5 Best Islands Surrounding Phuket
If you’re living in Phuket and haven’t explored the surrounding islands you’re doing it wrong!! Phuket is home to so many beautiful islands and is open for exploring, so let us help you by starting you off.
Phi Phi Islands
Your first place of exploration is the Phi Phi Islands. Located in the Andaman Sea, off the east coast of Phuket. They are some of the most popular tourist destinations in Southeast Asia, and for good reason: they’re beautiful and unique, with dozens of small islands to explore.
The Phi Phi Islands can be easily reached by ferry from Phuket’s main port, about an hour-and-a-half drive away. It takes around two hours to reach the main island (Ko Phi Phi Don). Travellers should arrive at least two hours before departure so they can check into their rooms and find a spot on the boat if needed.
There are several different types of tours available to further your exploration! Such as snorkelling tours, sunset cruises, and day trips to nearby islands… it really depends on what you’re interested in seeing and doing or not doing! It is a gorgeous location so doing nothing but taking in the scenery is welcome!
The Similan Islands
The Similan Islands are an incredible place to visit and experience. The islands are home to a diverse array of wildlife, including monkeys, elephants, and bears. And they’re also home to some of the best snorkelling in the world!
The Similan Islands are located at the southern tip of Phuket Province. They’re just over an hour’s drive from Phuket City. You can take a day trip out there on your own or book a tour with your hotel, which will include transportation, snorkelling gear, and lunch at one of their restaurants.
If you want to go further afield than just exploring the islands themselves, there are plenty of other activities you can do while you’re there: kayaking in nearby Phi Phi National Marine Park; hiking through the lush jungle; diving into cool caves underwater; taking a hike up a volcano overlooking the ocean; climbing Mount Phaya Nga (one of Thailand’s most popular tourist attractions), or just relaxing by the beach all day long!
Racha Island
Racha Island is located in the South China Sea, south of Phuket. It’s a tropical paradise that is accessible by ferry or plane, with some guests staying as long as six weeks.
The island is known for its beautiful beaches and clean water—the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of busy cities.
If you’re visiting Racha Island, consider visiting nearby Phu Quoc Island. It’s only a short boat ride away and has its own unique charm: ocean views, colourful fish in the ocean, and unique rock formations. You can also swim with sharks at My Son Bay on Phu Quoc Island!
Maiton Island
Maiton Island is located in southern Thailand, five kilometres from Phuket City. To get there, you can take a plane or take a coach. The island is 900 meters high and has lots of trees, rocks and waterfalls. In the south, there is a large golf course, which makes it a beautiful location for photo shoots. There are also many beautiful beaches on the island, if you enjoy swimming, Maiton Island is perfect. It is an incredibly relaxing place. There are many quiet locations to spend time with friends or family, and enjoy snacks from local restaurants with several different foods to choose from!
Koh Khai
Koh Khai is a magnificent place to explore and discover. It is one of the few places in Thailand that has not been fully paved with cement sidewalks. As you walk down the main, it is easy to imagine what this town was like centuries ago. The main attraction is Turtle Island. It’s an exciting opportunity for those who wish to watch the beautiful sea turtles nesting on this small island. Other activities include exploring nearby caves or visiting the museum dedicated to General Yam Sommathat. You can also view the archaeological finds of dinosaur bones found nearby in the little caves. The beach at Koh Khai has a lovely sandbar at sea level, no one can resist sitting on this bar stool after a long day of swimming, sunning and exploring. Enjoy some Thai food as you sip on your tropical drink and have a massage next to one of the most photographed views in Thailand, the sunset over the South China Sea.
