About Ko Lao
Ko Lao lies near Mueang Ranong in the Andaman coastal estuary. Current government accounts place its community in Pak Nam Subdistrict. This is the Ranong island, distinct from similarly named Lao Ya and Lao Liang islands elsewhere in Thailand.
Fishing and shrimp-paste production are part of the island's community identity. Thai and Moken communities live on the island, which forms part of the wider coastal landscape associated with Ranong's mangrove conservation and biosphere-reserve work.
Arrange a local boat and an agreed return from the Ranong waterfront, confirming which community landing you intend to use. A community visit is more useful when coordinated with a local host than when treated as an unannounced photography stop.
Ask permission before photographing residents, homes or working fishing areas, and follow the host's guidance about walking between settlements. Current fares and boat times need local confirmation. The map pin is an island reference, not an immigration crossing or a surveyed visitor entrance.