islands to visit phuket

Phuket Island Hopping: 15 Amazing Islands & How To Visit Them

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: January 10, 2024

Are you traveling to Phuket and want to explore some of the nearby islands, but are not sure where to start? This Phuket island hopping guide features all the most popular islands that you can easily visit as a day trip from Phuket. It also includes a few lesser known islands nearby and some well known islands a bit further away that are well worth a visit.

In addition, for each of the islands featured in this Phuket island hopping guide, we included practical tips and information on how to get there.

We have recently stayed in Phuket and used it as a base to do some island hopping nearby. However, we opted for a longer island-hopping adventure in Thailand and Phuket was just a part of it.

So in order to give you a better picture of the available Phuket island hopping options, I also asked other travel writers to share their favorite islands that they visited as a day trip from Phuket. This way you can read authentic travel stories that will hopefully help you decide which islands to visit from Phuket.

Top 5 Experiences in Phuket:

• Phi-Phi Islands & Maya Bay .
• Elephant Jungle Sanctuary .
• ATV Jungle Adventure .
• Similan Islands (amazing snorkeling!)
• James Bond Island .

Phuket is an ideal base for island hopping in southern Thailand. In fact, infrastructure is so good that it makes it possible to see so many amazing islands without ever having to switch hotels. So if you are short on time and want to explore the most spectacular islands as a day trip from Phuket , you’ll be glad to know that there are many amazing choices. Those islands are featured in the beginning of our selection (#1-8).

Many bigger islands not far from Phuket are certainly worth a longer trip and an overnight stay. So in this post, I also included a few islands that you can visit from Phuket, but where you better stay overnight . While, theoretically, they could also be visited as a day trip from Phuket, I personally would advise staying on those islands a bit longer. You’ll find these islands featured towards the end of this article (#9-10).

At the very end of this article, I also included 5 islands (#11-15) that are very close to Phuket, but are more local and therefore rarely visited by day-trippers, let alone organized tours. Each of these five islands are well worth a short visit, but they are also perfect as a place to stay in Phuket area.

Stunning location, no crowds, and exclusive luxury resorts – these islands are a great alternative if you are not keen on staying in the huge hotels along the crowded beaches on Phuket itself . After all, staying on a little paradise-like island is the ultimate island-hopping experience.

This Phuket island hopping guide not only features the most beautiful islands near Phuket , but it’s also full of practical tips and information showing you how to visit them. Find out!

TIP: If you want to see as many different islands in a short time, check out this 2-day tour that visits 12 (!) different islands.

Here are some of the best islands you can visit from Phuket:

1. Koh Phi Phi

I’ll start with one of the most beautiful islands of the Andaman sea and our personal favorite day trip from Phuket – Phi Phi islands . The name Koh Phi Phi actually refers to not one island, but a cluster of six islands. Most day trips and tours will focus on just the two biggest islands – Ko Phi Phi Don and Ko Phi Phi Lee.

Phi Phi Don is the only inhabited island of Phi Phi islands and is a real tourist hub with busy boat piers and a big choice of restaurants, shops, and accommodations for all budgets. Despite its reputation of being a party island, it’s well worth a visit due to its stunning location.

On the quieter side of the island, you can still find white sand beaches and azure blue waters surrounded by some amazing scenery. Make sure to also go up to the two viewpoints overlooking the wide surroundings. The views are stunning!

Koh Phi Phi Leh is an uninhabited island, probably best known for its secluded and incredibly picturesque Maya Bay, featured in the famous movie The Beach . To get here, you’ll need to take a boat.

All the guided Phi Phi islands tours from Phuket visit both islands and make many stops along the way, including several snorkeling locations. The most popular stops are Pileh Lagoon, Viking Cave, Monkey Beach, and lunch on Bamboo Island.

How to visit Phi Phi islands from Phuket:

• On your own. There are many ferry and speedboat connections between Phuket and Phi Phi Don. A speedboat takes about an hour (you can book a speedboat here ), whereas a ferry will take 2 hours ( you can book a ferry here ). You can easily visit Phi Phi Don on your own. However, if you also want to see Phi Phi Leh and the stunning coastline, you’ll need to hire a local long-tail boat to get there. There are plenty of boats on both harbors of Phi Phi Don and you can just negotiate the trip and the cost once you get there.
• Here is the Phi Phi islands tour that we took .
• This is the most popular tour – a great option for those who don’t want to get up at 5-6 AM…
• If you want more choices, here you can find all the best tour options for Phi Phi islands .

2. Phang Nga Bay & James Bond Island

The second group of islands that are a must when island-hopping from Phuket, is Phang Nga Bay Marine National Park. There are over 100 islands in this area, but its main landmark is the so-called James Bond island .

Known for its appearance in the 1974 James Bond film ‘ The Man With The Golden Gun ‘, the stunning Khao Ping Kan with a 20-meter tall islet Koh Tapu, has gained the name ‘James Bond Island’. With flocks of tourists visiting the island to take in the striking scenery created by the towering vertical karsts on emerald-green water, it is best to get here early in the morning to avoid the crowds.

Just 40 kilometers off Phuket, many tour companies offer full-day and half-day tours around Phang Nga Bay. Organized day trips usually include hotel pick-ups, minivan transfers to Phang Bay and back, a long-tail boat or speedboat to James Bond Island, as well as the 200 TBH entrance fee to the national park. Organized trips also include lunch and a stop at the floating fishing village of Koh Panyee.

Other main points of interest of Phang Nga Bay are the sacred Buddha Cave Temple, Wat Tham Suwana Kuha, and Hong Island (see also as an independent day trip below). If you go with a tour, you usually have the option to explore the caves and the stunning coastline by canoe or kayak as well.

How to get to Phang Nga Bay from Phuket:

• On your own.  You can explore all the attractions of Phang Nga Bay by hiring a long-tail boat. If you have a car or a motorbike, you can drive to Klong Khien Pier and rent a long-tail boat for a half-day excursion (it can be quite affordable or rather expensive – depends on how many people share the boat). Alternatively, you can also drive to Sam Chong Seafood , a floating restaurant that serves good-value tasty food and arranges long-tail boat hires as well.
• James Bond Island by Longtail Boat . This tour includes kayaking as well.
• Phang Nga Bay: Early Bird James Bond Tour . This is a great tour that offers a bit different itinerary than most others allowing you to enjoy the beautiful scenery without big crowds.
• Luxury Sunset Cruise: James Bond & Hong Island with Kayaking – fewer crowds and dinner included.

No matter how you visit, Phang Nga Bay is definitely worth a trip. Without any doubt, this is one of the absolute best day trips you can make from Phuket!

James Bond Island is suggested as one of the best islands to visit from Phuket by Karolina from Lazy Travel Blog .

A paradise, away from the bustle of Phuket, is one of my favorite islands in Thailand, Ko Hong . Known as Hong Island, it is located near dozens of other uninhabited islands in Phang Nga Bay.

Hong Island is one of the larger islands in the bay. On arrival, there is a small additional park entry fee. The beach has the softest white sand with stunning views of limestone cliffs and gentle emerald waters. It is the perfect spot to lay out and relax or spend some time snorkeling.

If you come here with a tour, you then continue to the back of the island, where a small entrance leads into a lagoon inside the middle of the island. It is perfect for kayaking!

Dedicated Ko Hong tours spend most of their time at Hong Island. However, they also take the time to explore the nooks and corners of several other stunning islands in the area.

How to get to Ko Hong from Phuket:

• On your own. It is possible to hire a private long-tail boat from a local fisherman for the day. This is a perfect option for couples, families, or groups of friends looking for a more intimate experience and more say in the time spent on the island. It is easy to find local fishermen near the main pier in Phuket or anywhere along the beach. There are often language barriers in Thailand, but with persistence, we found a local Thai person to help arrange the tour for us and negotiate a price. The tour was basic, with nothing provided (no food, water, etc…); just a long-tail boat, wind against our faces, and a smiling captain steering the boat.
• With an organized tour. Tours to this part of Phang Nga Bay by long-tail boat range in cost. Prices depend if the tour is on a long-tail or a fast boat. There seem to be more tours going to Ko Hang from Krabi than from Phuket, but there are a couple of James Bond Island tours that visit Hong Island as well. You can find some Hong Island tour options here .

This stunning little island is suggested as an unforgettable day trip from Phuket by Yana from Beard and Curly .

4. Koh Racha Yai & Koh Racha Noi

The Racha Islands, Racha Yai & Racha Noi can be found a mere 20km south of Phuket. Despite being so close to the busy Phuket, the islands are still quite off the beaten path. The laid back atmosphere and lack of major development will give you an inkling of how Koh Phi Phi was 20 years ago.

In the Thai language “yai” means big and “noi” means small. The smaller Racha Noi island is uninhabited and has more rocks than beaches. Fishing and diving are the main attractions at Koh Racha Noi. The larger island, Koh Racha Yai , is the main attraction with gorgeous beaches, secluded bays, a few bars, and accommodations.

Crystal clear water and an abundance of sea life make for excellent diving and snorkeling, which is one of the biggest draws to the Koh Racha Yai. Patok Bay has the longest beach of brilliantly white sand and it’s here that all the boats moor. From the jetty continue up the beach and follow the track to the village in the middle of the island. The little village has hut-like restaurants and shops that stock most things you would need for a short stay.

If you continue with the dirt track up and over the hill you’ll reach the equally beautiful Siam Beach. This is the quieter side of the island where you can escape from the day-trippers on Patok Beach. If you’re lucky, you may see the huge monitor lizards and the odd water buffalo in the coconut groves. Walking from one side of the island to the other should take about 15 minutes.

Transport on Koh Racha Yai is mostly by foot, but you can hire bicycles and motorbikes. Make your way to the West of the island for some spectacular sunsets.

How to get to Koh Racha Yai from Phuket:

• On your own. Boats to Koh Racha Yai leave from Chalong Pier or Ra Wai Beach and take 35 min. You can hire a speedboat or a ferry shuttle. It is also possible to take a long-tail boat from Chalong Beach to Racha Yai, but it will take more than an hour and could be dangerous should the weather suddenly change.
• Book a tour. While not as popular or well-known as the other island-hopping options from Phuket, it is possible to find organized tours to Koh Racha Yai . Most of them involve scuba diving, but there are also more relaxing tours more focused on water sports, snorkeling, and beaches. Here’s one of the best-rated Koh Racha Yai tours from Phuket . It actually visits two white-sand islands near Phuket – Racha Island and Coral Island (see below).

Koh Racha Yai day trip from Phuket is suggested by Jeanne from Learning to Breathe Abroad .

5. Coral Island – Koh He

Ko He (also Koh Hay or Koh Hae) or in English Coral Island, is located nearest to Phuket of all the islands in this selection. Despite that, it’s not hard to find places that are not yet completely overrun with tourists. It’s a great getaway for those looking to visit a white-sand blue-sea island near Phuket.

Coral Island is famous for its big variety of water sports and activities like diving and snorkeling. The place to be on Coral Island is the white-sand Long Beach, but it can get really crowded with day-trippers from Phuket. A better option for those looking to escape the crowds a bit more is Banana Beach, just 10-15 minutes walking distance.

How to get to Coral Island from Phuket:

• On your own. You can get to Coral island by boat from Ao Chalong pier .
• With a tour. You can join an organized tour that visits Racha Yai and Ko He as a day trip from Phuket .

6. Similan Islands

The Similan Islands are a group of eleven islands off the coast of Southern Thailand that can be visited on a day trip from Phuket or Khao Lak. This island archipelago is one of the best snorkeling spots in Thailand and I can highly recommend a visit if you are looking for an unforgettable island hopping experience in the Phuket area.

Depending on where you are staying in Phuket, and from which pier your tour departs, the total journey to Similan Islands by car and speedboat can take up to 2-3 hours. Journey times can become longer due to traffic and bad weather, but it’s worth the trouble.

How to get to Similan Islands from Phuket. The best way to get the most out of your visit is to take an organized day trip to the Similan Islands . If you book a tour, they will arrange everything including pick up from your hotel, drop off at the end of the day, and take you to all the best snorkeling spots in the Similan Islands.

On a 1-day trip from Phuket, you will visit 2-3 different islands. The Similan Islands have the clearest and most turquoise waters I have ever seen, paired with soft white sandy beaches. The islands are a protected national park and there is a wide variety of marine flora and fauna. If you’re lucky enough, you might even be able to snorkel with turtles!

Similan Islands day trip from Phuket is contributed by Greta from Greta’s Travels .

7. Surin Islands

Surin Islands , north of Similan Islands, is an archipelago of 5 islands. They are a bit further away from Phuket than most other islands and are therefore not as widely known or visited. It’s a real paradise with natural unspoiled beauty, the way many popular Thai islands used to be some 20 years ago…

With emerald green waters, colorful coral, and lots of sea life, Surin Islands are known as one of the absolute best snorkeling and diving locations in Thailand.

How to get to Surin Islands from Phuket. Surin Islands are quite far from Phuket, so the best way to get there is by booking an organized day tour . If you rather go on your own, there are boats running from Khao Lak, but depending on the schedule you might have to stay there (camping?) at least one night.

8. Koh Jum – Ko Pu

Koh Jum, also known as Ko Pu , is one of Thailand’s quieter and less developed Andaman islands. The island with two names (the northern part is known as Koh Pu, while the southern part is designated Koh Jum) is accessible from both Krabi and Phuket.

The beaches that make up Koh Jum’s western coastline are an obvious highlight. Popular stretches of sand include Lubo Beach, the island’s northernmost beach, Ao Ting Rai, and Ao Si. There is a smattering of low-key bungalow resorts along the beachfront that serve drinks and food (drop-ins welcome). Further south, Golden Pearl Beach is home to a few luxury villas. Water activities include swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving with local outfit, Koh Jum Divers.

There’s not a whole lot else to do on Koh Jum—and that’s precisely what makes the island so appealing. You won’t find any rowdy bars, full moon parties or shopping malls (at the time of our visit, there wasn’t even an ATM).

Hire a motorbike or bicycle to explore more of the island. Don’t miss Baan Ko Pu and Baan Ko Jum, the largest towns, which both have markets and mosques to see (the island’s residents are predominantly Muslim). You can also hike in the jungle interior and up Mount Pu, but make sure to hire a local guide who knows the area well.

How to get to Koh Jum – Ko Pu from Phuket. A high-speed ferry connects Phuket’s Ao Po Pier to Baan Koh Jum. The trip takes around 1.5 hours. Visitors also have the option to purchase a van-ferry joint ticket from Phuket Airport or the bus terminal. Note that boats are sometimes canceled during the rainy season, so it’s best to check availability in advance.

This lesser-known island not far from Phuket and Krabi is suggested by Emily from Wander-Lush .

9. Koh Lanta

Located about 70km away from Phuket, Koh Lanta is not immediately the first destination that comes to mind when exploring island hopping options from Phuket.

I personally wouldn’t advise going to Koh Lanta for just a day, but if you can stay on the island overnight, it’s definitely worth the trip. It was one of the favorite islands from our trip in Thailand!

Even if you take the earliest boat from Phuket to Lanta in the morning, you’ll probably have just 4-5 hours on Koh Lanta. The last boats from Koh Lanta to Phuket leave around 1-1.30 PM. Koh Lanta is a big island with lots going on, therefore I suggest that you stay on Koh Lanta for at least 1, ideally 2 nights. That way you can actually explore the island a bit more.

Koh Lanta has miles of calm, sandy beaches and very few people compared to the other popular islands nearby. This makes it a welcome respite from Phuket, which is usually packed with tourists.

The island is also surrounded by healthy coral, so snorkeling is always a pleasure here. The best way to do it is by boat via a snorkeling tour that allows you to reach more remote snorkeling locations near Koh Lanta. Here you can find a big selection of the most popular tours in Ko Lanta .

The Mu Ko National Park in the southwest of Koh Lanta is great for hiking. Don’t miss the lighthouse where you can enjoy some beautiful views. There are also remote beautiful white sandy beaches here.

Other popular things to do include kayaking tours to the nearby sea caves . You can also visit Lanta’s Old Town where you can see the Chinese Temple or do some shopping.

How to get to Koh Lanta from Phuket. Lanta is a short (1.5 hour) speedboat ride from Phuket. If you are just visiting Koh Lanta just for a day or two, don’t take a slow ferry as it can take over 4 hours. The speedboat costs more, around 1300-1500 TBH, but it’s so worth it. Boats to Lanta leave from Rassada Pier in Phuket. On Koh Lanta, the boats arrive at the Saladan Pier , which is located on the northwest side of the island.

You can book a boat transfer from Phuket to Ko Lanta and just visit for a day, but if you are on a tight schedule, make sure to book a boat there and back in advance!

Once you get to Ko Lanta, you can then do the tours that start on the island itself . At the moment, there are no day trips from Phuket that would include the transfer as well as sightseeing, because it is really easy to arrange yourself. And also because most people stay in Ko Lanta longer than a day (this is my personal recommendation as well).

Koh Lanta is suggested by Stefan from Nomadic Boys .

10. Ko Samui

Koh Samui is one of the most beautiful islands in Thailand. This is one of the islands where you’d want to stay longer! And not just because it’s really far from Phuket, but also because it has so much to offer that it would be a shame to not explore this island a bit more. After all, Ko Samui is one of Thailand’s largest islands.

I was not sure if I would include Ko Samui in this selection of islands to visit from Phuket and I myself would definitely not just go there for a day. But it turns out that it’s possible to do that, so if you have just limited time and want to visit Koh Samui from Phuket, I want you to know that it is possible. Below you can find all the practical information, in the meantime here are some insider tips on how to see the best of Ko Samui in just a day.

Start the day at the Rich Resort in Lamai – their breakfast is healthy and yummy and very affordable. On top of that, you can also take a dip in their swimming pool overlooking Lamai beach.

Next, you may want to hire a motorbike or a car for the day as it’s much easier to go around. If you are visiting Ko Samui for just a day, make sure that you arrange to drop off the vehicle at the airport; this would make things so much easier. And don’t forget to drive on the left!

The first stop I recommend is the Lamai viewpoint. Afterwards continue to Grandpa & Grandma rocks (Hin Ta & Hin Yai Rocks). Another few minutes drive further you can see Overlap Stone. Don’t miss the Secret Buddha Garden (or Magic Garden). After that, you can visit Na Muang Waterfall 2 (not 1, it is a bit too far if you are short on time).

I suggest heading to Na Than Pier for lunch (a great spot for sunsets too). After that, you can drive back towards the airport and check out Chewang area along the way. Alternatively, if you still have half a day left, make a loop through Maenam beach, fisherman’s village, and The Big Buddha Temple (Wat Phra Yai).

How to get from Phuket to Koh Samui:

• By plane. For a day trip, the best way to travel from Phuket to Ko Samui is by taking a plane. Return flight from Phuket to Koh Samui will only take 55 minutes and Bangkok Airways offers several flights a day. You may spend more on flights (approximately $100 one way), but gain the whole day to explore Ko Samui. You can drive across the island in about an hour, but with various stops, you certainly need at least one full day to see some of the best places of Ko Samui. If you are planning to do this, make sure to book your flights well in advance.
• By car. The second option is to rent a car in Phuket, drive to Don Sak Pier in Surat Thani and get on a ferry. It departs every hour from 6 am to 7 pm. This route takes about 6 hours one way and isn’t really feasible if you have just a day. So in this case, you definitely want to stay in Ko Samui for at least one night. Even then, start early, so that you have some time to explore the island.

Ko Samui is suggested as one of the best islands to visit in Thailand by Anna Sherchand, who was also adventurous enough to actually visit it from Phuket.

The selection above features some of the best islands that you can easily visit from Phuket. This list is not complete, of course, and there are countless possibilities. Below you can find several wonderful lesser known local islands close to Phuket .

These islands are more suitable for those looking to escape the crowds. They are so close to Phuket that can also serve as a perfect alternative home base for your island-hopping excursions.

We ourselves also opted for this option and, instead of staying in busy Phuket, chose a resort on a little island nearby.

Here is a selection of some incredible off the beaten path islands close to Phuket:

11. Coconut Island

We stayed in a beautiful The Village Coconut Island Beach Resort on Coconut Island , just 5 minutes by boat from Laem Hin Pier in Phuket.

It’s a quiet island with a local village and no day tourists at all. In addition, it is so close to Phuket that it allowed us to easily book day trips to the other islands nearby without having to pay more for the same tours offered by the hotel.

TIP: booking online is so much cheaper! See also our practical tips a bit further below.

12. Naka Yai Island

Naka Yai island , just a stone’s throw away from mainland Phuket, is popular with day-trippers as well as honeymooners. It’s called the Pearl Island and no visit would be complete without a short stop at the pearl farm.

With many wide sandy beaches, few people, and spectacular views of nearby Phang Nga Bay, it’s a perfect day trip from Phuket. There is also an exclusive resort on the island that makes me want to book a trip back to Thailand right away. Check it out – The Naka Island, A Luxury Collection Resort & Spa .

The best way to get to the Naka island is by taking a long-tail boat from Ao Por Pier ; it takes just 15 minutes.

13. Ko Yao Yai

Another wonderful island that I heard nothing but good things about is Ko Yao Yai , just 25 minutes by speedboat from Bang Rong pier in Phuket.

There are several really nice accommodations on this island and many budget options .

It’s a perfect offbeat island getaway for everyone looking for a more unique island experience near Phuket.

14. Ko Yao Noi

A bit more developed nearby Koh Yao Noi island is also easily reachable from Bang Rong Pier. It takes about an hour to get there.

You could visit for a day (check out this local Koh Yao Noi bike tour ) or stay on the island a bit longer (there are quite a few accommodation options ).

It’s a very local island with few tourists and eco-friendly activities and accommodations (you have to check these adults-only Treehouse Villas !). If you are looking for a somewhat different island experience in the Phuket area, this could be it.

15. Ko Mai Thon

If you are looking for a unique and romantic island getaway near Phuket, make sure to check Ko Mai Thon . Maiton is a private island and the best way to visit it is by staying at the exclusive resort Maiton Private Island By Favstay (I’m not sure it’s still operating at the moment of the last update though…).

Crystal clear green waters and white-sand beaches, in combination with this beautiful resort – it’s a dream island vacation and an experience you won’t find in Phuket itself.

Maiton is a perfect honeymoon island in Thailand! If you are on a tighter budget, you can also visit Maiton island as a day trip from Phuket .

Phuket island hopping – which boat to choose

Depending on which islands you are visiting, you may want to consider different options in terms of transportation.

• Take local long-tail boats  for shorter distances or off-the-beaten-path experiences – they are perfect for that! Believe me, you really don’t want to sit in a long-tail boat for more than an hour – 90 minutes at a time, even if the sea is very calm. Also keep in mind that long-tail boat drivers hardly ever speak any English at all. So sometimes it might be difficult to explain where exactly you want to go.
• Book speedboat tours for all bigger distances, such as visiting Similan Islands or Koh Lanta, but also Phi Phi islands and James Bond Island. It allows you to see so much more in a short time and you can spend more time sightseeing than sitting on the boat. It’s also rare that anyone gets seasick on a speedboat. But the best of all is that organized tours have set itineraries and English-speaking guides.
• Book ferries only for short distances or if you have a lot of time to visit different islands. Ferry transfers are really not ideal for further day trips. Ferries are much slower, you have no flexibility, the groups are much bigger, and if the sea is rough you’ll get seasick quicker.
• Private speedboat. Many companies offer the possibility to book a private speedboat for day trips near Phuket. However, for longer trips of 8-9 hours, you’ll quickly pay 800-900 EUR. Still, it might be worth looking into these options if you are visiting with a big family or a group of friends. If you look well, you might be able to find cheaper options; we didn’t find any. Long-tail boats can be a much cheaper alternative for private island hopping tours, but once again, you don’t want to do that for very big distances.

Practical tips for island-hopping day trips from Phuket

When looking into all the options for island hopping from Phuket, you will get overwhelmed with choices. If you don’t research in advance, you’ll find yourself drowning in the tour brochures and offers everywhere you go… From tour kiosks all over the place, taxi or van drivers, hotel lobby areas and resort activity centers – everyone seems to be selling island hopping tours in Phuket.

You might think that booking tours in Phuket itself will save you time and money, but our experience shows quite the opposite. Booking online lets you compare different offers, itineraries, prices, and read customer reviews.

Furthermore, if you book with a reputable agency (we recommend GetYourGuide  which we also used for our tours in Thailand), you have the option to cancel any tour up to 24 hours in advance . It’s also easier to get a refund in case of any problems. Try to reschedule a tour or get a refund from a local kiosk…

But that is not all! We found that most island hopping tours were not cheaper if booked in Phuket. Even worse, most tours organized by hotels and resorts were about 50% more expensive. That’s a difference of hundreds of euros for a big family like ours… per tour.

The cheapest option by far is to try and arrange all your island hopping tours yourself. However, this is easier said than done and is not always a feasible option if you are short on time.

First, you have to get to the right pier that has the best connections for the islands that you want to visit.

Second, keep in mind that ferries have strict schedules. Most ferry connections in southern Thailand seem to happen in between 8 AM and 1-2 PM; if you want to come back later, you have to make sure there will still be a ferry available.

Third, boat transfers are ok for getting from A to B, but you won’t see anything on the way. In most cases, you will still need to hire a long-tail boat to bring you to places worth visiting, but the ‘guides’ won’t speak English… It’s a lot of organization, research, and even more hassle if things don’t go as planned.

My advice for you is take a real vacation and book organized tours for all island hopping trips that involve visiting more than one destination on the same day . Please see our hand-picked tour suggestions and practical information for each destination above.

Are you visiting southern Thailand and are looking for more ideas on where to go and how to plan your trip?

Check our 2-week Thailand island hopping itinerary that includes many places mentioned in this post, but also brings you to some amazing islands further away. It also includes an incredible nature destination not far from Phuket – Elephant Hills at Khao Sok National Park . Take a look!

Some travel inspiration for Bangkok:

• Bangkok in 1 Day
• Where to Stay in Bangkok
• Bangkok Canal Tour

If you found this post useful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends who are planning to visit Phuket. Are you on Pinterest? Pin this image!

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Wednesday 15th of February 2023

Hi Jurga I am messaging you from Perth Australia We are heading to Thailand in May its my second trip but my Girlfriend first we are both 61 years old. I have been looking for the best way to see as much of the Islands as possible in one day with out blowing the budget up to much. The trip i am finding on the net is drop off for a time where we have one day so see as much as possible like you we will have cameras in hand what we like to do. we spoke to our travel agant ansd she said book it over there but you say not to do that. Can you give me a few links as to getting a boat to show us with out stopping on beaches do not want to swim or be dropped off Just like to explore and take pics of the Islands Happy to go into James Bond Island and etc then leave Hope i have given you a challange as i am not having much luck with this. Enjoyed reading this page got some very helpfull tips

Friday 17th of February 2023

Hi Brendan, I think your best bet is to book a private trip and then ask your guide/skipper exactly what you want. You can find quite a few private boat tours here. And otherwise, indeed, try to figure it out when you get there. But I think it will not be very easy to try to do it there without losing way too much time. Also, keep in mind that long-tail boats can't travel that fast (=far), so you can't cover that much ground in a day as e.g. with a speedboat or so. If you just want to visit one area, it shouldn't be a problem, but if you want to see several places that are somewhat further away, it might not always be possible in a longboat in just a few hours. Good luck!

Sunday 6th of November 2022

Hello going to be doing solo female travelling so i'm nervous & overwhelmed with all the info- 1. I really want to experience the long tail boats as they look so cool (also experience abit slow travel sometimes atleast) but then i have to independently arrange everything? 2. How do i manage if the boat drivers dont speak any english ? (It seems the organized tours mostly use speedboats) 3.Without hotel pickup how do i get to these boat stops? I dont drive so no renting anything for me. 4. How do i determine which islands are safe to travel by long boat vs speedboat 5. The get your guide tours seem quite expensive with each tours costing over $100 and covering 1-2 islands- so theres no way to experience tailboats within that arrangement ? (The viator 12 islands deal seemed cheaper interms of coverage but it seems crazy hectic) 6. Whats the safety situation? Like if i'm snorkling whose going to watch out for my bag as it will have money & valuables? 7. You mentioned none of the popular resorts are near the island hopping terminals? Like if i stay in a hotel in phuket and do daytrips then that doesnt apply to me right unless i stay at an island and do hopping from there like u guys did? (I was thinking of doing daytrips so i dont have to pay for another hotel plus face more complications)- whats your suggestion ??

Wednesday 9th of November 2022

Hi Shahrin, that's a lot of questions and I really have no time to properly address them all properly (I run this blog on my own and there are just not enough hours in a day). You're overthinking it. It's simple enough to just book a tour, most of them offer a pick-up from your accommodation, and it's usually the easiest way to see a lot. And if you are alone, it's much cheaper than trying to arrange anything individually. There are so many tour options - read the descriptions, the reviews, and you'll easily find something that suits you. Regarding safety. Don't take any belongings that you don't absolutely need, but it's usually safe enough to leave them on the boat when you are in the water (if you go on a tour). I would be careful leaving your stuff unattended on the public beach though (but this is everywhere, not Thailand-specific). I'm not sure you can do lots of longboat tours - they usually travel much slower and it will be quite a lot more hassle to arrange everything (and will be more expensive). But there are many places where you could hire them if you absolutely want to try. Hope this helps a bit. Have a great trip!

Jonas Johnsson

Thursday 29th of April 2021

I would not to island hopping like this. It does not give you the time to get to know the place and its charms. But I go to Thailand often so I have time to spend more time on each place :) To rent a motorbike cannot be 3000 bath, maybe 300 bath a day :)

Friday 30th of April 2021

Hi Jonas, everyone travels differently and the majority of people simply have no time to travel slow. I absolutely agree with you that it's better to travel slower and spend more time at each place, but many people have very limited vacation time and want to see as much as possible. Thus the popularity of day tours to all these areas. As for the motorbike or car rental, I assume you meant the part about Ko Samui that was contributed by a fellow travel writer. I just double-checked current rates and it seems that there was indeed a zero too many. Edited to correct now. Thanks a lot!

Wednesday 29th of April 2020

Thanks for your response. I got the tickets from a website where I can see the boat pics. I'm okay with speed boat sized boat. Just can't wait to get trough this covid storm and start to exploring. Stay safe, Jurga!

Tuesday 7th of January 2020

Hi there I f I want to do some island hopping day tours (with snorkelling), where is the best area to stay in Phuket? I have never been to Thailand before, and there are sooo many options. thank you

Wednesday 8th of January 2020

Hi Char, it's so hard to say because there are so many different harbors in Phuket and, depending on which tour you book, they leave from different places. We found that the most excursions we were interested in were leaving from the northeastern part of Phuket island - and to approx. center. So staying somewhat in the middle of the eastern coast worked well for us. We stayed on Coconut Island and never had a transfer longer than 30 minutes. Most popular resorts are on the western coast, however, but that's not where the tours leave from. That being said, if you stay somewhat in the center on the western coast, it's also a very good central location. For example, Patong Beach is a good area, I think, and the beaches there are very popular. All the tours usually offer free transfers from any Phuket hotels, but it's not fun if you have to spend two hours in the minivan before and after your tour. So yes, it's very smart of you to research this upfront. Enjoy your trip!

Thailand Nomads

12 Must-Visit Islands Near Phuket (2024 Travel Guide)

Joy intisuk.

• January 13, 2024

But for those seeking to venture beyond the bustling beaches and vibrant nightlife of the main island, a treasure trove of paradise awaits in the form of nearby islands. These hidden gems offer a quieter, more secluded escape while maintaining the breathtaking beauty that has made this region a favorite among travelers.

Here are 12 of the must-visit islands near Phuket that promise to take your tropical experience to new heights.

1. Koh Phi Phi

Made famous by the movie “The Beach,” Koh Phi Phi has become an icon of tropical perfection.

The archipelago consists of six islands, with Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Leh being the most visited. The turquoise waters, limestone cliffs, and vibrant marine life make it a haven for snorkelers, divers, and beach lovers alike.

Feeling young and energetic? You must love the lively atmosphere of Tonsai Bay in Phi Phi Don. The small village’s exciting beach scene features beach bars, restaurants, and vibrant nightlife. Visitors can relish delicious Thai cuisine while savoring sunset views that paint the sky in hues of orange and pink.

Don’t miss the stunning Maya Bay on Phi Phi Leh too, where the crystal-clear waters and towering cliffs create a scene straight out of a postcard.

2. Similan Islands

For those with a love for underwater exploration, the Similan Islands are a dream come true.

A bit farther from Phuket, this group of nine islands is renowned for its world-class diving and snorkeling sites. The vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life, including majestic manta rays and whale sharks, make it a Mecca for underwater enthusiasts.

The Similans are typically open to visitors from the 15th of October to the 15th of May, providing a window of opportunity to witness the underwater wonders.

3. Koh Racha

Racha Island, also known as Raya Island, is a tropical paradise off the coast of Phuket, Thailand. Renowned for its pristine white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant coral reefs, Racha Island is a haven for luxury seekers. The Racha Island Resort stands as an epitome of indulgence, offering exclusive accommodations and world-class amenities.

There are three beaches in Koh Racha – the Patok Beach, Siam Bay, and the Ter Bay. Patok Beach captivates visitors with its powdery sands and azure waters, while Siam Bay and Ter Bay beckon snorkelers and divers to explore the underwater wonders.

With its breathtaking scenery and upscale retreats, Racha Island promises an idyllic escape for those seeking tranquility and opulence.

4. Koh Yao Noi and Koh Yao Yai

For a taste of traditional Thai island life, venture to Koh Yao Noi and Koh Yao Yai. These islands, nestled in Phang Nga Bay, offer a slower pace and a more genuine experience.

Surrounded by towering limestone cliffs, these islands are perfect for kayaking through mangrove forests, exploring local fishing villages, and enjoying stunning sunset views over the Andaman Sea.

The Koh Yao Islands promise an authentic retreat for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path paradise in the heart of Southeast Asia.

Transportation: Bus ride to Ao Po Pier (30 minutes – 450 Baht); Ferry transfer to Koh Yao Yai Island (15 minutes – 440 to 800 Baht).

5. Coral Island (Koh Hae)

Just a short boat ride from Phuket, Coral Island, or Koh Hae, is a haven for watersports enthusiasts. Snorkeling, parasailing, and banana boat rides are popular, providing a day of fun in the sun.

The vibrant coral reefs also make it a fantastic spot for underwater adventures. After an adrenaline-filled day, relax on the pristine beaches and soak in the tropical ambiance.

Whether indulging in water adventures or basking in the sun, Koh Hae guarantees an unforgettable escape, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking the quintessential Thai island experience.

6. Koh Bon Island

Nestled in the Andaman Sea, this tropical paradise is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and thriving coral reefs, making it a haven for snorkelers and divers. The island is part of the Similan Islands archipelago, a protected marine national park, ensuring a flourishing underwater ecosystem.

For adventurous souls, Koh Bon offers a unique opportunity to encounter majestic manta rays. Dive into the deep blue and witness these gentle giants gliding through the ocean currents.

Beyond the azure waters, the island offers secluded beaches and lush greenery, creating a serene escape for nature enthusiasts seeking a slice of Thai paradise.

7. Maiton Island

If solitude is your goal, head to Koh Maiton. With its uncrowded beaches and calm ambiance, this island provides the perfect backdrop for a peaceful day in the sun. Formerly a luxury resort, this small private island continues to enchant guests with its exclusive charm.

Home to a pod of friendly dolphins, Maiton Island offers a unique opportunity for dolphin watching. The crystal-clear waters and secluded coves add to the beauty of this lesser-known island.

8. James Bond Island (Koh Tapu)

Koh Tapu, famously known as James Bond Island, emerges dramatically from the turquoise waters of Phang Nga Bay in Thailand. This iconic limestone karst, standing tall at 20 meters, gained international fame after featuring in the James Bond film “The Man with the Golden Gun” in 1974.

Its distinctive rocky pinnacle draws visitors seeking a glimpse of cinematic history and breathtaking natural beauty. Surrounded by emerald-green waters and lush vegetation, Koh Tapu offers a surreal setting for exploration and photography.

Tourists can embark on boat trips to witness the island’s majesty, creating unforgettable memories amid the stunning landscapes of southern Thailand.

9. Rang Yai Island

Rang Yai Island, nestled off the coast of Phuket, Thailand, is a tropical paradise renowned for its pristine beaches and vibrant marine life. Beyond its natural beauty, the island is a haven for pearl enthusiasts.

Visitors can explore a dazzling array of cultured pearls each reflecting the island’s unique character. The tour offers an immersive experience, allowing patrons to witness the meticulous process of pearl cultivation and indulge in the timeless allure of these lustrous gems amidst the island’s idyllic surroundings.

10. Koh Khai

The three islets of Koh Khai — Koh Khai Nok, Koh Khai Nai, and Koh Khai Nui, offer a tranquil escape for beach enthusiasts and snorkelers alike.

While the turquoise allure of the Andaman Sea captivates visitors, it’s essential to note that fish feeding is strictly prohibited to preserve the delicate ecosystem. Authorities emphasize the importance of environmental conservation, urging tourists to enjoy the islets responsibly.

By respecting these guidelines, visitors can savor the natural beauty of Koh Khai and contribute to the sustainability of this tropical paradise.

11. Koh Panyi

Koh Panyi, nestled in Phang Nga Bay near James Bond Island, is a captivating Muslim village floating on stilts above the emerald waters of southern Thailand.

Renowned for its unique architecture, this picturesque hamlet is a testament to human resilience and adaptability. Koh Panyi is a cultural treasure, showcasing the harmonious coexistence of tradition and modernity. Its labyrinthine walkways lead visitors to vibrant markets and quaint mosques.

Notably, the village is celebrated for its seafood restaurants that offer a delectable array of freshly caught marine delicacies. A visit to Koh Panyi promises an immersive experience of Thai-Muslim culture and culinary delights.

Transportation: Longtail boat from Surakul Pier (20 minutes, 1,500 Baht).

12. Koh Hong

Located close to both Koh Yao Noi and Krabi, this idyllic island is a tranquil escape surrounded by the crystal-clear waters of Phang Nga Bay.

As part of the National Marine Park, Koh Hong imposes strict guidelines, prohibiting the drinking of alcoholic beverages and flying drones to preserve its natural splendor.

The Koh Hong Viewpoint offers a mesmerizing panorama of the limestone cliffs and emerald waters, rewarding adventurers with an unforgettable vista. Embrace the serenity and explore the marine wonders, but do so with the utmost respect for this ecological sanctuary.

Final Thoughts:

In the embrace of Phuket ‘s neighboring islands, a symphony of tropical wonders awaits. From the cinematic allure of Koh Phi Phi to the underwater spectacle of the Similan Islands, each destination paints a unique stroke on the canvas of paradise.

Koh Racha’s tranquil retreat and the authenticity of Koh Yao Noi and Koh Yao Yai provide a welcome escape. Coral Island adds an adrenaline rush to the mix.

Together, these islands form a mosaic of experiences, inviting travelers to go beyond Phuket’s shores and immerse themselves in the diverse tapestry of sun-kissed beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and the enchanting allure of Thailand’s island treasures.

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• 18 Surreal Islands Near Phuket You Should Definitely Explore In Thailand In 2024

21 Feb 2023

Phuket gets thousands of visitors every year owing to its many exquisite beaches, fun club scene, and diving spots off the coast where you can see beautiful coral reefs and all kinds of marine life, including turtles, fish and even sharks . Of course, there is so much more to the province of Phuket than the beaches, for instance, the islands near Phuket . In the Andaman Sea and the Phang Nga Bay, these islands are some of the most scenic places in the tropics. These nice islands near Phuket will sweep you off your feet with their scenic beauty, and hole-in-the-wall shacks that serve delicious seafood.

Top 18 Islands Near Phuket

Here is a list of best islands located near the state of Phuket that you must visit on your trip to Thailand with family or friends. We’ve shortlisted these 18 islands near Phuket based on various parameters, such as distance from the city and more. Yu will also find information about how to get to islands near Phuket .

• Koh Phi Phi
• Khao Phing Kan
• Similan Islands
• Koh Yao Noi
• Surin Islands
• Racha Islands
• Koh Khai Islands
• Maiton Island
• Koh Yao Yai

1. Koh Phi Phi

Image Source

One of the most popular islands near Phuket , this place rocketed to fame when it was featured in the movie – The Beach. It is part of the Phi Phi Islands, completely surrounded by emerald waters on all sides, with abundant white sandy beaches that will take your breath away. The Maya Bay is a group of nice islands near Phuket . It is surrounded on all sides by cliffs and other rock formations may very well be counted as a natural wonder of the world. The island is a national park, so you will be treated to some of the best marine life in Thailand.

Best month to visit: November to March Where to stay: Ibiza House Phi Phi, Blanco Dorm Room and Restaurant Best restaurants: Amico Restaurant, Cosmic Restaurant How to reach: Ferries from Phuket to Phi Phi Islands take about two hours.

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2. Koh Lanta

Image Source One of the best islands near Phuket for honeymoon , this place had its beach once announced as the best beach in the world by critics. Still, the place remains kind of a hidden gem. The emerald waters and the white sandy beaches are only made better by the extensive corals that can be found just off the shore and the towering limestone outcrops. You’ll experience one of the best diving experiences in these nice islands near Phuket . The waters are clear here. You can spot turtles and octopuses in addition to all kinds of fish. Apart from diving, there are plenty of things to do in Koh Lanta .

Best month to visit: December to April Where to stay: Coco Lanta Resort, Long Beach Chalet Best restaurants: Panorama, Thai Cat How to reach: Ferry from Phuket will take around two hours.

3. Khao Phing Kan

Popularly known as the James Bond Island (for obvious reasons – it features in the movie The Man With The Golden Gun), Phing Kan is counted among the quiet islands near Phuket . It is popular for its limestone formations, especially the funnel-shaped rock that is the perfect setting for the perfect shot. The mangrove forests and calm waters are also popular for trekking expeditions here and kayaking. The Khao Phing Kan islands near Phuket map is easily available online as well as in many departmental stores in Phuket.

Best month to visit: November to February Where to stay: Phang Nga Bay Resort Hotel, Hotel Murano Phang Nga Bay Best restaurants: Koh Panyee Village Restaurant, Khua Ari Bang Mat (near the island) How to reach: Only minutes away from Phuket, several day tours and boats leave from Phuket.

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4. Similan Islands

This group of quiet islands near Phuket is a popular diving destination for all the professionals. If you do go scuba diving in Thailand (for which you can only get certified in Phuket) you will know why. The water here is clear and the beautiful coral deposits are objectively some of the best in the world. It is one of the best islands near Phuket to visit . It is also distinct for the massive boulder deposits atop the hills here, perfect for pictures. The Similan Islands in Phuket are not visited by many people, and you can chill on the eerily clear beaches here for a peaceful vacation.

Best month to visit: December to February Where to stay: Katathong Golf and Resort, TreeHouse Villas Koh Yao (near the island) Best restaurants: Kohukai Cafe’, Dadfah Restaurant (near the island)

How to reach: One hour from Phuket by speedboat.

5. Koh Yao Noi

These are the typical quiet islands near Phuket to go to if peace and seclusion are on your mind. Simply get off your boat, tie a hammock up between two coconut trees and read a book. The topography is distinct. There are trees all around. The sand here almost gives off a golden sheen with light blue waters. You can book a two-wheeler to go around the island. Else, swimming, kayaking or diving are always options. It is one of the best islands near Phuket for honeymoon, especially if you are on your honeymoon in Phuket .

Best month to visit: January to April Where to stay: Cape Kudu Hotel, Koh Yao Seaview Bungalow Best restaurants: Rice Paddy, Kaya How to reach: One hour from Phuket by slow boat.

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6. Surin Island

Close to the Similan Islands, the Surin Islands in Thailand is in the Mu Koh Surin national park. One of the few islands near Phuket resorts , Surin Island is most famous with visitors for its whale sharks, which are found just off the coast here. These enormous aquatic creatures can be as much as 12 metres long, yet they do not pose a danger to humans. In fact, the sharks are pretty friendly to the fishermen who live in villages here. Shark sighting diving tours are common, and seeing these animals in the wild is certainly an experience of a lifetime. The Surin islands near Phuket map is easily accessible in Phuket.

Best month to visit: December to March Where to stay: NA Best restaurants: Ao Chong Khad Restaurant, Ao Mai Ngam Restaurant How to reach: 30 minutes ferry from Phuket

7. Racha Islands

Think crystal clear blue waters and white beaches, and you have one of the best islands to visit in Phuket, the twin Racha Islands. Out of the two, Koh Racha Yai is the bigger one while Koh Racha Noi is the smaller one. Yai serves as the more popular tourist destination with its sandy beaches and great resorts, while Noi is uninhabited and a bit rockier. Ao Tawan Tok is the most famous beach here which gets a little too crowded towards the evening. You will also find the best best Thailand island resorts here where you can spend a lavish vacation.

Best month to visit: April to May Where to stay: Bungalow Raya Resort, Ban Raya Resort & Spa Best restaurants: Sunset Beach Restaurant, Rayaburi On Beach Restaurant How to reach: Take a ferry. It’s an hour away from Phuket.

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The island, more popularly called the Coral Island, is one of the few islands near Phuket resorts that you get to from Phuket via speedboat. However, because of its proximity, Long Beach here is extremely crowded. With rows of speedboats from lined up at one end, it looks like a Sundance festival. However, there is the Banana beach at the other end of the Coral Island, which you can get to by walking to the end of Long Beach and onwards for about fifteen minutes. It is touted as the most accessible islands near Phuket to visit .

Best month to visit: December to May Where to stay: Coral Island Resort Best restaurants: Da Puccio Restaurant, Live India Indian Restaurant (near the island) How to reach: 15 minutes speedboat from Phuket

The Koh Bon island is relatively quiet even though it is quite close to Phuket, a fate not reserved for other islands around Phuket. The island is known for its extensive forests and crab beaches – yes, you can sunbathe here while hundreds of crabs run around the beach. The island is also known for its different cuisine, and you can find quite a many restaurants inland for some Thai food with a spin. The island is among the few islands near Phuket resorts .

Best month to visit: December to May Where to stay: Tea Tree Boutique Resort, Thai Palace Resort (near the island) Best restaurants: Bon Island Restaurant How to reach: 15 minutes from Phuket by ferry

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10. Koh Khai Islands

This beautiful islands next to Phuket is extremely close to Phuket, but even the locals are not exactly aware of it. Essentially three islands grouped together, you will find a lot of exotic fishes here. The exciting part is the fishes are not scared of humans. Wanna get that perfect click with fishes all around? This is the place to go to. You can also dive or go for snorkeling. If all that does not appeal to you, simply sunbathe on the beach and take in the beauty that this island possesses.

Best month to visit: December to January Where to stay: Santhiya Koh Yao Yai Resort & Spa, Blue Bay Resort (near the island) Best restaurants: Saaitara Restaurant, Khantok Thai Cuisine How to reach: it will take about half an hour by the ferry from Phuket.

11. Maiton Island

Maiton island is a cluster of islands next to Phuket . It is 15 minutes south of Phuket. It is an incredible spot for a picnic and snorkeling. Sometimes referred to as Maithon or Mai Ton, it is dotted by palm trees and known for its remarkable variety of coral reef. You will encounter turtles, cuttlefish and an array of other colorful tropical sea life at Maiton Island. Make sure to stop by here.

Best month to visit: December to March Where to stay: Maiton Island Resort Best restaurants: The Cove Phuket, The Grill How to reach: it will take about 15 minutes by the ferry from Phuket.

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12. Koh Panyi

Koh Panyi islands next to Phuket are entirely built on stilts. This village is an unusual and exciting place to visit. We suggest you visit the island either early morning or during the twilight hours. The island boasts of a grandiose mosque that serves as the meeting point for the Muslim community. Despite the rise in tourism, Ko Panyi’s economy depends majorly on agriculture and fishing. 

Best month to visit: December to January Where to stay: JW Marriott Phuket Resort and Spa, Amantara Mai Khao Phuket Villas Best restaurants: Genesis Garden, Sametnangshe Boutique (near the island) How to reach: it will take about 30 minutes by the ferry from Phuket.

13. Koh Hong

Koh Hong is one of the four islands that are visited together. A full day tour of the island is always recommended. The island belongs to the national marine park. It offers picturesque views, options for a great Island hopping experience and is one of the best islands near Phuket.  It is one of the best places to attend lit New Year Party in Thailand .

Best month to visit: November to April Where to stay: Bhu Nga Thani Resort & Spa, Krabilife Resort (near the island) Best restaurants: De Puta Madre Tapas Spanish Food, Hom Koei How to reach: Ferry takes two hours from Phuket.

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14. James Bond

The island offers great views that are perfect for surreal pictures. It became famous after few scenes of the old James Bond movie were shot here. You can enjoy cruising, eat delicious food at the beach and buy souvenirs at this famous islands around Phuket. 

Best month to visit: During the late fall and winter through early spring Where to stay: TreeHouse Villas Koh Yao, The Hideout – Koh Yao Noi (near the island) Best restaurants: Koh Panyee Village Restaurant, Khua Ari Bang Mat How to reach: Ferry from Phuket takes an hour

15. Rang Yai Island

From kayaking to camping, this beautiful island near Phuket offers adventure that will sweep you off your feet. It is dotted with Bamboo bungalows that would make you feel like staying in paradise. Life is simply beautiful here at this island. The array of adventure activities in Thailand that you can try here makes it one of the most interesting islands to visit around Phuket .

Best month to visit: December to March Where to stay: Island Escape by Burasari, The Village Coconut Island Beach Resort Best restaurants: Kruvit Raft, Taste Cape Yamu (near the island) How to reach: Ferry takes two hours

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16. Koh Yao Yai

Located in the heart of Phang Nga Bay, Koh Yao Yai and Koh Yao Nai are the two islands close to Phuket . Yao Yai is the larger of two and is characterized by fishing villages, sandy shores, rubber plantations, and mangrove forests. There are plenty of diving sites on the island where you can explore the marvels of the ocean. It is one of the best islands near Phuket to stay as you can explore a different side to Thailand and also enjoy deep sea diving. Visiting this iland is one of the magical experiences in Thailand you cannot afford to miss.

Best month to visit: January-April Where to stay: Santhiya Koh Yao Yai Resort & Spa, Koh Yao Heaven Beach Resort, Yao Yai Beach Resort Best restaurants: Baan Rim Nam Restaurant, Laanmaye Restaurant, Chantara Restaurant How to reach: There are frequent ferries from Bang Rong Pier to Koh Yao Nai island. The first ferry leaves at 7:40 AM and the last one at 5:40 PM. You can take a taxi in Phuket to get to the pier.

17. Koh Poda

A part of Poda group of islands, Koh Poda is where you will find your ideal escape. The island has an abundance of natural beauty and marine life that makes it one of the best islands around Phuket . The picturesque landscapes with white sandy beaches and turquoise waters will take your breath away. The picture-perfect island is one of the most amazing islands to visit around Phuket .

Best month to visit: November-March Where to stay: Ava Sea Resort, Railay Viewpoint Resort, Krabi Heritage Hotel Best restaurants: Railay Family Restaurant, Kohinoor Indian Restaurant & Pizza How to reach: You can take a long tail ferry ride from Ao Nang Thailand anytime.

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18. Koh Sirey

Koh Sirey may not be a large island in Phuket district, but since good things come in small packages, this island also offers amazing wonders of nature. It is one of those islands close to Phuket where you can enjoy life at a slow pace. It is not originally a tourist spot. You will see that the island dotted with Golden Buddhas and scruffy seashores. It is one of the best islands to stay near Phuket .

Best month to visit: November-April Where to stay: The Westin Siray Bay Resort & Spa Phuket, Blu Monkey Hub & Hotel Phuket, Vitamin Sea Hostel Phuket Best restaurants: Prego by the Beach, The Vegan Table, La Gaetana How to reach: You will find a crossing bridge to the island past the Rashada Pier on Phuket island.

These islands near Phuket are some of the most beautiful places you will see near Thailand. No trip to Phuket will be complete without visiting at least some of these. So, book your Thailand trip right away for the amazing experiences Phuket has to offer! Make sure to plan this trip with your family or your loved ones for an immersive experience. You will have the time of your life here. We promise you won’t be disappointed.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Islands Near Phuket

Which islands are close to Phuket?

There are a number of islands near Phuket that one can explore on their Phuket vacation but these are the best islands that one cannot afford to miss – Koh Racha Yai, Surin Island, Koh Bon, Koh Lanta, and Similan Islands.

How far is Similan Island from Phuket?

The distance between the Similan Islands and Phuket turns out to be around 85 kilometers that can be covered easily.

Which is the most beautiful beach in Phuket?

A traveler planning a vacation to Phuket cannot miss out on the famous Freedom Beach which is blessed with white sand and clear waters and thus it is one of the most beautiful beaches in Phuket.

How far is Coral Island from Phuket?

If you are looking for Coral Island then you will be happy to know that it is located only 10 kilometers away from Phuket. Coral Island is famous for its colorful reefs and white sand beach.

How far is Krabi from Phuket?

The distance between Krabi and Phuket is 180 kilometers and if you are planning to cover the distance by sea then it is better.

How many islands are there in Phuket?

There are more than 15 islands in Phuket that one can explore on their vacation.

Is Phuket expensive for tourists?

Yes, Phuket is one of the expensive places to visit in Thailand.

How much does a meal cost in Phuket, Thailand?

A basic meal costs around 90-150 baht in Phuket. The rates might increase if you are planning to lunch at a lavish restaurant.

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15 Islands Near Phuket 🏝️ Phuket Island Hopping

• Best of Phuket , Cruises , Diving , Hot Pages , Islands , Tours , What to Do?
• Last updated 22 July 2022 2 January 2024

Which islands near Phuket should I visit?

There are so many big and small islands around Phuket; it would take forever to visit them all. Most are not far, and you should consider island hopping for your trip or even a private cruise . These are just a few islands near Phuket we had the chance to visit, and we will be adding more as we travel around.

1. Phi Phi Island

(About 2,800 baht with transfer – 50 mn Speedboat – Full day)

Phi Phi is the most visited island departing Phuket or Krabi, and it got even more popular after the movie The Beach. Phi Phi is mostly a destination for young travellers who feel like partying on a tropical island with its beautiful beaches and bays. Ideally, you should go for a two days trip to make the best of it, it’s a little far and can be tiring to reach by speedboat, plus you’ll have the best beach for yourself in the morning.

Popular Ways to Discover Phi Phi Island

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2. Similan Islands

(About 2,400 baht with hotel transfer – 2 hours minibus + 1.30-hour speedboat – Full day)

The Similan Islands are a bit far from the island of Phuket, and you will have to dedicate an entire day to visit them, but the experience is so incredible that you will never regret it. You don’t need to be an excellent photographer to get striking photos. If possible, you should go on a two-day trip to make the best of it, it’s far and can be tiring to reach by speedboat, plus you’ll have the best beach almost for yourself in the morning, but the accommodation on the island is quite unpredictable.

Popular Ways to Discover Similan Island

Private island hopping cruises with 5 star marine.

Join 5 Star Marine's private tropical speedboat tours, and experience island hopping from one idyllic sandy island to the next. For an experience that most people only dream of, allow our experienced crew to tailor the perfect itinerary for your adventure, island hopping in paradise. From snorkelling in Phi Phi, picturesque lunches at Racha, and capturing memories of James Bond Island; to sea canoeing in Phang Nga Bay or even dolphin spotting with a sunset BBQ. The choice is yours with 5 Star Marine.

3. Racha Island

(About 1,200 baht – 30 mn by speedboat – Full day)

Racha Island is a small hideaway twelve miles south of Phuket, about two hours by boat or 30mn by speedboat. This lovely tiny island is very well-known by divers as a clear dive site. Racha is also the home of three resorts, The Racha , a luxurious villa resort, and the Rayaburi and Baan Raya Resort. The two beaches on the main island are beautiful, and the island is fun to explore.

Popular Ways to Discover Racha Island

(about 1,000 baht for longtail to cross – 2 minutes ride)

Koh Bon is one of the closest islands to Phuket that can easily be reached from Rawai Beach by longtail boat. This small hideaway features two beaches. One beach used to be for the exclusive use of the now-closed Evason Resort’s guests. The other beach is home to the very friendly Bon Restaurant and is an enjoyable stop for lunch followed by a lazy day on the beach or playing some water activities.

5. Maiton Island

(2,800 Baht – 15 minutes by speedboat – Full day tour)

Maiton island is a small idyllic spot 15 minutes south of Phuket that used to be home to a luxury hotel. The hotel no longer operates, but the beach is still accessible and is a great day trip with a picnic and snorkelling among a thousand fish. Expect to pay 2,800 baht for a day (including lunch).

6. Rang Yai Island

(mostly a private island)

Rang Yai Island is a beautiful private island located about five kilometres east of Laem Hin Pier . If you want to experience a Robinson Crusoe lifestyle, Rang Yai is a great place to spend the day (they used to have bungalows for rent, but these don’t exist anymore). You can spend time swimming, eating and even visiting a pearl farm. It costs around 2,000 baht (round trip) to reach Rang Yai by longtail boat from Laem Hin pier.

7. Koh Khai

(1,000 baht – 20 mn speedboat – Half day)

The Koh Khai are three tiny but trendy islands just 15 minutes from Phuket’s east coast. People go there to soak in the sun and play in the clear water for a few hours. Just remember that feeding the many hungry fish is illegal and could get you in trouble!

Popular Ways to Discover Khai Islands

8. coral island.

(About 1,200 baht – 15 mn speedboat – Full day)

Coral Island, or Koh Hae, is one of the few islands you can reach within fifteen minutes by speedboat and spend the day playing on the beach, even during the low season. The only accommodation is the small but welcoming Coral Island Resort offering small bungalows right on the beach with two beautiful beaches.

Interested in Coral Island Tours?

Stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, mesmerizing underwater world, and more...

9. Koh Panyi

(1,600 baht with James Bond Island and Phang Nga Bay + hotel transfer – Full Day)

Koh Panyee in the bay of Phang Nga near Phuket is quite a touristic fishermen’s village almost entirely built on stilts. This village is still a very unusual and exciting place to visit, but the trick is to go there early to be the only visitor in town! Read more

10. James Bond Island

(1,600 baht with Koh Panyee and Phang Nga Bay + hotel transfer – Full Day)

Not really an island as you imagine it, but definitely surprising and very popular since that old James Bond movie; usually, people visit it together with Koh Panyi and the rest of Phang Nga Bay .

Popular Ways to Discover James Bond Island

11. koh hong.

(Only available as a full-day island hopping tour)

Koh Hong is one of the four tiny Hong islands in Phang Nga Bay , belonging to the National Marine Park. The most beautiful part of the island is the inside lagoon with its white sand and excellent blue water where many fish swim around visitors. The island is near Krabi and can therefore get busy.

12. Koh Yao Noi

(1,700 Baht with hotel transfer – 30 minutes by longtail boat)

Koh Yao consists of two large islands located halfway between Phuket and Krabi. Koh Yao Noi, the smallest of the two, has several hotels, such as the beautiful Six Senses Hideaway Resort and 9 Hornbills Tented Camp . These islands can be reached from Bang Rong Pier on the east coast of Phuket or Krabi. The island has no majestic sights but is a favourite mountain bike day trip. The east coast has rice fields, a small village on stilts, and a few rubber plantations.

Other more modest nearby islands

13. koh kaeo.

Koh Kaeo, facing the famous Promthep Cape , is just a tiny island you can visit by longtail boat from Rawai . Apart from a small beach, the only particular signs of this island are the two large golden Buddhas, one sitting and one standing, and a small temple on top of the hill.

14. Koh Maphrao

Koh Maphrao or Coconut Island is quite a large but unknown island close to Phuket. The luxurious Coconut Village is almost the only reason to go there. If you happen to eat at Laem Hin or Kru Suwit Floating Restaurant , you will see the island on the other side of the bay.

15. Koh Sirey

Koh Sirey is indeed an island, but you would never guess it from a map, and many probably have never heard of it. Connected to Phuket town by a very short bridge, this small piece of land doesn’t have any particular signs, but this is where you will find the beautiful Westin Siray Bay Resort .

Map of Islands near Phuket

Contact a local tour agent in Phuket

Phuket 101 is not a travel agency, but you can get in touch with a local tour agent to get better prices as well as local information or even custom tours by using this link: https://www.johnwelcometravel.com/

Contact a local tour agent

More reading

Island hopping around Phuket

Phang Nga Bay – The Many Ways to Explore Phang Nga

Fast facts about Phuket islands

Faqs about islands near phuket.

a. The closest islands are: Koh Bon Rang Yai Coral island Koh Khai Noi

a. The most famous islands you can visit on a day trip are: Similan islands Maiton Island

a. You can book a hotel on those islands: Phi Phi Island Coral island Koh Racha Koh Yao islands Coconut Island

a. Nearby islands can easily be accessed by longtail boats from one of the east coast piers. You can book other island trips via a tour agent or hotel reception.

a. Tour agents can arrange some island hopping, but the best way is to ask a specialised travel agent to plan custom private cruises .

9 Best Islands Around Phuket

Tropical island getaways in south thailand.

Southern Thailand is blessed with an astonishing number of islands off its coasts. From tiny rocks to inhabitable larger tracts of land emerging from the surface of the Andaman Sea, islands – and above all, tropical islands – have always been perceived positively in our collective imagination. They offer a sense of freedom, escaping the crowds, and exoticism.

Phuket – the largest island in Thailand – still offers the sensations mentioned above, but its fast development through the last several decades undoubtedly made it lose some of its idyllic vibes. Even so, many smaller islands around Phuket still offer a real feeling of evasion from our modern world. Below are the best islands around Phuket, each with its own personality and certainly worth a visit when you're in Phuket.

Phi Phi Islands

The Phi Phi Islands have become one of the prime vacation destinations in southern Thailand for obvious reasons. This small archipelago of 6 islands is stunningly beautiful and can offer an ideal vacation for almost any taste.

Koh Phi Phi Don, the largest and only inhabited island of the group, features 3 main areas. The buzzing main village between Tonsai and Dalum bays is filled with hotels, shops, bars, and restaurants. Laem Thong, a very tranquil tropical cliché of a beach hosts only a few resorts. Then there’s the southern coast, which counts a few accommodations choices stuck between the jungle and the sea. If you’re looking for a drastic change of scenery for your vacation, Phi Phi Islands are bound to meet your expectations.

Similan Islands

The Similans are a group of 9 islands belonging to the eponymous Marine National Park, about 84 km northwest of Phuket. Totally undeveloped, they offer their visitors an unspoiled remote territory in the same state as it used to be thousands of years ago.

Ranked among the top 10 dive sites in the world, the Similans can be visited on day trips as well as short stopovers. The rangers’ camp features accommodations in tents and small bungalows that allow visitors to fully enjoy the natural beauty of the islands. With white powder sand beaches, lush vegetation, crystal waters, and only the sound being the wind through the branches, the Similans offer the ultimate place to get away from it all.

Jim Thompson Store in Phuket

Shrine of the Serene Light

Laem Singh Beach in Phuket

Racha islands.

Also known as Raya, the Racha Islands are 2 islets situated some 20 km south of Phuket. Racha Yai and Racha Noi are especially famous for their top-notch diving and snorkeling sites, as well as for their ‘full of fish’ surrounding waters.

Racha Yai is the only island of the 2 featuring accommodations options and a small local population of Muslim fishermen and farmers. Relatively busy during daytime with the passage of day-trippers, it regains its tranquillity after around 4pm, and offers its guests laid-back evenings spent in the few bars and restaurants available, or stargazing on the beach.

Coral Island

Coral Island (Koh Hae in Thai) is a small island that’s around 5 km off Phuket’s southeastern coast. The short commuting time – 15 minutes by speedboat – from Phuket, makes this island a very popular day trip destination.

Coral Island features only 2 beaches named Long and Banana, both of them facing north and offering great diving and snorkeling opportunities. There is only one hotel – Coral Island Resort – and a few bars and restaurants on the island that, in a similar way as Racha Island, is buzzing with day-trippers until mid-afternoon before it regains its peacefulness at night. Coral Island certainly has all the assets of a tropical dream destination near Phuket.

Koh Yao Yai and Koh Yao Noi

Koh Yao Yai and Noi are 2 rather large islands situated right between Phuket’s and Krabi’s coasts, at the mouth of Phang Nga Bay. From Phuket, it takes about 45 minutes to get there by local ferry, or 20 minutes by speedboat.

For the visitor, Yao Noi is more developed than Yao Yai, with the presence of a good choice of hotels from budget to 5-star. The charm of these islands stands in the fact that they have not been overdeveloped, and that a peaceful community of Muslim farmers and fishermen is the only human presence. Offering a journey back through time, these islands have preserved their ancestral traditions and beautiful tropical landscape.

Koh Khai Islands

Khai Islands – Koh Khai Nok and Koh Khai Nai – are 2 tiny islets situated to the east of Phuket, only a 20-minute ride by speedboat. The largest of them, Koh Khai Nok, is particularly busy in high season as it offers a pleasant getaway from Phuket for those who want to enjoy sunbathing and snorkeling without the hassle of a long trip at sea.

Both islands are uninhabited, and Khai Nok is the only one which can be visited. Featuring all the infrastructures necessary to spend a comfortable day on the beach – restaurants, bars, sun-loungers and umbrellas – the highlight of Koh Khai Nok is the multitude of tropical fish roaming around the shore, giving visitors the great experience of swimming in a natural 'aquarium'.

Directly opposite Rawai Beach, off Phuket’s southeastern coast, Koh Bon is a small rocky island that features a long beach to its eastern side and a small sandy patch at its northwestern tip where the only restaurant of the island is situated.

Under British management, Koh Bon is a cool place to enjoy fresh seafood, as well as Thai and western delicacies. A perfect destination for a short break, it is a tranquil island offering good swimming and a great natural escape from the hustle and bustle of Phuket. On your way there, ask the driver of your longtail or speedboat to stop by the southwest corner of the island. It hosts an excellent snorkeling spot.

Koh Maphrao

Coconut island.

Koh Maphrao (or Coconut Island) is a small isle about 500 meters off Phuket’s east coast. Measuring just 2.5 x 1.5 km and facing Leam Hin, a popular seafood dining area just north of Phuket Town, Koh Maphrao is still rather undeveloped due to the fact that there’s no electricity on the island apart from private generators.

It takes only 5 minutes by long-tail boat to reach Koh Maphrao’s main pier, situated on the northern part of its west coast, facing Phuket. On the way, you'll pass several famous floating restaurants between Laem Hin and Koh Maphrao’s jetty. The island is roughly rectangular, and a good quarter of its southwestern part is covered with mangrove forests, home to long-tailed macaques.

Location: Ko Kaeo, Muang, Phuket 83110, Thailand

Koh Rang Yai

Koh Rang Yai is about 5 km off the east coast of Phuket. A 1-km long beach occupies on its western part, which gets busy daytrippers to Phang Nga Bay. The southward current gently carries you parallel to the whole length of the beach. The water is also almost at body temperature, between 25°C to 35°C.

There are several paths for you to stroll, hike or cycle on Koh Rang Yai. You’ll also notice a volleyball net, small soccer pitch, an air-gun shooting range, and even a mini-golf course there.

Location: Ko Kaeo, Muang, Phuket 83000, Thailand

This article includes opinions of the Go Guides editorial team. Hotels.com compensates authors for their writing appearing on this site; such compensation may include travel and other costs.

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16 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do on Phuket Island

Written by Karen Hastings & Casey Hynes Updated Dec 25, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Phuket is Thailand's largest island, and arguably the most famous. Blue waters, sandy beaches , spicy Thai cuisine, and excellent snorkeling and diving are all part of the appeal. Arriving from all over the world, travelers flock to Phuket for relaxation and adventure, and the island rates as one of the most popular destinations in Thailand .

Phuket has an exceptional climate, with warm, sunny days year-round. Monsoon season is usually mid-May through October, but it might only rain once or twice a day during this period. Phuket is also easy to access; it's a short one-hour flight from all the big-city attractions of Bangkok .

Discover our picks for the top attractions and things to do on Phuket.

1. Catch Some Rays at Patong Beach

2. walk the golden sands of kata beach, 3. swim at karon beach, 4. green elephant sanctuary park, 5. discover the past at phuket town, 6. experience island boat tours, 7. go diving & snorkeling, 8. visit phuket big buddha, 9. visit the authentic rawai village and nai harn beach, 10. hike up to karon viewpoint (three beaches hill), 11. wat chalong, 12. gibbon rehabilitation center & bang pae waterfall, 13. spend a couple of hours at the phuket 3d museum, 14. enjoy nature at sirinat national park, 15. wat phra thong at thalang, 16. shop for food and souvenirs at phuket's markets, where to stay on phuket island for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to phuket, phuket, thailand - climate chart.

Phuket's longest beach was also once its most beautiful, until development and tourism turned it into a bustling hub of activity rather than a retreat from the world. Still, Patong is great for people-watching, and part of the fun of Thailand is that (in addition to being a land of smiles) it is one of contrasts.

You may not be able to find a quiet spot on Patong to read and contemplate life, but you'll find plenty of water sports to keep you entertained. You can try everything here, from flyboarding, jet skiing, and parasailing to stand up paddleboarding and banana boat rides.

Many shops and resorts are strung along the beach road, and one of the island's best hotels, the luxury Amari Phuket , perches on a headland overlooking the sea.

Patong also offers some of the best nightlife on Phuket. After dark, head to Bangla Walking Street (formerly Bangla Road) if you want to be in the heart of the action.

Fringed with casuarinas and palms, Kata Beach is a lovely, curving bay hugged by lush hillsides at either end. Although it's still touristy, it's more peaceful than Patong Beach with fewer hawkers. A tiny islet sits just offshore, and the beach itself is broad, with soft, white sand and decent snorkeling spots at either end.

If you're hungry, you can grab a papaya shake or a snack at one of the beachfront stalls, and larger restaurants are within walking distance.

At the southern end of the beach sits The Boathouse Phuket , a luxury boutique hotel that is one of the only resorts fronting the sand. If you want an even quieter slice of shoreline, head south to adjacent Kata Noi Beach .

Less developed than the popular Patong Beach, about 15 minutes away, Karon Beach is a 3.5-kilometer-long strand of squeaky, golden sand and sapphire sea that attracts many couples and families.

When the weather is calm, it's a beautiful spot for a swim, but when the winds whip up, big waves pound the wide-open shoreline here, so take care if you are swimming during these times.

Restaurants and resorts are spread out opposite the beach along the busy road, but a few four-star resorts offer direct beach access, including adults-only Beyond Resort Karon and the luxury bungalows of the nearby Marina Phuket Resort at the southern end of the beach. At its northern end, Centara Grand Beach Resort Phuket overlooks the shoreline with its own water park.

Calling all animal lovers! At Green Elephant Sanctuary Park , you can sign up for that bucket list elephant experience and feel good knowing that it was provided by an ethical company.

Green Elephant Sanctuary Park nestles in the middle of the jungle near Surin Beach, providing a natural setting and a safe home for all its pachyderm residents, some of whom may have previously been abused.

Elephant lovers can connect with these gentle giants by helping out with tasks in their everyday life — bathing them, petting them, brushing them, and feeding them — all under the watchful eyes of experienced elephant trainers.

You can also watch them playing in the lake and take a dip right beside them. What could be cuter than a baby elephant splashing about in the water?

The half-day tours are offered in the morning and afternoon. They include hotel pickup, elephant feeding, an educational presentation, elephant washing, and a generous Thai buffet. Park rangers also capture photos of your interactions with the elephants for you to take home as a souvenir. And it's all included in the package.

Note that to ensure the elephants' well-being, riding the animals is strictly taboo.

Address: No.4, Soi Cherngtalay 1, Choeng Thale, Thalang District, Phuket 83110, Thailand

Phuket Town lies on the southeastern coast of the island on a picturesque bay. This island city bustles with activity thanks to its many hotels, restaurants, spas, and other tourist attractions that have sprung up in the decades since Patong Beach was opened for development in 1980.

The architecture reflects the influence of Chinese immigrants and a Portuguese aesthetic, and provides an interesting contrast to the more traditional Thai styles seen elsewhere. Make sure you stroll through the streets of Old Phuket Town , with its well-preserved shophouses, Sino-Portuguese mansions, temples, and shrines.

Other things to do in town include visiting Phuket 3D Museum , an interactive 3D art gallery, and paying your respects at the Jui Tui Shrine , a colorful Chinese temple.

You may be tempted to lounge on the beach for your entire stay (and really, who would blame you?). But if you're willing to exert just a little effort during your tropical getaway, sign up for an island tour to discover the stunning seascape surrounding Phuket.

Particular mention must be made of Maphrao, Nakha Yai, and Nakha Noi (on the east coast, with pearl culture at the latter) as well as Koh Kaeo, Racha Noi, and Racha Yai (off the southern tip), and finally little Koh Poo on the west coast off Hat Kata.

Organized tours are the best way to make sure you see all the highlights. The nine-hour, guided Phang Nga Bay Day Trip from Phuket includes a visit to the distinctive "James Bond Rocks," and the eight-hour Phuket to Phi Phi Islands Tour takes you to Koh Phi Phi and the famous Maya Bay beach from the Leonardo DiCaprio movie The Beach . An expert guide, transportation, food, and refreshments are all included.

The waters around Phuket Island offer some of the best diving and snorkeling in Thailand, with typically excellent conditions. Visibility is good, and the water temperature ranges from 26 to 30 degrees Celsius. Apart from colorful corals and tropical fish, you can see seahorses, sea turtles, manta rays, and even whale sharks.

Many travelers come to Thailand to complete their scuba diving certification because the courses tend to be more affordable here than in other countries. Some dive operators will take you to Koh Phi Phi, one of the world's most beautiful islands , and other picturesque locations.

Once you've earned your certification, consider checking out Similan Islands National Park . Comprised of eleven uninhabited islands, this area is famous for its superb diving. Note, though, that the Similan Islands are closed from mid-May through mid-October to help protect and preserve its fragile marine ecosystem.

Sitting serenely above the island at the top of Nakkerd hills between Kata and Chalong, the Phuket Big Buddha is one of the island's most distinctive landmarks. Spectacular 360-degree views greet you at the summit, where this 45-meter-high monument presides. Faced with white jade marble, the statue was constructed in 2004.

It's a peaceful spot to take time out from your day. Prayer flags flutter in the breeze, and you'll hear the tinkling of small bells. You can take a taxi or tuk-tuk up the windy six-kilometer road to the hilltop, but you have to climb a steep flight of stairs to the monument.

If this is your first time on Phuket Island, a tour like the Amazing Phuket Island Guided Tour & Big Buddha could be a great option. This five-hour tour takes you to some of the best spots in Phuket, including busy Patong Beach; the Karon Viewpoint for stunning postcard views over the Andaman Sea; and Phuket's largest temple, Wat Chalong. The last stop on the tour is the Big Buddha, where you'll have 45 minutes to enjoy the views and explore the surroundings.

If possible, pick a clear day for the best views; mornings are generally less crowded. And be sure to dress respectfully, which generally entails covering your shoulders and legs. Otherwise, you could be asked to purchase a scarf or sarong.

To experience a more authentic side of Phuket, venture out to this small village on the island's east coast. Here, you can glimpse the lifestyle of the Moken, a tribe of "sea gypsies." They have roots in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and have remained staunchly committed to their own beliefs and customs.

Some Moken live by the sea, and others choose a semi-nomadic life on land. The men of the village work mostly as fishermen and sometimes also as guides for sea trips.

Rawai itself has a small fishing harbor and a sliver of beach covered with coconut palms, swamp oaks, and fishing boats ( Nai Harn Beach is one of the best in the area.) You can rent boats here to sail to offshore islands.

The village is also known for its seafood markets, where you can buy the catch of the day, and one of the local restaurants will prepare it cooked to order.

Just south of Kata Noi Beach, this aptly named vantage point gives you a lovely view of three of Phuket's most beautiful beaches: Kata Noi, Kata Yai, and Karon Beach.

Look north from the viewpoint over one of the island's most iconic views, with a little bit of everything that makes this island so picturesque: emerald hillsides, blue seas, and white surf. This is one of the island's most photographed vistas.

You can reach the viewpoint by traveling along the branch road in front of Kata Noi Beach in a southwesterly direction toward the southern tip of the island.

Wat Chalong is the largest, most popular, and arguably the most beautiful of all Phuket's 29 temples. It is dedicated to two highly respected monks, Luang Pho Chaem and Luang Pho Chuang, and you can see life-size wax models of them and other figures in the exhibition home.

The Grand Pagoda protects a fragment of Lord Buddha's bone and features murals depicting images from the Buddha's life story.

As you wander through the complex, notice the many golden buddhas in various poses, and make sure you dress respectfully; visitors are not allowed to wear shoes inside the temple, and women must cover their shoulders and knees.

Address: Chaofa Road ( West ), Chalong, Phuket

Located within the Khao Pra Theaw Non-Hunting Area, the Gibbon Rehabilitation Center is a great place to learn more about these intelligent creatures and support important work at the same time. The center's mission is to rescue, rehabilitate, and return gibbons to their natural environment.

Many of these animals were poached from their mothers as babies and sold as pets or used in the tourist trade. Visitor contact with animals suitable for release is limited, so they don't become habituated to humans; however, you'll have a chance to meet some of the animals that live full-time at the sanctuary and hear stories about their miraculous rescues.

The center does not charge an entrance fee, but you need to pay to enter the park. You can support the center's important work by making a donation or sponsoring a gibbon. Another way to help their efforts is to refuse requests to pose for pictures with wild animals that are held captive so that their owners can make money from tourists.

After visiting the center, trek through the lush tropical forest to the Bang Pae waterfall for a refreshing dip in the pools.

Address: Bang Pae Waterfall, Pa Khlock, Talang, Phuket

If you're looking for indoor places to visit during a particularly hot day, the Phuket 3D Museum is a great option. You'll even be able to add a few zany vacation photos to share with your friends and family back home.

This interactive 3D art gallery allows you to look as though you are part of more than 95 trompe-l'œil-style paintings created by clever Korean artists. Teeter on a tightrope, touch ET, climb a wall with Spiderman, or step into a famous masterpiece. This is the perfect rainy day hangout for the whole family.

Address: 130/1 PhangNga Road, Taladyai, Muang, Phuket

Formerly called Nai Yang National Park, Sirinat National Park reveals a quieter side of this touristy isle. The 90-square-kilometer coastal park sits on the island's northwest coast and is largely made up of marine areas, including four relatively unspoiled beaches.

Two of these, Hat Nai Yang and Hat Mai Khao, are the only two beaches in Phuket where leatherback turtles come ashore at night to lay their eggs. The best time to see them is from November to February, when locals patrol the beaches and help protect their eggs.

Wat Phra Thong is steeped in local lore. It houses a half statue of Buddha that was broken during a Burmese invasion.

Legend has it that a boy was minding a water buffalo, which he tethered to a piece of metal protruding from the ground using a hemp rope. Suddenly, the boy died, but he later appeared to his father in a dream and told him about the piece of metal. The father began to dig and came upon a statue of Buddha cast in pure gold. The Buddha could not, however, be completely excavated and so a temple was built on the site in 1785.

When the Burmese conquered Thalang, a second attempt was made to dig up the statue, but it broke in two. One half disappeared, and the other still stands in the temple today.

Besides the half Buddha statue, things to see here include the rich carvings on the gables and windows of the temple buildings and a little museum displaying historical artifacts.

Markets are a must-visit when you're in Phuket. You can tantalize your tastebuds with some sizzling street food, listen to live music, pick up some souvenirs, and practice your bargaining skills all in one visit.

A good place to start your market adventure is at the Sunday Walking Street Market . This is one of Phuket Island's biggest attractions, set in the heart of the historical part of town. As the name suggests, this is a Sunday-only market, which runs from 4 to 9pm. It's vibrant, full of lights, busy, and loud — a perfect way to end the week surrounded by beautiful old buildings, stalls selling arts and crafts, and tons of lip-smacking good food. Make sure you wander down the side streets, too. More treasures await off the main strip.

Located on Sai Kor Road, the well-designed indoor Banzaan Fresh Market is a good place to discover exotic fruits, pick up some fresh vegetables and seafood, or try a glass of refreshing coconut water or sugarcane juice. Don't forget to check out the stalls selling gifts and accessories on your way to the big food court upstairs.

If you're after more typical Thai souvenirs, curios, or some cheap T-shirts, the Phuket Weekend Night Market is the place to be. Located just outside Phuket Town, the market is also a good place to find second-hand goods, grab some odds and ends, and try some unique foods. Are deep-fried insects or fishcakes calling your name? This is the place to pick some up.

If you're visiting Phuket Island for the first time and want to stay in the heart of the action, popular Patong Beach is a great location, near the buzz of Bangla Road, with its shops, restaurants, and lively entertainment venues. If you prefer a more peaceful location but with easy access to all the attractions, the beaches north of Patong are the best place to stay. Here are some highly rated hotels in these locations:

Luxury Hotels:

• About 43 minutes' drive north of Patong Beach, the serene Trisara Phuket is the ultimate Thai tropical escape, with temple-style villas fronting an idyllic, palm-studded stretch of beach.
• A little closer to Patong Beach (20 minutes by car), and only a three-minute walk to beautiful Surin Beach, The Chava Resort is great for families. Its spacious apartments come with fully equipped kitchens and private plunge pools.
• A more affordable luxury option is the sprawling Amari Phuket , on a lush hillside near Patong Beach, with well-appointed villas and gorgeous ocean views.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• Stunning Andaman sea views and a beachside location make the Best Western Premier Bangtao Beach Resort & Spa an excellent value for the money. Well-appointed rooms, two swimming pools, and a kids' club offer plenty of options for all visitors.
• If you like the amenities of a big resort, the beachfront Outrigger Laguna Phuket Beach Resort , a 30-minute drive north of Patong Beach, includes access to day spas, an 18-hole golf course, and signing privileges at more than 30 restaurants in the surrounding Laguna Destination Resort.
• Closer to the busy tourist strip, the contemporary BYD Lofts Boutique Hotel and Serviced Apartments , with a rooftop pool, has suites for longer stays and lies within walking distance of Patong Beach and Bangla Road.

Budget Hotels:

• Steps away from Bangla Road, near Patong Beach, Summer Breeze Inn Hotel is a home away from home.
• Tatum Mansion with large, clean rooms, is another popular budget option, only a two-minute stroll from Patong Beach.
• With a rooftop pool, Patong Princess Hotel offers great value. Its spacious air-conditioned rooms lie about a five-minute walk from Patong Beach.

One of the most popular things to do while visiting Phuket is explore some of the beautiful surrounding islands on an organized tour.

• Phang Nga Bay : See some of the stunning limestone karsts rising from the jade-green sea on this small-group, guided Phang Nga Bay and Beyond tour. Along the way, you'll stop at "James Bond Island," paddle through tranquil lagoons on a canoe, explore limestone caves, and have time to relax and swim at a peaceful beach. A Thai lunch near Koh Yao Yai Pier is included.

More on Thailand

Island Hopping in Phuket: 11 Incredible Destinations To Explore By Boat

Phuket is a beautiful beach destination in southern Thailand, renowned for its soft white sand and warm aqua waters that drive tourists from around the world to come and enjoy.

Whilst Phuket – an island itself – is a wonderful destination; some of the most picture-perfect beaches, snorkelling and diving opportunities are another boat ride away in the tiny islands that surround Phuket, making it the perfect destination for island hopping.

In this guide, we will talk you through what to expect at each of the islands that surround Phuket. Some are protected reserves so can only be admired from the water; others have overnight accommodation options and the ability to go hiking on the islands themselves.

We have linked to tour operates and accommodation partners with whom we have an affiliate relationship. If you book through any of our links, we may earn a commission .

Let’s take a closer look at each

Table of Contents

Best Islands to Visit From Phuket

This is just a summary so you can make a quick overview, we dive into more of the details below:

• Phi Phi Islands : These islands are some of the most popular in Phuket, with clear waters and beautiful beaches. You can take a speedboat tour or a traditional longtail boat to explore the islands.
• Similan Islands : The Similan Islands are a group of nine islands located about 84 kilometres northwest of Phuket. The islands are famous for their beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and excellent snorkelling and diving opportunities.
• Racha Islands : The Racha Islands are a pair of islands located about 12 kilometres south of Phuket. The islands are known for their beautiful beaches and excellent snorkelling and diving opportunities.
• James Bond Island : Located in Phang Nga Bay, this island is famous for its unique rock formations and beautiful scenery. It was featured in the James Bond movie “The Man with the Golden Gun.”
• Koh Yao Yai and Koh Yao Noi : These two islands are located between Phuket and Krabi and are known for their quiet and peaceful atmosphere. They are perfect for a relaxing day trip or a romantic getaway.
• Coral Island : Also known as Koh Hae, this island is located just 10 kilometres off the coast of Phuket. It’s a popular day trip destination for tourists, known for its beautiful beaches and clear waters that are perfect for swimming, snorkelling, and diving.
• Koh Lanta : Koh Lanta is an island located in the southern part of Thailand, in the province of Krabi. It is part of the Mu Ko Lanta National Park and is known for its beautiful beaches, clear waters, and lush tropical forests.
• Koh Rok : Koh Rok is a small island located about 90 kilometres south of Phuket. It’s known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and excellent snorkelling and diving opportunities.
• Koh Maphrao : Also known as Coconut Island, this island is located just off the east coast of Phuket. It’s a peaceful island with a small fishing village and several beautiful beaches.
• Koh Maiton : Koh Maiton is a small island located about 15 km southeast of Phuket. It takes about 45 minutes by speedboat to reach the island.
• Koh Panyee : Koh Panyee is a small village built on stilts over the water, located in Phang Nga Bay. It’s a unique destination that’s perfect for a day trip, with plenty of seafood restaurants, souvenir shops, and beautiful views of the surrounding cliffs and islands.

1. How to Island Hop From Phi Phi to Phuket

There are several ways to get to Phi Phi Islands from Phuket, including by speedboat, ferry, or private charter. Here are the most common ways to get there:

• By Speedboat : Speedboats are the fastest way to reach Phi Phi Islands from Phuket. They typically depart from Rassada Pier, which is located in Phuket Town. The travel time is about 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the sea conditions. Some speedboat operators also offer hotel pick-up and drop-off services for added convenience. The cost of a speedboat tour can range from 2,000 to 4,000 baht per person, depending on the tour operator and the inclusions.
• By Ferry : If you’re looking for a more affordable option, you can take a ferry from Phuket to Phi Phi Islands. The ferries depart from Rassada Pier, as well as from Ao Po Grand Marina and other piers in Phuket. The travel time is about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the type of ferry and the sea conditions. The cost of a ferry ticket can range from 350 to 600 baht per person, depending on the ferry operator and the seating class.
• By Private Charter : If you’re travelling in a group or prefer a more personalized experience, you can also charter a private boat to Phi Phi Islands. This option allows you to customize your itinerary, choose your own departure time, and enjoy the privacy and comfort of your own boat. The cost of a private charter can range from 10,000 to 20,000 baht, depending on the boat size and the inclusions.

Overall, the best port to depart from is Rassada Pier in Phuket Town, as it offers the most frequent and reliable connections to Phi Phi Islands. The travel time can vary depending on the mode of transportation and sea conditions, but the journey is usually scenic and enjoyable, with plenty of opportunities to admire the beautiful views of the Andaman Sea.

Day Tripping? See Recommended Tour Options:

Can You Stay in the Phi Phi Islands?

Yes, plenty of accommodation options are available on the Phi Phi Islands, ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious resorts. Here are some options for different budgets:

Budget Accommodation on Phi Phi

For budget-friendly accommodations on Phi Phi, there are plenty of guesthouses, hostels, and bungalows available. Some popular options include:

• Phi Phi Andaman Legacy Resort : This resort offers comfortable rooms with air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and a swimming pool, with rates starting at around 1,000 baht (about $30 USD) per night.
• PP Insula Hotel : This hotel offers cozy rooms with air conditioning and free Wi-Fi, with rates starting at around 1,500 baht (about $45 USD) per night.

Mid-Range Accommodation on Phi Phi

For those looking for mid-range accommodations on Phi Phi, there are plenty of options available as well. Some popular options include:

• Bay View Resort : This resort offers comfortable rooms with balconies overlooking the ocean, as well as a swimming pool, spa, and fitness center, with rates starting at around 2,500 baht (about $75 USD) per night.
• Zeavola Resort : This boutique resort offers spacious villas with private pools, as well as a restaurant, spa, and dive center, with rates starting at around 10,000 baht (about $300 USD) per night.

Luxury Accommodation on Phi Phi

For those looking for a truly luxurious experience on Phi Phi, several high-end resorts are available. Some popular options include:

• Phi Phi Island Cabana Hotel : This resort offers elegant rooms and suites with ocean views, as well as a swimming pool, spa, and fitness center, with rates starting at around 8,000 baht (about $240 USD) per night.
• SAII (formerly Phi Phi Island Village Beach Resort) : This resort offers luxurious rooms and villas, as well as a private beach, swimming pool, and spa, with rates starting at around 15,000 baht (about $450 USD) per night. We have a full review from our stay a few years ago here .
• Six Senses Yao Noi : This exclusive resort is located on a nearby island, and offers luxurious villas with private infinity pools and stunning ocean views, as well as a spa, fitness centre, and several restaurants, with rates starting at around 25,000 baht (about $750 USD) per night.

Whether you choose to stay in a budget-friendly guesthouse or a luxurious resort, you’re sure to enjoy the stunning natural beauty and laid-back atmosphere of these popular islands.

2. How to Get From Phuket to Similan Islands

The Similan Islands are a group of nine islands located in the Andaman Sea, about 70 kilometres northwest of Phuket. They are known for their stunning natural beauty, clear waters, and abundant marine life, making them a popular destination for snorkelling and diving enthusiasts.

The Similan Islands are home to some of the most diverse and colourful coral reefs in Thailand, with a variety of fish species, sea turtles, and other marine creatures. Some of the most popular dive sites in the Similan Islands include Elephant Head Rock, Christmas Point, and Shark Fin Reef, where divers can spot whale sharks, manta rays, and other large fish.

You can take a speedboat or liveaboard tour to get to the Similan Islands from Phuket. Here are some details about each option:

• By Speedboat : Speedboats depart from various piers in Phuket, including Chalong Bay, Tab Lamu Pier, and Thap Lamu Pier. The travel time is about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the sea conditions and the departure point. Speedboat tours usually include multiple stops at different islands and dive sites, allowing you to explore the beauty of the Similan Islands on a day trip.
• By Liveaboard : For a truly immersive experience, consider joining a liveaboard tour of the Similan Islands. These multi-day trips involve staying on a boat and leisurely exploring numerous dive sites in the area. You’ll be provided with meals, accommodation, and diving equipment so that you can fully indulge in the exquisite beauty and peacefulness of the islands.. Some popular liveaboard tour operators include Deep Andaman Queen , The Junk Liveaboard , and Manta Queen .

Can you stay on the Similan Islands?

There are no accommodation options on the Similan Islands themselves, as the islands are protected national park areas, and camping is not allowed. You’ll need to look at staying on the nearby mainland and islands, such as Khao Lak, Phang Nga, and Phuket, from where you can easily visit the Similan Islands on a day trip or overnight liveaboard tour.

Here are some of the accommodation options that you can consider when visiting the Similan Islands:

• Khao Lak : Khao Lak is a town located north of Phuket, and is a popular base for visitors to the Similan Islands. Numerous accommodation options are available in Khao Lak, ranging from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts. Some of the popular resorts in Khao Lak include the Sarojin , JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort & Spa , and the Kantary Beach Hotel .
• Phang Nga : Phang Nga is a province located north of Phuket and is also a popular base for visitors to the Similan Islands. There are various accommodation options available in Phang Nga, ranging from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts. Some of the popular resorts in Phang Nga include the Aleenta Resort & Spa , the Six Senses Yao Noi , and the Khao Lak Merlin Resort .

The Similan Islands are a must-visit destination for anyone who loves nature, diving, and adventure. Whether you choose to explore the islands by speedboat or liveaboard, you’re sure to be amazed by the stunning natural beauty and abundant marine life of this magical destination.

3. How to Get to Racha Islands From Phuket

The Racha Islands, also known as Raya Islands, are a group of two islands located south of Phuket in the Andaman Sea. The two islands are called Koh Racha Yai and Koh Racha Noi , with Koh Racha Yai being the larger and more popular island for visitors.

You can take a speedboat or ferry to get to the Racha Islands from Phuket. Here are some details about each option:

• Speedboat : Speedboats are the quickest and most well-liked mode of transportation to the Racha Islands from Phuket. Departing from Chalong Pier on the southeastern coast of Phuket, they usually take around 30 to 45 minutes to reach Koh Racha Yai, subject to the sea’s condition. Some speedboat service providers also offer pick-up and drop-off services from your hotel, making it even more convenient for you. The cost of a speedboat tour can vary from 1,500 to 3,000 baht per individual, depending on your chosen tour operator and what they offer in their package.
• By Ferry : If you’re seeking a pocket-friendly way, you may consider taking a ferry from Phuket to Koh Racha Yai. The ferry sets off from Rawai Pier, situated on the southern coast of Phuket, and takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours to get to the island. The ferry operates once daily, and the cost of a ferry ticket is approximately 600 baht per person.

The Racha Islands are an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful and secluded getaway, away from the crowds of Phuket. With crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and excellent snorkelling and diving opportunities, the Racha Islands offer a perfect escape for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Can You Stay on Racha Islands?

There are several accommodation options available on Koh Racha Yai. Koh Racha Noi is uninhabited.

Koh Racha Yai Accommodation

Some of the popular resorts on Koh Racha Yai include Rayaburi Resort and Ban Raya Resort & Spa . These accommodations offer a range of amenities, such as restaurants, bars, swimming pools, and spa services.

Racha Island is also an ideal destination for honeymooners or those seeking a romantic getaway, as many resorts offer private villas with stunning ocean views. The most exclusive romantic escape is The Racha .

4. How to Get From Phuket to James Bond Island

James Bond Island, also known as Khao Phing Kan, is a popular tourist destination located in Phang Nga Bay, near Phuket. made famous by the 1974 James Bond Movie “The Man With the Golden Gun”, here’s how you get to view this Thai icon:

• By Tour : The easiest way to get to James Bond Island from Phuket is to book a tour to Phnag Nga Bay. Many tour operators offer day trips to the island as part of a package, which usually includes hotel pickup, transportation to the pier, a longtail boat ride to the island (you need to disembark briefly from a larger vessel to dock), and a visit to other nearby attractions. You can book a tour online, through your hotel, or at one of the many tour agencies located throughout Phuket.
• By Public/Private Transportation : If you’re travelling on a tight budget, you can also take public transportation to reach James Bond Island. Take a local bus from Phuket Town to the town of Ao Por , which is located on the eastern coast of Phuket. From Ao Por, you can hire a longtail boat to James Bond Island. It will not be as fast as the larger vessels, but a more unique and intimate experience!

Once you arrive at James Bond Island, you can explore the island’s stunning limestone cliffs and turquoise waters, and take a walk around the island to see the famous rock formation. There are also several souvenir shops and food stalls on the island, where you can purchase snacks and souvenirs.

Do note, the island is not big! It should be seen as just one of many stops on a larger tour of Phang Nga Bay, where you’ll get to enjoy several other scenic stops amongst the limestone cliffs and caves..

Can You stay on James Bond Island?

Unfortunately, there is no accommodation available on James Bond Island itself. The island is a small limestone rock in Phang Nga Bay and is mainly visited as a day trip from Phuket or nearby areas. However, there are several nearby areas where you can find accommodation, such as Phuket, Khao Lak, and Phang Nga town.

5. How Do you get to Koh Yao Yai and Koh Yao Noi from Phuket?

Another really popular day trip destination for day trippers and those seeking a more remote getaway from Phuket is Koh Yao Yai and Koh Yao Noi, two small islands located in Phang Nga Bay, between Phuket and Krabi.

To get there, you have a few options:

• B y Speedboat: If you’re looking for a quick and comfortable way to reach Koh Yao Yai and Koh Yao Noi, taking a speedboat is one of the best options available. Several private companies and tour operators offer speedboat transfers from Phuket to the islands, making it a convenient choice for travelers who want to save time and enjoy a hassle-free journey.
• By Public Ferry : If you’re looking to reach Koh Yao Yai and Koh Yao Noi, you can take a public ferry from Bang Rong Pier on the east coast of Phuket. The journey takes around 30-45 minutes, and the ferry schedules may change based on the season. Hence, it’s advisable to check the latest schedule beforehand.
• By Private Longtail Boat: If you prefer to travel independently, you can also hire a private longtail boat to take you to Koh Yao Yai and Koh Yao Noi. This is a more expensive option than taking a ferry, but it allows you to set your own schedule and explore the islands at your own pace.

Once you arrive at Koh Yao Yai or Koh Yao Noi, you can explore the islands’ stunning natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere.

Can You Stay on Koh Yao Yai and Koh Yao Noi?

Koh Yao Yai and Koh Yao Noi offer a range of accommodation options, including resorts, guesthouses, and homestays. Here are some places to stay on Koh Yao Yai and Koh Yao Noi:

Koh Yao Yai

• Santhiya Koh Yao Yai Resort & Spa : a luxury resort with villas overlooking the Andaman Sea, infinity pool, spa, and several dining options.
• GLOW Elixir Koh Yao Yai : a modern resort with a private beach, infinity pool, and panoramic views of the sea.
• Koh Yao Yai Hillside Resort : a mid-range resort set on a hillside with views of the sea, offering bungalows and villas with private pools.

Koh Yao Noi

• Six Senses Yao Noi : a luxury resort with villas and private pools, set on a hillside overlooking the sea. The resort also offers a spa, fitness centre, and several dining options.
• Paradise KohYao : a mid-range resort with a private beach, infinity pool, and bungalows with sea views.
• Koyao Island Resort : a boutique resort with bungalows set in a lush tropical garden, offering a private beach, spa, and yoga classes.

There are also several guesthouses and homestays on both islands, which offer a more affordable and authentic local experience.

6. How To Get to Coral Island From Phuket

Coral Island (Ko He, Koh Hey) is a small island located a short distance from Phuket, renowned for its crystal-clear waters. It’s a popular destination for day trips from Phuket, being only 3 kilometres away. A stop at Coral Island may be combined with stops at other islands to make for a longer day trip, or take your time and enjoy the tranquillity without rushing around.

You get to Coral Island, you can try:

• By Speedboat : The fastest way to get to Coral Island is by speedboat, less than 20 minutes away from Rawai. Many tour operators offer half-day or full-day tours that include round-trip transportation from Phuket, as well as snorkelling, swimming, and other activities on the island.
• By Public Ferry : You can also take a public ferry from Chalong Pier in Phuket to Coral Island. The ferry ride takes about 15-20 minutes, and the schedule can vary depending on the season, so it’s best to check in advance.

Can You stay on Coral Island?

There is limited accommodation available on Coral Island. There are only a few small bungalow-style resorts on the island, such as Coral Island Resort and Coral Island Bungalow, which offer basic accommodations with sea views. ( As of early 2024, we understand they may both be closed ).

7. How to Get To Koh Lanta From Phuket

Located in the southern part of Thailand’s Krabi province, Koh Lanta is an island renowned for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and verdant tropical forests. It encompasses an expansive area of approximately 340 square kilometres, featuring numerous small towns and villages where tourists can find accommodations, restaurants, and other facilities.

Koh Lanta is part of the Mu Ko Lanta National Park and is increasingly becoming a sought-after destination for travellers who desire to explore Thailand’s islands’ splendour without the crowds that populate popular islands such as Phuket or Koh Samui.

There are several ways to get from Phuket to Koh Lanta:

• By ferry from Phuket : One of the most popular ways to get to Koh Lanta from Phuket is by taking a ferry. You can catch a ferry from Rassada Pier in Phuket to Saladan Pier in Koh Lanta. The ferry journey takes around 2-3 hours, depending on the type of ferry and the sea conditions. There are several ferry companies that operate this route, including Phi Phi Cruiser, Tigerline, and Andaman Wave Master.
• By speedboat: for a faster journey, try this speedboat option from Phuket , or there are a few options which leave from Koh Phi Phi if you’d like to break up the journey.
• By bus and ferry : You can also take a bus from Phuket to Krabi, and then take a ferry from Krabi to Koh Lanta. This option can be cheaper than hiring a private car or taxi, but it can also take longer and be less comfortable. The journey takes around 5-6 hours in total, and several bus and ferry companies operate this route, including Ao Nang Travel and Andaman Wave Master.

Can You Stay on Koh Lanta

There are several accommodation options on Koh Lanta to suit different budgets:

• Budget options : There are many guesthouses, hostels, and bungalows on Koh Lanta that are affordable and perfect for backpackers or budget travellers. Some popular options include Lanta Hostel , and Chaw-Ka-Cher Tropicana Lanta Resort .
• Mid-range options : Koh Lanta also has many mid-range hotels and resorts that offer comfortable accommodation at a reasonable price. Some of these options include Lanta Sand Resort & Spa , Lanta Emerald Bungalow Resort , and Lanta Cha-da Resort .
• Luxury options: If you are looking for luxury accommodation on Koh Lanta, there are also several high-end resorts and villas to choose from. These include Pimalai Resort & Spa , Layana Resort & Spa , and Crown Lanta Resort & Spa .

8. How to Get to Koh Rok From Phuket

Koh Rok is a pair of small islands located in the Mu Koh Lanta National Park, and it’s a popular destination for snorkelling, diving, and beach activities. While it’s not possible to visit Koh Rok as a day trip from Phuket due to the distance, it’s still possible to get there with a combination of transportation options. Here’s how to get to Koh Rok from Phuket and where to stay:

• By Ferry : To get to Koh Rok from Phuket, you can board a ferry that takes about 3-4 hours, depending on the schedule and route. Upon arriving at Koh Lanta, you can hop on a longtail boat or speedboat to reach Koh Rok, which takes around 1-2 hours, depending on the sea conditions..
• By Speedboat : Alternatively, you can take a speedboat directly from Phuket to Koh Rok, which takes about 2-3 hours depending on the sea conditions. Many tour operators offer day trips to Koh Rok from Phuket, but overnight tours include camping on the island.

Can You Stay on Koh Rok?

Koh Rok is a protected area, and there is limited accommodation available on the island. However, it’s possible to camp on the island with a permit from the national park authorities. The camping facilities are basic, and you need to bring your own camping gear and supplies.

If you prefer more comfortable accommodation, it’s best to stay in Koh Lanta or other nearby islands, such as Koh Phi Phi or Koh Ngai. There are several guesthouses, bungalows, and resorts available on these islands to suit a range of budgets and preferences.

9. How To Get To Coconut Island From Phuket

Coconut Island, also known as Koh Maphrao, is a small island located off the east coast of Phuket. Here’s how to get to Coconut Island from Phuket and where to stay:

• By Boat : Many resorts on the island offer a free shuttle boat service from the mainland at Laem Hin Pier, which takes about 5-10 minutes. Alternatively, you can hire a private longtail boat or speedboat from Phuket, which takes about 20-30 minutes, depending on the sea conditions.
• By Bridge : There is also a bridge connecting Coconut Island to the mainland, which is open to pedestrians and motorbikes. The bridge is located near the Laem Hin Seafood restaurant, and it’s about a 300-meter walk to the island.

Can You Stay on Coconut Island?

Once you arrive on Coconut Island, you can enjoy its tranquil beaches, lush greenery, and stunning views of Phang Nga Bay. There are several accommodation options on Coconut Island, including:

• Barcelo Coconut Island (formerly The Village Coconut Island): This is the largest resort on the island, offering a range of villas and suites with private pools, garden views, or sea views. The resort also features a spa, fitness center, pool, and several dining options, along with full board and all inclusive packages.
• Island Escape by Burasari : This is a small boutique resort located on the northern tip of the island, offering a limited number of beachfront villas and suites with ocean views. The resort also features a restaurant, bar, and outdoor pool.

Coconut Island is a peaceful and secluded retreat from the bustling Phuket, making it a great destination for a relaxing holiday for all the family.

10. How to Get to Koh Maiton from Phuket

Koh Maiton is a small island located about 9 kilometres off the southeast coast of Phuket.

• Private boat charter : You can hire a private boat charter from Phuket to Koh Maiton. This is the most convenient and quickest option, but it can also be quite expensive.
• Day trip tour : If you’re looking to visit Koh Maiton from Phuket, there are many tour operators that offer day trips. These tours generally provide round-trip transportation by boat, snorkelling gear, lunch, and sometimes a trip to other nearby islands. This is a more cost-effective option than chartering a private boat and gives you the chance to discover other areas too.
• Speedboat tour : Another option is to take a speedboat tour to Koh Maiton. These tours are usually faster than traditional boat tours and can get you to the island in around 30 minutes. However, they can be a bit more expensive than traditional boat tours.

Can You Stay on Koh Maiton?

Once you arrive at Koh Maiton, there are no accommodation options on the island as it is primarily a wildlife sanctuary. Day trips typically last a few hours and include snorkelling and beach time.

11. How To Get to Koh Panyee From Phuket

Koh Panyee is a small island located in Phang Nga Bay, about 20 kilometres northeast of Phuket. It’s known for its unique floating village built on stilts above the water, as well as its seafood restaurants and picturesque views.

Here’s what you need to know about visiting Koh Panyee from Phuket:

• Day Trip : Koh Panyee is a popular day trip destination from Phuket, with many tour operators offering guided tours that include transportation, a visit to the floating village, and a seafood lunch at one of the island’s many restaurants. The trip usually takes about 6-8 hours in total.
• By Boat : You can hire a private longtail boat or speedboat from Phuket. The trip takes about 30-45 minutes, depending on the sea conditions.

You will find Koh Panyee is typically paired with a visit to James Bond Island, as both sit within Phnag Nga Bay. These tours include a stop at Koh Nayee:

If you do decide to visit Koh Panyee, make sure to check out its famous floating football pitch, which was built by the local fishermen in the 1980s and has since become a popular tourist attraction. You can also explore the village’s many handicraft shops, visit the mosque, and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding limestone cliffs and mangrove forests.

Can you stay on Koh Panyee?

There are no accommodation options on Koh Panyee, as the island is primarily a fishing village with limited tourist facilities. However, there are several nearby islands where you can stay overnight, such as Koh Yao Noi and Koh Yao Yai.

We hope this Phuket island hopping guide helps you narrow down your options on which island experience would suit you best. Whether you’re seeking underwater experiences, instagrammable beauty or serene sandy beaches, there’s a southern Thailand island to suit you, all accessible from Phuket.

Please note that we are not a travel agency. We cannot book your Phuket trip for you, but we do link on our website to our preferred suppliers. Clicking one of these links may earn us a commission on qualifying bookings or purchases. You can find our full privacy policy and website terms of use here.

© Mama Loves Phuket 2024

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Self-Guided Phuket Island Hopping Itinerary 2024

Phuket island hopping is a great way to explore the best of Thailand’s beaches from a central base. Today we highlight how simple island hopping from Phuket can be and show you exactly how to visit our favourite islands off the coast of Southern Thailand on our DIY Phuket island hopping tour.

Phuket is the largest of all Thailand’s stunning islands and is also the name of the province in which Phuket Island lies.

Ever since Roger Moore brought the world’s eyes to this part of the world when filming The Man With The Golden Gun, the mere mention of the word ‘Phuket’ conjures up images of sun, sand, and swaying palm trees.

This page contains affiliate links. You can read our disclosure policy here .

Getting to Phuket for your island hopping adventure

Where is the best base in phuket for island hopping, our phuket island hopping loop itinerary, stop 1 – the phi phi islands, stop 2 – koh lanta, side trip – koh ha islands, stop 4 – railay, stop 5 – koh yao yai and koh yao noi, stop 6 – back to phuket, more island hopping ideas, ferry hopping in phuket faq.

Phuket province is home to over thirty islands, but many of them are small and uninhabited.

If you want to go island-hopping in Thailand, though, Phuket is a great starting point, as the neighbouring provinces of Phang-Nga and Krabi are also home to some of the kingdom’s most idyllic island destinations.  

If you, like me, prefer the vibe of an island to the hustle and bustle of city life, then good news – it’s getting easier to fly directly to the southern islands meaning you can spend more time on the beach and less time travelling here!

Phuket International Airport has been undergoing an extensive expansion program, and it is accepting an ever-increasing number of international flights.

From Phuket airport, you literally land a stone’s throw from the beach, swooping down over the azure Andaman Sea and onto the runway.  

Phuket has a lot to offer. It’s also a great starting point for your journey around the nearby islands and has plenty of activities and sights to see. 

Getting a direct flight into Phuket means you can hit the beaches and feel the sea breeze on your face shortly after touching down on the tarmac.

But where should you stay? As the largest Thai island, there are a lot of choices, but if you are planning on island-hopping from Phuket , consider the beaches towards the south of Phuket, as that is where most of the ferries to the neighbouring islands depart from. 

Patong, with its bustling nightlife, is perhaps the best-known and busiest area of Phuket. It’s a great place to stay if you want a few nights of partying before exploring the quieter islands nearby.

With Jung Ceylon shopping mall and a myriad of street stalls, Patong is also a great place for some serious shopping.

If you are looking for something a little calmer, as you move farther south from Patong, the beaches become gradually quainter and more relaxed.

The next beaches down from Patong are Karon and Kata. These two beaches are a stone’s throw from each other and, whilst still offering great choices for accommodation and shopping, are a little quieter than Patong.

At the southern end of Kata is a gem of a beach known as Kata Noi — an idyllic little bay and a great spot to enjoy a sunset gin & tonic or have an afternoon cooling dip in the sea.  

South of Kata, we can find the areas of Rawai and Nai Harn. Both locations are perfect if you want some chill time on white-sand beaches.

Nai Harn Beach itself is a favourite amongst the local community as it’s seldom busy and a great place for some sun worshipping or a gentle snorkel with colourful fish.

From this point, at the southwest corner of Phuket Island, it’s a short transfer to the pier at Rassada, where you hop on a ferry and head across the water to the next destination on this Andaman island-hopping loop.  

Our island hopping loop takes in seven of the most popular islands in the Andaman Sea off Phuket. We have chosen the order of travel based on the best ferry connections.

From Rassada Pier, it’s a quick journey across to the infamous Phi Phi Islands and the beginning of our suggested loop itinerary.

The best place to book your ferry ticket is usually through your hotel or through one of the small travel agencies you can find dotted along the streets.

However, if you are someone who feels more comfortable booking in advance we recommend 12Asia.go which sells tickets from a large number of operators.

If you book with these guys, your ticket price will also include a transfer from your hotel to the pier. Usually, if you book directly with the ferry company online, you will be expected to make your own way to the pier.

The ferries between Phuket and Phi Phi are large and spacious. There’s plenty of room to stretch your legs and to find a spot to enjoy a coffee in the sun.

Be careful of the sun—the breeze from the moving boat can mask the effects of the tropical sun.  

Travelling from Phuket to Koh Phi Phi Departure : Most trips to Phi Phi islands start at Rassada Pier, just 10 minutes from Phuket Town. With over 15 trips a day, it is fairly easy to arrange. Arrival: Ton Sai Pier Koh Phi Phi or Laem Tong Beach Koh Phi Phi Price : Ferry tickets can be as little as 450 baht per person Travel time : Speed boat – 1 hour Ferry – 1.45 hr -3 hours

There are two Phi Phi Islands – Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Lay. Phi Phi Lay is uninhabited but home to Maya Bay, famed for its role in the 2000 film The Beach.

Need to know: Maya Bay has been closing regularly over the last few years to allow the site time to recover from over tourism. In 2024, Maya Bay will be closed from 1 August to 30 September.

If you want to stay on Phi Phi, you will be staying on Phi Phi Don. Phi Phi Don is a stunning island, and the vista as the ferry swoops into the pier at Ton Sai Bay is beautiful.

At certain times of the year, Phi Phi Don can get very busy, so it’s definitely a good idea to book your accommodation before you travel in high season.

And depending on your plans for your time on Phi Phi, you might want to carefully consider the location of your hotel.

If you plan to join in with beach parties, Ton Sai Bay, the main hub of the island is the perfect place to be in the thick of the action. 

There is no traffic on Phi Phi; getting around is done on foot through the narrow, paved streets.

Staying in Ton Sai Bay will put you at the heart of the restaurants and shops, and in a prime location to enjoy the bars along the beachfront.

Phi Phi is a party island but has so much more to offer than this.

A short hike into the hills behind Ton Sai will take you to a stunning viewpoint, with spectacular views across the bay to Phi Phi Lay.

There is a small café at the top, and you can sit and watch the sun drop into the Andaman Sea before heading back down to enjoy the evening entertainment.  

Whilst on Phi Phi, it would be a crime not to venture across to the famous Maya Bay to see ‘The Beach.’ There are plenty of organised half-day trips for this. Speak to your hotel as they should be able to arrange tickets for you.

Rent a kayak and make the 40 minute return trip to Monkey Beach or book a long-tail boat and let someone else do the hard work!

Alternatively, you can speak to the long-tail boat drivers at the beach and strike a deal for a private tour, possibly stopping off at Monkey Bay and a visit to Monkey Beach on the way.  

If you would rather stay in a quieter part of Phi Phi, Long Beach is your best bet.

There are fewer accommodation options here, but if you plan to chill on the beach with this year’s bestseller, then Long Beach is for you.

Long Beach is also a great option if you are an early riser. If you get up around sunrise and go for a snorkel around the eastern end of the beach, you can see some small black-tipped reef sharks cruising in the shallows.

But don’t worry – these sharks are not interested in you!  

Travelling from Koh Phi Phi to Koh Lanta Departure : Ton Sai Pier Koh Phi Phi Arrival: Koh Lanta Ban Sala Dan Pier Price : approx $28 AUD Travel time : 30 minutes by speed boat

The next stop on our Andaman island-hopping loop is Koh Lanta Yai, to the east of Phi Phi. Koh Lanta district encompasses three main islands – Koh Lanta Yai, Koh Lanta Noi, and Koh Klang.

Your destination is Koh Lanta Yai, or Big Lanta Island. Shaped like the ubiquitous Thai chili, Koh Lanta Yai is around thirty kilometres long.

The beaches along the island’s west coast afford excellent sunset views looking back across the Andaman Sea towards Phi Phi.

The main town of Saladan sits on the northern tip of the island, and the southern tip is covered with the jungle of Koh Lanta National Park . In between are a number of beautiful beaches, each with its own character.

The most popular area to stay on Koh Lanta is perhaps Long Beach, or Phra-Ae, as it’s known to the locals.

Stretching out over 3 kilometres, Long Beach is the longest beach on Koh Lanta and is home to some great choices of accommodation to suit all budgets and needs. 

Long Beach Chalet  is lovely and offers budget garden lofts or deluxe Seaview villas. Nearby Layana Resort and Spa offer modern luxury. See all the options in Long Beach here .

Farther down the island is another popular area to stay in – Klong Nin. The Klong Nin area is a super-chilled place to stay and relax into the Lanta vibe.

Ideally situated as a spot to explore the island from, Klong Nin also boasts some great beach-front restaurants and bars. The beach here is also a great place for a cooling afternoon dip after your lunch.

Rawi Warin Resort And Spa offers 5-star luxury if that is what you are after. But there are plenty of more rustic properties in the Klong Nin area too.

From Klong Nin, you can also hire a bike and cut across the island to the east coast—home to Lanta Old Town and the sea gypsy village.

The sea gypsy village, also known as Sang Ka Ou to the locals, is definitely worth a morning visit, followed by lunch at one of the restaurants over the water in Old Town.  

Travel from Koh Lanta to Koh Haa Islands Departure : Koh Lanta Arrival: Koh Haa Price : Best to book a day tour or snorkelling/diving trip on arrival in Koh Lanta The. Sinthongchai speedboat is highly-rated. Travel time : 30 minutes

If you look out from the beaches on the west coast of Lanta, you will see a small group of five islands jutting out from the turquoise waters.

These stunning islands, called Koh Ha, meaning “five islands” in Thai, are one of Thailand’s best scuba diving and snorkelling locations.

Any of the dive centres on the island will be happy to take you out to explore this cluster of islands and its amazing marine life and hopefully bring you face-to-face with a whale shark – the ocean’s biggest fish.  

From Lanta, it’s also possible to take day trips out to some of the smaller, uninhabited islands. A huge favourite amongst visitors to Lanta is the “four-island trip”.

This day trip explores four of the many islands to the south of Koh Lanta Yai. The itineraries change depending on the season, but the highlight of the trip, Koh Mook, remains a constant.

The big draw of Koh Mook is the Emerald Cave, where you snorkel through a tunnel and emerge on a beach hidden in the centre of the island.  

Ferry from Koh Lanta to Railay Departure : Ban Saladan Passenger Ferry Pier in Koh Lanta Arrival: Railay Bay Beach Jetty ( Check times for the ferry to Railay ) Price : ฿550 – ฿1200 Travel time : 1-hour 15-minute ferry journey. You could book one of the local long-tail boats for this trip.

Although not a true island, Railay is famed as a must-see destination in Thailand. Access to Railay is by boat transfers only, so we still get the island vibe and feel, but it is connected to the mainland near Ao Nang in Krabi Province.

Railay comprises a small cape with two beaches – one facing the sunrise, the other facing sunset.

It’s a beautiful place to stop for a night or two of relaxation and to recharge the batteries, or to enjoy its world-famous rock climbing on its limestone cliffs.

After leaving Railay, our next stop takes us back towards Phuket again – Koh Yao Yai.  

Ferry from Railway to Koh Yao Yai Departure : Railay East, Krabi Arrival: Chong Lard Pier, Koh Yao Yai Price : $33 (AUD) Travel time : 1 hour by speedboat

Koh Yao Yai has been growing in popularity in recent years. It’s a quiet, small island that’s situated to the east of Phuket, in the middle of Phang-Na Bay.

You can while away the hours exploring this little gem by scooter, stopping off to enjoy the beaches and sights along the way.

You will definitely want to check out the picturesque beach at Laem Had and enjoy not only its stunning views but its tranquillity too.

Koh Yao Yai is also the perfect place to be if you want a day trip to the island now known simply as “James Bond Island. For accommodation, the most popular area, with more options and restaurants, is Loh Pared Bay.

Koh Yao Yai still has a local Thai feel and has not yet been touched by mass tourism.

It’s a perfect last stop before returning to Phuket for your flight home. Again, speak to your hotel when you are looking to buy a ticket for the short trip back to Phuket.  

Ferry from Koh Yao Yai to Phuket Departure : Chong Lard Pier, Koh Yao Yai Arrival: Bang Rong Pier, Phuket Price : $16 (AUD) Travel time : 30 minutes

The final ferry on this loop will bring you back to Phuket. The boat from Koh Yao Yai will bring you to Bong Rong pier in the northeast of Phuket.

Your accommodation choice on your return to Thailand’s largest island will be determined by how many days you want to spend in Phuket.

• If you plan to do some last-minute shopping before heading home, the old town of Phuket could be a brilliant choice. Phuket Town is the traditional hub of Phuket and has the Central Festival shopping mall on its doorstep.
• If you have an early morning flight from Phuket, we would recommend staying in the northern part of the island, close to the airport.

As Thailand’s most populous island, the traffic can get a little heavy at the start and end of the working day, and the journey from the south to the airport can mean a very early wake-up. A night’s stay at Nai Yang or Mai Khao (link to hotels here) will afford you a later start.

Phuket airport backs onto Mai Khao Beach, and the beach is a great spot to get some stunning photographs of the planes coming in to land before you jump on your own flight home. 

You can also visit the following spectacular islands near Phuket on day trips from your base on the main island by long-tail boat or speed boat on half-day or full-day island hopping trips:

• Coral Island – also known as Koh Hae or Ko He and home of Long Beach and Banana Beach, Coral Island is just 3km off the coast. These coral reefs are a great place to meet the local sea life.
• Racha islands – Koh Racha Noi & Koh Racha Yai just 20km south of Phuket are less visited than some others and offer gorgeous white sandy beaches and first-class diving and snorkelling.
• Coconut Island – Called Koh Maphrao in Thai, just 5 minutes by long tail boats and a good choice for a couple of hours away from the main island.
• Naka Island – Take a private island tour to this spot just a 10-minute speedboat ride away.
• Similan Islands – 9 islands make up the Similan Islands Marine Park. A snorkelling tour in season is highly recommended (Mid Oct-Mid May). Closed offseason due to weather.
• James Bond Island – located in Phang Nga Bay James bond island is one of the most popular day tours from Phuket. (GYG LINK). The rocky pinnacle that shot to fame thanks to the 1974 movie Man with the Golden Gun is a must on many visitors’ lists. Some tours offer snorkelling equipment and a chance to spend some time away from the crowds. Most visits to James Bond Island include a stop at Hong Island.
• Koh Rang Yai Island – is also referred to as Richy Island and sometimes Pearl Islands because of the Pearl farm on the island. It lies 5km off the east coast.
• Surin islands – these beautiful islands with emerald green waters are part of Mu Ko Surin National Park, a 4-hour boat trip from Khura Buri Pier in Phuket.
• Khai Nok – an uninhabited island popular for snorkelling tours

When is the best time to visit Phuket for island hopping tours?

December to April will see calm seas and dryer weather. The months on either side can be a bit hit and miss while July to October see some islands and ferry services cut because of bad weather.

Do I need to book a tour or is island hopping something that is easy to do for yourself ?

The best answer to this question comes down to how comfortable you are with spontaneity. For most of the islands, there are multiple options and you can rent a private long-tail boat at a reasonable cost. If you are on a tight schedule book things in advance.

About the author: Richard (Rich) Reardon is a freelance writer and scuba diving instructor from England and now lives in Southern Thailand. “I have spent the last twenty years travelling and working throughout South East Asia. For around half of that time, I’ve been based in Thailand. Thailand stole my heart, and I hope my writing will encourage you to find out why!”

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Phuket International Airport Guide

Top Things to Do

Best Beaches

Best Dive Locations

Day Trips from Phuket

Food to Try

Best Restaurants

Nightlife Guide

Your Trip to Phuket: the Complete Guide

If you can only visit one place in Thailand, zero in on the island of Phuket. Set some 400 miles south of Bangkok, Phuket crams a near-excess of sights and activities within its coastline: gorgeous beaches, delicious food, amazing natural parks, and access to some of the Andaman Sea’s most breathtakingly beautiful islands.

Backpackers introduced Phuket to the tourism world. The first backpacker-friendly accommodations sprung up in Patong in the 1970s, presaging a steady rise in visitors that peaked at 14 million in 2018. Phuket’s present-day attractions have evolved with tourist tastes; beyond the beaches, visitors can now check out Phuket’s Michelin-starred restaurants, world-class theme parks, and luxury hotels fringing the sands.

For the first-time visitor to Phuket, the island can be a lot to unpack at first glance. Read on to make sense of Thailand’s most popular tourist destination, and how you can have the time of your life when you visit.

Planning Your Trip

• Best time to visit : Plan your trip between mid-October to mid-February; the “winter” months coincide with a cool, dry climate caused by northeast monsoon winds blowing in from Siberia.
• Language: Central (standard) Thai is widely spoken throughout Phuket, though southern Thai is the local mother tongue. A fair number of Phuket locals can manage basic English, but don’t expect them to manage sustained conversation. These are a few useful phrases to learn when traveling in Phuket.
• Currency : The Thai Baht (THB) is standard currency across the island.
• Getting Around: You can ride buses (songthaew), tuk-tuks, or motorbike taxis to get around Phuket. Songthaew commute between Phuket Town and resort areas like Surin, Karon, and Patong. Tuk-tuks and motorbikes can take you on a point-to-point basis for short distances.
• Travel tip: Phuket’s beaches are lovely to visit and swim in—but during the monsoon months between May and October, riptides and unpredictable swells make them positively dangerous for casual swimmers. Watch for red flags on the beaches, which warn against swimming when the conditions are too risky.

Things to Do

For an island just over 200 square miles in area, Phuket offers a surprising number of things to see and do. To be sure, its beaches are Phuket’s spotlight attraction, but there’s more to discover once you move beyond the coastline.

• Enjoy Phuket’s beaches . Each beach in Phuket offers a distinct appeal that caters to different folks—partygoers go to Patong Beach, couples to Karon, and nature lovers and plane-spotters prefer Mai Khao.
• Visit Phuket Town. In its heyday, Phuket Town was a key trading post for Thai, Chinese, and British colonial entrepreneurs. While the tin trade that drove local business has long since faded, the old town has retained its old-timey charm, its townhouses having been converted into museums, restaurants, and shops.
• Take in the nightlife. All nightlife adventures in Phuket begin at Bangla Road in Patong—a neon-lit thoroughfare with attached soi (alleyways) brimming with bars, live music venues, and street performers.
• Go island-hopping: The seas of southern Thailand offer some of the most breathtaking views, both above and underwater. Tours to Koh Phi Phi, Phang Nga, and Koh Similan can be easily booked from your Phuket hotel.

Explore more attractions with our full-length articles on the best things to do in Phuket , the best day trips from Phuket , and scuba diving excursions from Phuket .

What to Eat and Drink

Thanks to Phuket’s long history as a trade entrepot, the local culinary scene bears influences from all over—European fine dining, Southern Chinese home cooking, and Thai royal cuisine, among others. Foodies in particular swear by Phuket’s fusion of Thai and Chinese cuisines, the natural result of the island’s Chinese/Peranakan community centered around Phuket Town.

The local food scene has earned Phuket recognition as a "Creative City of Gastronomy" by UNESCO, owing to the variety of dishes and dining styles. High-end diners can take in a meal at one of the island’s Michelin-starred restaurants, while budget eaters can count on Phuket Town's hawker-style premises that resemble similar setups in Singapore and Malaysia . The street food scene in Patong helps balance out the town’s raucous nightlife, and many resorts offer in-house dining experiences overlooking the sea.

Learn more with our guides to foods to try in Phuket , Phuket's best restaurants , and Phuket's nightlife scene .

Where to Stay

The vast majority of hotels and resorts in Phuket are located around the west coast, as Phuket’s top beaches can be found there. One exception is Phuket Town, whose affordable hotels are offset by its considerable distance from the beaches.

The graceful Sino-Portuguese buildings, cheap food, and activities around Phuket Town make it an excellent choice for history nerds and foodies. Meanwhile, budget travelers and partygoers should look for accommodations around Patong, home to the island’s hottest nightlife scene and most affordable budget hotels. Hotels around Karon Beach offer a happy medium for tourists who like staying close to the beach, but abhor Patong’s congestion and party-happy atmosphere. The relaxed energy around Karon appeals to families, couples, and seniors.

For a selection of Phuket accommodation options, check out this list of Phuket’s top hotels.

Getting There

Some 16 million people fly into Phuket International Airport from all over Asia and Europe. Located at the northern end of Phuket, the airport sits over 20 miles from the island’s main tourist stretches. If you’re flying in during Phuket’s peak season, be aware that it will take over an hour to get to or from your Phuket resort, so plan accordingly.

Phuket is connected by bridge to the Thai mainland, allowing domestic travelers to take the bus from cities around Thailand to the island. Most cross-country buses arrive and depart to/from Phuket Bus Terminal 2 on Thepkasattri Road in Ratsada.

Despite Phuket’s relatively low crime rate, some risks remain for visitors to the island. The beaches hide dangerous riptides and jellyfish, whereas locals might also take offense to fighting words or undue talk about politics or religion.

When hanging around the beaches, keep the following threats in view.

• Beware of riptides. During monsoon season, Phuket’s beaches hide a nasty secret: deadly riptides that can pull you out to the open sea, or pull you under to drown. Patong, Karon, and Kamala beaches are notorious for these. If you see red flags flying on any Phuket beach, do not go into the water.
• Listen for tsunami warnings. The 2004 Boxing Day tsunami hit Phuket hard, killing over 5,000 people. Today, an advanced tsunami warning system watches over Phuket; warnings will be sent via broadcast media and SMS on local cellphones, giving you plenty of time to head to higher ground.

Thai locals are some of the most easygoing people on earth, but remember that their patience can be severely tested, too. Here’s how to stay on locals’ good side—and how to stay out of trouble otherwise:

• Never get angry or aggressive . Avoid conflict wherever possible. Thais do not go for pranks or humiliating jokes at their expense, and they also look down on Westerners picking fights. You should also avoid political talk—Thailand has a lese majeste law that penalizes insulting talk about their royal family, so steer clear of that topic in polite conversation.
• Don’t do drugs. Thailand has extremely punitive laws against drug trafficking and use. You can spend years in prison if caught with even a small amount of prohibited drugs, or get the death penalty at worst.
• Keep your eyes open for scams . Tourist locations tend to attract a fair number of scammers, and Phuket is no exception.

Money Saving Tips

Even as luxe hotels and Michelin-starred restaurants have taken over, they haven’t crowded the backpackers out yet—budget travelers can still find plenty of ways to stretch their dollar. Follow these simple rules to get the most value out of your Phuket trip:

• Eat the way locals do. Get a meal at a Patong food hall, or hunker down to street food in Phuket Town. The cheapest meals can be found at wet markets in your vicinity, where you can get rice, meat, and a drink for no more than 100 baht ($3.30).
• Use local transportation. Look up the songthaew routes around your hotel and your preferred destinations, and ride them whenever possible. Tuk-tuks and motorcycle taxis will also let you haggle the price down to a certain extent.
• Visit Phuket in the low season. Between May and October, Phuket gets the brunt of the monsoon season. Prices are at their lowest for both accommodations and transportation, though, which can save you money in what is arguably Thailand’s priciest town.
• Get a local SIM card for your phone. Assuming your phone is compatible with the local networks, buying a prepaid SIM card will let you surf the web and call home without breaking the bank. You have your choice of three brands: AIS , DTAC , and TrueMove . All are available at the airport, or at any convenience store on the island.
• Drink Thai-made beers. Chang, Leo, and Singha beers are much cheaper than Australian or European beers around Phuket—and they’re arguably just as good.

Phuket.net. "History of Phuket." 2021.

Channel News Asia. "Phuket already bursting at the seams but more tourists on the way." December 8, 2019.

The Phuket News. "History: Cultural History of Phuket Town." May 6, 2016.

UNESCO. "Creative Cities Network: Phuket." 2015. 

Michelin Guide Global. "Phuket Restaurants." 2020.

The Nation Thailand. "Tsunami warning system finally ready, after 8 years." December 25, 2012.

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9 Amazing Islands Near Phuket to Escape the Crowds

The remote beach for relaxation on Koh Racha Noi | Credit: Banana Beach Koh Hey

The Islands off the coast of Phuket are some of the most beautiful in the Andaman region that offer inspiring sights, natural attractions and under-the-radar spots to avoid the crowds – even only for a couple hours. Here are the 9 amazing islands near Phuket to visit and escape from it all.

1. Koh Racha Yai

What to do: The island is best known for stunning diving sites and great snorkeling beaches with turquoise waters and wonderful marine life.

Where to stay: There are a number of resorts and bungalows on Ao Tawan Tok or main bay.

How to escape the crowds: Ao Tawan Tok can be crowded in the afternoon with day-trip boats from Phuket. Stroll across the island, through the swaying coconut tree groves, to Ao Siam. This snorkeling spot is just far enough from the hustle and will keep you enjoy until all the boats leave in the evening.

2. Koh Maiton

What to do: Make the most of your lazy day on the sparkling silver-sand beach, or beat the heat in the afternoon by snorkel in the crystalline water. Along with beautiful underwater scenery, you have a good chance to spot some dolphins jumping for joy in the area.

Where to stay: Bask in the luxury Maiton Private Island.

How to escape the crowds: No need to run and hide. The island is privately owned with restricted access. There is a slim chance for mass tourism to ruin your holiday.

3. Coral Island

What to do: You’re coming here to enjoy a stretch of white sand on Long Beach where you don’t have to swim out far before you start to see some coral reefs beneath the surface. This lovely beach is also an ideal spot for beginners to learn how to snorkel. Walk on a trail through the jungle, you’ll find the family-friendly Banana Beach. This beach really is a great place for a family vacation with fun and burning-energy activities including paddle, kayak, banana boat ride and parasailing.

Where to stay: Coral Island Resort.

How to escape the crowds: Go to Banana Beach after 3 pm when the day-trippers are gone.

4. Koh Naka Yai

What to do: On this serene island off the east coast of Phuket, you’ll find a little fishing village slowly turns into an eco-friendly tourist destination. The dazzling beach on the east side is an ideal spot to swim, sunbathe or take a break for strolling. Get on a longtail boat for a relaxing day out to unwind in the hidden places around the island. Explore the karst caves by a sea canoe, floating village and scenic lagoons in Phang Nga Bay.

Where to stay: Stay at The Naka Island for the full luxury experience, or opt for The Naka Camp Hostel for a beautiful little adventure.

How to escape the crowds: Hire a local boat and organise your own trip to avoid the bustling masses during peak hours.

5. Similan Islands

What to do: The sheer amount of diverse marine life under the clearest blue water is more than enough to leave you speechless. Get ready to swim with sea turtles, or the majestic whale shark if you’re really lucky. Lie on a white-sand beach reading your book which you never truly finish at home. Take some selfies with uniquely shaped rocks and all the rare tropical birds that can easily spot on the island.

Where to stay: Air-conditioned rooms, fan bungalows, tents with mosquito nests and basic floor pads are available on Koh Miang or island number 4.

How to escape the crowds: It’s one of those places that most people will recommend going to if you’re visiting Phuket. So, the islands can be extremely crowded during the day, but all hope is not lost. Wake up early to take in the beauty of peaceful morning and enjoy all your favourite beach activities before 10 am, with nearly no one else around.

6. Surin Islands

What to do: Known as a home of the Moken or sea gypsies of the Andaman Sea, Surin Islands is notable for its stunning snorkeling and diving spots filled with colourful coral reefs and the unspoilt marine life. The dive sites around here are one of the country’s best preserved.

Where to stay: Bungalows and tents can be rented from Mu Koh Surin National Park Office on Koh Surin Nue.

How to escape the crowds: There’s no need for that. The Surin islands is really, really far away from almost everything. It’s paradise for those who truly need to get away from it all.

7. Koh Yao Noi

What to do: Go find the grazing water buffaloes on a scenic bicycle ride through the golden sand beaches, fishermen’s villages, rice fields and rubber plantations. Koh Yao Noi is also known as home to some of the most challenging rock climbing destinations, yoga retreats and Muay Thai training camps.

Where to stay: There are a number of private villas and luxury resorts where you can have an unforgettable and a private tropical getaway. For those looking for surprisingly cheap choices, you’ll find many family-run bungalows to fit your budget.

How to escape the crowds: The island offers more peace and quiet with discounted rates during the rainy season from May to October. Make sure to bring along some books.

8. Koh Yao Yai

What to do: Though the island is mostly underdeveloped for tourism, there are plenty of hidden places on Koh Yao Yai to temporarily call your own. Explore the island by a motorbike or bicycle, with lush landscapes of coconut and rubber plantations on the road sides. Mangrove kayaking trip, ATV adventure, and agricultural tour will be greatest pleasures of your stay. Loh Paret Beach along the west coast is notable with its exceptional sunset views.

Where to stay: Budget to mid-range beach bungalows on the west coast.

How to escape the crowds: The island is less crowded and more peaceful throughout the year. You’ll be pretty safe from mass tourism here.

9. Koh Hong

What to do: From the main beach, paddle in an open water by kayak to explore Hong Lagoon on the other side of the island. The fairly long stretch of powdery white sand beach shaded by the Indian almond tree is a blissful spot to relax, swim and snorkel.

Where to stay: Bring your own tent and set up in a camping area near the beach.

How to escape the crowds: Wake up early can ensure that you get some peace and quiet during your stay on this tropical paradise. Once the day-trippers start to flock to the island after 11 am, you can simply move on to explore a nature trail and come back again around 4 pm when they leave.

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7 Best Islands Near Phuket You Must Visit

Think of Thailand and the first thing that comes to our mind is its palm-fringed white sandy beaches and coral reefs. As the land of famous islands that are a tantalizing distraction from everyday life, Thailand attracts travellers from all over the world to spend their honeymoon, family holiday or a fun trip with friends. Southern Thailand is especially blessed with an astonishing number of exotic islands. From tiny rocks to huge tracts of land emerging from the Andaman Sea, there is no dearth of places for travellers to escape the crowd and spend their vacation in peace.

Phuket is one of the popular choices among its vast collection of islands. It is known to be the largest of them all and equipped with everything from best-in-class hotels and resorts to restaurants and kiosks serving mouthwatering delicacies. Further, Phuket Island also serves as a center point for travellers to begin exploring Thailand and its hidden gems. It is surrounded by several exciting islands with an exceptional climate and natural beauty in abundance.

That being said, travellers generally opt for a package deal of several islands when in Phuket to experience the best of everything on their vacation

1. Ko Samui

Let us start with the most popular Ko Samui Island that you must visit when in Phuket. It is in the Gulf of Thailand and one of the most significant attractions that is known for its palm-fringed beaches, coconut groves, dense mountainous forests and a collection of luxury resorts and spas. What makes it a must-visit is its 12m tall Big Buddha statue at Wat Phra Yai temple that is located on a tiny island connected to the land of Ko Samui.

When in Ko Samui, one can explore some truly remarkable sites of cultural, religious and historic significance in addition to the natural beauty, which is in abundance.

Major Attractions

• Turtle Island
• Big Buddha Temple
• Na Muang Waterfalls
• Secret Buddha Garden
• Ang Thong National Marine Park
• Bophut’s Fisherman’s Village
• Grandpa and Grandma Rocks

Best Time to Visit

Months between December to February are the most suitable to visit the island.

2. Koh Phi Phi

Koh Phi Phi or the Phi Phi Islands are a group of 6 islands within the large land of Phuket. However, just two of them, namely Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Leh are the main attractions while the rest are inaccessible. These two islands are known for their stunning beauty that offers an ideal vacation for almost all age groups.

Phi Phi Don is the largest among the 6 and the only inhabited island along with Phi Phi Leh. It features a range of hotels, spas and restaurants with a tropical cliché in terms of the service. Travellers generally chose to hop between Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Leh islands and then go back to their stay in Phuket .

• The Viking Caves
• Phi Phi Leh National Park
• Snorkelling in Hat Yai
• Hiking to Ao Lo Dalam
• Coral Reef of Ao Pileh Bay

Best Time To Visit

Months between November and April are the best time to visit when the weather is pleasant.

3. Similan Island

Yet another exotic archipelago in the Adanam Sea, Similan Island is a part of the Phang Nga province in southern Thailand. It is also a maritime border between India and Thailand that was established as Mu Ko Similan National Park in the 1980s.

Besides, what brings Similan on the list of best islands to explore when in Phuket are its natural wonders that await beneath the clear blue waters. Its less explored and unspoiled beaches and coral reefs make for a perfect escape from everyday life. Further, its natural treasury is such that you would not want to go back home.

• Koh Tachai Island
• Richelieu Diving
• Elephant Head Rock
• Similan Islands National Park

The best time to visit is from December to early January to avoid rough weather conditions.

4. Coconut Island

Koh Maphrao, popularly known as Coconut Island is located on the east coast of Phuket and is about 15 minutes from the main city. One can easily reach the island by catching a boat from Laem Hin Jetty and spend a day relaxing in its calm atmosphere.

Besides the natural beauty, Koh Maphrao is popular for its friendly locals, abundant marine life and stunning views of Phang Nga Bay. People generally prefer island hopping from Coconut Island to other small islets of Phang Nga Bay such as Koh Yao Noi, Koh Racha Yai, and Koh Phi Phi.

• Floating restaurants
• Pristine beaches and reefs
• The Village Coconut Island Resort

Travellers generally plan a visit to Coconut Island along with other places to visit in Phuket .

5. Coral Island

Ko He or Coral Island is one of the famous islands one must visit when in Phuket. It is popular for its exotic coral reef, thereby giving it the name Coral Island. The island is home to two beautiful beaches, namely the Long Beach and the Banana Beach connected via a forest trail and water transport.

Additionally, the entire Coral Island offers numerous water activities, including banana boats, canoes, snorkelling, speed boat racing and more to add some thrill to your vacation.

• Water activities
• Banana Beach
• Freedom Beach

Months between November and April are considered favourable because of the pleasant weather.

Famous for Phuket destination weddings , Krabi is a beautiful island lying on the west coast of southern Thailand. It is known for its sheer limestone cliffs, dense mangrove forests, and over a hundred offshore islands. Besides, there are hot springs, national parks, pristine beaches and several hidden gems that are waiting to be discovered.

Travellers generally book a tour package of Phi Phi, Phuket and Krabi as it offers a wide range of adventure and recreational activities along with exquisite living spaces and mouthwatering food. Adding more value is the Krabi nightlife that gives you a wholesome experience on your vacation.

• Phra Nang Princess Cave
• Krua Thara Restaurant

Months between November and March are considered favourable because of the pleasant weather.

7. Koh Phangan

Among the best islands near Phuket, Koh Phangan is a hilly island with abundant natural beauty such as dense forests, mountains, waterfalls and stunning views. Besides being a treasure trove of nature, the island is a great source of fun and entertainment. It hosts some of the most happening parties alongside the pristine beaches. Thanks to its array of best beaches after those in Phuket.

Koh Phangan is also one of the beautiful and 5th largest islands of Thailand with the assets of a tropical paradise. These include white powdery sand beaches, coral reefs and coconut groves.

• Full Moon Party
• Half Moon Party
• Black Moon Party
• Haad Rai beach
• Khao Ra View Point
• Phaeng Waterfall

Months between November and March are ideal because of the pleasant weather.

Narrow down your favourite islands from the above list and book your Phuket tour package . Do check the Phuket island map online to ensure covering all the important aspects of this beautiful holiday destination.

We are an Indian travel company founded in 2013 and excel at domestic and international tour packages including guided group tours, specialty tours, customized holidays, corporate MICE travel, inbound travel and destination weddings.

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The Best Island Hopping Phuket: How to Do It Right

• December 12, 2022
• This article may contain compensated links. Please read our disclosure for more info.

UPDATED December 9, 2023 — Welcome to our guide about island hopping Phuket, Thailand ! Located in the Andaman Sea, Phuket is known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters and breathtaking natural beauty.

One of the best ways to experience all Phuket has to offer is island hopping. Each island has unique character and charm, from peaceful coves and secluded bays to bustling markets and vibrant nightlife.

In this article, my fellow travel bloggers and I share with you how we planned our island-hopping adventures, including:

• which islands we visited,
• how we got there and
• what activities we did once we arrived.

So grab your reef-friendly sunscreen, and let’s start island hopping Phuket!

Don’t have time to read the whole article? This is our favorite island hopping tour and top boat tour , exciting ways to experience island hopping Phuket.

In this article, seven active travel bloggers reveal their favorite island-hopping around Phuket. Here are the highlights of what they’ve uncovered for you:

Hop from Karon Beach to James Bond Island

Maya Bay , the ultimate island hopping from Phuket

Sunset Jaunt with dinner on La Moet Phuket

Standup Paddle Boarding After Hopping to Kahung Island

Dolphin Watching While Island Hopping from Phuket

Yes, you can island hop from Phuket. And the convenient ferries to Phi Phi islands, James Bond Island and elsewhere make it easy to do so.

In this article, we’ll help you plan island hopping in Thailand. You’ll get the inside scoop from seven travel bloggers who recently visited Phuket for TBEX, The Travel Bloggers Exchange .

Afterward, many of us went island hopping. Read on to learn how these experts did it!

1.) Island Hopping Phuket: Karon Beach to James Bond Island

“As a big fan of 007, I knew I had to visit the iconic James Bond Island while visiting Phuket, Thailand,” says travel blogger Feuza Reis.

“We were at Karon Beach, and there were tour stands all over. So I asked the waitress for her top pick and went with her recommendation.

“The boat trip, consisting of five island stops, plus lunch and transportation, cost about $42 each.

“Since high tide kept us off the first island, we continued to Khao Phing Kan, the famous James Bond Island,” continues Feuza.

“It’s known as James Bond Island because British moviemakers filmed scenes from The Man with the Golden Gun here. The magnificent upside-down rock is so different that it felt like we were in a movie.

“Steps led through lush greenery to intriguing caves. We had fun doing 007 poses while scoping out the island at several photo spots.

Hop to the next island: Ko Panyi at Phang Nga Bay

“Our next stop was at a Muslim village in Phang Nga Bay called Ko Panyi, where we ate lunch.

“Their structures are built on stilts and sit out over the water. These so-called floating villages were colorful, and the lunch was yummy.

“We stayed here for about an hour, then headed out again. The tour guide would always tell us how long until our next stop and how long we would have on each island, which helped us stay on track.”

We found this James Bond Island hopping tour online .

“Next up, we headed out to do the canoe tour, which was my favorite part of the whole trip,” revealed Feuza.

“The canoeing occurred at Phang Nga Bay, which was gorgeous and peaceful. Then we returned to the first island and were greeted by cute monkeys.

“Before getting off the speedboat, they gave us hard hats, and I had no idea why. Little did I know we would be heading inside a cave where we had to duck low with water up to our ankles.

“It reminded me of this ’80s movie where this teacher gets kidnapped by guys in clown masks, and she and her students have to swim under caves.

“Anyhow, it was exciting and adventurous.

“On the other side was this pretty nature-loving section filled with mud and species of the island,” the blogger describes.

Panya Beach island hopping Phuket

“Our last stop was at Panya Beach at Naka Island. Here we could purchase some yummy drinks and snacks, hang out at the beach and swim.

“Overall, this is a fun-filled trip for this midlife traveler who isn’t so adventurous, and I still loved it.”

Need a place to stay in Phuket? We found some incredible options on Expedia.

2.) Long-tail Boat to Maya Bay for Best Island Hopping Phuket

“An absolute must-do and my personal favourite boating experience around Phuket was hiring a long-tail boat for the day to visit Maya Bay,” says Australian and UK travel blogger Tracy Collins.

“Maya Bay and its stunning beach were reopened in 2022 after being closed by the Thai government for nearly four years. Famous for being THAT beach in the film of the same name, getting to Maya Bay is best achieved by long-tail boat,” reveals the creator at Tracy’s Travels in Time .

Hire a long-tail boat (with its owner)

“Hiring a long-tail boat (with its owner) to sail you around these beautiful islands is surely one of those bucket list experiences that everyone dreams of. 

“Just ensure you head to Maya Bay first before the crowds arrive. Boats are no longer allowed to pull up to the beach, so expect an interesting disembarkment onto a floating pontoon before a short walk across boardwalks to the back of the bay,” she reports.

“After soaking in the beauty of the bay, head back to your long tail boat for further adventures exploring the paradise of Phi Phi islands.”

Tracy took a ferry from Phuket to Ko Phi Phi and spent the night at a beach bungalow . The front desk arranged for the long-tail boat island hopping tour.

Alternatively, you could book a tour from Phuket and hop the islands to Maya Beach on a speedboat.

3.) Island Hopping with La Moet Phuket Makes It Easy for You

“I always have the best time on board La Moet Phuket. It’s my boat of choice for my family’s boating adventures,” reveals travel blogger Jenny Littlewood, who lives in Phuket.

“Their Sun and Sunset tour on Phuket’s Andaman Sea is one of my absolute favourites,” says Jenny, who goes by Little Wren on Instagram and her website Littlewanderingwren .

“La Moet is spacious, comfortable and with lots of comfy cushions! I love the relaxing cruise gliding through the sparkling turquoise waters in search of a perfect secluded cove to swim and snorkel,” Jenny recommends about island hopping Phuket.

4.) Family-style Food While Island Hopping Phuket​

“We have great memories of the food while island hopping Phuket to Kahung Island ,” says travel writer Carla Rupp . “When we arrived by boat at Kahung Island, travel bloggers piled around tables in the island’s restaurant with our big appetites. Family-style bowls of Thai food were a welcome sight. Snorkeling and swimming at several spots along the way had left us famished.

“‘I remember everything being very fresh,’ recalls YouTuber Dan Zeek when we chatted recently. We raved about the food, remembering our friend Stacey Wittig,” continues Carla.

“My YouTuber son Jason Rupp and I were lucky to have a freshly made vegetarian platter that all of us shared at our table. There were dishes to suit all tastes: delicious coconut curry, fresh shrimp, an array of fruit, fresh calamari, fish with a yummy sauce and more.

Family-style meal draws fellow travelers together

“We loved our meal, and the servers were wonderful, bringing out new things. The family-style meal was perfect for drawing us all together as we passed the food and had fun conversations like ‘family’ and best travel friends.”

5.) Don’t Miss SUP While Island Hopping Phuket

“After our meal while island hopping Phuket and its surroundings, my mom Carla and I went into the water. It felt so amazingly good—the cleanest, most beautiful water,” describes Jason Rupp, vblogger and TBEX regular . They had hopped from Phuket to Kahung Beach on Coral Island.

“Our friend Dan Zeek grabbed a lounging chair to admire the scenery and catch some sun. Soon I noticed someone come out of the water with a stand-up paddle board, and I wanted to do that!

Paddle boarding as part of island hopping Phuket

“It is always my dream to paddleboard anywhere in the world that I can. So the staff helped me with the board, and I managed to go out in the water with it and stand up on it.

“I paddled as I stood up. It is such a thrill to stand on the board. Just the beauty of Kahung Island and Phuket is awesome! I loved it.

“It is a challenge to stand up. Eventually, I fell into the water.

“My mom noticed a double kayak, so we did that activity until it was time to leave. I hope we can go back there someday: Nikorn Marine Tour did a great job taking care of us.”

Jason Rupp is a vblogger on YouTube with over 571K subscribers.

Instagram @dontmisstheplane_jasonrupp

6.) Dolphin Watching While Island Hopping Phuket

“Everyone knows about Phi Phi and James Bond Islands near Phuket, but the lesser-known islands are where you are more likely to find dolphins.

“During our time in Phuket, we visited small islands in search of the beautiful yet elusive mammals. Dolphins pods are known to frequent the bays at small islands like Mai Ton, Thai Tai and Coral Islands,” reveals world traveler Kevin Flint.

Island hopping Phuket

“To get to these islands, we used companies like Nikon Marine in Phuket. There are a lot of tour operators based on the east and west coast sides of the island.

“They offer anything from sailing catamarans to large 45+ foot power boats to yachts and more. They also have the snorkeling equipment you need, plus some offer inflatable slides for easy and fun access to the water.

If you want to add more adventure to your dolphin hunt, we recommend going with a company that offers scuba diving. But, even if you don’t find the dolphins, the aquatic life on the coral reef of these islands will impress you.”

7.) Island Hopping Phuket With Nikorn Marine

“For island hopping Phuket, I’d recommend Nikorn Marine. I sailed out of Phuket with them on two occasions. Once on a motorized catamaran to Papakang Maiton Island and later on a powerboat to Kahung Beach ,” explains travel writer Stacey Wittig.

“The catamaran had more space for dancing and dining. The powerboat hopped us to islands and snorkeling spots at a faster pace.

“If I had to choose between the two, I would pick the speedboat to Kahung Island because of the restaurant, chilling on the beach and water sports found on the island. Carla and Jason described that so well in their sections above,” the travel expert says.

“The catamaran had a sunset dinner on board, but I preferred lunch at the Kahung Beach restaurant. Both were fun island hopping Phuket that took me to places I would never have seen without the boat excursions.”

Nikorn Marine island hopping tours leave from Chalong Pier in Phuket.

Table of Contents

Faq best island hopping phuket.

Island hopping in Phuket is soooooo worth it! The cost to rent a boat with a captain is very inexpensive compared to prices here in the US. You can even book a tour on some of your trusted sites like Viator . 

The more costly part of your trip is your flight to Thailand. However, if you use my secrets to find cheap flights and are flexible on your times, island hopping Phuket is quite affordable.

Island hopping Phuket is so easy! We simply asked the front desk person to sign us up!

However, we wanted to be the first boat out, and those were already filled. So we had to beg her to find a friend or cousin to take us out early. We were fortunate that she found someone.

To avoid that problem, book a tour on some of your trusted sites like Viator .

Currently, you can book a highly-rated, day-long island-hopping Phuket tour for $50 to $180 USD. If you’d like an overnight or custom luxury tour, expect to pay up to $1400 USD. It’s easy to check all your options at favorite online sites like Viator . 

Check the amenities offered for each tour. How much it costs to go island hopping in Phuket depends on the boat type and amenities offered, like snorkeling, scuba, lunch or more. 

Yes, you can get to other islands from Phuket. From Phuket, we took the ferry to Phi Phi Leh. The next day, our boatsman picked us up at the beach next to our hotel and went to other Phi Phi Islands, Pileh Lagoon, Bamboo Island, Monkey Beach and Maya Bay.

Most hotels and resorts can arrange transportation to the the harbor. Tip: I suggest arranging your accommodations near the harbor so it takes less time in traffic.

The islands near Phuket include Koh Phi Phi, Kahung Island, Koh Lanta and Similan Island. See the descriptions above!

Hi, I’m Stacey

UNSTOPPABLE Stacey Travel is a travel blog focused on immersive travel that highlights food, wine and the spirituality of place. I also occasionally write about life as a Camino de Santiago pilgrim. I hope you enjoy what I post here. Feel free to leave comments! Read more…

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Island In Phuket: Discovering Every Tropical Attraction Along The Shores

Phuket, with the white pearly sand beaches, the azure waters, and a plethora of marine creatures, is rightly a paradise for a beach lover. Every island in Phuket is a place where you can spend the most romantic holiday, exploring each of its exquisite beaches. Home to some of the exotic and rare aquatic species, the vast colonies of corals, and some unique flora, you will find every unusual and fascinating creature here. These islands, apart from their rich biodiversity, offer every thrill and entertainment that you need to make your holiday, one of the most exciting vacation of a lifetime.  

Best 8 Phuket Islands You Must Visit For A Serene And Peaceful Experience

Whether it is snorkeling or scuba diving, ferry, cruises, or Island Hopping, every island in this province of Thailand is a hub for adventure. Adorning the turquoise waters and the scenic coasts, here are the best island to hop from one to the next.

Also known as the Coral Island, Koh Hae is one of the most beautiful islands in Phuket that is popular for its long scenic coastlines. It is one of the few islands where you can enjoy activities such as, scuba diving snorkeling, and many water sports. The vast diversity of the corals has made it a great spot for underwater diving.

You can even stay at the resorts and villas lined along the coastal region of Koh Hae. The two beaches, Long Beach and Banana Beach are at Koh Hae, where you can spend a day with family, enjoying the beach activities. The Long beach at Coral Island is the perfect place where you can enjoy speedboat rides and sunbathe. You can easily find equipment to snorkel and dive.

Another beach at Koh Hae is Banana Island, with many abundant cafes and restaurants and longtail boats. It is a perfect spot in Phuket where you can entertain yourself with the best food and activities.

Best Time To Visit - December to May

Famous For - Long Beach, Banana Beach, Coral Island Resort, Restaurants and cafes

Things To Do – Snorkeling, Scuba Diving, Speedboating, Sunbathing

2. Koh Phi Phi

Koh Phi Phi is among the best island in Thailand , where tourists arrive for a leisure vacation. Kho Phi Phi island is home to Tonsai Beach that makes it the best holiday Island in Phuket . The white sand and the beautiful beaches also offer many boutique cafes and restaurants, serving delicious Thai food.

Koh Phi Phi also features Maya Bay that is a group of islands with dramatic cliffs and fascinating rock formations. You will find a rich wilderness along the amazing beaches taking you away from the chaos of the cities. The limestone karsts are another fascinating feature that makes it just a beautiful place to spend the holiday close to nature. The beach is just 90 min away from Phuket, where you can enjoy the best water adventure. Ferries and cruises are available to reach Koh Phi Phi from Phuket.

Best Time To Visit - November to March

Famous For - Restaurants and cafes, Maya Bay, Tonsai Beach

Things To Do – Snorkeling, Scuba Diving, Sunbathing, Cruises, and Ferries

3. Similan Islands

Similan Islands in Phuket is a group of islets that is popular among divers for their diverse marine beauty. While scuba diving is one of the best things to do in Thailand , the Similan Islands is the best spot for such water activities you can enjoy at the Andaman Sea. The clear waters and the vast colonies of colorful corals make it a diving spot, where you will get a certificate too.

Nonetheless their pristine beauty, the islands are mostly quiet and best for those who are looking for a peaceful and tranquil holiday spot. Not many people visit Similan Island that makes it the best Phuket Island for a beach holiday.

The endangered species, the rare marine creatures, and the landscape of Similan is something you won't find elsewhere in Phuket. The distinct landscape of the island is dominated by the boulders, making it remarkable.

Best Time To Visit – December to January

Famous For – Endangered Wilds, Sail Rock, Sunset Point, and Similan Viewpoint

Things To Do - Scuba Diving, Bird Watching, and Snorkeling

Suggested Read: Remarkable Islands In Qatar For A Heavenly Retreat

4. Coconut Island Phuket

Located in Raby Yai Island, the village coconut island is the best leisure holiday destination in Thailand. The luxury village resort not just offers a luxuriating holiday experience but some breathtaking adventure to make your holiday fun-filled and thrilling. Located a few miles away from the mainland, the resort offers every luxury you need to spend the vacation. The grand villas, pool villas, and Jacuzzi suites are the best accommodating villas in Thailand you can reserve for a private beach holiday in Phuket.

If you are looking for some adventure, Mountain Biking, Sailing, and Kayaking are organized for the guest. The spa and sauna are always there to relax and rejuvenate. This private island in Phuket is a one-stop destination for every vacationer who needs an escape to tranquility. The resort is located in Coconut Island, Koh Maprao, just 500m off the coast of Phuket.

Best Time To Visit – December to March

Famous For– Leisure holiday, Water Adventures

Things To Do – Spa and Sauna, Yoga, Mountain Biking, Kayaking

5. Naka Island

While beach holidays are always about leisure and fun, Naka Island is one of the best holiday spots where you can easily spend an exciting holiday. The private beach resort at this best Phuket Island is a hub for couples in this best honeymoon destination in Asia .

This long and quiet island is perfect to seek leisure and admire the white sandy shores along the azure waters. The resort offers a private pool, luxury amenities, spacious rooms, and other facilities that will make your staycation the best experience of a lifetime. The Naka Island, a luxury collection of resort and spa, even offers the guest, revitalizing experience of traditional spa therapies. There are speedboats arranged by the island report for guests to reach from the off coast of Phuket. The secluded island even boasts of limestone cliffs and beachside restaurants where you can taste the most delighting zest of Thai cuisine.

Best Time To Visit – November to March

Famous For– Leisure holiday, Luxury resort, Water Adventures

Things To Do – Spa and Sauna, Speedboat

6. Khai Island

The Koh Khai Nai, Khai Nai Island, and Koh Khai Nok are three small islands in Phuket in the Khai Phuket. Lying 10 km off the Phuket East Coast, Khai Island is indeed a place where you can spend the best vacation. As Island hopping is the best thing to do in Phuket , the Khai island with its three small islets, offers a perfect beach tour. Among the three, Khai Nai is the biggest island with white sand and green seawater.

Get your diving and snorkeling gears and be all prepared for some adventure. The Khai Nai is the perfect spot where you can try almost every water activity like scuba diving. It is the marine life and the corals that have made the underwater world, one scenic place to discover.

Another attraction at Khai island, the egg-shaped Khai Nok Island is the best place to shop for handicrafts and other souvenirs.

Famous For – Koh Khai Nai, Khai Nai Island, and Koh Khai Nok

Things To Do – Snorkeling, Scuba Diving, Swimming, Shopping

Suggested Read: Islands In UAE: Discover The Beauty Of Man-Made Marvels

7. James Bond Island

A picture-perfect attraction in Phuket , James Bond Island is one of the exciting and enthralling Phuket Islands you can visit. The region's lush green beauty, caves, and spectacular landscape have made it one of the most popular islands to visit. With a limestone cliff in the middle of the island, the destination has risen to the top of several travelers' bucket lists. There is an Ice Cream Cave and a wide range of biodiversity dwelling along the untamed terrains where you will find some rare wild plant species.

The island gained some popularity when James Bond filmed some old movie scene. At this well-known island near Phuket, indulge yourself in the nightlife, fine dining, cruising tours, and souvenir shopping. James Bond island, also known as Koh Tapu, is recognized for its stunning marine scenery. A variety of water sports can be enjoyed here for an entertaining experience.

Famous For – Scenic Beauty, Water sports

Things To Do – Kayaking, Sailing, Surfing, Cave tour, Swimming

8. Maiton Island

Another Private Island in Phuket , the Maiton Island is among the best attraction in Thailand a that is perfect for a romantic holiday. Famous among honeymooners, the island offers a serene and peaceful escape. The emerald green waters here make snorkeling, the best activity to enjoy. If you are looking for some leisure, feel, plan a picnic or just spend the evening.

With some exotic marine life, diving here can be really fun. The Maiton Island is one of the best points in Phuket, where you can spot turtles, cuttlefish, and other creatures. The beach, lined with palm fringes and hiding some exotic coral colonies, should surely be on your bucket list.

Famous For – Scenic Beauty, Coral Reefs, Marine life, Water sports

Things To Do – Surfing, Swimming, Picnic

Suggested Read: Islands In Kuwait For The Perfect Vacation

Phuket Islands are nothing lesser than a hidden paradise where you can find every fascinating beauty of nature. Adorning the long coastline, and emerald waters of the sea, every island here is one picture-perfect region to discover. There are adventure tours, leisure activities, and luxury villas, appointed with every amenity to make your staycation a pleasant experience in the islands. Make sure to pack all your diving and swimming gear and book your Thailand flights today to experience the best island vacation in Phuket.

The best islands you can visit in or near Phuket are:

• James Bond Island
• Koh Phi Phi Island
• Maiton Island
• Naka Island
• Coconut Island

The international airport in Phuket- Phuket International Airport (HKT), is connecting this island destination to almost every country. Flights to Phuket are daily operated by top airlines.

Yes, there are many private islands you can visit in Phuket like:

If you are an adrenaline junky and need some breathtaking adventures, you can try snorkeling scuba diving, Kayaking, and Parasailing. There are other activities like hiking tours and rafting also available.

The Similan group of Islands is considered to be the best diving spot in Phuket. The clear waters and colorful colonies of coral make diving, one of the best experiences at Similan Island Phuket.

While every beach in Phuket is known for its pristine beauty, the Banan beach in Coral Island is one of the most beautiful beaches to visit once. The crescent coastline and fringes along the coast make it a picturesque attraction.

The James Bond Island is around 60 km, towards the northeast of Phuket. There are ferry rides available to reach James Bond Island that will take approximately one hour.

Phuket in Thailand is the most popular destination that is perfect for a honeymoon vacation in Asia. There are a number of islands and beaches with the best water resorts and luxury villas available to make it your most romantic holiday.

Anjali Bisht

Anjali is a passionate travel blogger and an enthusiast photographer travelling around the mountains to capture the best moments, discover and learn more about every nook and corner of the world.

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Jade-hued waves concealing rainbows of fish wash white-gold beaches wrapped in Phuketian heritage: Phuket (ภูเก็ต), Thailand's dazzling largest island, is so diverse you may never want to leave.

Leave the planning to a local expert

Experience the real Phuket. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Hat Bang Thao

Beautiful 8km-long Hat Bang Thao is one of the longest, dreamiest beaches on Phuket. This slice of pearlescent sand is just asking for you to laze around…

Soi Romanee

Phuket Town

Branching off Th Thalang, in the heart of the Old Town, this small, vibrant street flaunts some of Phuket's most gorgeously revamped Sino-Portuguese…

High atop the Nakkerd Hills, northwest of Chalong Circle, and visible from half the island, the 45m-high, Burmese-alabaster Big Buddha sits grandly on…

Laem Phromthep

Come here to the island’s southernmost point to see the glittering Andaman Sea wrapped around Phuket. The cape is crowned by a mod lighthouse shaped like…

Hat Nai Harn

Ask a Phuketian or a local expat for their favourite island beach and many will choose Hat Nai Harn. A beautifully curved golden-white crescent with…

Phuket Thaihua Museum

Founded in 1934 and formerly a Chinese-language school, this flashy museum is filled with photos, videos and English-language exhibits on Phuket’s history…

Chinpracha House

Built in 1903 with tin-mining riches, this beautifully preserved Sino-Portuguese mansion should make any antique- or architecture-lover's must-visit list…

Jui Tui Shrine

One of the island's most important Chinese shrines, this red-washed, elevated complex is dedicated to Tean Hu Huan Soy, god of performers and dancers. It…

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Phuket and beyond

Phuket   Travel Guide

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Why Go To Phuket

Pure white sands, aquamarine waters and limestone cliffs await travelers who visit Thailand's southwestern island of Phuket. Surrounded by the Andaman Sea and about an hour by plane from Bangkok , this island is a little piece of paradise, which comes with a relatively low price tag for everything from its accommodations to spa treatments and boat tours . But along with its tropical appeal, Phuket beckons to travelers wanting to experience its flavorful cuisine (think: lemongrass, lime leaves, chillies) and its rich culture, heavily influenced by its reigning religion: Buddhism. 

And although the island's beaches and tourism operators have bounced back from the 2004 tsunami, which hammered its western coast and tragically claimed thousands of lives, it remembers the past with memorials and a better warning system, should the area once again come under threat. 

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• # 1 in Best Places to Visit in February 2024
• # 2 in Best Beaches in Thailand
• # 3 in Best Places to Visit in Thailand

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Best of Phuket

Best hotels in phuket.

• in Andara Resort Villas
• in Trisara Villas & Residences Phuket
• in Banyan Tree Spa Sanctuary

Best Things to Do in Phuket

• # 1 in Promthep Cape
• # 2 in Big Buddha
• # 3 in Nai Harn Beach

Popular Tours

Phi Phi Islands Adventure Day Trip with Seaview Lunch by V. Marine

(2065 reviews)

from $ 77.61

Elephant Sanctuary Small Group Tour in Phuket

(197 reviews)

from $ 99.50

Luxury Boat to James Bond Islands with Lunch and Sunset Dinner

(545 reviews)

from $ 130.27

Phuket Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best time to visit Phuket is between November and April when weather conditions are ideal for beach activities, such as swimming and boating . The six months between May and October are monsoon season, and although accommodation prices are much lower this time of year, the water conditions can be dangerous. 

Weather in Phuket

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

Learn the beach flags There are drownings every year in Phuket – not to mention daily rescues – so pay attention to the flags posted in the waters. Red means "no swimming," yellow means "be careful," and a pair of half-red half-yellow flags denote that you should swim in between the two flags.

Barter with the tuk-tuks Make sure you agree upon the price of your tuk-tuk ride before you get in to avoid being overcharged when you reach your destination.

Avoid the tap water Buying and drinking bottled water will help you avoid any water-induced stomach woes.

How to Save Money in Phuket

Book your hotel in advance You'll pay a premium if you're booking your hotel on arrival, especially during the peak season months of December and January.

Find the best exchange rate Skip the airport when you want to exchange your U.S. dollars for Thai baht. The off-brand kiosks in the main streets of popular beach towns usually offer the best rates.

Check the hotel perks Some hotels offer a complimentary shuttle service to and from the airport, as well as between popular beaches, so check out the property's perks before shelling out your baht for other modes of transport.

Culture & Customs

Thai is the official language of Thailand and its island Phuket, but you'll find that most tourist operators speak proficient English. Still, you might want to carry along a Thai phrasebook just to be safe. Some phrases you might want to memorize include: "hello," sa wat dee ; "how are you?," sa baai dee reu ; and "thank you," kòp kun mâak . When you're communicating with various taxi or tuk-tuk drivers, you might want to show them the address of your destination in Thai, especially if you're traveling to places that are off the beaten track. 

Thailand's currency is the baht. One U.S. dollar is equal to about 33 Thai baht, but the exchange rate fluctuates, so be sure to check it before you go . Travelers can exchange their money at the airport, but moneychangers in various cities on Phuket offer the best exchange rates. 

Buddhism is the official religion in Thailand, and the island hosts many attractions, such as Big Buddha and Wat Chalong , which reflect its predominant religion. When visiting these places, it's important that visitors respect the dress code, including wearing shorts or skirts that come to the knee and shirts that cover shoulders and midriffs. 

What to Eat

Phuket's cuisine is an extension of the culinary delights found on the mainland. Tom yum goong (a soup with shrimp), som tam (a papaya salad) and green curry are all mainstays on the menus in Phuket. For an upscale Thai experience, visitors should book a table at Thong Dee The Kathu Brasserie , which earns high marks among recent travelers for its friendly and accommodating staff and consistently delicious meals. For a cheap but nonetheless delicious experience, travelers should head to O-Oh Farm Ta-Eiad in Phuket Town. 

To get a deeper understanding of the local cuisine, travelers may want to book a cooking class, many of which are taught in English. The Kata Thai Cooking Class by Sally , located in Kata Beach, and Phuket Town's Phuket Thai Cookery School are both traveler-approved. At classes like these, chefs coach travelers on how to make traditional Thai foods, such as prawn soup and green curry, among other dishes. These cooking classes charge the equivalent of about $60 to $90 per person. 

One of the biggest safety concerns you'll run into on a Phuket vacation are the dangerous rip tides and undertows at the beach, especially during monsoon season, which stretches from June to October. Make sure to pay attention to lifeguard warnings and all of the posted beach flags. For instance, a red flag means "no swimming," a yellow flag means "be careful," and a pair of half-red half-yellow flags signal that you should swim in between the two flags.

Because of the threat of the Zika virus, the Centers for Disease Control & Protection recommends that pregnant women and couples – or those hoping to become pregnant –

refrain from traveling to Thailand. All travelers can ward against mosquito bites by wearing bug repellant and skin-protective clothing, such as high-tech fitness wear. 

There are some areas of Phuket that are known as hotbeds for sex trafficking, prostitution and drugs. For instance, Patong, which is known for its wild nightlife, is a center for such activity. Take care to be aware of your surroundings, especially in the evenings in areas like Patong.

Getting Around Phuket

The best way to get around Phuket is by tuk-tuk, though occasionally you might have to rely on another mode of travel, such as a taxi or rental car, if you want to travel beyond the town in which you're basing your vacation. Not only is a tuk-tuk (a small yellow or red truck) the most atmospheric of all transportation options, it's also one of the most convenient – they're absolutely everywhere. Still, they can be expensive for trips outside of town, and a metered taxi, songthaew or rental car might be a better option.  

To reach Phuket, most travelers fly into Phuket International Airport (HKT), which is located at the island's northern end. Most of the accommodations are congregated in the south around Patong, Kata, Karon and Phuket Town. Travelers should check if their hotel offers an airport shuttle, and if not, they can hop in an airport bus, which takes travelers to Phuket Town. A taxi is probably the easiest and most efficient way to traverse the distance between the airport and accommodations. Although there are vans and minibus operators that offer rides from the airport to these southern locations, it can be hard to decipher which ones are reputable. If your hotel does not offer a shuttle service, ask if the concierge can recommend any reputable van or minibus operators.

Phuket is a riot of colors, from its aquamarine waters to its vegetation-covered rock formations. 

Explore More of Phuket

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9 Best Islands Around Phuket

Tropical island getaways in south thailand.

Southern Thailand is blessed with an astonishing number of islands off its coasts. From tiny rocks to inhabitable larger tracts of land emerging from the surface of the Andaman Sea, islands – and above all, tropical islands – have always been perceived positively in our collective imagination. They offer a sense of freedom, escaping the crowds, and exoticism.

Phuket – the largest island in Thailand – still offers the sensations mentioned above, but its fast development through the last several decades undoubtedly made it lose some of its idyllic vibes. Even so, many smaller islands around Phuket still offer a real feeling of evasion from our modern world. Below are the best islands around Phuket, each with its own personality and certainly worth a visit when you're in Phuket.

Phi Phi Islands

The Phi Phi Islands have become one of the prime holiday destinations in southern Thailand for obvious reasons. This small archipelago of 6 islands is stunningly beautiful and can offer an ideal vacation for almost any taste. 

Koh Phi Phi Don, the largest and only inhabited island of the group, features 3 main areas. The buzzing main village between Tonsai and Dalum bays is filled with hotels, shops, bars, and restaurants. Laem Thong, a very tranquil tropical cliché of a beach hosts only a few resorts. Then there’s the southern coast, which counts a few accommodation choices stuck between the jungle and the sea. If you’re looking for a drastic change of scenery for your holiday, Phi Phi Islands are bound to meet your expectations.

Similan Islands

The Similans are a group of 9 islands belonging to the eponymous Marine National Park, about 84 km northwest of Phuket. Totally undeveloped, they offer their visitors an unspoiled remote territory in the same state as it used to be thousands of years ago. 

Ranked among the top 10 dive sites in the world, the Similans can be visited on day trips as well as short stopovers. The rangers’ camp features accommodation in tents and small bungalows that allow visitors to fully enjoy the natural beauty of the islands. With white powder sand beaches, lush vegetation, crystal waters, and only the sound being the wind through the branches, the Similans offer the ultimate place to get away from it all.

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Racha islands.

Also known as Raya, the Racha Islands are 2 islets situated some 20 km south of Phuket. Racha Yai and Racha Noi are especially famous for their top-notch diving and snorkelling sites, as well as for their ‘full of fish’ surrounding waters. 

Racha Yai is the only island of the 2 featuring accommodation options and a small local population of Muslim fishermen and farmers. Relatively busy during daytime with the passage of day-trippers, it regains its tranquillity after around 4pm, and offers its guests laid-back evenings spent in the few bars and restaurants available, or stargazing on the beach.

Coral Island

Coral Island (Koh Hae in Thai) is a small island that’s around 5 km off Phuket’s southeastern coast. The short commuting time – 15 minutes by speedboat – from Phuket, makes this island a very popular day trip destination. 

Coral Island features only 2 beaches named Long and Banana, both of them facing north and offering great diving and snorkelling opportunities. There is only one hotel – Coral Island Resort – and a few bars and restaurants on the island that, in a similar way as Racha Island, is buzzing with day-trippers until mid-afternoon before it regains its peacefulness at night. Coral Island certainly has all the assets of a tropical dream destination near Phuket.

Koh Yao Yai and Koh Yao Noi

Koh Yao Yai and Noi are 2 rather large islands situated right between Phuket’s and Krabi’s coasts, at the mouth of Phang Nga Bay. From Phuket, it takes about 45 minutes to get there by local ferry, or 20 minutes by speedboat. 

For the visitor, Yao Noi is more developed than Yao Yai, with the presence of a good choice of hotels from budget to 5-star. The charm of these islands stands in the fact that they have not been overdeveloped, and that a peaceful community of Muslim farmers and fishermen is the only human presence. Offering a journey back through time, these islands have preserved their ancestral traditions and beautiful tropical landscape.

Koh Khai Islands

Khai Islands – Koh Khai Nok and Koh Khai Nai – are 2 tiny islets situated to the east of Phuket, only a 20-minute ride by speedboat. The largest of them, Koh Khai Nok, is particularly busy in high season as it offers a pleasant getaway from Phuket for those who want to enjoy sunbathing and snorkelling without the hassle of a long trip at sea. 

Both islands are uninhabited, and Khai Nok is the only one which can be visited. Featuring all the infrastructures necessary to spend a comfortable day on the beach – restaurants, bars, sun-loungers and umbrellas – the highlight of Koh Khai Nok is the multitude of tropical fish roaming around the shore, giving visitors the great experience of swimming in a natural 'aquarium'.

Directly opposite Rawai Beach, off Phuket’s southeastern coast, Koh Bon is a small rocky island that features a long beach to its eastern side and a small sandy patch at its northwestern tip where the only restaurant of the island is situated. 

Under British management, Koh Bon is a cool place to enjoy fresh seafood, as well as Thai and western delicacies. A perfect destination for a short break, it is a tranquil island offering good swimming and a great natural escape from the hustle and bustle of Phuket. On your way there, ask the driver of your longtail or speedboat to stop by the southwest corner of the island. It hosts an excellent snorkelling spot.

Koh Maphrao

Coconut island.

Koh Maphrao (or Coconut Island) is a small isle about 500 metres off Phuket’s east coast. Measuring just 2.5 x 1.5 km and facing Leam Hin, a popular seafood dining area just north of Phuket Town, Koh Maphrao is still rather undeveloped due to the fact that there’s no electricity on the island apart from private generators.

It takes only 5 minutes by long-tail boat to reach Koh Maphrao’s main pier, situated on the northern part of its west coast, facing Phuket. On the way, you'll pass several famous floating restaurants between Laem Hin and Koh Maphrao’s jetty. The island is roughly rectangular, and a good quarter of its southwestern part is covered with mangrove forests, home to long-tailed macaques.

Location: Ko Kaeo, Muang, Phuket 83110, Thailand

Koh Rang Yai

Koh Rang Yai is about 5 km off the east coast of Phuket. A 1-km long beach occupies on its western part, which gets busy daytrippers to Phang Nga Bay. The southward current gently carries you parallel to the whole length of the beach. The water is also almost at body temperature, between 25°C to 35°C.

There are several paths for you to stroll, hike or cycle on Koh Rang Yai. You’ll also notice a volleyball net, small football pitch, an air-gun shooting range, and even a mini-golf course there.

Location: Ko Kaeo, Muang, Phuket 83000, Thailand

This article includes opinions of the Go Guides editorial team. Hotels.com compensates authors for their writings appearing on this site; such compensation may include travel and other costs.

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THE 5 BEST Phuket Islands

Islands in phuket.

• Nature & Wildlife Areas
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Good for Couples
• Good for Big Groups
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Kids
• Budget-friendly
• Hidden Gems
• Adventurous
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Koh Racha Yai

2. Koh Yao Yai

3. Coral Island

4. Maithon Island (Honeymoon Island)

5. Coral Island

6. Ko Racha Noi

What travelers are saying

• Koh Yao Yai
• Coral Island
• Maithon Island (Honeymoon Island)
• Koh Racha Yai
• Ko Racha Noi

Visit Phuket: Top 23 Things To Do And Must See Attractions

Things to do in phuket: the 23 best places to visit (all highlights).

You want to visit Phuket during your stay in Thailand ? You’re looking for the best things to do in Phuket?

You’re at the right place!

This southern island, located in the Andaman Sea, is the largest island of the country. Phuket is clearly the perfect destination to enjoy beautiful beaches, party and go enjoy day trips to the beautiful surrounding islands like Koh Phi Phi or James Bond Island.

In order to help you plan your stay, I have prepared this guide of the 23 best things to do in Phuket , with all points of interest and must-see attractions.

In addition to this list of things to do and activities, I will also give you itineraries to visit Phuket in 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 days (or even 1 week!) as well as my selection of the best accommodations depending on your budget.

So, what are the best things to do in Phuket? Where to stay?

2. Old Town / Phuket Town

3. wat chalong, 4. the big buddha, 5. phuket beaches, 6. trip to koh phi phi, 7. trip to james bond island / phang nga bay, 8. trip to the similan islands, 9. visit the elephants, 10. sports activities in phuket, 11. the best view points in phuket, 12. attend a cabaret show, 13. take a thai cooking class, 14. watch a muay thai boxing fight, 15. phuket night markets, 16. monkey hill, 17. bang pae waterfall, 18. coral island, 19. racha island, 20. the vegetarian festival, 21. places to go in the evenings in phuket, 22. koh yao noi, 23. koh lanta, visit phuket with your family, how many days do you need to visit phuket, visit phuket in 1 day, visit phuket in 2 days, visit phuket in 3 days, visit phuket in 4 or 5 days or even a week, where to stay in phuket, places to eat in phuket, how to get around phuket, go to phuket: flight prices, tourist map of phuket, you’re traveling to thailand these articles will help you, visit phuket: all must see attractions.

Patong is the main tourist area of Phuket.

Many travellers choose to stay here while travelling to Thailand.

As you may imagine, since this is the main tourist spot, it has many hotels (from youth hostels to the superb 5-star hotel complexs), bars, restaurants, shops and places to go out and party .

In the evening, Bangla Road is undoubtedly the liveliest street on the island with live music and ladyboy shows.

During the day, you can also enjoy the large beach of Patong (2 km long, the longest on the island) and the many water activities on offer: towed buoy rides, banana ride, parasailing. What a thrilling experience!

If you like the hustle and bustle and the crowd doesn’t bother you, Patong is a must for a stay in Phuket.

Phuket Town is the island’s main city and the capital.

The old town is really pleasant to walk around for a few hours . You can observe the colourful Sino-Portuguese style buildings, which are perfectly renovated and maintained.

Here you won’t find any dense crowds or electric cables everywhere, the place has retained all its former charm. If you have ever visited Bangkok during your tour in Thailand, it’s a big change!

The historic centre has most of the places to discover.

What are the things to see in Phuket Town:

• Thalang Road, the most popular street, with its local craft shops and cafés
• Thai Hua Museum on the history of Phuket
• The “Blue Elephant Mansion” famous for its traditional Thai cooking classes
• The shrine of serene light, a Chinese temple
• The Jui Jui sanctuary, also Chinese style but more recent
• The Clock Tower (not to be confused with Chiang Rai )
• The Phuket Museum is located in the Old Standard Chartered Bank building
• Phang Nga Road and its street art
• Bang Niew Shrine
• The philaletic museum in the old post office

If you have not rented a car or a scooter, you can easily reach Phuket Town by bus from any part of the island.

You can also choose to book an organised tour with pick-up at your hotel in Phuket. The trip includes a guided tour of the old town , a visit to the Chalong temple, the statue of the Great Buddha and ends at the Karon view-point.

This is one of the best trips to see many of the must-see sights of Phuket easily!

You can book it by clicking the green button below:

Wat Chalong is one of the most visited tourist sites in Phuket.

Built in the 19th century , it is the largest Buddhist temple on the island.

It includes several buildings but the most impressive remains the chedi, 60 metres tall , which is supposed to house a a splinter of Buddha’s bone. The interior is decorated with very beautiful frescoes representing the life of Buddha.

You must go up to the terrace on the top floor to enjoy the view of the island.

You’re going to Phuket?

You probably know it: the hardest part of planning your trip is to find an hotel offering a good value for money!

The closer you get to your travel dates, the harder it will be to get a good deal. Lots of people will be visiting Phuket on the same dates as you , so you can be sure that the best deals are booked extremely quickly!

Hopefully, there is a pretty simple solution to this problem: do like me and book your hotel as early as possible!

So, my best advice is to take 5 minutes (now) to have a look at the list of travelers’ favorite hotels in Phuket.

And if you see a good offer, book it!

Most hotels offer free cancellation, so it’s quick, easy, and you will avoid the the inconvenience of finding nothing but mediocre rooms at exorbitant prices.

To check the current best deals for your hotel in Phuket, simply click on the green button below 😎:

Once you’ve booked your hotel, it will be time to continue reading this guide and find out more about the best things to do in Phuket!

Another well-known temple to see absolutely in Phuket: the Big Buddha.

This 25m tall white marble statue on top of a hill can be seen for miles around. It quickly became one of the most popular tourist attractions in Phuket!

Apart from the statue, which I must admit is quite impressive, you can get a beautiful 360° view of the island and the beaches.

As I was saying, most people who travel to Phuket come here mainly to enjoy its beaches.

So what are the most beautiful beaches in Phuket?

• Freedom Beach, with its white sands and turquoise waters. Only accessible by boat from Patong beach or by walking (but sometimes the path is closed).
• Kata Beach, a vast stretch of sand, as popular as Patong, with restaurants and cafes everywhere
• Karon beach, the second largest beach on the island
• Nai Harn Beach is located in a sheltered bay, surrounded by greenery
• Laem Singh Beach, a beautiful strip of fine sand bordered by palm trees
• Ya Nui beach renowned for snorkelling activities
• Kamala beach, ideal for families
• Surin beach, north of Kamala
• The Bangtao beach, in the most upscale part of the island, bordered by luxury hotels
• Banana Beach , still not crowded as much

It is impossible to visit Phuket and not explire the most famous island of Thailand, Koh Phi Phi!

The island is located between Phuket and Koh Lanta and is ideal fpr a day trip from Phuket.

The island is famous for being home to the Maya Bay beach, which was discovered by the whole world in the movie “The Beach” with Leonardo di Caprio. Since then, any good itinerary in Thailand must include a visit to Koh Phi Phi.

Unfortunately, the having nearly 5,000 visitors per day and hundreds of boats had severely damaged corals and the ecosystem. The beach was closed a few years before being reopened.

It may be closed occasionally a few months a year, but in this case you can see Maya Bay from the boat.

Every day, trips leave from Phuket and you can explore several islands in 1 day including Koh Phi Phi, Bamboo Island, Khai Island and Maiton Island.  There are also stops at Monkey Beach, Pi Leh Cove and Viking Cave.

Everything is included in the price (between 3,200 and 3,500 Bahts, or around €100): pick-up at the hotel, transport to the port, boat cruise, lunch, mask and snorkel for snorkelling, and as many soft drinks as you want.

Another advantage of this trip: a morning departure to visit later than other boats.

Simply click on the button below to book your boat trip to Koh Phi Phi from Phuket:

If you don’t feel like getting up too early, you can also book the same trip but with a later departure. Reservations can be made by clicking here!

Finally, for a luxury cruise to Koh Phi Phi , you must take the catamaran trip. The boat is very comfortable and you will have paddle boats and kayaks . There is even a long-tailed boat ride (the traditional Thai boats) to access a beautiful lagoon.

Book your luxury catamaran trip in Koh Phi Phi by clicking on the button:

An important note regarding trips and activities in Phuket and Thailand in general: some agencies are extremely lax in terms of safety standards and respect for the environment. Incidentally, accidents happen quite regularly!

In order for you to do enjoy your trip safely, it is best to book the options I propose in this article in advance. It’s not more expensive, and you can rest assured that you are doing your trip or activity with a reputed agency.

If you’ve been around the island’s beaches and you don’t know what to do in Phuket, you must take a boat trip to Phang Nga Bay.

It is considered one of the most beautiful bays in the world thanks to its numerous islands and karst rocks. And I have to admit, the bay is very photogenic!

In this case too, a famous movie helped expose Phang Nga to the world , a James Bond movie specifically: “The Man with the Golden Gun” .  So much so that Koh Tapu Island is now known as James Bond Island.

Every day, boats leave from Phuket and take you to Phang Nga Bay. On the schedule, there is a trip to James Bond Island and also to the island of Koh Panyee, built like a large floating market with souvenir shops.

At several places in the bay, particularly around the islands of Ko Phanak, Ko Hong and Ko Raya Ring, you can go kayaking to explore the caves and cross the rocky formations.

The one-day boat fare (about 4,000/ 4,500 Bahts) in Phang Nga Bay always includes: pick-up from your hotel, transport to the port, cruise, lunch, snorkelling equipment, guided kayaking tour.

The trip that I have selected offers a departure that is early enough to enjoy the place before the other boats arrive, which is really great.

To book your trip to James Bond Island from Phuket with a reputed agency, click on the button below:

If it’s a little too early for you, you can also book the standard trip with a departure at 9.30am (click here).

And if you want to indulge yourself, you can take choose a luxury cruise on a magnificent boat equipped with deckchairs and a bar. This trip includes lunch and dinner buffet, which you can enjoy while admiring a beautiful sunset over the islands. 

All drinks are included , as well as a kayak trip. You will even have stand-up paddle boards and buoys at your disposal.

You can book this luxury boat trip to James Bond Island by clicking this button:

Another boat trip that you must take if you are in Phuket is the one to the Similan Islands archipelago.

The Similan Islands are a paradise for diving or snorkelling enthusiasts and are regularly ranked among the most beautiful spots in the world. Accessible to beginners and experienced divers alike!

From Phuket, the easiest way to get to the Similan Islands is to book a day trip.

The schedule includes a stop on the famous Donald Duck Bay beach, a climb to the Sail Rock viewpoint, two snorkelling and diving breaks, a picnic in Honeymoon Bay and a last stop for swimming before returning.

Everything will be taken care of for you, from your hotel in the morning until the evening and return. Everything is included in the price (about 3800 Bahts)!

To book your trip to the Similan Islands from Phuket with a good agency , just click on the button below:

Why not continue your holiday in Phuket with some time in an elephant sanctuary.

Present all over Thailand, they gather elephants that have been abused or abandoned to treat them. They are increasingly becoming ethical by no longer offering elephant rides and are trying to recreate their natural living conditions as much as possible .

On this half-day trip (you can choose to leave in the morning or in the afternoon), you will have the chance to feed the elephants and wash them. It’s a great idea for family activities in Phuket!

The schedule is always organised as follows: pick-up at your hotel, transport, about 3 hours with elephants , lunch and return. Everything is included in the price of around 3000 Bahts.

You must book this elephant visit in Phuket in advance as the number of visitors is limited every day.

Just click the button below:

Are you tired of sunbathing on the beach? Do you want to have a little adventure and some thrills?

No problem, there are several sports activities in Phuket:

• Tubing: river descent on a buoy
• Quad biking:  You must take this quad bike ride to enjoy a great jungle tour (click here!).
• From ziplines to the Flying Hanuman: if you want to spend a day in the trees at the most famous tree stand in Phuket, you can book your tickets by clicking here!
• And a wide variety of water activities: buoy rides, parasailing, paddle boating, etc.

What’s cool is that you are able to combine multiple activities in the same day. For an outing including quad bike s, zip lines and rafting, you can book this trip by clicking on the button below:

There are several viewpoints in Phuket to admire the splendid panoramas or have a romantic moment at sunset:

• The view from Karon , overlooking the 3 beaches of Kata Noi, Kata and Karon
• Khao Rang Hill Viewpoint and its panorama of the city of Phuket. You should also see the lights of Phuket Town at night. While going there, you can visit Wat Kao Rang and its great golden seated Buddha.
• Cape Promthep, to the south of the island, the favourite spot for tourists to admire the sunset
• Windmill Point, located close to the cape, the view is worth the detour.

This Phuket tourist guide continues with a very typical Thai concept: attending a ladyboy show.

Ladyboys are very beautiful “ladies” , very well-made up and dressed, and who are actually men!

The most famous ladyboy show in Phuket is held every evening at the Simon Cabaret.

There are other shows in Phuket but this is really the best: the staging is careful and the costumes are flamboyant. A bit kitschy, but its all to prepare the setting! At the end, you can even have a souvenir photo taken with the stars of the show.

To spend an evening at the Simon Cabaret Show in Phuket, you can book your tickets here.

For a more family-friendly version, you must attend the Siam Niramit show featuring more than a hundred actors and dancers. It traces the history of Thailand through several different paintings and decorations. The costumes are really beautiful and the show is well done.

Tickets can be booked in advance by clicking below:

You can take advantage of your holiday in Phuket by taking a cooking class! This is one of the best things to do in Thailand because the food is so good that you will want to recreate the dishes at home.

The class, which lasts about 4 hours , always starts with a visit to a local market to buy all the ingredients .

Once back in the kitchen, you will learn how to cook Pad Thai, curry panang, tom yam kung or sticky mango rice before the tasting.

The dishes offered vary according to the day of the week , so do not hesitate to choose the menu that suits you best.

To book your cooking class in Phuket, click here:

During your stay in Phuket, you must spend an evening to attend a Muay Thai boxing fight.

It is the national sport of Thailand and all the cities have a stadium where the fighting takes place several times a week.

In Phuket, it’s at the Bangla Boxing Stadium in Patong. For almost 4 hours, you can watch a succession of fights (children, women, men) in a charged atmosphere , punctuated by musicians who mark the hits.

On the other hand, Muay Thai is considered one of the most violent sports in which almost all strikes are allowed, so it’s not for the faint-hearted.

You have to buy your ticket early to get a seat, the Thai people love it and the stadium is often full.

To buy souvenirs and try Thai street food, you cannot go wrong with a visit to a Thai night market.

Phuket has several Night Markets:

• The Sunday Street Market on Thalang Road, Phuket Town
• Chillva Night Market Phuket, Thursdays to Sundays on Yaowarat Road
• Naka Market, next to Naka temple, on Saturday and Sunday
• Malin Plaza, every day south of Patong Beach
• Buntai Market, between Patong and Phuket Town
• Karon temple market, Tuesdays and Fridays

During your walk in Phuket Town, you can also visit Monkey Hill.

As the name suggests, this hill is inhabited by entire colonies of monkeys. The monkeys are used to people, and there are dozens of them on the road waiting for one thing, to be fed! And Thai people have a good business sense, there are banana and groundnut sellers all over the place.

Remember to put all your food and things inside your bag, as they love trying to steal from you. And don’t think they are pets. Even though they are used to humans, they are still wild animals and can be aggressive.

If you are trying to monkey around by taunting them with food, don’t be surprised at how quickly they react by trying to scratch or bite you. Follow basic principles of caution and all will be well!

At the top of the hill , accessible only by foot or scooter, you can admire a panoramic view of Phuket from here.

The Bang Pae waterfall is one of the most popular places in Phuket among the local population.

It is a little neglected by tourists because it is located to the north-east of the island, in the least touristy part. To get there, you will have to rent a scooter or a car.

At 18m tall, it is the largest waterfall in Phuket. It takes about 10 minutes on foot along a river to get there. When we visited there, the place was filled with Thai people who came to spend a some time with their family and swim.

Bang Pae is part of the Khao Phra Thaeo National Park, so you will have to pay 200 Bahts per person to enter it.

The waterfall itself is not exceptional , people go there mainly to visit the gibbon rehabilitation centre (Gibbon Rehabilitation Project). Run by volunteers, it hosts gibbons that were once abused or adopted by families who got rid of them when they grew too big.

The goal is to try re-settle them into their environment gradually . You can support the project by sponsoring a gibbon.

I’m telling you about Coral Island to dissuade you from going there!

The island is less than 30 minutes away by boat from Phuket and is filled with tourists. Every day, boats line up in front of the beach and the people flood out.

And all these people are just splashing around in one place. Add to this the incessant drone of water activities and boat engines, and you will get to see the negative side of some places in Thailand.

Not to mention that the beach is not very clean and the facilities (sunshades, deckchairs) are not on their last legs!

So there are a lot of better things to do in Phuket!

If you want to go there and form your own opinion, allow 1,500 Bahts for the return boat trip with lunch included.

As with Coral Island, there is Racha Island, 30 minutes away from Phuket speed boat .

The island is renowned for its seabed , ideal for snorkelling, but unfortunately, diving with dozens of people means seeing more legs and orange vests in the water than fish!

And the island is unfortunately included in all the tours organised for Chinese tourists, you will see hordes of them landing from 10:30 am.

In short, there are other ways to find a more peaceful experience on beaches in Phuket. I thought I should warn you!

If you want to form your own opinion, you can book this combined trip to visit Coral Island and Racha Island. It includes a luxury catamaran, lunch and music played by a DJ.

You can find all the information by clicking here!

When visiting Phuket, you can also discover some special customs.

And the vegetarian festival is at the top of the list!

It is held every year during the ninth lunar month for 9 days and as its name indicates, it involves of not eating meat during that time. Nothing too original so far.

But things get a little tricky during the processions, where some participants begin to mutilate themselves and pierce their cheeks with various objects, ranging from a single needle to several swords. Very impressive to see.

What are the party spots in Phuket?

As I said in the section dedicated to Patong, Bangla Road is the place to go out in Phuket. There is something for all styles and tastes: gogo-bars, lounge bars, live music… And if you’re looking for a night club where you can dance all night long, head for the Illuzion , Phuket’s trendiest nightclub.

To attend a traditional dance show or one with actors and dancers , you can go to the Simon Cabaret Show or the Siam Niramit.

However, you must avoid the Phuket Fantasea show where elephants take part and where you can take pictures with baby tigers before the show.

I haven’t been there, but we all know how animals are treated at these kinds of attractions. Not to mention the 4,000-seater dining room where you can dine before for an exorbitant price. And it’s notorious for not being that good, far from the quality of Thai food.

The best things to do around Phuket?

After touring the attractions I discussed in the best things to see, you must continue your stay in Thailand by exploring one or more islands around Phuket.

The islands of Koh Yao Noi and Koh Lanta are easily accessible from Phuket but deserve a minimum of 2-3 days and not just a day trip.

As for Krabi , although it is not an island, the region is a good base for visiting the surrounding islands.

Koh Yao Noi is just a 30-minute boat ride from Phuket. And it is much quieter!

Forget the crowded beaches and the noise, Koh Yao Noi is a really soothing island. It is the ideal island for relaxing holidays and enjoying nice beaches.

From Koh Yao Noi you can also book boat trips to explore the islands of Ko Pak Bia, Ko Lao Lading, Ko Hong or James Bond Island. You will have the opportunity to catch up if you haven’t had time to see it from Phuket.

This is clearly my favourite island to visit near Phuket!

All information to visit Koh Yao Noi can be found in our article: The best things to do in Koh Yao Noi?

Another well-known island that you must visit around Phuket: Koh Lanta.

To reach there, it takes about 4 hours by boat , usually with a change at Koh Phi Phi. If you didn’t visit Koh Phi Phi, it is rather nice because the boat makes a stop to see Maya Bay beach.

On Koh Lanta, you can enjoy beautiful sandy beaches, which are also less touristy than those in Phuket.

You must also visit the 4 islands of Koh Chueak, Koh Waen, Koh Muk and Koh Ngai . Snorkelling stops are planned at various places and there are lots of fish to watch.

Click here to book:

All the things to do in Koh Lanta are mentioned in our article: Koh Lanta: the definitive guide.

From Phuket, Krabi is located on the other side of the Andaman Sea.

The Krabi area is known for its huge karst peaks and its small and pretty islands like Turtle Island or Chicken Island. You can discover them via boat trips . Click here to book.

20 km from the city, you can visit the Ao Nang beach , which is just 10 minutes away from a heavenly spot in Thailand and the region: Railay .

Bordered by large karst cliffs , the place is truly magnificent. The cliffs are also paradise for climbers, with nearly 700 routes.

To make sure you don’t miss the most beautiful places in Krabi, read our article: What are the best things to see and do in Krabi?

The best things to do in Phuket with children?

To organise your family trip to Phuket, here is a list of all things to do:

• Enjoy the beaches , and you will be spoilt for choice in Phuket
• Spend a day with elephants
• Attend a show with traditional dances and songs
• Take a tour of the night markets to browse souvenirs
• Feed monkeys at Monkey Hill (be careful)
• Picnic at the Bang Pae waterfall and seeing gibbons
• Visit the TrickEye Museum and take your picture in ultra realistic 3D settings. Entrance tickets here!
• Play mini golf at Dino Park
• Go to Aquaria Phuket aquarium
• Spend the day at the Andamanda water park, Thailand’s largest water park, which opened in 2022.

To visit Phuket and its nearby spots , you must plan at least 3 days.

You can of course spend a week or more enjoying the beaches and make several day –trips in boats to visit the islands.

If you have a day to visit Phuket , you can spend the day in Patong , the island’s main tourist area:

• Enjoy the beach
• Walk along Bangla Road
• Do some shopping at the night market
• Watch a show at Simon Cabaret or a Muay Thaï Boxing Fight 

If you have 2 days in Phuket, you can continue from the schedule for the first day and add:

• A walk through the streets of Phuket Town
• Climb to Monkey Hill to see the monkeys
• Go to the Khao Rang Hill view-point
• End the day at the beach

In 3 days in Phuket, you can continue from the schedule for the first two days and then you have 4 options:

1. Discover the South of the island:

• Visit Wat Chalong
• Go to see the Big Buddha
• Admire the view at Karon View Point
• Stop at Nai Harn Beach
• Visit Windmill Viewpoint and Yanui Beach
• Watch the sunset at Promthep Cape

2. One morning in an elephant sanctuary + 1 afternoon zip-lining

3. Bang Pae waterfall in the Khao Phra Thaeo National Park or a cooking class + afternoon on one of the western beaches: Surin, Bangtao, Laem Sing or Kamala

4. A day trip with a choice of:

• Koh Phi Phi
• James Bond Island and Phang Nga Bay
• Similan Islands

Are you vacationing in Phuket for 4 or 5 days or even a week?

Great, you have time to do all the things I recommend in this guide!

Continue with my circuits for days 1 and 2. For the other days, everything is given for day 3 , you can do everything without having to choose!

And if you’re tired of Phuket then head for another island in the Andaman Sea: Koh Yao Noi or Koh Lanta are waiting for you 😊

If you want to be in the middle of the action, I have prepared a selection of accommodation on the Patong side:

• Lub D Phuket Patong: Youth Hostel 5 minutes from Patong Beach and 10 minutes from Bangla Road. Modern and very clean dormitory bed from €12. Strong points: huge swimming pool, common areas with even a boxing ring, design, cleanliness. This is the best hostel in Phuket!
• Mazi Design Hotel by Kalima: Located 5 minutes from the night market and 10 minutes from Bangla Road. Spacious designer double room from €35 per night, breakfast at €7. Strong points: swimming pool, location, comfort of the rooms. It’s my favorite for its excellent value for money in Patong.
• Holiday Inn Express Phuket Patong Beach Central: Located opposite the beach. Modern and warm double room with balcony from €72, breakfast included. Strong points: outdoor facilities, swimming pool, welcoming atmosphere and the friendliness of the staff.
• Phuket Marriott Resort Spa, Merlin Beach: 5-star hotel complex located 2 miles from Patong, right on Tri-Trang beach. Warm and comfortable double room with private balcony or terrace from €110, breakfast at €19. Strong points: sea-side location, private beach, quiet, playground for children, setting. This is my recommendation for a luxury stay in Phuket!

If you prefer to stay in Phuket Town, here is my selection of hotels:

• Baan Baan hostel: Hostel located in Phuket Old Town. Dormitory bed from €8, breakfast included. Strong points: helpful staff, cleanliness, location, calm atmosphere. The best youth hostel to stay in Phuket Town!
• Ritsurin Boutique Hotel: Located 600 metres from Thalang Street. Clean and well-equipped double room from €28. Strong points: location, cleanliness, friendly staff.
• The Malika Hotel: Located 1.8 km from the old town. Double room with very comfortable bedding and balcony from €38, breakfast at €6. Strong points: swimming pool, quiet atmosphere, friendly staff, ideal location to take the boat to Koh Phi Phi. It’s my favorite for its excellent value for money in Phuket Town!
• Casa Blanca Boutique Hotel: Located in the old town. Double room decorated with great taste from €50 per night, breakfast at €7. Strong points: excellent location, friendly staff, right next to the night market.
• Novotel Phuket Phokeethra: Located 1 mile away from the old town. Super spacious double room, modern design from €85, breakfast at €15. Strong points: setting, comfort, ideal to visit the old town, close to the boat to the islands of Koh Phi Phi and Koh Lanta. This is my recommendation for an upscale stay in Phuket Town!

To have a meal in Phuket and everywhere in Thailand, you can’t do better than a night market and its numerous food stalls. Everyone can eat whatever they want and this avoids arguments about the choice of the restaurants (it happens to all of us!)! 😆

Alternatively, you’ll find plenty of restaurants all over Phuket, whether near the beaches or on Bangla Road. However, as the area is very touristy, the prices are often higher than elsewhere in Thailand and the quality is not always there. It is always better to go a bit further away from the busiest streets.

If you want a “real” restaurant with a little more class and a nice view, then I recommend the Mum Tri’s Kitchen. It is located in the bay of Kata. The meals are good and well presented but you will have to pay around €18 per person, which is very expensive for Thailand.

To discover authentic Thai cuisine, your best option is a food tour by a local guide.

The visit I have selected will give you the opportunity to taste fifteen dishes including: a Burmese curry, samosas , naans , exotic fruits, shrimps cooked in banana leaves, noodles, pork kebabs…

Needless to say, it is better to go there on an empty stomach! The dishes are really good and the fact that there is a an upper limit of 8 people is great.

You can book it here:

To get around and visit Phuket, you have several options:

• Scooter: the ideal way to be independent and stop where you want. But you still need to be capable of driving and be really careful. Most of the hotels or guesthouse in Phuket offer one for rent. Don’t forget to wear your helmet.
• Car: you can rent a car to get around Phuket. You should compare prices on Rentalcars.com.  
• Bus / Song Thaew: convenient to travel to/from Phuket Town and to beaches. However, it takes long enough to go from one beach to another because most of the times you will travel through the city and have to change buses. Buses generally stop around 5:00 or 6:00pm.
• Tuk-tuks: a small special feature of Phuket, the price of a tuk-tuk trip is not really negotiable, the latter having agreed on the prices! And of course it’s very expensive, and even more so at the end of the day when the buses don’t run anymore.
• Taxi: the same as for tuk-tuks, it is impossible to negotiate and no driver will want to set the metre on (apart from those at the airport, if you are lucky). You will therefore have to pay 700 Bahts for less than 30 minutes!
• Private taxi: to combat the taxi mafia, you can book a private car or a minibus with a driver. They will drive you everywhere and wait for you every time. You must book online by clicking here to get an assured price.
• Organised trips: at least, there won’t be any nasty surprises since you book and pay online. You can click here to see the different trips offered.

How to get to Phuket

To reach Phuket, you have several option.

Phuket has an international airport, so you can land there directly or arrive on a national flight from Bangkok, Chiang Mai or Chiang Rai.

Flights are therefore the quickest way to get to Phuket.

The airport is located to the north of the island.

Do not hesitate to compare the flight prices to Phuket using our comparator in the next section.

To avoid getting ripped off by a taxi or the stress of taking the bus , once you arrive at Phuket airport, you can book your transport back to your accommodation in advance. The driver will wait for you with a name-sign. You can also choose your vehicle (4 to 8 seats).

All information about booking a transfer from Phuket Airport is available by clicking here:

You can also go to Phuket by bus , from Bangkok for example.

The journey takes at least 12 hours and the fares start from 640 Bahts.

From Bangkok, the other option is to take the train to Surat Thani (8 hours ) + 1 bus to Phuket (add 5 hours).

From Krabi, Koh Lanta and Koh Phi Phi , you can go by boat to Phuket.

You can choose between speed boats (faster but more expensive and – less comfortable) or ferries . You will disembarked at the Rassada port , 3 km from Phuket Town.

For a ferry transfer from Koh Phi Phi to Phuket , you can book by clicking here.

For a trip in a speedboat to Koh Lanta or Koh Phi Phi, you can click directly by booking here!

Since flight prices for Phuket vary greatly, it is a good idea to compare them as soon as possible. To do this, you can use our flight comparison tool, in partnership with Skyscanner.  You can rest assured that you will get the best rates.

To help you visualise the town a little better, I made you a tourist map of Phuket listing the places to visit that I talk about in this top 23 things to do in Phuket and nearby. You can display the map legend by clicking the button at the top left with a small arrow.

So what have you planned to in Phuket?

Thailand travel Guides

• Buy the Lonely Planet Thailand guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk
• Buy the DK Eyewitness Thailand guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk

Discover all my articles about Thailand : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Thailand are listed there.

The 25 Best Things to Do in Thailand

• Itinerary: One week in Thailand – Perfect to visit Bangkok, Ayutthaya and Chiang Mai!
• Itinerary: 6,7 or 8 days in Thailand – 2 itineraries to the southern islands, starting from Phuket or Krabi
• Itinerary: 10 days in Thailand – The perfect itinerary to discover the best of Thailand!
• Itinerary: 2 weeks in Thailand – Discover Bangkok, Ayutthaya, Sukhothai , + Best Southern islands!
• Itinerary: 15 days in Thailand – The best itinerary to visit the most beautiful Southern islands
• Itinerary: 3 weeks in Thailand – Discover the best of Thailand in 20-21 days
• Itinerary: 1 month in Thailand – The most complete itinerary to visit Thailand!
• Road trip in Thailand: The best itineraries for 7, 10, 15, 21 and 30 days
• Ayutthaya: The definitive guide to visit the archaeological park
• Bangkok: The 30 best places to visit
• Chiang Mai: The 20 best things to do
• Chiang Rai: The 17 must-see attractions
• Koh Lanta: The 15 most beautiful places to see on the island
• Koh Yao Noi: All the things to do on this paradise island!
• Krabi: Top 17 best places to visit
• Phuket: The 23 best things to do
• Sukhothai: How to visit the historical park?
• 3 days in Bangkok – The best itinerary to visit the Thai capital in 72h!
• 3 Days in Chiang Mai – The perfect itinerary to visit the Chiang Mai in 72h!

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Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

Related Stories

3 Days in Chiang Mai: The Perfect Itinerary (First Time Visit)

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1 month in Thailand: The Ultimate 30 Days Itinerary + My Best Tips

Discussion 2 comments.

We are traveling to Scotland and will be there during Easter. Is there a recommendation of where to go to avoid crowds and get accomdations. We will probably start in Edinburgh and travel West for 2 weeks. Thanks

Hello Judy,

I haven’t visited this part of Scotland (apart from Edinburgh) so unfortunately I can’t help you with your itinerary. But most people visit the Highlands, Isle of Skye, Edinburgh, Loch Lomond and Glasgow so the East of Scotland is bound to be less crowded.

Enjoy your trip to Scotland!

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6 Best Phi Phi Island Tours from Phuket by Boat (2024)

Looking for awesome tours from phuket to phi phi island.

Well, you’ve landed on the right article. I’ve evaluated some of the best Phi Phi Island tours from Phuket to assure they’re highly rated and well-reviewed.

I’ve been to Thailand 10+ times over the last decade and now call it my winter home. Among all the incredible places, Phi Phi Island is one of the prettiest spots in the country, especially when you add in nearby Maya Bay.

In a rush? Reserve this Phi Phi Islands Adventure Day Trip with Seaview Lunch for a popular 5 Star experience that combines visits to 4 islands.

Zip around the limestone cliffs while snorkeling in stunning seas; anyone who is hanging out in Phuket should make the trip to the absolute paradise that is Phi Phi. Most of these trips include multiple stops surrounding small islands, too.

Curious which of these tours is right for you? Keep reading to find out what works for you: small-group or private, luxury yacht, or budget-friendly options.

My Top 3 Picks: Best Phi Phi Island Tour from Phuket

Phi Phi Islands Adventure Day Trip with Seaview Lunch

Visits 4 Islands

Hotel Transfer + Buffet Lunch

5 Customization Options

Phi Phi Private Boat Tour

Private Speedboat to 7 Destinations

15 People Group Flat Rate

Phi Phi Sunrise

Sunrise Trip to 6 Destinations

Avoid the Crowds

Breakfast & Lunch

Top Tours to Phi Phi Island from Phuket

Phi Phi in Thailand is made up of six different islands: Phi Phi Don, Phi Phi Leh, Biddah Nok, Biddah Nai, Yung, and Pai.

If you’re a solo traveler , you can buy ferry tickets for this route from 12Go Asia , Thailand’s main transportation aggregator. They have multiple ferries and speedboats departing throughout the day.

Going alone means you can only go to Phi Phi Don, not the other nearby destinations or the famous Maya Bay. For those, you’ll need to join a tour or be a bit crazy (like me) and go ocean kayaking.

Tip! For most trips, the 400 baht per person national park fee is not included in the price.

1. Phi Phi Islands Adventure Day Trip with Seaview Lunch

Best Overall Phi Phi Islands Tour

  RATING:  4.5/5 Stars | LENGTH:  8 Hours |   Book it!

Experience the jewel of the Andaman Sea by visiting four different islands on this Viator award-winning Adventure Day Trip with Seaview Lunch by V. Marine Tour.

Accommodating a maximum of 25 travelers , you can choose between five customizable options, including add-ons such as private transfer, a GoPro photographer, or a private lunch.

Snorkel in two locations : Bamboo Island and Pileh Lagoon . Learn about the birds in the local delicacy “bird’s nest soup” at Viking Cave and a close encounter with the playful residents of Monkey Beach . Wander through the beautiful Maya Bay , a paradise famed for its appearance in the Hollywood blockbuster, ‘The Beach.’

Lunch will be a seaview buffet that caters to many dietary restrictions and will not be shared with other boat trips.

This popular tour puts your comfort at the forefront, offering Phuket hotel transfers, snacks, a buffet lunch, snorkeling equipment, and life jackets.

2. Phi Phi Island Private Boat Tour

Best Private Tour

  RATING:  5/5 Stars | LENGTH:  6-8 Hours |   Book it!

Experience the magic of Thailand all for just you and your group with this private Phi Phi boat tour. This private excursion guarantees 6-8 hours of customizable adventure cruising through the region, all at a flat fee for up to 15 people.

Beat the crowds with an early stop at Maya Bay . Snorkeling in Pileh Bay’s mesmerizing blue lagoon is next, with all snorkeling equipment provided. Then, learn the history behind Viking Cave and the natural habitats of the residents at Monkey Beach.

Break for lunch, where your local English-speaking guide will provide top-notch restaurant recommendations for your meal, or you can choose yourself.

In the afternoon, set sail to Nui Beach and Rang Yai for a final snorkel or a sunset on the white sandy beach.

Snorkeling gear, drinks, and transport are included, with the option to store any luggage. Secure this flat fee for your group and customize your pace for the day.

3. Phi Phi Sunrise Trip

Best Option to Avoid the Crowds

  RATING:  5/5 Stars | LENGTH:  8 Hours |   Book it!

Rise and shine in the wee hours of the morning for this Sunrise by Simba Sea Trips . Hop on this 8 hour full-day tour, outsmarting the crowds with an early sunrise start.

The trip prides itself on being among the first to arrive at the iconic Maya Bay. Plus, you get to have a complimentary breakfast on the beach.

Then, like many other tour itineraries, snorkel at the emerald lagoons, caves, and see monkeys playing around. Before the day ends, you can choose your final destination: Bamboo Island or Rang Yai .

Arrive back for lunch at the popular Soho pool club restaurant, a great end to the trip.

The tour is capped at a maximum of 18 travelers . The inclusions are generous, with National Park fees (a rarity), meals, driver/guide, hotel transfer, snorkeling equipment, and even WiFi onboard.

4. Phi Phi and James Bond Private Boat Tour

Best Combination of James Bond and Phi Phi

Jet to not one but two national parks on this private Phi Phi and James Bond Private Boat Tour , for you and your group. This full-day itinerary lasts 6-8 hours, accommodating up to 15 attendees for a flat fee booking.

Your itinerary will start like many others on this list, featuring famous Thai spots like Maya Beach, Pileh Lagoon, and the Viking Cave. That’s where the similarities end.

Pause for a local lunch before setting sail to Phang Nga Bay . Here, you’ll witness the filming location for “The Man with the Golden Gun” at James Bond Island.

Then, glide around Hong Island in a complimentary canoe ride , ending your adventure lounging on the unspoiled beaches of Ko Rang Yai.

Your package includes perks such as beverages, WiFi, private transportation, and snacks. Just a heads up, National Park Fees are not included in this trip, and the fee is going up to 700 baht per adult since you’ll be visiting multiple national parks.

5. Snorkeling Phi Phi, Khai, MayaBay, Maiton, Bamboo Islands Tour

Most Budget-Friendly Day Trip

  RATING:  4.5/5 Stars | LENGTH:  8-10 Hours |   Book it!

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, save your dollars with this Phuket to Phi Phi Tour.

As one of the cheapest options on the market, expect to get what you pay for. Travel with up to 35 fellow explorers on a fixed but extensive full-day itinerary.

It covers a range of classic sites and some hidden gems like Loh Samah Bay and Maiton Private Island. You’ll also get a complimentary buffet lunch .

For those seeking more comfort, the premium upgrade gets you a smaller group, better service, and the addition of Bamboo Island to your sightseeing list.

Regardless of your choice, each tour includes hotel transfers, all national park fees, a buffet lunch with halal and vegetarian options, beverages, snacks, fruits, snorkeling equipment, and safety equipment. Quite the bang for your baht!

6. Hype Yacht : VIP Tour Phi Phi & Maya Bay

Most Flexible Private Luxury Excursion

  RATING:  5/5 Stars | LENGTH:  8.5 Hours |   Book it!

This VIP Hype Yacht – Phi Phi & Maya Bay Tour is your golden ticket to fancy town. With 8.5 hours of exclusive use of a luxurious yacht , grab up to 15 of your friends to make this dream come true.

But really this is just an excuse to have a floating party! Chill to cool beats spun by your own private DJ as you feast on a tasty gourmet lunch at Maya Bay . Oh, and there are loads of yummy snacks and refreshing complimentary drinks all day.

Packed onboard is other exciting stuff, like snorkeling gear to explore the incredible underwater world. And guess what? Everything’s included . Yes, even the National Park Fees .

The only downside? It’s only bookable 3 times a week from November through April. But for the other half a year, you can opt instead to go to Krabi and Phang Nga Bay with the same Hype Yacht.

FAQs About Phuket to Phi Phi Tours

Phi Phi tours range from $50 to $150 for a shared boat, while private boats can cost around $1000 for 15 people. But this is just an average.

To reach Phi Phi from Phuket , you can take a ferry or speedboat. Ferries are more affordable but slower, taking about 2 hours. Speedboats are faster, taking around 45 minutes to 1 hour. Both options are readily available and can be booked through a operator or at the pier yourself.

While a day trip to Phi Phi Island can give you a taste of its beauty and attractions, I recommend spending at least an overnight if you have the time. If you have only one day, visit popular spots like Maya Bay, Monkey Beach, and the Viewpoint.

Yes, a Phuket to Phi Phi day trip is definitely worth it. It’s known for its limestone cliffs, crystal clear water, coral reefs, and vibrant marine life. You can go snorkeling, swimming, sunbathing, and exploring iconic locations like Maya Bay.

Phi Phi can be a bit pricey compared to other spots in Thailand, especially for places to stay and things to do. But there are choices for every budget, so you’ll find both fancy and affordable options.

The best time to visit Phi Phi Island is during the dry season, from November to April. The weather is usually sunny with minimal rainfall, perfect for beach activities and exploring. However, this is peak season, so expect bigger crowds and higher prices. For a quieter but wetter experience, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of May to October.

Phuket is a tourist hub of activities and vibrant nightlife. It’s a place with endless options. In contrast, Phi Phi is smaller and more relaxed, known for its natural beauty. If you want more of a city vibe, choose Phuket. For a serene getaway, Phi Phi is perfect.

Swimming in the archipelago is generally considered safe, but be aware of the tides and currents, especially during certain seasons when the sea conditions can change. Swim in designated swimming areas and avoid areas with strong waves or dangerous rocks.

Final Thoughts: Best Phi Phi Island Tour

Phi Phi and the whole area around Phuket (like Krabi & Railay Beach, Khao Lak, Khao Sok National Park, and smaller islands like Koh Phayam ) are seriously amazing spots in Southeast Asia .

With towering karst cliffs and clear turquoise waters, these places are a must-visit on any Thailand itinerary. Aside from Phi Phi Don, you’ll need to join a tour to explore the other destinations.

In case you’re still not sure which to pick:

• For an award-winning classic, join this Adventure Day Trip with Seaview Lunch.
• For a private experience, sign up for this Private Boat Tour.
• To avoid the crowds, book this Sunrise trip.

Where Next in South Thailand?

I’ve been to Thailand 10+ times in my life and now spend my winters there. Check out these other posts to see if any of these destinations pique your interest. 

• Phuket To Krabi: 7 Ways To Get There Via Land & Sea
• 7 Best Phi Phi Island Tours from Phuket
• Koh Phayam, Thailand: A No FOMO Guide To One Of The Best Thai Islands
• To Phi Phi Island From Phuket: How To Get There Via Ferry & Speedboat
• Bangkok To Ayutthaya: How To Get There Via Train, Minibus, & Tour

Have Travel Questions About Thailand? Maybe I’ve Answered Them

• Languages Spoken In Thailand: Do They Speak English In Thailand?
• Motorbike Rental In Phuket: 9 Quick Tips Before You Sign
• Is There Uber In Thailand? (Uber In Bangkok And Beyond)
• 30 Day Tourist Visa Extension Thailand: Step-By-Step Guide
• Price Of Massages In Thailand: Honest Rates For All Types Of Massages
• Chiang Khong To Huay Xai: How To Cross The Thailand-Laos Border
• Bangkok vs Chiang Mai: Thai-Ing To Decide Which City Is Better?

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