Phuket Islands
There are many stunning islands near Phuket, each offering unique experiences, from pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters to adventure sports and secluded getaways. Here’s a list of 10 islands near Phuket, how to get there, and approximate costs:
1. Phi Phi Islands
- How to Get There:
- By ferry from Phuket (Rassada Pier) – 1.5-2 hours.
- Speedboat – 45 minutes.
- Cost:
- Ferry: 350-600 THB one way.
- Speedboat tour: 1,500-3,000 THB (including snorkeling and lunch).
- Highlights: Famous for Maya Bay, snorkeling, limestone cliffs, and vibrant marine life.
- National Park Fee: 400 THB for adults, 200 THB for children.
2. James Bond Island (Koh Tapu, Phang Nga Bay)
- How to Get There:
- Boat tour from Phuket (either from Ao Po Pier or Phuket Town) – 1.5 hours.
- Cost:
- Boat tours: 1,500-3,000 THB (includes lunch, kayaking, and visits to nearby caves).
- Highlights: Iconic limestone karst used as a filming location for the James Bond movie “The Man with the Golden Gun.”
- National Park Fee: 300 THB for adults, 100 THB for children.
3. Similan Islands
- How to Get There:
- Speedboat from Thap Lamu Pier in Khao Lak (1.5 hours from Phuket by car) – 1-2 hours by boat.
- Cost:
- Day tour: 2,000-4,500 THB (includes snorkeling, lunch, and transfers).
- Highlights: Renowned for world-class diving, snorkeling, and crystal-clear waters.
- National Park Fee: 500 THB for adults, 300 THB for children.
- Note: Open from November to mid-May, closed during the monsoon season.
4. Racha Islands (Raya Yai and Raya Noi)
- How to Get There:
- Speedboat from Chalong Pier – 30-45 minutes.
- Cost:
- Speedboat tour: 1,500-2,500 THB (includes snorkeling and lunch).
- Highlights: Crystal-clear waters, white sand beaches, great for diving and snorkeling.
5. Coral Island (Koh Hae)
- How to Get There:
- Speedboat from Chalong Pier – 15-20 minutes.
- Cost:
- Speedboat tour: 1,200-2,000 THB (includes lunch and water activities).
- Highlights: Close to Phuket, ideal for water sports like snorkeling, parasailing, and banana boat rides.
6. Koh Yao Yai & Koh Yao Noi
- How to Get There:
- Ferry or speedboat from Bang Rong Pier – 30-60 minutes.
- Cost:
- Ferry: 200-300 THB one way.
- Speedboat: 300-500 THB one way.
- Highlights: Less developed, serene beaches, local culture, and peaceful atmosphere.
7. Koh Khai Islands (Khai Nok, Khai Nai, and Khai Nui)
- How to Get There:
- Speedboat from Phuket’s east coast piers – 15-30 minutes.
- Cost:
- Speedboat tour: 1,200-1,800 THB (includes snorkeling and beach time).
- Highlights: Small islands perfect for snorkeling, relaxing, and spotting colorful fish.
8. Koh Panyee (Floating Village)
- How to Get There:
- Boat from Phang Nga Bay, typically part of a James Bond Island tour.
- Cost:
- Included in Phang Nga Bay tours (1,500-3,000 THB).
- Highlights: A traditional Muslim fishing village built on stilts, with floating restaurants and shops.
9. Koh Bon
- How to Get There:
- Longtail boat or speedboat from Rawai Beach – 10-20 minutes.
- Cost:
- Longtail boat: 1,000-1,500 THB round trip.
- Speedboat tours: 1,500-2,500 THB (includes lunch and snorkeling).
- Highlights: Quiet, scenic island with a beachside restaurant and great snorkeling spots.
10. Koh Maiton (Maiton Island)
- How to Get There:
- Speedboat from Phuket’s east coast piers – 20-30 minutes.
- Cost:
- Speedboat tour: 2,500-3,500 THB (includes snorkeling and lunch).
- Highlights: Private island with clear waters, dolphin-watching opportunities, and pristine beaches.
General Tips for Visiting Islands near Phuket:
- Tour Packages: Most island tours include transportation, snorkeling equipment, lunch, and refreshments.
- Booking: It’s easy to book these tours through hotels, local travel agencies, or online.
- Best Time to Visit: November to April, when the weather is dry and seas are calm. Avoid the rainy season (May to October) for safer sea conditions.
Exploring these islands offers stunning natural beauty, rich marine life, and a range of activities from snorkeling and diving to cultural immersion.