If you’re daydreaming about turquoise water, dramatic limestone cliffs, and soft powdery sand between your toes, Chicken Island in Krabi deserves a spot on your travel list. Named after its quirky chicken-shaped rock formation, this tiny island is one of those places that instantly makes you forget about emails, deadlines, and city noise.
Getting There
Most visitors reach Chicken Island by hopping on a traditional long-tail boat from Ao Nang Beach. The ride takes around half an hour depending on the waves, but it’s hardly just transportation — it’s part of the adventure. As you glide across shimmering blue water, towering cliffs rise in the distance and sea spray cools the air. By the time the boat slows down, you’re already in vacation mode.
The island comes into view with its famous rock formation jutting out above the water like the profile of a rooster. White sand stretches along the shore, inviting you to drop your bag and dive right in.
What to Do
Chicken Island may be small, but boredom isn’t an option. You can float above colorful coral reefs with a snorkel, paddle around hidden inlets in a kayak, or stretch out on the warm sand with nothing but waves for company. Feeling brave? Some spots offer safe jumps into deep water from the rocks. As the sun dips, the whole island glows gold — a sunset here feels almost unreal.
When to Visit
For the best weather, plan your trip between November and March. These months offer calmer seas, clearer skies, and slightly cooler temperatures. If you’d rather skip the crowds, try early November or late March, when things are quieter but still pleasant.
What to Pack
Stick to lightweight clothing — think breathable shirts, quick-dry shorts, and swimsuits you won’t mind wearing all day. Essentials include sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and shoes you can wear on sand and rock. A small bag for water, snacks, and your camera will make life easier, and a light layer for breezy evenings never hurts.
Respect the Island
Chicken Island is stunning because it’s relatively untouched, so do your part to keep it that way. Take your rubbish with you, avoid stepping on coral while snorkeling, and keep noise to a minimum so everyone — including marine life — can enjoy the peace.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re the kind of traveler who seeks thrill or tranquility, Chicken Island offers both. It’s the perfect balance of adventure and calm — a place where paddling through clear water can be as satisfying as simply lying on the sand doing nothing at all.
Pack smart, be kind to the island, and let yourself slow down. With the sun on your skin and salt in your hair, you’ll understand why so many people fall in love with this little corner of Krabi.
