4 Islands Tour from Krabi: Guide to the Most Popular Excursion
· Amon Tour
4 Islands Tour from Krabi: The Must-Do Excursion
The 4 Islands Tour is the most popular excursion from Krabi, and for good reason. This day trip takes you to discover four paradisiacal islands in just one day: Phra Nang Cave Beach, Chicken Island, Tup Island, and Poda Island.
The 4 Must-See Islands
1. Phra Nang Cave Beach - The Legendary Beach
Why it's exceptional:
- Accessible only by boat
- Impressive limestone cliffs
- Sacred cave with shrine
- World-famous rock climbing spot
- Crystal-clear turquoise waters
Must-see activities:
- Visit to the sacred Princess Phra Nang cave
- Swimming in pristine waters
- Rock climbing observation
- Photography with spectacular cliffs
- Beach relaxation on fine sand
Local legend: The cave houses the spirit of Princess Phra Nang, protecting local fishermen. Wooden phalluses are offered as fertility symbols.
2. Chicken Island (Koh Gai) - The Iconic Rock
Distinctive features:
- Famous rock formation resembling a chicken head
- Perfect for memorable photos
- Excellent snorkeling on the south side
- Shallow, calm waters
- Abundant marine life
Best activities:
- Snorkeling with tropical fish
- Unique photography
- Swimming in calm waters
- Beach exploration
- Coral observation
Photo tip: Best angle for the "chicken" is from the south side of the island
3. Tup Island (Koh Tup) - The Sandbar Island
Natural phenomenon:
- Connected to Mor Island by a natural sandbar
- Sandbar appears only at low tide
- Unique experience: Walk on water between two islands
- 360° views of Andaman Sea
- Perfect for romantic photos
Optimal timing:
- Low tide: Walk on the sandbar (check tide tables)
- High tide: Snorkeling and swimming
- Best photos: 1 hour before and after low tide
4. Poda Island (Koh Poda) - The Postcard Beach
Paradise characteristics:
- 800m of pristine white sand beach
- Coconut palms and tropical vegetation
- Crystal-clear shallow waters
- Perfect for swimming and relaxation
- Picnic lunch on the beach
Why it's perfect:
- Family-friendly (shallow water)
- Beach volleyball and games
- Traditional Thai lunch spot
- Instagram-worthy landscapes
- Relaxation in tropical shade
Tour Types and Options
Standard Long-tail Boat Tour
Duration: 6-7 hours (8:30am-3:30pm) Price: 1,200-1,500 THB per person Group: 15-20 people per boat Included:
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Long-tail boat transport
- National park fees
- Lunch on Poda Island
- Snorkeling equipment
- Life jacket
- Fresh water
- Tour guide
Premium Speedboat Tour
Duration: 6-7 hours (9:00am-4:00pm)
Price: 1,800-2,200 THB per person
Group: 10-15 people maximum
Advantages:
- Faster transportation (more time on islands)
- Smaller group
- Better equipment
- Professional guide
- Quality lunch
- Extra activities
Private Charter
Duration: Flexible (6-8 hours) Price: 8,000-12,000 THB (6-10 people) Benefits:
- Complete flexibility
- Avoid crowds
- Custom itinerary
- Choose your pace
- Professional captain and guide
Best Snorkeling Spots
Chicken Island - South Side
Level: Beginner to intermediate Depth: 2-8 meters Marine life:
- Colorful parrotfish
- Angelfish and butterflyfish
- Green sea turtles (if lucky)
- Hard and soft corals
- Small reef sharks (harmless)
Best area: Rocky zones on the south and east sides
Poda Island - East Coast
Level: Beginner Depth: 1-5 meters Perfect for:
- First snorkeling experience
- Children and non-swimmers
- Underwater photography
- Learning snorkeling basics
Tup Island - Between Islands
Level: Intermediate Depth: 3-10 meters Highlights:
- Diverse marine ecosystem
- Rock formations underwater
- Schools of tropical fish
- Beautiful corals
What's Included vs. What to Bring
Typically Included
✅ Transportation: Hotel pickup and drop-off ✅ Boat: Long-tail or speedboat depending on option ✅ Equipment: Snorkeling gear and life jackets ✅ Meals: Thai lunch on Poda Island ✅ Drinks: Water and soft drinks ✅ Guide: English-speaking local guide ✅ Fees: National park entrance fees
What to Bring
- Waterproof sunscreen (SPF 50+ - essential!)
- Hat and sunglasses
- Swimwear (quick-dry recommended)
- Waterproof bag for phone and valuables
- Cash for extras and tips
- Camera (preferably waterproof)
- Light towel (some tours provide)
- Change of clothes
Best Time to Go
Season Considerations
High Season (November-March) ✅ Pros:
- Perfect weather conditions
- Calm seas and excellent visibility
- Less chance of rain
- Optimal for photography
❌ Cons:
- More crowded
- Higher prices
- Need to book in advance
Low Season (May-October) ✅ Pros:
- Fewer tourists
- Lower prices
- More authentic experience
- Better photo opportunities without crowds
❌ Cons:
- Risk of rain and storms
- Tours may be cancelled
- Rougher seas
Daily Timing
Morning departure (8:30am):
- Better lighting for photos
- Calmer seas
- Cooler temperatures
- More time on islands
Photography Tips
Best Photo Spots
- Chicken Island: South side for the famous rock formation
- Tup Island: Sandbar connecting the two islands (low tide)
- Phra Nang Cave: Cave entrance with cliffs backdrop
- Poda Island: Beach panorama with coconut palms
Technical Tips
- Golden hour: Early morning (8-9am) and late afternoon (4-5pm)
- Use polarizing filter: Reduces water glare
- Underwater shots: Shallow areas for beginners
- Drone: Check local regulations (often prohibited)
Health and Safety
Sea Safety
- Always wear provided life jacket
- Stay close to the group while snorkeling
- Don't touch or stand on corals
- Be aware of boat traffic
- Listen to your guide's safety briefings
Sun Protection
- Apply sunscreen every 2 hours
- Wear UV-protective clothing
- Stay in shade during boat transfers
- Drink water regularly
Seasickness Prevention
- Take motion sickness tablets 1 hour before departure
- Eat light breakfast (avoid dairy)
- Stay on deck during boat transfers
- Focus on the horizon
Environmental Responsibility
Protect the Marine Environment
- No touching: Corals are living organisms
- No feeding: Fish can become dependent and sick
- No collecting: Shells and corals should stay in the ocean
- Reef-safe sunscreen: Chemical sunscreens damage coral reefs
- Stay in designated areas: Respect protected zones
Sustainable Tourism
- Choose responsible tour operators
- Respect daily visitor limits
- Follow "Leave No Trace" principles
- Support local communities
Alternatives and Extensions
Half-Day Options
Morning tour (8:30am-1:30pm): Visit 2-3 islands Afternoon tour (1:30pm-6:30pm): Includes spectacular sunset
Combined Tours
4 Islands + Railay Beach: Full day (2,000 THB) 4 Islands + Hong Island: 2-day package (3,500 THB) 4 Islands + Phi Phi: Ultimate day tour (2,800 THB)
Nearby Attractions
After your 4 Islands tour, consider:
- Railay Beach rock climbing
- Ao Nang night market
- Tiger Cave Temple
- Emerald Pool hot springs
Booking Tips
How to Book
- Through your hotel: Convenient but more expensive
- Local travel agencies: Better prices, compare options
- Online platforms: Read reviews, secure booking
- Direct with operators: Best prices but requires research
What to Ask When Booking
- Group size (smaller is better)
- Boat type and safety equipment
- Lunch details and dietary restrictions
- Cancellation policy for bad weather
- Pickup location and timing
- Total duration and return time
Red Flags to Avoid
❌ Unusually low prices (poor quality/safety) ❌ No mention of insurance ❌ Vague itinerary descriptions ❌ No cancellation policy ❌ Pressure to book immediately
Amon Tour offers premium 4 Islands tours with small groups and expert local guides. Discover these paradise islands with complete safety and authenticity. Contact us for personalized excursions adapted to your pace.