Phuket is just the largest island out of around 30 islands that are within an hour or two trip off the island. Each has unique charms, great beaches, snorkelling. Some have exceptional accommodation for a longer stay as well. These are some the best known locations. Click the link at the end of the article to find many more excellent day trips from Phuket.
1. Phi Phi Islands
The Phi Phi Islands – principally Koh Phi Phi Don and Koh Phi Phi Lee – are always listed in the top destinations in the region. It’s a group of 6 stunning islands that offers some of the best Instagrammable experiences for the whole family.
Phi Phi Don is the largest and only inhabited island in the archipelago, and is divided into three main areas – Laem Thong, the main village that’s filled with shops, restaurants, bars, and hotels; the idyllic beach that hosts only a few exclusive resorts; and the southern coast which has a few hotels backed by a jungle.
From the main island, you can go to Phi Phi Leh which has great snorkelling spots with colourful marine creatures. Here you can visit the iconic Maya Bay and the stunning Phi Leh Lagoon.
2. Racha Islands
The Racha Islands have two main islands – Racha Yai and Racha Noi, located about 20 kilometres south of Phuket. They are ideal snorkelling and diving destinations with plenty of colourful fish in the surrounding seas. Racha Yai is the only island with accommodation options, including a few restaurants and bars.
The duo has deep blue waters, white sands and verdant vegetation – a great visit for a day, or longer if you wish.
3. Coral Island
Coral Island is the easiest and most convenient island to visit. It’s a small island, only 15 minutes off Chalong Pier, or easy to get to from any of the eastern ports.
The diverse, and easily accessible, marine life in the area makes it one of the favourite day trip options amongst travellers. There are two main beaches – Long Beach and Banana Beach – both on the north side on the island.
It has a few restaurants and bars to cater to the tourist crowd during the day. But there’s also a few beautiful “secret spots” away from the crowd at the extreme ends of each beach – your tour guide will where to take you 🙂
4. Koh Panyi Island Village
Koh Pan Yi is a unique village-archipelago on Phang Nga Bay, and a must-visit attraction when you’re in Phuket. The island is made up of a small town built on stilts over the water. The island village is a popular stop for island hopping tours in Phang Nga Bay and the number of restaurants and shops here reflect that. A bit touristy these days but still worthy of a visit, particularly if you have a drone to capture a view from above.
5. Koh Yao Islands
The islands, Koh Yao Noi and Koh Yao Yai, situated on the western side of Phang Nga Bay, just off Phuket.
The more developed Koh Yao Nao has several accommodation options from budget to luxury. Compared to Phuket, the Koh Yao islands are almost pristine and are suitable locations if you’re looking for something more authentic. There are a few bars and restaurants the beautiful coastline where you can dine in and entertain.
They both have a small community of Muslim farmers and fishermen as evidenced by the rice paddy fields, traditional wooden houses and buffalos on the islands.
6. Similan Islands
The Similans comprise of 9 islands making up the Marine National Park.
It will take you about 2 hours to get to the jetty, about 80 kilometres to the north of Phuket, but since they are totally undeveloped, they offer an unforgettable natural experience for visitors.
The islands are ranked among the top 10 best dive sites in the world thanks to their untouched nature, bright blue waters, and diverse wildlife both on land and under the sea. People rave about their visit to the Similans and you’ll have a great time, diving or just relaxing.
If you want to make a booking to visit any of these islands from Phuket, send 5 Star Marine a message, and check out some of their many other popular destinations for visitors.
