9 Hornbills Tented Camp is a luxury glamping resort, a sister site to the adjacent Koyao Island Resort, located on the island of Koh Yao Noi. The secluded sanctuary sits atop a private hill with out-of-this world views of breathtaking Phang Nga Bay. The tents are genuine – they exude an authentic simplicity coupled with an eco-conscious spirit, yet there is no compromise on comfort here.
Guest need to reach the island from either Phuket or Krabi airport and will then take a longtail boat or speedboat, followed by a drive up the hill. The journey is certainly worth it for the idyllic setting – the limestone karsts of Phang Nga bay are framed by crystalline waters with secret hidden beach hideaways and the lush, verdant tropical rainforest. The location here is truly one of the last hidden gems of Thailand.
Each tent sits within its own private compound with a garden and pool, complete with sun loungers to sit back and relax with the views. The tents are open and airy and, while the exterior is tent material, the tent’s interior is far from basic. Warm, stylish wooden furniture is present throughout, with a large bed and a lounge area. There is an open bathroom with a standalone bathtub along with a rain shower. Throughout, windows and open spaces offer the opportunity for nature to seem to intertwine with the living space, and of course, everywhere you look, there are those magnificent views.
While relaxing and rejuvenating should be the order of the day here, there are kayaks, mountain bikes, and paddleboards available for free to explore the island. While the tented camp does not offer dining on-site, the adjacent Koyao Island Resort is just a short buggy ride away. There, enjoy dinner at Pumpui restaurant, where guests can taste authentic southern Thai food with a specialism in seafood. The hotel does offer breakfast on-site, and guests can even opt for a ‘floating breakfast’ delicately presented to be enjoyed by the pool for a perfect Instagram moment.
