Ya Nui Beach
A great Beach for Snorkelling in Phuket
Nestled between Nai Harn Beach and Promthep Cape, Ya Nui Beach is a little gem on Phuket’s southern tip. Small, scenic, and beautifully framed by rocky headlands, it offers a charming mix of turquoise water and green hills that shift in tone with the changing seasons. Despite its modest size, Ya Nui’s beauty rarely goes unnoticed — during the high season, it often fills quickly with sunseekers and snorkellers who come to enjoy its tranquil waters and postcard-perfect setting.
Once home to a small beachfront restaurant, Ya Nui was restored to its natural state after the 2014 beach cleanup that removed all permanent businesses from public beaches in Thailand. Today, ambulant vendors still visit regularly, offering drinks, snacks, and renting out beach mats and umbrellas, ensuring visitors can still spend a comfortable day on the sand.
The beach is especially popular with snorkelling enthusiasts, as the waters around its rocky islets are rich with marine life. It’s also a pleasant spot for kayaking or even a short scuba dive, though swimmers should be cautious of occasional strong undercurrents.
A small parking area under the trees provides convenient access, but given its secluded location, renting a motorbike is the best way to get there — tuk tuks and taxis are not always easy to find in this quiet corner of Phuket.
Ya Nui Beach Highlights
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Picturesque small beach with fantastic photo opportunities
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Excellent snorkeling and scuba diving close to shore
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Kayaks available for rent to explore nearby coves
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Food and drink sold by ambulant vendors
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Parking available in shaded areas beneath the trees
Ya Nui Beach Drawbacks
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No hotels directly on the beach (a few within walking distance)
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Remote location — limited transport options, though this adds to its charm
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Ya Nui Beach is from December to April, when the sea is calm and visibility is perfect for snorkelling and diving. During these months, the weather is sunny and the water glows with vivid shades of blue and green. The low season (May to November) can bring stronger waves and undercurrents, but Ya Nui remains a peaceful and photogenic spot for those seeking a more local, off-the-beaten-path vibe.
Ya Nui Beach Photos
Ya Nui Beach Map
Stéphane Audiger - Photographer & Writer
Passionate about photography since the mid-2000s, I’ve spent years capturing the beauty of Phuket and southern Thailand — from beaches and islands to festivals and daily life. My work reflects a lasting love for the region and its ever-changing light.
Last visit & photos: Ya Nui Beach — 11 April 2024
