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Phuket is the shiniest and most perfect pearl in Thailand’s tiara of exotic islands. Travellers and adventurers alike find themselves captivated by the stunning turquoise Andaman Sea. The pristine white beaches and lush green forests provide the perfect getaway while the nightlife has a thrilling vibe of its own. The islands of Phuket are vibrant and offer a multitude of experiences ranging from exploring its rich history, to diving into its depths to witness the magic of corals or simply relaxing with loved ones in one of the most beautiful locations in the world.
10 Enthralling Islands near Phuket
Thailand will fill your senses with its freshness, emerald landscapes and sparkling blue waters. These 10 islands near Phuket are a must-visit if you wish to soak in the spirit of Thailand.
1. Koh Phi Phi Islands
Photo: Michelle Maria / Wikimedia Commons
The Koh Phi Phi archipelago is located in southeast Phuket at a distance of around 46 kilometres. It constitutes Koh Phi Phi Don, Koh Phi Phi Le and four other smaller islands. Ko Phi Phi Don is the largest island and thus boasts grand restaurants and resorts which add to the overall experience of the tourists. It is predominantly made of limestone and owes its spectacular scenery to its twin bays, Tonsai Beach and Loh Dalum Beach. The smooth white sands encircling Maya Bay and Loh Samah Bay look more heavenly owing to the presence of tall, limestone cliffs.
Best Time To Visit: November to April
How To Reach: The ferry costs 550 THB One way. Speedboats cost 850 THB one way.
Things To Do: Snorkelling, Riding the waves in a speedboat, scuba diving, hiking, kayaking, and lazing around on the spectacular beaches.
Suggested Read: Things To Do In Phuket For A Memorable Vacation
2. Similan Islands
Photo: Electrostatico / Wikimedia Commons
Nine Islands together form the pristine Similan Islands which are located 85 kilometres northwest of Phuket. Nature lovers will adore the long coral beaches and crystal clear waters. The seas around it are replete with endangered and rare marine life. It is one of the most beautiful scenery in the entirety of Phuket.
Best Time To Visit: December to January. The park remains closed from 16 May to 14 Oct as the weather conditions are rough during that time.
How To Reach: Take the ferry to Ko Similan, then walk to Similan Islands. Similan Island is a convenient one-day trip from Phuket.
Things To Do: Donald Duck Bay offers a beautiful view and an interesting hike. Snorkel to enjoy the diverse marine species.
3. Khao Phing Kan
Photo: Diego Delso / Wikimedia Commons
Khao Phing Kan means “Hills leaning against each other” in Thai. Also famous as the James Bond Island after it was selected for the movie “The Man with the Golden Gun”. It is located in Phang Nga Bay Northeast of Phuket. The islands have limestone Karst towers and are situated 45 kilometres northeast of Phuket. A boat ride in the alluring Phang Nga Bay will prove to be an unforgettable experience. Both nature lovers and movie enthusiasts will enjoy a trip to this island immensely.
Major Attractions: The Ko Tapu or the James Bond rock, the Khao Phing Kan caves, Ao Phang-Nga Park.
How To Reach: Take a bus from Phuket to Ao Po Pier. From Ao Po Pier take a ferry to Koh Naka Yai. Again from Koh Nakha Yai take an on-demand ferry to Khao Phing Kan. A day trip from Phuket to Khao Phing Kan takes between 8 to 9 hours.
Suggested Read: Amazing Places To Visit In Phuket On Your Next Vacation
4. Koh Bon
Photo: Dawn in Phuket / Wikimedia Commons
The closest island to Phuket is a marvellous piece of land around 1.2 km long. It lies just 1.6 kilometres southeast of Phuket and is a mere fifteen minutes away by boat. Wildlife and marine life are aplenty here for animal lovers who are seeking the company of these wonderful beings amid peaceful surroundings.
Where To Eat: The Bon Island restaurant
5. Surin Island
Photo: Armiblue / Wikimedia Commons
Surin Island is around 183 kilometres northwest of Phuket. Boats carry visitors to the national park in the months between November to May. Staying in tents, bungalows or even your boat will be a classic adventure. The rustic ambience to the islands is courtesy of the Moken people who used to be sea gypsies in the bygone era. Not many people manage to visit this island so it will be amazing to enjoy the tranquillity of the place.
Tip: If you plan your trip in November, you will be witness to an awesome cultural fest complete with an elephant parade.
Things to do: Tour the serene island at your own pace, Dive or Snorkel in the clear water to see beautiful species of marine beings, indulge in shopping and buy handmade baskets at Ban Buthom Basketry Village.
Suggested Read: Everything Travellers Need To Know About Phuket Nightlife
6. Maiton Island
Photo: Phuket@photographer.net / Wikimedia Commons
Maiton is a small gem of an island lying off the east coast of Phuket. It is also known as Honeymoon Island as it remains untouched and unspoiled. It is privately owned by one of the princesses of Thailand so you should visit it on a tour boat which may also provide lunch on the beautiful golden beach.
Major Attractions: Snorkelling and swimming in the glorious private waters minutes boat ride away from Phuket is a huge thrill in itself. Hiking will give you a great viewpoint from which you can drink in the beautiful sights of Nam-Hong Bay and Chong Lom Bay.
7. Koh Lanta
Photo: Marcin Konsek / Wikimedia Commons
A ferry will take approximately one and a half hours to transport you from Phuket to Koh Lanta which lies in the southeast direction. Seven gorgeous beaches perfect for family time and watching great sunsets are located near the Baan Saladan village. The area is spotted with restaurants, hotels and resorts which are mostly located bang on the beach.
Beaches To Hit: Klong Dao, Phra Ae, Klong Khong, Kantiang are some of the beaches which will make your trip to Thailand a dream come true.
Things To Do: This fairyland is replete with coral reefs and smooth waters. Whether you are hiking in the green jungles, snorkelling or enjoying the beautiful scenery, you are guaranteed to have the best time of your life.
Suggested Read: Top Serene Beaches In Phuket To Visit On Your Next Vacation
8. Racha Island
Photo: Nicolas Vollmer / Wikimedia Commons
The twin islands of Racha, namely, Koh Racha Yai (Big) and Koh Racha Noi( Little) have glorious white sand and crystal clear turquoise water. They are located just 12 kilometres south of Phuket and will transport you to an entirely different realm which will offer you a beautiful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
How To Reach: Day trip tours from Chalong Pier are the best way to explore these pristine islands.
What To Do: Do not miss out on an amazing Snorkelling and Diving experience when you get there. On the other hand, lazing around and having the most of the remarkable scenery is also a good thing to do.
9. Koh Khai
Photo: Yothind / Wikimedia Commons
Three gorgeous islands, Khai Nai, Khai Nok, and Khai Nui, are located around ten kilometres from Phuket. A boat will transport you to island hopping, and you will be bound to admire such incredible natural beauty. Watersports such as snorkelling and swimming are quite popular here. Because the water is shallow along the coast, swimmers are pleased to see schools of colourful fish swimming beside them fearlessly.
Tip: Khai Nok will be more suitable for families as it has restrooms and also provides loungers and umbrellas.
Things To Do: Snorkel, Swim, Shop for shell jewellery and have a whale of a time.
Suggested Read: Amazing Places To Visit In Phuket With Family On Your Next Vacation
10. Koh Yao
Photo: Tom Ek / Wikimedia Commons
Your search for a secluded, tropical vacation ends here at this tranquil, quiet island. The people of this island are very warm and welcoming though partying into the night is not their style. You can spend your time here feeling close to nature and to your loved ones. Hiking, and strolling in the laidback villages will take you back in time when you could hear birds and crickets chirping.
Best Time To Visit: November to March
Things To Do: Swimming, Cycling, Hiking, Rock Climbing and Kayaking in bewitching surroundings will relax your mind and body.
How To Reach: Speed boats will ferry you to this magical location within thirty minutes from Bang Rong pier in Phuket. It will cost you 400 to 500 THB. SlowerLongtail boats are also available at cheaper rates.
Islands near Phuket are immensely beautiful and seem like heaven on earth. Clear blue or green waters of the Andaman Sea are rich in corals and offer an unforgettable marine life experience. You can book a wonderful vacation with TripXl and reap the benefits of the myriad ways in which God has endowed Thailand. A visit to some of these islands near Phuket will enrich your life and soul.
Cover Photo: Sergii Figurnyi / Shutterstock
