Koh Laoliang Ferries

Sorry, there is currently no available ferries on this route.

Travelers typically reach Koh Laoliang via ferry from Trang or Pak Meng Pier on the Thai mainland, with journeys taking approximately 30-45 minutes depending on sea conditions. The nearest major transport hub is Trang, accessible by train or bus from Bangkok (12-14 hours) or by road from Krabi (2 hours) and Phuket (3-4 hours). Regular songthaews (shared taxis) and private taxis connect Trang town to Pak Meng Pier. Limited parking is available at the pier if arriving by car, though it's advisable to arrange parking in advance during peak tourist seasons. Ferry services to Koh Laoliang typically run twice daily during the operating season.

Nestled in the Andaman Sea off Thailand's southwestern coast, Koh Laoliang stands as one of the country's most pristine and undeveloped island gems. This small, privately managed island offers a rare escape from Thailand's more commercialized destinations, with its dramatic limestone cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and untouched coral reefs. As a ferry destination, Koh Laoliang provides the perfect balance of adventure and serenity, where visitors can experience authentic island life in an environmentally conscious setting.

Koh Laoliang is open to visitors only during the dry season, typically from November through April, when weather conditions are ideal with sunny days, calm seas, and excellent underwater visibility. December to February offers the most pleasant temperatures, with daytime highs around 30-32°C (86-90°F) and refreshing sea breezes. March and April bring slightly warmer conditions but with equally spectacular clear skies. The island closes completely during the monsoon season (May-October) for environmental regeneration and safety reasons. Early November and late April represent excellent times to visit with slightly smaller crowds while still enjoying favorable weather.

From Koh Laoliang, the spectacular Trang Islands archipelago becomes your playground, with Koh Mook just 30 minutes away by longtail boat, home to the magical Emerald Cave (Tham Morakot). Koh Kradan, approximately 45 minutes by ferry, boasts some of Thailand's most pristine beaches and snorkeling spots. The larger island of Koh Lanta can be reached in about 1.5 hours, offering more developed amenities while maintaining a relaxed atmosphere. Many visitors arrange island-hopping tours from Koh Laoliang, taking advantage of its central position to explore multiple islands in a single day, with particularly scenic routes passing dramatic limestone formations between the islands.

Koh Laoliang distinguishes itself as a rock climbing paradise, with over 50 bolted routes on its towering limestone cliffs suitable for beginners to experienced climbers. The surrounding waters offer exceptional snorkeling directly from the beach, where vibrant coral gardens host colorful parrotfish, angelfish, and occasional reef sharks. Kayaking around the island reveals hidden caves and secluded beaches only accessible from the water. The island's single restaurant serves authentic southern Thai cuisine featuring freshly caught seafood, with specialties including tom yam talay (spicy seafood soup) and pla neung manao (steamed fish with lime). The eastern beach area transforms at sunset, offering breathtaking views as the limestone cliffs are bathed in golden light.

Koh Laoliang operates under a strict environmental management system, allowing a maximum of just 40 visitors on the island at any time to minimize human impact. The island was once exclusively used by local fishermen as a shelter during storms before becoming a carefully managed ecotourism destination in the early 2000s. Interestingly, Koh Laoliang has no permanent residents, with all staff arriving daily or seasonally from nearby communities. The island's name is believed to derive from its silhouette when viewed from certain angles, which resembles a 'laoliang' - a traditional Thai musical instrument similar to a harmonica.