The island of Yao is made up of both Ko Yao Yai (Big Long Island) and Ko Yao Noi (Little Long Island). With a total size of 137 sq. km, these islands are covered by forests, beaches and rocky headlands with views of the surrounding karst formations characteristic of Ao Phang-Nga.

Ko Yao Noi is the most populated area of the two Long Islands while Hat Paa Sai and Hat Tha Khao, which are also on Yao Noi, are the best beaches. To truly enjoy the islands' numerous dirt trails, it is advisable to bring along a mountain bike. The largest settlement on Yao Noi is Ta Khai, a sub-district seat with minimal source of supplies. Trips to neighboring islands, sea gypsy funeral caves, and birds' nest caves are made possible through boats that leave from Ta Khai.

On the east from Ko Yai lies the small island of Ko Bele, which features a large tidal lagoon and three white-sand beaches. Caves and coral reefs dot the rest of the island.

For 600B to 1000B per day (depending on the size of the boat), longtail boats from Ko Yao Noi or Ao Nang in Krabi can be chartered for a fun trip.