13 Best Islands Near Phuket: A Journey Through Tropical Wonders
You might have seen some unbelievably beautiful stock images of tropical islands that you would never have guessed are of islands near Phuket. This province is home to the most breathtaking oceanic paradise within easy reach, making Phuket perfect for snorkeling.
So escape the hustle and bustle of the mainland and hop on a longtail boat to explore these picturesque islands. Read on to find the 9 most beautiful islands near Phuket for island hopping.
Best islands near Phuket
1. Phi Phi Islands
2. Khai Island
3. Similan Islands
4. Racha Islands
5. Maithon
6. Coral Island
7. Yao Islands
8. Coconut Island
9. Naka Island
10. James Bond Island
Beautiful Islands further away from Phuket
11. Lanta Island
12. Muk Island
13. Poda Island
Islands near Phuket for travelers dreaming of a tropical paradise
1. Phi Phi islands
The first on the list is Phi Phi Islands, a group of smaller islands that are full of breathtaking and fun activities. Renowned for its turquoise water and limestone walls, Phi Phi Islands is a place that deserves a night stay.
What to do
- Explore the viewpoint of Koh Phi Phi - giving a panoramic view of the island being engulfed by the sea on two sides.
- Spend your night in town - visit bars, and beach clubs that will give you a wild time. There are some cool sports bars on Phi Phi Island one of which is a reggae bar with a boxing ring that dares you to a fight for a bucket of free alcohol.
- Take a boat to the must-visit Maya Bay, Viking Cave, and Phi Phi lagoon.
- Chill on the beautiful and quiet beaches of Moo Dee Bay, Viking Beach, and Nui Beach.
Where to stay:
There are resorts, mid-range hotels, and hostels all over the island. A personal favorite is the Viking Nature Resort which offers a secluded beach and beautiful wooden bungalows about a 1km walk from town.
How to get to Phi Phi Islands
To travel to Phi Phi islands from Phuket, you can take a speedboat from Phuket for 850 baht or a ferry for 450 baht.
2. Khai islands
Khai Islands or Koh Khai in Thai translates to egg island and is named so apparently due to being shaped like an egg, which I’m not quite sure is accurate. The islands boast white sandy beaches, something straight out of a postcard.
What to do
- Relax to a nice drink under the umbrella or at a beach bar on Khai Nok and Khai Nai islets.
- Snorkel to see the colorful schools of fish swimming close to the shores.
Where to stay
The Khai Islands are not for staying as there is no accommodation on the island. This makes a lot of sense because the islands can be explored all in one day.
How to get to the Khai Islands
Khai islands are the closest to Phuket, the easiest way to reach these islands is to join a half-day trip to Koh Khai from Phuket.
Or book a trip to Phi Phi Islands + Khai Islands from Phuket to see all the islands in one day.
3. Similan Islands
The Similan Islands are a group of 9 islands in the Andaman Sea that can be commuted to from Phuket and Khao Lak. These islands offer crystal blue water and the whitest sand you have ever seen as well as uniquely shaped rocks that make the islands iconic. The national park is only open from 15 October to 15 May yearly.
What to do
- Visit the iconic landmark of Island Number 1, take some time to climb the boulder, and take an awesome photo.
- On Island Number 2, you cannot help but to snorkel. There are astonishing coral formations and turtle sightings. So bring your waterproof camera and capture the friendly sea life.
- Scuba diving is a very rated thing to do since there are so many beautiful diving spots and the chance to see rare sea creatures
Where to stay
If you wish to stay the night on the Similan islands, then island number 4 is where you will find accommodations from tents to bungalows operated by the National Forest Department which is limited and fully booked most times.
How to get to Similan Islands
The Similan Islands are located far into the Andaman Sea making it not as reachable as the other islands which means fewer people.
No boats are going to and from Similan Islands like the others so joining a day trip is your best bet. Joined day trips to Similan Islands usually depart from Thap Lamu pier in Khao Lak.
If you are in Phuket, we recommend this day trip to Similan Islands with optional pickup from Phuket.
4. Racha islands
The couple of Racha Islands, Racha Yai and Racha Noi is a beloved island for divers and snorkelers. It is located 12 kilometers south of Phuket. The Racha Yai Island boasts white sandy and clear water while the Racha Noi Island is more rocky but is equally as attractive.
What to do
- Snorkel or dive to see the colorful schools of fishes
- Relax on Ter Bay where there are bars, beds, and umbrellas.
- Explore the 5 beaches on Racha Yai island.
- Trek the trail of Racha Noi island to the top of the mountain for a fantastic view of the islands and sea.
- Enjoy delicious seafood at one of the restaurants on the main road.
Where to stay
Staying on the island is a great way to fully take in the scenery. There are a few hotels and resorts on the island you can choose from.
Stay at the 5-star resort, The Racha Resort located on Racha Yai island with a beautiful beach and swimming pool, or at a more affordable option, the Bungalow Raya Resort.
How to get to Racha Islands
There are longtail and speedboat transfers to Racha Island from Chalong Pier or Rawai where you can purchase upon arrival.
5. Koh Maithon
Koh Maithon, also known as "Honeymoon Island," is a serene and private island located about 9 kilometers off the southeast coast of Phuket. The island is renowned for its natural beauty, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life, making it a perfect destination for couples and nature enthusiasts.
What to do
- This island is home to a vibrant coral reef and a variety of marine life perfect for snorkeling and scuba diving.
- Enjoy the pristine sandy beaches and soak up the sun.
- This island is famous for dolphin spotting, so prepare your cameras, you might be able to catch a glimpse of the intelligent sea puppies.
Where to Stay
The island features a private luxury resort, the Maithon Island Resort, offering exclusive villas with spectacular sea views and top-notch amenities.
How to Get There
Access to Koh Maithon is usually through a chartered speedboat or catamaran from Phuket, which can be arranged by the resort or local tour operators.
Explore the Racha islands and Maithond island in a one-day tour.
6. Coral Island - must visit island near Phuket
Coral Island also known as Koh He famous for its two beautiful beaches, Long Beach and Banana Beach. Both beaches offer the bluest water you will ever see in your life. It is only 15 minutes away from Phuket on a speedboat.
What to do
- Engage in activities on Banana Beach such as banana boating, snorkeling, swimming, and many sports activities that visitors can pay to do.
- If you want to escape the crowd, take a 15-minute walk on the trail to Long Beach where there are no activities but many shady trees, and a more quiet beach.
- Have delicious meals at restaurants all over the island.
Where to stay
There is one resort on Coral Island called the Coral Island Resort located in Long Beach. Those who wish to explore the beautiful island without all the other tourists present. We recommend staying the night to catch the sunset or sunrise and see the island in its full glory.
How to get to Coral Island
Similarly, visitors can charter a private longtail boat or speedboat from Chalong Pier and Rawai or join a half-day trip to Coral Island.
You can book the half-day trip to Coral Island on a sailing yacht here.
Another interesting activity we found is to go on a half-day tour to Coral Island and finish off with a romantic cruise at Phromthep Cape.
7. Koh Yao Yai and Koh Yao Noi (Yao Islands)
The Yao Islands are comprised of over 40 islands, however, only two of those are big enough and are inhabited. Koh Yai Yai and Koh Yao Noi are two underrated islands of Thailand that have not yet been overtaken by tourists. Apart from the quick island hopping tours visiting one of the beaches, the two islands offer exploration of the Thai slow island lives without the crazy beach parties.
What to do
- Rent a scooter to drive around Koh Yao Noi to see waterfalls, viewpoints, hidden beaches, cafes, restaurants, and beautiful green rice fields.
- Enjoy a nice cool beer on the beach to a book.
- Explore the islets nearby during low tide.
Where to stay
There are hotels, resorts, and restaurants on both islands, but Koh Yao Noi is more developed and has more infrastructure such as restaurants and cafes. Some hotels on Koh Yao Noi include:
- Koh Yao Seaview Bungalow
- Baan I Ta Lay Koh Yao Noi
- Tha Khao Bay View
How to get to Koh Yao Yai and Koh Yao Noi
Getting to Koh Yao Yai and Koh Yao Noi are fairly easy. Ferries are leaving Phuket from Bang Rong Pier every hour to Koh Yao Noi. From that, if you wish to visit Koh Yao Yai, there are longtail boats that will leave with as less as 3 passengers.
Travelers can also charter a speedboat for the full day to Yao Yai and Yao Noi Island with the freedom to explore till you are ready to head home. Are you interested in chartering a boat to Koh Yao Yai and Koh Yao Noi? Send us a message on WhatsApp (+66)95-5048282
8. Coconut island
Coconut Island or Koh Maprao is located 5 minutes on a longtail boat from Phuket. This quiet island is home to some beautiful resorts, beautiful beaches, and mangrove forests. The island is full of tall coconut trees which gave it the name Coconut Island.
What to do
- Explore the local fishing village
- Kayaking the blue water of Coconut Island.
- Go fishing on one of the local’s boat
- Chill on the the island’s east coast beach which is the nicest beach on the island.
Where to stay
Due to the island’s extreme proximity to Phuket, staying the night might not be worth it. But if you want to wake up on a deserted island with no visitors, you have multiple options. "The Village at Coconut Island" is a 5-star resort offering a relaxing stay. Another option is the beach resort at Jindarin, which provides boat service to guests.
How to get to Coconut Island
Visitors from Phuket can take a longtail boat from the east coast of Phuket from Laem Hin pier and the boat ride takes 5 minutes.
9. Koh Naka
The Naka Islands are comprised of two beautiful islands, the Naka Yai, and Naka Noi islands, both boasting white sands, and blue water that are not disturbed by many people. Considered a hidden gem, the Naka Yai is partially exclusive being home to two luxury resorts that have garnered many great reviews.
What to do
- Sunbathing, swimming, and beach walk on Naka Yai’s wide sandy beaches.
- Learn about pearl cultivation and shop for pearls in Naka Noi.
- Kayaking and snorkeling in the clear waters around the islands.
Where to stay
The Naka Island, a Luxury Collection Resort and spa, offers upscale accommodation with private villas.
How to get to Koh Naka
Both islands are accessible via a short boat ride from Ao Po Pier on Phuket’s northeast coast. Private boat hires and organized tours are available. Most visit the islands through organized tours to Phang Nga Bay.
10. James Bond Island
Internationally famous due to its feature in the James Bond movie 'The Man with the Golden Gun,' this iconic island is part of the Ao Phang Nga National Park and is known for its striking limestone karst formations.
What to do
- Explore the unique geological formations and take memorable photos.
- Paddle around the island and nearby caves and lagoons.
- Shop the seashell arts and crafts from the local vendors.
- Visit the surrounding islands and attractions within Phang Nga Bay.
- Climb to a viewpoint on Khao Phing Kan to get a fantastic shot of James Bond Island.
Where to stay
There are no accommodation options on James Bond Island itself. Visitors typically stay in Phuket or Krabi and visit the island as part of a day trip.
How to get to James Bond Island
Getting to James Bond Island, the only options are to either charter a boat or join a day trip to James Bond Island and other islands in the surrounding area.
We recommend this highly rated James Bond Island + Khai Island + Hong Island + Panyi Island day tour
There you have it, 9 beautiful islands near Phuket to give you post-card holiday experiences with white sand beaches and crystal blue water.
Some not-so-near islands from Phuket
If you really want to go off the radar or I guess in this sense means to not be trampled by the crowds, your best options are some islands that are further away from Phuket. If you are in Krabi or Trang, these islands are within easy reach, but if you're a fighter and a few extra hours on the bus or ferries won't scare you, Read on to learn about the other three beautiful islands.
11. Koh Lanta
Located off the coast of Krabi, Koh Lanta is a laid-back island with a big community of Thai-Chinese and Thai-Muslim settlers. This island is not fully explored and is considered an undiscovered gem by many. If you enjoy seeing fewer people, getting to know the community, and being surrounded by the tranquil nature, then Koh Lanta should be on your list.
What to do
- Take a walk through the old town interact with the friendly locals and taste local cuisines.
- Spend a lazy afternoon at Nui Beach and Long Beach
- Go diving with a diving or snorkeling tour.
- Visit Koh Lanta’s National Park to hike the trails, visit a lighthouse, and stay on the beaches.
- Attend beach bars and watch the sun go down with your favorite cocktails
Where to stay
There are plenty of places to stay on Koh Lanta. We recommend staying in these areas:
- Khlong Nin: Stay at Khlong Nin for a white sand beach and bars.
- Long Beach: Also has many accommodations, restaurants, and bars.
- Kantieng Bay: The most exclusive
How to get to Koh Lanta
Visitors can take a 1.5-hour speedboat from Rassada Pier to Saladan Pier in Koh Lanta. Another option is to take a ferry from Phuket to Koh Lanta, cruising past Maya Bay and a pit stop at Phi Phi Island. The journey takes around 4 hours. Read more about how to travel to Koh Lanta from Phuket by bus, ferry, and speedboat.
*Note: The general rule of thumb when it comes to traveling the sea in Thailand is to try to stay clear of any form of boat ride during the rainy and windy season leaving you with a window between December and May as the best time to visit.
12. Koh Muk
Also located in the Andaman Sea, Koh Muk is in Trang Province and offers a less crowded option compared to islands like Phi Phi islands and Phuket. It boasts white beaches and a secluded lifestyle with the locals.
What to do
- Hike a jungle trail to the secluded Sabai Beach with a quick stop at a viewpoint.
- Rent a scooter and explore the entire island in a few hours.
- Explore the Emerald Cave with a hidden beach inside. Most people visit the cave through 4 islands hopping tour from Trang.
- Relax on the Sivalai Beach
- Snorkel at Koh Ngai
Where to stay
There are a bunch of accommodations for every price range. To save some money, check out the Koh Mook Hostel. Or stay at Mook Ing Lay for a mid-range price. Or splurge on a nicer and luxurious hotel at the Sivalai Beach Resort.
How to get to Koh Mook
The fastest option is obviously if you’re already in Trang Province from Kuan Thung Ku pier. But if you are visiting from Phuket Rassada Pier, ferries can take around 2 to 3 hours.
13. Koh Poda
Koh Poda is among a group of islands near Krabi that was later popularized by tour operators. The island is still very nice and relaxing to visit.
What to do
- Spot the dramatic backdrop of limestone cliffs protruding from the water.
- Snorkel with the colorful school of fishes.
- Sunbathe on the white sandy beach with a cooling drink
Where to stay
There has not been any construction of hotels and resorts on Koh Poda. Therefore, visitors usually take a long-tail boat to Koh Poda as a half-day or full-day trip and return to the mainland.
How to get to Koh Lanta
As mentioned, longtail boats from Ao Nang Krabi leave for Koh Poda daily. Unfortunately, there is no information on boats or ferries from Phuket to Koh Lanta.
*Tips: If you are in Krabi, we highly recommend joining a day tour of 4 islands that includes Koh Poda, Koh Muk, Koh Kai, Koh Tup, and Koh Si.
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