6 Islands not to be missed from Phuket
It's time for some island hopping!
Phuket, Thailand's largest island, is renowned for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rich cultural heritage. But while Phuket is Thailand's largest island, visitors to Phuket rarely stop at just the main island. A visit to Phuket is rarely complete without also island-hopping to the many islands nearby. Planning your island-hopping trip? Let's take a look at some of the islands to visit!
1. Phi Phi Islands
Arguably the most famous island destination near Phuket, the Phi Phi Islands remain crowded and highly touristy - but their popularity isn't without reason.
The Phi Phi Islands are a group of six islands, with Phi Phi Don being the largest and only inhabited hub. Its popularity with travelers means you can expect a lively, bustling atmosphere packed with shops, resorts, restaurants, and bars. The smaller islands, like Phi Phi Leh and Bamboo Island, are famous for their crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and world-class snorkeling spots.
The crown jewel of the Phi Phi Islands is undoubtedly Maya Bay, a breathtaking beach sheltered by towering limestone cliffs. To protect this fragile paradise from the impacts of overtourism, Thailand's Department of National Parks heavily regulates access.
Note : Maya Beach be closed for its annual environmental and safety recovery from August 1 to September 30, 2026.
Keep in mind that strict conservation rules are enforced year-round: boats are completely banned from entering or docking in the bay itself (dropping visitors off at a pier around the back instead), swimming in the bay is strictly prohibited (visitors may only wade ankle-deep for photos), and tourists must enter using the park’s digital e-ticketing and facial recognition entry gates.
Visit the Phi Phi Islands on these tours:
Phi Phi Island Day Trip from Phuket (Klook): from USD 37.75
Phi Phi Islands Day Tour from Phuket (Viator): from USD 51.91
Maya, Phi Phi, and Bamboo Island with Buffet Lunch (Get Your Guide): from USD 57
2. Similan Islands
For nature enthusiasts and diving aficionados, the Similan Islands are a must-visit destination. Located approximately 70 kilometers northwest of Phuket, this archipelago is renowned for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant coral reefs.
Compared to Phuket, the Similan Islands are highly preserved, offering a raw natural experience. As a protected national park, they provide unparalleled diving with visibility up to 40 meters. However, visitors must plan around strict conservation rules:
Seasonal Closure: The park is completely closed for monsoon safety and ecosystem recovery from May 15 to October 15, 2026.
Day Trips Only: Overnight stays on the islands are permanently banned to protect the ecosystem.
Book Ahead: Because daily visitor numbers are capped to protect the environment, make sure to pre-book your tour e-tickets well in advance of your visit (especially after the park reopens on October 15, 2026).
Visit the Similan Islands on these tours:
Similan Islands Full Day-Tour (Klook): from USD 78.96
Similan Islands Tour From Phuket (Viator): from USD 89
Similan Islands Early Bird Day Trip (Get Your Guide): from USD 122
3. Koh Racha Islands
Situated just a short boat ride from Phuket, the Koh Racha Islands, also known as Racha Yai and Racha Noi, offer a tranquil escape from the crowds.
Racha Yai is the larger and more developed of the two islands, boasting powdery white sands, turquoise waters, and excellent snorkeling and diving sites. In contrast, Racha Noi remains largely uninhabited, providing pristine beaches and untouched natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for a secluded retreat.
If you are looking for a relatively quiet place from Phuket for snorkelling or scuba diving, Racha Islands are a great option away from the crowds, but still offering amenities and opportunities for land activities.
Visit the Koh Racha Islands on these tours:
Racha & Coral Islands Day Tour by Speedboat (Klook): from USD 39.48
Full-Day Racha Noi & Racha Yai Snorkeling from Phuket (Viator): from USD 97.71
Coral and Racha Islands Day Trip by Speedboat (Get Your Guide): from USD 69
4. Koh Yao Islands
For those seeking an authentic Thai island experience away from the tourist crowds, the Koh Yao Islands offer a serene and laid-back atmosphere. Comprising Koh Yao Noi and Koh Yao Yai, these islands are located in the Phang Nga Bay, accessible by a scenic boat ride from Phuket.
Compared to Phuket Island, the Koh Yao islands are much less commercialised, retaining characteristics of a traditional Thai island. Find picturesque fishing villages, lush mangrove forests, rice paddy fields, and traditional wooden houses on these islands.
Take advantage of the natural beauty of these islands by renting a two-wheeler. If you’re not exploring, you can kayak, snorkel, or dive in their aquamarine waters.
To visit the Koh Yao Islands:
The best way to get to the Koh Yao Islands is to take a longtail boat or ferry from the Bang Rong pier on the East Coast of Phuket. Ferries run multiple times each day, and you can check ferry timings and prices on 12Go.
5. Koh Bon
Koh Bon is a small, picturesque island that is just a 15-minute boat ride away from Phuket. It is one of the closest and most accessible destinations, making it perfect for a half-day trip.
Despite its proximity to Phuket, this island, covered in lush greenery and small sandy coves, remains mostly untouched with its abundant flora and fauna. It’s also an excellent spot for snorkeling as its waters are full of bustling marine life.
There are many longtail taxis that depart from Rawai Beach that you can take to access the island.
6. James Bond Island (Official Name - Khao Phing Kan)
For cinema lovers and sightseeing enthusiasts, James Bond Island is an essential stop. Located approximately 25 kilometers northeast of Phuket, this stunning landmark in Phang Nga Bay is world-renowned for its towering limestone karsts, emerald-green waters, and dramatic sea caves that seem to defy gravity.
Unlike the bustling beaches of Phuket, these islands are highly protected, offering visitors a truly cinematic atmosphere. Designated as part of the Ao Phang Nga National Park, the site - consisting of Khao Phing Kan and the iconic freestanding Ko Ta Pu needle rock - provides unparalleled photography opportunities against breathtaking backdrops.
The pristine nature of the bay, hidden lagoons, and unique geological formations solidify its status as one of the most famous and evocative coastal destinations in all of Thailand.
How to visit the islands from Phuket
If you are planning to visit an island that is just off the shores of Phuket, longtail taxis are often a good option. You can easily get one from the beaches around Phuket to help you get to the small, neighbouring islands.
If you are planning to visit an island that is farther out, longtail taxis might not be able to get you there. Instead, you will need to look for ferry or speedboat options. You can also consider joining an island-hopping tour or a day tour to the islands.
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