Koh Yao Yai is quite a nice getaway a short boat ride away from Phuket. When we arrived at the island pier despite providing the resort prior notice during the reservation no one was there for the transfer to the resort. When we walked further, we saw a pick-up truck bearing the resort's name with luggages in the rear cabin. It appears that the shuttle has already left and so we had to go with them.
When we got to reception to check in, they told us our bungalow wasn't ready even though we arrived a little past 2 PM. We made our way to the pool area and relaxed with some drinks.
We were able to check in at 4 PM and looking at the lay out of the bungalows, they were really private. The bungalows are set among trees and spaced quite apart from each other, feels like we were in a little jungle.
Our bungalow was spacious, with an outdoor terrace where there are sun loungers, a daybed and the refrigerator. The placement of the refrigerator baffled us a little as we had to go out of the room/bungalow every time we want a cold drink etc.
The bed was big and a little on the hard side but it was still comfortable. The bungalow had a huge window looking out into the "jungle" and the resort main path.
The bungalow had an outdoor rainshower, it lacked traditional or ethnic touches but it had some lovely smelling shower gel.
The infinity pool is gorgeous overlooking another island across from Yao Yai.
The beach in front of the hotel wasn't good for swimming as you had to walk a long way out to reach the water.
We stayed for 3 nights and ate all of our meals at the in-house restaurant. We found the selection acceptable and prices are comparable if not just a little higher than Phuket.
Our flight out of Phuket was at 7 PM and even though we had to check out at 12, we were welcome to use the resort facilities until we left at 4 PM (last speedboat out to Phuket).
The staff at reception and housekeeping were very friendly and helpful but the staff at the restaurant and bar not quite so. We had to seek them out every time we wanted to order drinks or snacks by the pool or when we sat down lunch and dinner.