneven ground and rocks.

  1. Stay Hydrated

It can get hot out there, and you’ll be outside all day, so it’s important to stay hydrated. Most tours will provide you with water, but it’s a good idea to bring your own refillable bottle just in case.

  1. Be Ready for Some Walking

The islands are not all flat, so be prepared for some light trekking to get to the best spots. It’s nothing too strenuous, but wear appropriate footwear and be prepared for some walking, especially on Chicken Island and Tup Island.

  1. Bring Cash for Snacks and Souvenirs

While you won’t need much money, it’s handy to bring a bit of cash for snacks, drinks or souvenirs from the small kiosks on the islandsThailand's Four Island Tour - A secluded tropical island with soft white sand, swaying palm trees, and crystal-clear water.

What to Expect After the Tour

By the time you return to your hotel, you’ll probably be feeling a little tired, but it’ll be the best kind of tired – the kind that comes from a day well-spent. The boat ride back is a perfect opportunity to relax, take in the scenery and reminisce about the amazing sights you saw throughout the day.

The Four Island Tour is definitely one of the highlights of any trip to Krabi. It’s the perfect mix of relaxation, adventure and natural beauty.

Whether you’re in it for the stunning views, the crystal-clear waters or just a fun day out, this tour ticks all the boxes. Want more amazing things to do in Thailand? Check out my 19 must-see experiences in Thailand for even more travel inspiration.A traveller standing in crystal-clear turquoise waters, with a backdrop of a tropical island

Ready To Book Your Next Holiday? These Are My Favourite Travel Tools…

FLIGHTS: Skyscanner

ACCOMMODATION: Booking.Com

CAR RENTAL: Discover Cars

ACTIVITIES: Get Your Guide

eSIM: Airalo

TRAVEL INSURANCE: TravelSupermarket

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