Ko Hong

Hong means room, and the name describes the island's feature: a lagoon almost completely enclosed by vertical limestone walls, open to the sea only through a narrow gap that boats can enter at some tides and not others. Inside, the water is still and shallow and the walls rise sheer, which is why the lagoon is on every Krabi tour itinerary. The island also has a white beach on its eastern side and a viewpoint reached by a steep climb of a few hundred steps, giving a view over the surrounding islands. It sits within Than Bok Khorani National Park. The reality of a visit is the boat traffic - dozens of longtails and speedboats arrive through the middle of the day and the lagoon and beach fill; going early or late, or on a private boat, is the difference between the photographs and the experience. Tide dictates lagoon access entirely.

What you actually see

• The lagoon - enclosed by limestone walls, entered through a narrow gap.
• The beach - white sand on the eastern side of the island.
• The viewpoint - a steep stair climb over the surrounding islands.
• The tide constraint - the gap passable only at certain water levels.

When to go

November to April. Go early or late - midday brings dozens of boats. Lagoon access depends on tide, so check with the boat operator before booking a specific trip.

Honest expectations

Extremely busy midday with boat traffic. Lagoon entry is tide-dependent and not always possible. National park fees apply on top of the boat fare. The viewpoint climb is steep with several hundred steps.

Nearby

Ao Thalane and its mangrove kayaking are on the mainland; Ao Nang and Railay are south.