Hong Islands & 4 Islands: Private Longtail Tour, Sunset & Night Snorkel

Summary

Private longtail boat to Hong Islands plus sunset swim and night snorkel

You’ll ride a private longtail boat from Ao Nang to Hong Islands, swim in hidden lagoons, enjoy lunch on an empty beach, watch sunset at Railay Bay, then snorkel among glowing plankton at night. With hotel pickup, snacks, and a local guide handling everything, it feels both relaxed and quietly thrilling — something you’ll remember longer than you expect.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t think I’d ever get used to the sound of the old wooden longtail engine — it’s loud but somehow comforting. We left Ao Nang late morning, just us and our guide, Somchai (he goes by “Chai”). He grinned when he saw how excited we were to steer the boat for a bit. The water was that unreal shade of blue-green you see in postcards but never believe is real until you’re actually there. I kept smelling salt and something almost sweet in the air — maybe from all the fruit Chai had packed for us.

The first stop was Hong Lagoon. It’s hard to describe that feeling when you glide into this hidden pool surrounded by limestone cliffs — like someone pressed mute on the world except for the splash of paddles and a few birds. We swam for ages; I even tried snorkeling but mostly ended up giggling because my mask kept fogging up. Lunch was on a quiet beach (I never caught its name), just us and two local fishermen mending nets nearby. Chai handed us club sandwiches and fresh pineapple, which tasted way better than it sounds after swimming all morning.

Later, we drifted past Tup Island and Chicken Island (yep, it really does look like a chicken’s head). As the sun started dropping, we reached Railay Bay. The cliffs turned gold and everyone got quiet for a minute — even Chai stopped talking. That sunset sticks with me. Then came night snorkeling with bioluminescent plankton. Honestly? I was nervous at first. But once you move your hands through the water and see those tiny lights flicker around you… I still think about that moment sometimes when I can’t sleep.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Hong Islands and Sunset Snorkel

• Board private Long Tail Boat
• Visit Hong Islands lagoon
• Swim in natural lagoon pool
• Snorkel in tropical waters
• Admire limestone cliffs
• Have lunch on non-touristy island
• Visit Tup Island beach
• Visit unspoiled white sand island
• Pass by Chicken Head Island
• Watch sunset at Phra Nang Beach
• Night snorkel bioluminescent plankton

Top questions

How long is the private Hong Islands & 4 Islands tour?

The tour typically lasts most of the day, starting late morning with return after sunset if you choose the evening/night snorkel option.

Is hotel pickup included in Ao Nang?

Yes, free round trip hotel pickup by minivan is included for all hotels in Ao Nang.

Can vegetarians or halal eaters be accommodated?

Yes, vegetarian and halal meal options are available if requested at booking.

Is night snorkeling with bioluminescent plankton included?

Night snorkeling is included if you select the upgraded tour package with evening activities.

Are national park fees covered?

Yes, all entry fees including national park charges are included in your booking price.

What islands are visited during this private tour?

You’ll visit Hong Islands area (including lagoon), Tup Island, Chicken Island, Lading Island and finish at Railay Bay.

Is this tour suitable for children?

The minimum age is 4 years old; children must be accompanied by an adult.

What should I bring for this day trip to Hong Islands?

You should bring swimwear, sunscreen, hat, towel and maybe a change of clothes for after snorkeling.

What’s included

Your day includes private longtail boat transport with a certified local guide from Ao Nang hotels (pickup and drop-off), all entry fees including national park charges, buffet lunch (with vegetarian or halal options if needed), club sandwich snack at sunset depending on your package choice, fresh fruit onboard plus water and soft drinks throughout the trip. All snorkeling gear is provided along with safety briefings before each stop — so you don’t need to worry about equipment or logistics at all.