Koh Nang Yuan

A short longtail ride from Koh Tao lies Koh Nang Yuan — three tiny islands connected by bright white sandbars and water so clear it scarcely looks real.

Divers head for Red Rock and Green Rock, while snorkellers drift through the coral gardens beside butterflyfish and electric- blue tangs. Later, a short shaded climb leads to the island’s celebrated viewpoint, where ivory sand curls into turquoise sea in one of southern Thailand’s most recognisable panoramas.

Arrive early. Stay lightly. Leave before the day-trippers do.