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Day Trips from Phuket

The 9 Best Day Trips from Phuket, Thailand

day trips from phuket

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When in Phuket, make the most of Southern Thailand's natural features. White-sand beaches, placid mangrove coasts, old-growth rainforest, and superb underwater landscapes can all be found close to the island.

Located in the neighboring provinces of Phang Nga, Surat Thani, and Krabi, this list of Phuket day trips includes some hyper-popular places like Phang Nga Bay and Koh Phi Phi, as well as off-the-beaten-path stops such as Cheow.

Phang Nga Bay: Striking Limestone Islands

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Ao Phang Nga National Park’s 100-plus limestone islands look almost alien in origin, with gravity-defying spires and steep, jungle-carpeted peaks rising from the sea.

Many day trips to Phang Nga Bay include a photo op at Koh Tapu, famous for its cameo role in a James Bond movie ; kayaking through Koh Panak and Koh Hong’s sea caves; and a lunch stopover at the Muslim fishing village of Koh Panyee.

Getting there: Tours of Phang Nga bay usually originate from Bang Rong Pier .

Travel tip: Leave in the early morning or mid-afternoon to avoid the tourist crush. Most trips to Phang Nga take place over a few hours in the middle of the day. 

Khao Sok National Park: Jungle Adventures

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The rebels that camped out in Khao Sok’s jungles in the 70s and 80s unwittingly saved it from deforestation. The jungle today is unspoiled and spectacular—with waterfalls, caves, and rare animals that might occasionally cross your path!

Make the most out of the National Park’s 280-plus square miles by kayaking down the Sok River through almost impenetrable rainforest; walking down jungle trails to Khao Sok’s scenic waterfalls; or braving Nam Talu Cave’s 2,700-foot-long passage.

Book your park adventure at the Visitor Center near Khao Sok’s main entrance, or through the official site .

Getting there: Ride the bus to Surat Thani from Phuket’s Bus Terminal 2 ; get off at the park entrance near Khlong Sok Village. It’s a four-hour drive—the earlier you leave, the better. (Private tours leave before dawn.)

Travel tip: Khao Sok receives the most rainfall in all of Thailand, so plan your trip around the area’s dry season from December to April .  

Koh Phi Phi: Beaches & “The Beach”

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While Koh Phi Phi is one of Thailand’s most famous beach destinations, the crowds heading there have taken a bit of the shine off. Still, its close access to Phuket and gorgeous white-sand beaches remain a potent draw for Phuket visitors.

Six islands make up Koh Phi Phi, including Koh Phi Phi Don, home of Monkey Beach’s macaques and Laem Thong’s dazzling white sands. As the main port for the islands, the village of Tonsai Bay on Koh Phi Phi Don will be your first stop; the town is replete with budget resorts and restaurants.

Getting there: Ferries from Phuket’s Rassada Pier depart three times daily (four in high season) to make the two-hour trip to Tonsai Bay.

Travel tip: Ko Phi Phi Le, whose Maya Bay served as a backdrop for Leonardo DiCaprio’s star turn on The Beach, closed in 2018 due to overtourism; it is tentatively rescheduled to reopen in June 2021.

Khao Lak: Laid-Back Culture and Nature

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The town of Khao Lak is better known as a jump-off point to Similan and Ko Surin, but its natural attractions and cultural cachet make it worth a detour.

Start with the beaches—La On Village and nearby Nang Thong Beach are two of the most popular. Further inland, explore Khao Lak's national parks (Khao Lak Lam Ru and Thai Muang) along with their waterfalls and other natural wonders.

Closer to town, you’ll find the Bang Niang Night Market (open between 2 p.m. and 10 p.m. every Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday), and the International Tsunami Museum commemorating the 2004 tsunami that killed more than 4,000 in Khao Lak alone.

Getting there: Take the bus to Takua Pa from Phuket Bus Terminal 2; disembark when the bus passes through Khao Lak. Buses leave every hour for the 1.5-hour-long trip.

Travel tip: Visit during the Turtle Festival in the first week of March, when volunteers release turtle hatchlings at Thai Muang National Park Beach.  

Koh Similan: Diving & Snorkeling Destination

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The promise of excellent snorkeling and scuba diving is what draws adventure seekers to Mu Koh Similan National Park, which covers more than 87 square miles and is made up of 11 islands: most notably Koh Similan (Island Number 8), site of the scenic Sail Rock and white-sand beach; Koh Payu (Island No. 6), the Park’s best snorkeling spot; and lunch at Koh Miang (Island No. 4), with a chance to explore the island’s thick jungle cover.

Around the islands, a diverse collection of aquatic life can be seen by divers. Whale sharks are a common sight; their visits reach an absolute peak between January and March.

Getting there: Ride a bus from Phuket to Khao Lak (1.5 hours), where boats cover the distance from the pier to Koh Similan in a little over an hour. The park is only open during peak season, from October 16 to May 15.

Travel tip: Tourist entry to Koh Similan is highly regulated. Visitors need to purchase a Marine Park ticket before entering; package tour companies can take care of this for you, factoring the ticket price into the total package. 

Railay Peninsula: Rock Climbing Hotspot

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Rock climbers have made a mecca out of the limestone cliff faces of Railay Peninsula in Krabi Province. Some 700 bolted routes wind up Railay's cliffs and caves; local climbing shops provide ropes, chalk bags, and other essential gear in addition to conducting classes for beginners.

Diamond Cave Wall and the Pinnacle are two favorite spots for novice climbers, while more experienced climbers can try the challenging cliffs (and deepwater solo experience) at Tonsai. After your climb, relax at Phra Nang Beach or explore the sea by kayak.

Getting there: Take the Ao Nang Princess Ferry from Rassada Pier in Phuket to Railay. The trip takes a little over two hours, with a stopover at Ao Nang. Longtail boats can take you from the Railay pier to your preferred beach.

Travel tip: Peak climbing season occurs in the dry season from November to April.  

Cheow Lan Lake: Artificial Lake in a Rainforest

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This artificial lake is technically part of Khao Sok Park, but it deserves its own position as a day trip from Phuket. Created in 1987 to power a hydroelectric plant, Cheow Lan Lake is a 63-square-mile reservoir fringed by old-growth rainforest and studded with curious limestone formations.

A scenic lake tour of Cheow Lan crosses from one end of the lake to the other in two hours. Early-morning boat safaris glide along the shores to catch views of forest wildlife, including longtail macaques and great hornbills.

Getting there: Package tours can be arranged for early-morning departures from your Phuket hotel; the 110-mile trip will take three to four hours each way. The Ratchaprapha Dam marina hosts boats for lake trips and their booking offices.

Travel tip: Don't visit in the rainy season from May to November, as wildlife stops visiting the lake edge and chilly rains will completely dampen the boating experience. 

Takua Pa: Old Town and a "Little Amazon"

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The sleepy town of Takua Pa has a surprising history behind it. Like Phuket Town, Takua Pa grew rich off of the tin trade. The distinctive mansions (resembling those of both Phuket Town and Penang in Malaysia ) can be seen on Thanon Si Takua Pa and adjoining streets.

This town is famous for its khanom pia (Chinese cake), made at Tuangrat Taosor from a generations-old recipe. For a nature-based experience, ride a boat down Takua Pa’s “Little Amazon," a riverside mangrove forest thick with overgrowth and the occasional monkey and snake traipsing through the canopy!

Getting there: Take the bus to Takua Pa from Phuket Bus Terminal 2; these leave every hour, and take two hours to cover the distance.

Travel tip: Time your visit to coincide with Old Takua Pa Sunday Market and its collection of Thai street food . This market takes place every Sunday evening between November and May. 

Koh Surin: Best Diving in the Andamans

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Divers visiting Mu Koh Surin National Park can expect to see a rich proliferation of undersea life within the park’s 50-odd square miles. Any visit might bring you face-to-face with whitetip reef sharks, leatherback turtles, moray eels, and the occasional whale shark (the latter most commonly congregating at Richelieu Rock).

Above the water’s surface, visitors can swim at one of the park’s beaches; embark on a hiking tour into the interior; or visit a Moken “sea gypsy” village. The Visitor Center rents out snorkels, approves hikes, and provides camping facilities in the park.

Getting there: Private speedboat tours from Phuket are the best arrangements you can make. You can also go to Khao Lak on your own and arrange for a return boat trip from there.

Travel tip: Visit during peak diving season between December and April, when the water temperature and wind are at their best. Visit after February for your best chances of spotting large pelagic species in the waters.  

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The Best Day Trips from Phuket

Scuba diving sites, pristine beaches and world-famous filming locations are all just hours away from the biggest island in Thailand

Phuket may be beautiful and full of diverse attractions but, sometimes, an escape from the Pearl of the Andaman is in order. Whether you want to explore spectacular dive sites or simply lounge on a secluded island nearby, here are the best day trips from the largest island in Thailand .

Want to sit back and let someone else do all the planning for you? Join our 10-day island-hopping trip in Southern Thailand , curated by travel experts and led by a Local Insider.

Koh Phi Phi

day trips from phuket

Sunny skies and sublime sunsets are just a few things you can expect to find on Koh Phi Phi. Loads of ferries take eager visitors to one of the six islands. Long, white and dreamy beaches initially attract, but the epic nightlife will lure you to stay for more than just a day trip. Another reason to check out Koh Phi Phi is to see the infamous Maya Bay; that’s where The Beach (2001), starring Leonardo DiCaprio, was filmed.

day trips from phuket

A two-hour drive from the island of Phuket is Khao Lak. People often overlook it, but it has plenty to offer those who make the journey there. Quaint waterfalls pepper the area in addition to a number of parks, all of which are worth visiting. You can easily explore via a scooter, picking which natural wonders you wish to see. The area also sports some beautiful sandy stretches, including Hat Bang Niang and Hat Nang Thong.

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Similan Islands

day trips from phuket

Though a bit of a trek from Phuket, the Similan Islands are worth the journey. They’re made up of 11 isolated islands, all of which are within the Mu Koh Similan National Park, established in 1982. That national park status has kept the islands in pristine shape, perfect for those who want to dive. Some would even argue that the best dive sites in the entire world are found here, with marine life and crystal clear water galore.

Phang Nga Bay

day trips from phuket

Limestone cliffs do not get more beautiful than those found in Phang Nga Bay. You can take a boat from Phuket to visit this bay and spend an afternoon kayaking, sunning yourself on an otherwise secluded beach, or snorkelling through crystal clear water. Visit James Bond Island; it got the name by being a filming location for The Man With the Golden Gun (1974). Koh Panyee is another famous spot found at Phang Nga Bay.

Surin Islands

day trips from phuket

The Surin Islands have some of the top destinations for divers in the entire world. These five islands have abundant marine and incredible coral reefs, along with welcoming water for you to jump right into upon arrival. The dive and snorkelling sites are so pristine because they find themselves in the Mo Ko Surin National Park, which covers more than 140sqkm (54sqmi).

Koh Yao Noi

day trips from phuket

This secluded island is a perfect spot for those of you trying to escape the millions of tourists who flock to Phuket each year. Koh Yao Noi for taking on jungle terrain on foot, as there are a number of trails to meander. The island is only 13km (8mi) in length, and only about 3,000 people reside here.

Dive at the King Cruiser Wreck

day trips from phuket

Phuket is almost as gorgeous below the sea as it is above, which is why – if you have some time on you hands should – you should take a day to explore underwater. Located 32km (20mi) from Phuket is the King Cruiser Wreck, arguably the best dive site on the island. Dive shops will have all the equipment you need to take to the water at a fairly affordable price.

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9 Top-Rated Day Trips from Phuket

Written by Karen Hastings Mar 27, 2019 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Phuket sits amid some of the world's most ravishing scenery. Lush limestone peaks jut from the emerald Andaman Sea and punctuate the dense jungles on land, providing superb options for day trips. The most popular Phuket tours are multi-island boat tours, where you can skim the clear waters through towering rock formations on a speedboat or traditional longtail boat and explore nearby archipelagos.

Not far from all the things to do in Phuket lie the famous Phi Phi Islands , with Maya Bay and Monkey Beach, and Phang Nga Bay , home to the distinctive pinnacle made famous in a James Bond film. Further afield are the Similan Islands , a favorite diving location. All this beauty lures hordes of tourists, but just a short hop from Phuket are a few sleepy islands, where the locals still follow their traditional way of life, and you can step back in time and soak up a more authentic Thai vibe.

Eco adventures are also a highlight. In Khao Sok National Park , you can spend time with elephants; canoe down the serene Sok River; and trek through the jungle, where monkeys and gibbons swing through the treetops, and tigers and bears still roam. Find the best places to visit with our list of the top day trips from Phuket.

1. Phi Phi Islands

2. phang nga bay, 3. khao sok national park, 4. coral island, 5. racha islands, 6. khao lak, 7. mu ko similan national park, 8. koh yao yai, 9. koh yao noi, map of day trips from phuket.

Phi Phi Islands

Hands down the most popular day trip from Phuket are the Phi Phi Islands. About 45 to 60 minutes away by speedboat from the Royal Phuket Marina, these six dazzling islands are famous for their dramatic limestone karst formations, cloaked in lush foliage, which jut from the jade-green sea.

Here, you'll find famous sights, such as Maya Bay on Koh Phi Phi Ley, the location of the famous film The Beach, and Koh Phi Phi Don , the archipelago's only inhabited island. Packed with resorts, this island is famous for the crab-eating macaques at Monkey Beach and the white sands of Laem Thong . Snorkeling is excellent in the crystal-clear waters around the islands.

A great way to visit Phi Phi Island without the crowds is on the Morning Phi Phi Island with Maya Bay Snorkeling Tour. This 10-hour excursion departs at sunrise, arriving before the big tourist groups, and you'll have a chance to snorkel in the luminous waters of Maya Bay and see the macaques of Monkey Beach.

James Bond Island, Phang Nga Bay

More than 100 steep, jungle-cloaked rock islands dot the clear, green waters around Phang Nga Bay, creating a breathtaking seascape that is best viewed from the water. A large area of the bay is protected as the Ao Phang Nga National Park .

The most famous island is Koh Tapu (meaning "Nail Island" in Thai) more commonly known as James Bond Island, thanks to its distinctive top-heavy pinnacle made famous in the 1974 film The Man with the Golden Gun . Koh Ping Ghan is another popular stop and a great place to snap a photo of James Bond Island's famous rock formation.

Many boat tours also include a lunch stop at the Muslim fishing village of Koh Panyee, which is home to wooden shops and homes built on stilts above the island's fringing shallow waters. Other tour highlights include swimming at Naka Island and kayaking through the limestone sea caves or Hong ("rooms") at Koh Panak and Koh Hong . Try to pick a tour that leaves in the early morning or after lunch, as tourists clog the islands in the middle of the day.

A rewarding way to explore this breathtaking bay is on the ten-hour Hong by starlight tour with sea cave kayaking, which includes a powerboat ride from Phuket and a paddle around the caves and cliffs of Phang Nga Bay. Top off your day with a seafood buffet dinner under the moonlight.

If you also want to explore the beauty under the water, the eight-hour Phang Nga Bay Kayaking tour combines a kayaking tour with a chance to swim, snorkel (bring your own gear), and sunbathe at Lawa Island.

Cheow Lan Lake, Khao Sok National Park

About 150 kilometers from Phuket, Khao Sok National Park is a visual symphony. Lush greens, deep blue lakes, waterfalls, and towering limestone peaks provide eye-popping scenery, all set in 738 square kilometers of one of the planet's oldest rainforests. Nature lovers will be in heaven here. Favorite things to do include canoeing and kayaking down the Sok River, elephant experiences, exploring bat-filled caves, and jungle trekking.

Deep in the national park, man-made Cheow Lan Lake is a top attraction, with floating raft houses and luxury camps with tents perched on pontoons above the water. The park is home to diverse flora and fauna. Wildlife includes spectacled langurs, wild elephants, tigers, deer, boar, bear, and marbled cats. If you're lucky, you might even spot wild gibbons swinging through the jungle canopy. The park is also home to more than 300 species of birds, including the impressive hornbill.

This is one of Thailand's rainiest areas, so the best time to visit is during the dry season, from December through April.

Official site: http://www.khaosok.com/index.php

Coral Island

Called Koh Hae by the locals, Coral Island lies about six kilometers southeast of Phuket and is a popular day trip destination for snorkelers and beach lovers, although the coral here has seen better days. You'll find two lovely but typically crowded stretches of soft, white sand here: Long Beach , where many of the tour boats land, and Banana Beach , a rugged fifteen-minute walk through the jungle from the eastern end of Long Beach.

The day trippers who come here love to feed the many fish that congregate in the clear water, or kick out to the offshore coral reefs to snorkel with the tropical fish, including parrotfish, butterfly fish, and trumpet fish. Parasailing, kayaking, banana boat rides, and massages on the beach are other popular activities.

Deck chairs are available along the shore, and you can also enjoy a meal at one of the beachfront restaurants. This is one of the cheap Phuket tours that gives you a taste of a different island.

Racha Yai

Translucent turquoise water and white sands lure crowds of day trippers to the two Racha Islands, about 12 kilometers south of Phuket. Racha Yai (Big Racha) is the most popular, with its beautiful horseshoe-shaped bay, called Ao Tawan Tok, and luxury villa-style resort The Racha . Ao Siam, the island's other large bay, tends to be a little quieter. The main activities here are snorkeling and swimming in the warm, clear waters and basking on the white sands.

Racha Noi (Little Racha) is uninhabited and has no tourist infrastructure, but the surrounding waters offer some decent diving. Phuket sightseeing tours usually depart from Chalong Pier or Rawai, and the trip takes about 45 minutes to an hour, depending on the type of boat. This day trip is often combined with a stop at Coral Island.

Khao Lak

On the mainland, about 80 kilometers north of Phuket, laid-back Khao Lak features about 20 kilometers of silky golden-sand beaches stretching along the north Andaman coast. On the road trip from Phuket, you'll pass through quiet little coastal towns, which seem a world away from the crowds of the big resorts.

Devastated by the 2004 tsunami, much of Khao Lak has been rebuilt, and it's still a popular holiday destination in itself, with a much slower pace than Phuket. You'll find many upscale, low-rise resorts and a family-friendly vibe.

Day trippers will find plenty to do here. Top on the list is basking on the beautiful beaches, lapped by calm blue waters and lined with coconut palms, casuarinas, and rustic cafés. Lush mountains form a beautiful backdrop to the region, and three national parks, including Khao Sok , sprawl in the hinterland.

Popular attractions and things to do in the area include elephant encounters, bamboo rafting trips, waterfalls, tourist markets, and a tsunami memorial. Khao Lak is also an excellent jumping-off point to explore the relatively unspoiled Surin Islands and Similan Islands , with some of the region's best diving.

Soft coral colony, Similan Islands

About 90 kilometers offshore from Phuket, this 70-square-kilometer national park encompasses eleven uninhabited islands. It is usually the domain of avid divers and tourists hoping to escape the crowds of Phang-Na Bay and the Phi Phi Islands.

Despite their distance from Phuket (more than two hours each way in a speedboat), greater numbers of day trippers are visiting the Similan Islands, and their numbers tend to swell around lunchtime. The scenery is stunning - striking turquoise seas, white sand, and smooth granite boulders rim their shores, and hiking trails lead to lookouts in the lush hills behind the beaches.

Sharks, rays, and vast schools of smaller fish swim in these crystal-clear waters, but unfortunately some of the hard corals have been damaged by coral bleaching and the onslaught of tourist boats. In 2016, the Thai government closed one of the archipelago's most popular islands, Koh Tachai, indefinitely due to environmental damage.

Try to pick a calm day for a tour to the islands, as the return boat trip can be choppy when the winds pick up, and note that the park is only open from October 16 to May 15.

If you prefer a more remote outer island experience, the Surin Islands , north of the Similan Islands, are also accessible from Phuket, but it's a long day trip.

Official site: https://www.thainationalparks.com/mu-ko-similan-national-park

Koh Yao Yai

Only 20 kilometers east of Phuket (about 30 minutes by longtail boat), Koh Yao Yai ("big long island") offers Phuket day trippers a laid-back pace and a more traditional Thai vibe. Its peaceful, secluded white-sand beaches are one of its finest features; Loh Paret in particular is ideal for swimming, and Laem Had beach, on Yao Yai's northeast corner, is also lovely.

Rice fields, rubber plantations, and coconut groves cloak the countryside, and a single concrete road through the center of the island is the main thoroughfare. (Bicycles and motorbikes are the most popular modes of transport.) Most day trippers rent a motorbike to explore the island, stopping off to visit the little villages or take a cool dip in the sea.

Koh Yao Noi

Like its sister island (Koh Yao Yai) but a little more developed, Koh Yao Noi ("small long island") in Phang Nga Bay, feels like the slower-paced Thailand of 20 years ago. This island is farther away from Phuket, about one hour by long tail boat, but the views of Phang Nga Bay on the way are worth the extra travel time. The locals still follow their traditional way of life here, fishing, farming, and running small shops out of rustic buildings in the Muslim village.

Many travelers come here to escape the crowds of the big resorts, soak up some authentic local culture, and relax on the relatively clean palm-fringed beaches. Along the coast, you can see beautiful views of Phang Nga Bay's limestone rock formations rising from the sea.

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Beaches and Resorts: If you are traveling through this area of Thailand, chances are, you are a beach lover. For more inspiration, see our article where to find the Best Beaches in Thailand .

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THE 10 BEST Day Trips from Phuket

Day trips from phuket.

  • Phuket to Ko Phi Phi Don
  • Phuket to Ao Phang Nga National Park
  • Phuket to Phang Nga
  • Phuket to Chalong
  • Up to 1 hour
  • 1 to 4 hours
  • 4 hours to 1 day
  • 5.0 of 5 bubbles
  • 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • Chinese (Simplified)
  • Likely to Sell Out
  • Special Offers
  • The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

day trips from phuket

1. Phang Nga Bay Sea Cave Canoeing & James Bond Island w/ Buffet Lunch by Big Boat

day trips from phuket

2. Phi Phi Islands Adventure Day Trip with Seaview Lunch by V. Marine Tour

day trips from phuket

3. Luxury Small Group Phi Phi Sunrise from Phuket by Simba Sea Trips

day trips from phuket

4. Luxury Boat to James bond islands with lunch and sunset dinner

day trips from phuket

5. Jame Bond, Panyee Island, Hong Island and Naka Island by Speedboat From Phuket

day trips from phuket

6. Phi Phi & Khai Islands Snorkeling Trip w/ Lunch by Speedboat

day trips from phuket

7. Phuket City Tour: Karon View Point, Big Buddha & Wat Chalong (SHA Plus)

day trips from phuket

8. John Gray's Hong by Starlight with Sea Cave Kayaking and Loy Krathong Floating

day trips from phuket

9. YONA Beach Club Tour in Phuket Day

day trips from phuket

10. James Bond Island w/Canoeing and Lunch by Speedboat

day trips from phuket

11. Phi Phi Islands Day Tour from Phuket

day trips from phuket

12. Premium Phi Phi, bamboo island tour SpeedCatamaran

day trips from phuket

13. Phi Phi & Bamboo Islands Snorkeling Trip w/ Lunch by Speedboat

day trips from phuket

14. ️ Phuket Private Instagram Tour: All-Inclusive

day trips from phuket

15. Phi Phi Don, Phi Phi Lay, Khai Nai Snorkeling Tour from Phuket

day trips from phuket

16. Atv Big Buddha Phuket Viewpoint

day trips from phuket

17. Phuket: Full-Day Phi Phi Islands, Maiton island Trip by Speed Catamaran

day trips from phuket

18. Small Group Only 20 People - Phi Phi & Bamboo Islands and Maya Bay with Lunch

day trips from phuket

19. Phi Phi Island Private Boat Tour

day trips from phuket

20. Private Phi Phi & Khai Islands Snorkeling Trip w/ Lunch by Speedboat

day trips from phuket

21. James Bond Island Longtail Boat Tour (Private & All-Inclusive)

day trips from phuket

22. Full Day Tour in Similand Island

day trips from phuket

23. Travstore Original Phuket Discovery Tour - Shared Half Day City Tour

day trips from phuket

24. 4-Waters Eco-Adventure Trip from Phuket Including Lunch

day trips from phuket

25. Khai Island Half Day Tour in 3 Islands (Khai Nai,Khai Nok,Khai Nui) from Phuket

day trips from phuket

26. Phuket Best Experience City Tour (SHA Plus)

day trips from phuket

27. Hype Yacht : VIP Tour Phi Phi Island & Maya Bay from Phuket

day trips from phuket

28. Phang Nga Bay & James Bond Island with Canoeing By Big Boat From Phuket

day trips from phuket

29. Sunset Boat Trip To Phang Nga Bay & James Bond - Phuket Sail Tour

day trips from phuket

30. Day Trip to James Bond Island by Premium Speedboat includes National Park Fees

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21 Best Day Trips from Phuket

best day trips from Phuket

“ Sawasdee Kha ” and welcome to tropical paradise at every look and turn!

Fill your wanderlusting cups with the best day trips from Phuket ; take your pick from islands, jungle-scapes, National Parks that feel like different Earths and some of the world’s best scuba diving sites!

Cruise over to secret hideaways devoid of any crowd or boat-hop from Phuket over to iconic isles, like the emerald bays around Phang Nga and the famous Phi Phi Islands.

Trek in the footsteps of the famous at awe-inspiring filming locations … Float in warm tropical oceans so transparent you’ll pinch yourself to believe it’s real … Get ready for the type of beach scenes that have made Thailand the travel oasis it is!

Spend your day visiting local villages, kayaking through mangroves, dolphin-spotting, hiking to breathtaking viewpoints, snorkeling with turtles, or zenning out beneath the coconut trees.

Travel to your day-trip destination on a traditional longtail boat, cruise around by speedboat on a tour or charter a private catamaran to the island of your choice.

There’s a reason why Phuket is one of the best places to visit in Southeast Asia ; with paramount natural beauty waiting to be discovered!

Want to dive straight in? Browse our catalog now!

  • day trips from Phuket

1 – Dive around a Thailand Top 5 site in the Similan Islands

Similan Islands day trips from Phuket

If you’ve arrived in Thailand for a scuba diving-induced break, look no further than the Similan Islands — with some diving sites considered the best on the planet!

Comprising 11 pristine islands hardly touched by mankind, the beaches are deserted and the marine life is tenfold!

Scuba among sea fans, caverns, coral walls, gigantic rocks and oversized barrel sponges.

Manta rays and whale sharks are regulars to these waters, as well as dolphins and unique tropical species, including over 200 types of coral!

Beaches with massive oversized boulders act as tanning surfaces and create little rock pools.

There are 11 islets within the Similan, and these are often referred to simply by their number.

They are: Ko Huyong (Island/Koh 1), Ko Payang (2), Ko Payan (3), Ko Miang/Ko Meang (4), Ko Ha (5), Ko Payu (6), Ko Hin Pousar (7), Ko Similan (8), Ko Ba-ngu/Bayu (9), Ko Bon/Ko Talu (10) and Ko Tachai (11).

Epic scuba diving sites include:

  • Boulder City / Shark Fin Reef (near Island 3)
  • Anita’s Reef (around Island 5)
  • Deep Six (Island 7)
  • Beacon Point / Beacon Reef (by Koh 8)
  • Breakfast Bend and Christmas Point (at Koh 9)

Travel time: 1.5 hours via speedboat, 1 hour via ferry from Khao Lak

How to get there: Join a tour or catch a speedboat ride from Khao Lak near Phuket.

  • Similan Islands day trips from Phuket

2 – Snorkel among 12 types of tropical fish on the shorelines of the Khai Islands

Khai Islands day trips from Phuket

Get the most out of an island-hopping experience without veering too far from Phuket around the Khai Islands — feel free to leave your clocks buried in the sand because time isn’t of the essence!

Thanks to its east coast positioning, it’s a super popular destination. Made up of three islands in Phang Nga Bay, it’s one of the best boat trips in Phuket . This is the pristine crystal Thailand ocean you’ve been dreaming of …

Nicknamed “Egg Island,” Koh Khai Nok draws in the most crowds, dazzling all with its insanely transparent waters and beachfront dotted with rainbow-striped umbrellas.

Restaurants and beach bars keep visitors satisfied, and a cute market fair is in the center of Khai Nok.

Walk around Koh Khai Nai collecting seashells, order a cocktail from the beach reggae bar and whizz around the surrounding waters on a jet ski or banana boat.

Koh Khai Nui is less frequented, and doesn’t have much around in terms of facilities. However, because it sees the least amount of people, its reef thrives and is an oasis for keen snorkelers.

Travel time: 15 minutes = speedboat, 30 minutes = longtail boat ride

How to get there: Catch a speedboat or longtail boat from the Sirae, Laem Hin, Rasata and Ao Chalong and Bang Rong piers.

  • Khai Island day trips from Phuket

3 – Boat trip around the iconic Phi Phi Islands

Phi Phi Islands day trips from Phuket

The sunshine and good vibes never end around one of Thailand’s most famous archipelagos.

Rearing in travelers from near and far, the Phi Phi Islands is where the party is at, but there’s much more to this tropical paradise than just beach bars, fire shows and boozy buckets.

Technically, the Phi Phi Islands is an island group comprising two main islands and four smaller isles (Koh Mai Phai, Koh Yung, Koh Pida Nok and Koh Pida Nai).

Phi Phi Don (the largest) is the main tourist island, where backpackers, solo travelers, families and couples arrive directly from Phuket. A completely car-free zone, the roadsides are lined with restaurants, cafes, bars, tattoo shops and stores selling trinket troves of all things tye-dye, crystal necklaces, crochet bikinis, colorful beach towels, banana shirts, and, and, and!

  • Ferries and speed boats drop passengers at Tonsai Bay, but Loh Dalum Bay is the premier beach area.
  • Enjoy a walk along the coastline to Long Beach, or escape the crowds at Laem Thong Beach (on the north end).
  • For insane vistas of all the islands, head up to its Phi Phi Viewpoint.

Home to Maya Bay, Koh Phi Phi Le is the second largest island but remains uninhabited. Bamboo Island , i.e., Koh Mai Phai is between the two main islands. Visitors usually stop here en route to Maya Bay or spend the day snorkeling its Hin Klang coral reef.

Another popular adventure from Phi Phi Don is hiring a longtail boat to Monkey Beach or renting a kayak instead and paddling over.

Travel time: Speedboat = 1h12mins, Ferry = 2 hours

How to get there: Catch a speedboat or ferry (the lengthier option) from Rassada Pier in Phuket Town directly to Koh Phi Phi Don.

  • Phi Phi Islands day trips from Phuket

4 – Calling all 007 fans, check out James Bond Island

James Bond Island day trips from Phuket

“Ah, Mr Bond, we’ve been expecting you …”

Cinephiles: if Khao Phing Kan seems eerily familiar, it’s because it was used as the filming location for the 1974 Bond flick: The Man with the Golden Gun , hence its byname, ‘James Bond Island.’

Situated in the northeast, towering limestone karsts jut from the water (the lonesome 20-meter-tall Ko Tapu structure is instantly recognizable among them) and emerald green bays transport you worlds away …

Koh Ping Ghan is another leaning limestone formation, this one with caves to explore.

Useful to know: James Bond Island is inside the Ao Phang Nga Marine National Park and, therefore, is a protected zone. Boats can disembark on the island’s shoreline, but Ko Tapu is closed to traveling feet.

Cruise over to Koh Panyee for a delicious seafood lunch, exploring further this tiny fishing village built entirely on stilts in the water!

Kayak around the bay or enjoy a longtail boat ride, jumping into the ocean for snorkel time.

Travel time:

How to get there: Arrive via speedboat from Phuket; catch a longtail boat from Surakul Pier in Phang Nga Bay, or venture past James Bond Island during a ferry cruise.

  • James Bond Island day trips from Phuket

5 – Explore beaches, bays, islets and mangroves around Phang Nga Province

Phang Nga day trips from Phuket

New worlds await you in Phang Nga Province, where an hour’s drive out of Phuket draws you away from the tourist masses and introduces you to a different kind of topography from the typical Phuket surroundings.

Home to the beautiful Phang Nga Bay, 42 gorgeous islands comprise the Phang Nga Province, such as the Similan Islands, Surin Islands, James Bond Island, Koh Tapu, and the Koh Yao Islands.

Traveling by car up north, its Khao Lak beach is a prime starting point for discovering the area, its national park, bay and surrounding islets, and most boat trips around Phang Nga Bay and its islands depart from here.

Its other top beaches include the 2.6-kilometer-long White Sand Beach, lively Bang Niang Beach, romantic Khuk Khak Beach, family-friendly Pak Weep Beach and isolated Nang Thong Beach.

Swap soft sands for rainforests; bamboo rafting or kayaking along its jungle rivers, or go canoeing through its “Little Amazon” mangroves (in the Takua Pa district).

(Admire the Sino-Portuguese architecture in Takua Pa’s Old Town and here are a few traditional Chinese tea houses.)

Take the road less traveled and journey over to secluded Ko Phra Thong island for some snorkeling.

Travel time: 1.5 hours

How to get there: Travel by private car, taxi or shared minivan along Route 402 and Route 4 to Khao Lak Beach. You can reach Phang Nga Bay via boat from here, as well as from many of its islands, like Koh Yao.

  • Phang Nga Bay day trips from Phuket

6 – Like scenes from a fairytale, discover Krabi

Krabi day trips from Phuket

Markets, mangroves, milking up the sunshine down at the beaches; there is so much to see and things to do in Krabi , you’re going to have to pick your daytime activities wisely for this one!

Depending on what you’re in the mood for, make this day trip all about nature, heading deep inside tropical forests, dense limestone mountains and caverns dripping in stalagmites and stalactites.

  • Hike 1.5 to two hours (7.4 kilometers round-trip) up Dragon Crest Mountain to the panoramic Khao Ngon Nak Viewpoint. https://tourscanner.com/s/krabi/i/hiking
  • Investigate the prehistoric caves within the Khao Khanap Nam Mountains.
  • Find the fairies in two magical natural pools within Khao Phra – Bang Khram Wildlife Sanctuary: the Emerald Pool and Blue Pool (known as Sra Nam Pud).
  • Rejuvenate in the Namtok Ron (Hot Spring Waterfall ), Khlong Thom where temperatures reach up to 50 degrees Celsius.
  • Go kayaking Ao Thalane lagoon and through tidal estuaries with local wildlife singing songs in the coastal trees.
  • Fly on Tarzan swings, cross massive zip lines and ride bicycles from one branch to the next at Tree Top Adventure Park .

Or, if you’re all about lazy beach days, Ao Nang (the main beach in Krabi) is calling your name!

From Krabi, add on extra voyages out at sea and catch a longtail boat to neighboring Railay Beach for rock climbing , Ko Poda, Tonsai Beach and Phranang Beach and Cave, where ultra-romantic The Grotto @ Rayavadee restaurant is located.

Fill your cultural cup at Ao Luek Noi Community and Choa Le Village (To Ba Leaw Community). Stay in time for Krabi’s famous markets: Maharaj Walking Street and the Chao Fah Night Market.

Travel time: Car = 3 hours; Speedboat = 1 to 2 hours

How to get there: Travel approximately 162 kilometers by car, bus or minivan along Route 4 from Phuket to Krabi. Or, catch a speedboat from Bang Rong Pier (north Phuket) or Rassada Pier (south Phuket) to Krabi.

  • Krabi day trips from Phuket

7 – Ride a glass-bottom kayak around Coral Island

Coral Island day trips from Phuket

Calling all beach babes, Coral Island is a playground for water sports, underwater discoveries and sun-seekers searching for a pristine coastline to hang out under the Thai sunshine for the day.

Not to be confused with Thailand’s Koh Larn (nicknamed Coral Island, Koh Larn is situated in the Gulf of Thailand), this Coral Island sits just three kilometers off the southeast coast of Phuket.

Officially called Koh Hei, it has two main stretches of powdery white sands: Long Beach and Banana Beach.

The first is the busiest, and where most activities such as kayaking, parasailing, SUPing, banana boat rides and sea walking are offered. Or, unwind and melt into a beach massage.

Save your snorkel time for the latter, with fewer crowds and schools of tropical fishies close to the shore. Scuba diving is possible from both sites, and you can reach Banana Beach from Long Beach via a short 15-minute jungle trek!

Then, there’s Freedom Beach on the south end.

Right around the corner from the mainland, it’s another destination seriously favored by day trippers. Check out our complete guide with all you need to know about Phuket Boat Tours .

Travel time: 15 minutes

How to get there: Travel from Rawai Beach or Chalong Pier via longtail boat to Coral Island.

  • Coral Island day trips from Phuket

8 – Watch educational videos, feed and observe ellies at the Phuket Elephant Sanctuary

Phuket Elephant Sanctuary day trips from Phuket

In recent years, global efforts have been made around these “elephant sanctuaries,” which are not really safe havens at all, rather promoting elephant rides and no proper care for the intelligent mammals.

It’s become one of Thailand’s most mainstream tourist traps, but it’s sad because many volunteers are here for a good cause, but owners of these businesses are just here for the profits.

Rest easy knowing that Phuket Elephant Sanctuary is exactly what it says it is, dubbing itself the “first ethical sanctuary in Phuket.”

Endorsed by National Geographic and World Animal Protection, watch in wonder as the gentle giants roam freely around their tropical setting, taking mud baths, foraging for their crunchy leaves and playing with their babies.

Meet friends like Mali, Than-Tawan, Chaba, Kannika, Madee and others who have all been rescued and brought here for a second chance at life. Remember, elephants live up to about 50 years old!

Located inside the Khao Phra Thaeo National Park, the grounds occupy 12 hectares, and the sanctuary offers various experiences.

For example, there’s the 3.5-hour ‘A Morning with the Elephants’ package, afternoon options, the ‘PES Canopy Walkway Program’ and their ‘Hands-Off Experience.’ Add on your own private guide for your duration.

Lunch is vegan, and there’s a recently built 600-meter-long canopy walkway winding through the jungle park, between ponds, open fields and rolling hills.

Travel time: 43 minutes

How to get there: Travel from Phuket town to the Phuket Elephant Sanctuary by car, taxi or minivan along Route 4024 and Route 4027 for just under 30 kilometers.

  • Phuket Elephant Sanctuary day trips

9 – Scuba dive incredible sites around the Racha Islands

Racha Islands day trips from Phuket

For an unforgettable Thailand moment, charter a private catamaran to the jaw-dropping Racha Islands, where snorkeling and scuba diving are top priorities!

Similar to many of the archipelagos around Phuket, the Racha Islands are made up of two isles: Koh Racha Noi and Koh Racha Yai, and are six kilometers apart.

Both offer unparalleled snorkeling, but Racha Noi is the most accessible, with a string of beachfront resorts and a handful of beaches to take your pick from.

  • U-shaped Patok is the main beach.
  • Siam Beach is around the corner but is not as crowded.
  • Kon Kare Bay is a snorkeling and diving hotspot!
  • Home to an easy-to-reach shallow reef, Lha Bay is lovely for snorkeling between colorful corals.
  • No less than 200 meters from Lha Beach is deserted Lha Bay — great for couples.

Racha Yai, on the other hand, is unoccupied and has a wilder and more rugged feel, including the landscape. This has its advantages for snorkelers, boasting uninterrupted bays.

On the scuba diving front, the sites around Koh Racha Yai are suitable for experienced divers, and even when it’s raining, you’ll find clear visibility beneath the surface.

Travel time: From 45 minutes to one hour

How to get there: Catch a speedboat or longtail boat from Chalong Pier or Rawai Beach.

  • Racha Islands day trips from Phuket

10 – Fall in love with a boho paradise, i.e., Koh Lanta

Koh Lanta, Thailand

Distinctly cool and ultra-laid back, gypsy souls and bohemian fairies, this one’s for you!

With so much to do around Koh Lanta, it’s easily one of the best day trips from Phuket — especially for globetrotters seeking a different side of Thailand that isn’t just snorkeling and lazing on the beach all day (but of which you can do plenty of).

Sip on organic teas and enjoy vegan snacks from Asalanta Organic Teahouse , marveling at the sustainably built earth homes here in the middle of a bamboo forest.

Take home a new culinary skill after an authentic cooking class, or relax and unwind with a traditional Thai massage.

If your idea of relaxation is yoga, you’ll love Oasis Yoga (doubling as a retreat), or let the cocktails do the trick (with your feet in the soft sand) at a groovy beach bar. Iconic locales? Freedom Bar, The Reggae Bar, Majestic Bar and Why Not Bar.

Go chasing Khlong Chak Waterfall, followed by a jungle hike to Khao Mai Kaew Cave — otherwise known as “The Bat Cave” because of its residents (bats).

Shop and eat your way through Lanta Old Town, and this is another destination where renting a scooter for the day to get around is every bit worth it!

How to get there: There are direct ferries departing from Phuket Rassada Pier.

  • Koh Lanta day trips from Phuket

11 – Walk in the footsteps of Mr. DiCaprio at famous Maya Bay

Maya Bay day trips from Phuket

Along with Koh Phi Phi Don, Maya Bay is one of the most visited places in southern Thailand! So much so, the famous location shut down for a few years so that its ecosystems and reefs could regenerate due to damage from over-tourism.

Let’s first get one thing straight. Maya Bay and “Phi Phi Island” aren’t separate locations: Maya Bay, in fact, forms part of the Phi Phi Islands chain and is situated on the second biggest island here, Koh Phi Phi Le.

So, what’s the buzz? After The Beach, starring Leonardo DiCaprio, premiered in 1999, everything changed for the glistening turquoise bay. Today, globe trekkers flock in the hundreds to pose for a picture in front, toes touching the exact same powder-white sands!

Encircling you are three 100-meter-tall patchy green limestone cliffs, and the main beach stretches on for 200 meters.

But there’s more to Maya than being marked as a famous filming locale, and it’s time to get your snorkel on! Discover some great diving sites around Maya Bay, too.

As part of Phi Phi Le, enjoy the other activities around the island.

Travel tip: The rules for visiting Maya Bay have changed since reopening in 2023. Boats cannot pull directly into the bay; instead, they disembark elsewhere on Phi Phi Le. Daily tourists to Maya Bay are limited to just under 400.

How to get there: No ferries can enter Maya Bay, and you will need to travel from Phuket via speedboat. Alternatively, if you’re visiting Phi Phi Don (the main tourist Phi Phi island), catch a 30-minute boat ride from there to Maya Bay.

  • Maya Bay day trips from Phuket

12 – One of the “Maldives of Thailand,” see dolphins at Maiton Island (Koh Maiton)

Maiton Island day trips from Phuket

Swimming pool or ocean? You decide for yourselves during a snorkel expedition around the sheer waters of private Mai Ton (also spelled Maiton) Island!

Home to schools of tigerfish, parrotfish, cuttlefish and Nemos, i.e., clownfish, lucky sailors have spotted pods of playful dolphins dancing around their natural habitat (there are dolphin-watching tours that bring travelers to Maiton for this sole reason).

Jump into its warm paradise-like ocean for the swim of a lifetime! On the odd occasion, a turtle may even join you as a swimming buddy!

One useful bit of information to know straight off the bat about Koh Maiton is that it’s a private island and off-limits to everyday travelers. The only way to enjoy its sought-after waters teeming with aquatic life is with a scuba diving venture or boat tour.

That being said, it’s usually included on the best day trips from Phuket to other islands, such as the Phi Phi Islands, Bamboo Island, Coral Island and the Racha isles.

The island itself is tiny, at just 2.5 kilometers long, and is located nine kilometers southeast of Phuket.

Feeling fancy? Private charter a boat to Maiton for affordable prices thanks to its close proximity.

Travel time: Speedboat = 15 minutes, catamaran = 1 hour

How to get there: Catch a speedboat from Chalong Pier or join a tour.

  • Maiton Island day trips from Phuket

13 – For that classic longtail shot, cruise through Hong Islands

Hong Islands day trips from Phuket

Southern Thailand dreams are made of these; cue the dramatic mystical limestones that feel like they belong in the dinosaur ages, secret bays covered in thickets of jungle, and iridescent waters showing off aqua blue hues!

Escape the mobs and venture through a group of untouched islands, and because it’s not on everyone’s radar (although it seriously should be), the Hong Islands have a real mysticism about them.

Situated along Krabi’s coastline, the small island group is part of the Koh Hong Archipelago, forming part of the Than Bok Khorani National Park. With 12 surrounding islands, four of the Hong Islands are open for exploration.

Koh Hong (also called Ko Laopilae) is the chief isle where most boat tours bring visitors. (You can hire a longtail boat from Krabi’s Ao Nang Beach and ditch the tour groups.)

Swim and snorkel around stunning Pelay Beach (the only beach on this island); discover the magic of Ko Hong Lagoon (Thale Nai) and its emerald waters; trek 420-odd iron steps up a limestone cliff and through whippets of lush greenery to the panoramic viewpoint.

Other Hong destinations visited by passing boatees include:

  • Pakbia Island for its maze of sea-eroded caves.
  • Daeng Island entrances people with its verdant coral reef (especially at low tide) and is an awesome snorkel spot.
  • Koh Lao Lading is nicknamed Paradise Island for good reason, and thanks to its palm tree setting, is another popular Hong Island and where cove-dining is a thing.

Travel time: 1 hour via speedboat

How to get there: Join a day tour or charter a private boat.

  • Hong Island day trips from Phuket

14 – Swim with whale sharks in the Surin Islands

Surin Islands day trips from Phuket

How many times in your life can you say you’ve gone diving with whale sharks? Get up close and personal (in the right season) with these gentle giants in the Surin Islands — a famous location in Thailand for spotting carpet sharks.

Fun fact: Whale Sharks are harmless, and the slow-movers are actually very friendly!

The most famous site in Phuket, and in the entirety of Thailand, for diving with the largest shark species in the world, is Richelieu Rock, located 18 kilometers off of Ko Khai.

The beaches and bays around this five-island archipelago are equally impressive as the aquatic life!

Ko Surin Nuea and Ko Surin Tai are the two largest Surin islands, along with three smaller landmasses: Ko Khai (also called Ko Torinla), Ko Glang (Ko Pachumba) and Ko Chi (known as Ko Satok).

With snorkeling rentals, swimming bays (Ao Mae Yai, Ao Luek and Ao Chak) and walking trails, Ko Surin Nuea is the most visitor-friendly.

Look out for pig-tailed macaques, monitor lizards and flying foxes lounging in the Surins’ lush rainforest.

Travel time: 1.5 hours via speedboat

How to get there: Catch a speedboat from Khao Lak or join a day tour.

  • Surin Islands day trips from Phuket

15 – Explore the world’s oldest evergreen forest inside Khao Sok National Park

Khao Sok National Park day trips from Phuket

Like a scene out of Jurassic World, float in between monster-sized craggy cliffs where low-hanging clouds envelop you in the early morning mist and you can just picture a Triceratops roaming around the deep-green tropicana landscapes.

Known as the “Little Guilan of Thailand” this is because it resembles China’s Guangxi Province and the granite rock formations littering the Li River.

Canopied by the oldest evergreen rainforest in the world, the wildlife here is spectacular, and so is the natural beauty — obviously!

Hike to caves, kayak through marshy areas, enjoy a traditional boat ride along milky Cheow Larn Lake, and while here, look out for hornbills and other bird species.

A guided tour, cruise or safari is an awesome way to experience the national park, learning its history and plenty of interesting facts about this natural wonder.

Something unique that Khao Sok offers is floating accommodation in the middle of the lake!

Travel time: 4.5 hours

How to get there: Drive directly here from Phuket, and there are multiple options along/from Phuket’s route 402.

  • Khao Sok National Park day trips

16 – Rent a scooter and enjoy an easy drive on Koh Yao

Koh Yao day trips from Phuket

An easy way to differentiate between the two primary Koh Yao islands is just by remembering their names: Khao Yao Yai means “big (yai) long island” and Khao Yao Noi means “little (noi) long island.”

Whichever of the two you choose to day trip to, you’re blessed with exquisite scenery, ocean activities and a calming atmosphere that instantly makes you feel zen!

Oddly, the larger of the two is the quietest, but the best beaches are on Koh Yao Yai.

  • Chill on Laem Haad’s hidden sandbank when the tides are low.
  • Powdery white Loh Jark Beach is picture-postcard perfect.
  • Loh Pared is the main swimming beach.
  • Spot starfish along the shores of Son Bay Beach.

We recommend renting out a scooter on Koh Yao Noi and driving the round-loop road around the entire isle. Or, there are bike tours if you’re more comfortable cycling. Whizz past bright green rice paddies, local villages and viewpoints.

Kayak through mangroves, get educated on rice cultivation, pop into local fishing villages, feel the thrills on jungle ATV rides or learn how to scuba dive!

Although smaller, Koh Noi is more developed than Koh Yai and is home to many more restaurants and places to stay.

Some fabulous eatery options are La Sala , Rice Paddy Restaurant , Thakhao Bay View Restaurant, Pum Pui Restaurant, La Luna Pizzeria and Kaya.

Excellent dining options on Koh Yai include Ban Rim Nam Restaurant, Krouw Baanrow, Chill Chill at Pai, Isaan Fine and Chantara Restaurant .

Travel time: 1 hour

How to get there: Catch a ferry, speedboat or longtail taxi from Bang Rong Pier on Phuket’s east coast. There are also longtail boats departing from Ao Po Pier to the Koh Yao Islands.

  • Koh Yao day trips from Phuket

17 – Spot manta rays and leopard sharks around Koh Bon

Koh Bon day trips from Phuket

Technically part of the Surin Islands (as of 1998), Koh Bon deserves its own day trip itinerary!

Super close to Phuket, it’s actually not as busy as some of Phuket’s neighbors like Coral Island, deeming it perfect for travelers searching for a tourist-free zone!

Just 1.2 kilometers long, it exudes all of the deserted tropical island feels.

Don’t be surprised to see casts of crabs scuttling across its beaches (a famous site of Koh Bon), and there are dozens of little sea coves to picnic in!

Apart from its land beauty, the ocean surrounding Koh Bon is an incredible scuba diving site, but savored for more advanced divers. (But feel free to snorkel close to shore instead.)

Discover a sea ridge with a drop of 40 meters on the south side of the island, and it’s a manta ray-spotting mecca. Also here is the Koh Bon Pinnacle, reaching depths of up to 50 meters.

How to get there: Located offshore from Rawai, rent a longtail boat from Rawai Beach or down at the Rawai jetty.

18 – Say hello to hawksbill turtles in Koh Haa – Five Island

Koh Haa day trips from Phuket

Avid scuba divers, we’ve got something a little exciting in store for you!

You may want to forget everything else and head directly to Koh Haa for the day, where the underwater sites seem endless and the hours slip by in the blink of an eye as you swirl among throngs of fish and explore interesting aquatic bathymetry.

Also known as “Five Islands,” funnily enough, it’s made up of six little islands. The largest — Koh Haa Yai — is the only one with a sand beach, and its bay is shallow enough to snorkel and swim. The rest are uninhibited rocky protrusions.

Another plus for Five Islands is that the diving here is suitable for all levels, from novice to pro!

  • Koh Haa Lagoon Diving Site is idyllic for first-timers.
  • Koh Haa Chimney has a famous tunnel system and small chambers, and all levels can scuba around here.
  • The Cathedral (also called ‘The Cave’) is the largest of the Koh Haa islands with a max depth of 35 meters. It dazzles with sea caves, amazing coral, turtles and sharks!
  • Spot seahorses swimming around The Secret Garden of Haa Island (technically the sixth island, it’s known as Koh Haa Six).

Blacktip reef shark, bluespotted ribbontail ray, pipefish, barracuda, spotted garden eel and tigertail seahorse are a few examples of the sea animals to find swimming around Koh Haa.

How to get there: Travel from Phuket by speedboat to Koh Haa. You can also catch a 30-minute boat ride from Koh Lanta to Koh Haa.

19 – Shop for pearls on secluded Koh Rang Yai

Koh Rang Yai day trips from Phuket

Adventurous hearts, Koh Rang Yai is an outdoor playground just waiting for you …

The best part? With hardly anyone around, catch major air on jet skis without worrying about random bathers; hike to the top of viewpoints with no one else to interrupt your photos; and play on beachfront swings without another person in sight!

A popular way to reach the island is by kayaking over from Phuket — amazing!

From the shore, enter an oasis of coconut and pine trees, with sandy paths winding in between, opening up for bicycle journeys.

Make a beeline for Rangyai Pearl farm (established in 1971), where you can purchase them raw or crafted as jewels. Koh Rang Yai is often referred to as Pearl Island and is a sought-after day trip for this very reason!

P.S. The waters in these parts are especially warm, great for swimming and snorkeling comfortably and for kids.

How to get there: Catch a boat from Phuket Boat Lagoon Marina or hire a longtail boat or join a tour leaving from Laem Jin Pier (next to the famous Laem Hin Seafood restaurant in Koh Kaew).

20 – Hidden island feel? Check! Charter a boat to Koh Jum

Koh Jum day trips from Phuket

It’s the authenticity of Koh Jum that makes this destination so special, from the local people to the Thai food to its unspoiled beaches, which each have something different to offer.

There are direct ferries here from Phuket, so it’s like taking a cultural day trip outside of town, just along the ocean instead! It’s just over an hour away, and the oceanic scenery en route is glorious.

Speaking of, Koh Jum is on the way to Koh Lanta, so if you’ve chartered a boat for the day, consider adding this to your agenda.

The best way to explore this wild isle is to pack a picnic and beach gear (like towels, snorkels, sand buckets and spades, and umbrellas) for the afternoon and arrive to the calming sounds of Mother Nature.

If you’re after a “deserted island” feeling, Ko Pu (as it’s also known) is up there, and there are quite a few beaches to take your pick.

  • Magic Beach is home to the singular Loma Bar.
  • Hidden Banyan Beach is all about tranquility.
  • Golden Pearl Beach (the largest of them) and Andaman Beach are directly connected.
  • Peppering the beachfront of pretty Ting Rai Beach (on the north side of the island) are low-branching Banyan trees!
  • Feel worlds away from everything and anyone at Ao Si.

Some lovely local dining spots are Koh Jum Seafood Restaurant, Sabaidee Luboh and Golden Pearl Beach Restaurant.

How to get there: Catch a direct ferry from Rassada Pier in Phuket to Koh Jum. Ferries here run three times a day.

Read more: Boat tours from Phuket

21 – Couples, head on over to Koh Ngai

Koh Ngai day trips from Phuket

Have you chosen Phuket as your honeymoon destination, or are you here on a romantic getaway? Favored by both these types of visitors, Koh Ngai is home to a handful of luxe oceanfront stays in a surreal island oasis setting — but who’s to say you can’t enjoy this slice of heaven on a day trip?

Hidden away from the regular travel guides, you feel like you’re in your own little tropical love bubble! And it’s one of those places where expect to splurge a bit at mealtime — date day , anyone?

There are three beaches: Main Beach and Paradise Beach (which it truly is) and Ao Muang Bay (situated between the two of them). Snorkel spots are easily accessible from either.

Get lost in the jungle, trekking a wild coastal trail to Koh Ngai Viewpoint; float around aimlessly in the warm crystal, transparent waters, or rent a kayak and explore your island surroundings.

Travel time: 2h45mins

How to get there: Take a direct ferry from the Rassada Pier in Phuket, or alternatively, catch a speedboat

Final Thoughts

Tropical paradise doesn’t get better than this, and it’s all right on your doorstep, or rather, shoreline! All that’s left to do is decide which of these best day trips from Phuket suits you best, and then let the adventuring begin!

If you’re not sold on the idea of a day trip and prefer to keep things to one city, stay on the mainland for the day and explore the plethora of things to do in Phuket , from visiting Big Buddha to its colorful Sino-Portuguese Old Town!

Not your first time in Phuket? What are some of the things that you love most about this tropical destination, or what are your favorite destinations nearby? Share with us in the comments; we love to hear from our readers!

As always, happy travels in the Land of Smiles !

THE 10 BEST Day Trips from Phuket

Day trips from phuket.

  • Phuket to Ko Phi Phi Don
  • Phuket to Ao Phang Nga National Park
  • Phuket to Phang Nga
  • Phuket to Chalong
  • Up to 1 hour
  • 1 to 4 hours
  • 4 hours to 1 day
  • 5.0 of 5 bubbles
  • 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • Chinese (Simplified)
  • Likely to Sell Out
  • Special Offers
  • The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

day trips from phuket

1. Phang Nga Bay Sea Cave Canoeing & James Bond Island w/ Buffet Lunch by Big Boat

day trips from phuket

2. Phi Phi Islands Adventure Day Trip with Seaview Lunch by V. Marine Tour

day trips from phuket

3. Luxury Small Group Phi Phi Sunrise from Phuket by Simba Sea Trips

day trips from phuket

4. Luxury Boat to James bond islands with lunch and sunset dinner

day trips from phuket

5. Jame Bond, Panyee Island, Hong Island and Naka Island by Speedboat From Phuket

day trips from phuket

6. Phi Phi & Khai Islands Snorkeling Trip w/ Lunch by Speedboat

day trips from phuket

7. Phuket City Tour: Karon View Point, Big Buddha & Wat Chalong (SHA Plus)

day trips from phuket

8. John Gray's Hong by Starlight with Sea Cave Kayaking and Loy Krathong Floating

day trips from phuket

9. James Bond Island w/Canoeing and Lunch by Speedboat

day trips from phuket

10. Day Trip From Phuket To Phi Phi Island By Cruise Youth

day trips from phuket

11. Phi Phi Islands Day Tour from Phuket

day trips from phuket

12. Premium Phi Phi, bamboo island tour SpeedCatamaran

day trips from phuket

13. Phi Phi & Bamboo Islands Snorkeling Trip w/ Lunch by Speedboat

day trips from phuket

14. ️ Phuket Private Instagram Tour: All-Inclusive

day trips from phuket

15. Phi Phi Don, Phi Phi Lay, Khai Nai Snorkeling Tour from Phuket

day trips from phuket

16. Atv Big Buddha Phuket Viewpoint

day trips from phuket

17. Phuket: Full-Day Phi Phi Islands, Maiton island Trip by Speed Catamaran

day trips from phuket

18. Small Group Only 20 People - Phi Phi & Bamboo Islands and Maya Bay with Lunch

day trips from phuket

19. Phi Phi Island Private Boat Tour

day trips from phuket

20. Private Phi Phi & Khai Islands Snorkeling Trip w/ Lunch by Speedboat

day trips from phuket

21. James Bond Island Longtail Boat Tour (Private & All-Inclusive)

day trips from phuket

22. Travstore Original Phuket Discovery Tour - Shared Half Day City Tour

day trips from phuket

23. Phang Nga Bay Instagram Tour with caves explore & Kayak

day trips from phuket

24. 4-Waters Eco-Adventure Trip from Phuket Including Lunch

day trips from phuket

25. Khai Island Half Day Tour in 3 Islands (Khai Nai,Khai Nok,Khai Nui) from Phuket

day trips from phuket

26. Phuket Best Experience City Tour (SHA Plus)

day trips from phuket

27. Hype Yacht : VIP Tour Phi Phi Island & Maya Bay from Phuket

day trips from phuket

28. Phang Nga Bay & James Bond Island with Canoeing By Big Boat From Phuket

day trips from phuket

29. Sunset Boat Trip To Phang Nga Bay & James Bond - Phuket Sail Tour

day trips from phuket

30. Day Trip to James Bond Island by Premium Speedboat includes National Park Fees

What travellers are saying.

Samuelboy

  • Phi Phi Islands Adventure Day Trip with Seaview Lunch by V. Marine Tour
  • Jame Bond, Panyee Island, Hong Island and Naka Island by Speedboat From Phuket
  • Phang Nga Bay Sea Cave Canoeing & James Bond Island w/ Buffet Lunch by Big Boat
  • Phuket City Tour: Karon View Point, Big Buddha & Wat Chalong (SHA Plus)
  • Phi Phi Sunrise from Phuket by Simba Sea Trips
  • 5 Star Marine
  • Twilight Sea Canoe Phuket
  • ForeverVacation Phuket
  • Sri Thara Marine - Canoeing & James Bond Island
  • Indepth Dive Centre
  • Two Sea Tour
  • Coral Seekers
  • Aloha Ocean Adventures
  • Oceanic Divecenter
  • Phuket Tours Transfers
  • All 4 Diving Scuba Diving Phuket
  • Paddle Asia - Private Day Tours
  • Phuket Elephant Sanctuary

Top Phuket Day Trips

Day trips from phuket.

  • Phuket to Ko Phi Phi Don
  • Phuket to Ao Phang Nga National Park
  • Phuket to Phang Nga
  • Phuket to Chalong
  • Up to 1 hour
  • 1 to 4 hours
  • 4 hours to 1 day
  • 5.0 of 5 bubbles
  • 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • Chinese (Simplified)
  • Likely to Sell Out
  • Special Offers
  • The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

day trips from phuket

1. Phang Nga Bay Sea Cave Canoeing & James Bond Island w/ Buffet Lunch by Big Boat

day trips from phuket

2. Phi Phi Islands Adventure Day Trip with Seaview Lunch by V. Marine Tour

day trips from phuket

3. Luxury Small Group Phi Phi Sunrise from Phuket by Simba Sea Trips

day trips from phuket

4. Luxury Boat to James bond islands with lunch and sunset dinner

day trips from phuket

5. Jame Bond, Panyee Island, Hong Island and Naka Island by Speedboat From Phuket

day trips from phuket

6. Phi Phi & Khai Islands Snorkeling Trip w/ Lunch by Speedboat

day trips from phuket

7. Phuket City Tour: Karon View Point, Big Buddha & Wat Chalong (SHA Plus)

day trips from phuket

8. John Gray's Hong by Starlight with Sea Cave Kayaking and Loy Krathong Floating

day trips from phuket

9. James Bond Island w/Canoeing and Lunch by Speedboat

day trips from phuket

10. Phi Phi Islands Day Tour from Phuket

day trips from phuket

11. Full Day James Bond Island and Phang Nga Bay Tour in Phuket

day trips from phuket

12. Premium Phi Phi, bamboo island tour SpeedCatamaran

day trips from phuket

13. Phi Phi & Bamboo Islands Snorkeling Trip w/ Lunch by Speedboat

day trips from phuket

14. ️ Phuket Private Instagram Tour: All-Inclusive

day trips from phuket

15. YONA Beach Club Tour in Phuket Day

day trips from phuket

16. Phi Phi Don, Phi Phi Lay, Khai Nai Snorkeling Tour from Phuket

day trips from phuket

17. Atv Big Buddha Phuket Viewpoint

day trips from phuket

18. Phuket: Full-Day Phi Phi Islands, Maiton island Trip by Speed Catamaran

day trips from phuket

19. Small Group Only 20 People - Phi Phi & Bamboo Islands and Maya Bay with Lunch

day trips from phuket

20. Phi Phi Island Private Boat Tour

day trips from phuket

21. Private Phi Phi & Khai Islands Snorkeling Trip w/ Lunch by Speedboat

day trips from phuket

22. James Bond Island Longtail Boat Tour (Private & All-Inclusive)

day trips from phuket

23. Travstore Original Phuket Discovery Tour - Shared Half Day City Tour

day trips from phuket

24. 4-Waters Eco-Adventure Trip from Phuket Including Lunch

day trips from phuket

25. Khai Island Half Day Tour in 3 Islands (Khai Nai,Khai Nok,Khai Nui) from Phuket

day trips from phuket

26. Phuket Best Experience City Tour (SHA Plus)

day trips from phuket

27. Hype Yacht : VIP Tour Phi Phi Island & Maya Bay from Phuket

day trips from phuket

28. Phang Nga Bay & James Bond Island with Canoeing By Big Boat From Phuket

day trips from phuket

29. Sunset Boat Trip To Phang Nga Bay & James Bond - Phuket Sail Tour

day trips from phuket

30. Day Trip to James Bond Island by Premium Speedboat includes National Park Fees

What travellers are saying.

Samuelboy

  • Phi Phi Islands Adventure Day Trip with Seaview Lunch by V. Marine Tour
  • Jame Bond, Panyee Island, Hong Island and Naka Island by Speedboat From Phuket
  • Phang Nga Bay Sea Cave Canoeing & James Bond Island w/ Buffet Lunch by Big Boat
  • Phuket City Tour: Karon View Point, Big Buddha & Wat Chalong (SHA Plus)
  • Phi Phi Sunrise from Phuket by Simba Sea Trips
  • 5 Star Marine
  • Twilight Sea Canoe Phuket
  • ForeverVacation Phuket
  • Sri Thara Marine - Canoeing & James Bond Island
  • Indepth Dive Centre
  • Two Sea Tour
  • Coral Seekers
  • Aloha Ocean Adventures
  • Oceanic Divecenter
  • Phuket Tours Transfers
  • All 4 Diving Scuba Diving Phuket
  • Paddle Asia - Private Day Tours
  • Phuket Elephant Sanctuary

Top Phuket Day Trips

Day trips from phuket.

  • Phuket to Ko Phi Phi Don
  • Phuket to Ao Phang Nga National Park
  • Phuket to Phang Nga
  • Phuket to Chalong
  • Up to 1 hour
  • 1 to 4 hours
  • 4 hours to 1 day
  • 5.0 of 5 bubbles
  • 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • Chinese (Simplified)
  • Likely to Sell Out
  • Special Offers
  • The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

day trips from phuket

1. Phang Nga Bay Sea Cave Canoeing & James Bond Island w/ Buffet Lunch by Big Boat

day trips from phuket

2. Phi Phi Islands Adventure Day Trip with Seaview Lunch by V. Marine Tour

day trips from phuket

3. Luxury Small Group Phi Phi Sunrise from Phuket by Simba Sea Trips

day trips from phuket

4. Luxury Boat to James bond islands with lunch and sunset dinner

day trips from phuket

5. Jame Bond, Panyee Island, Hong Island and Naka Island by Speedboat From Phuket

day trips from phuket

6. Phi Phi & Khai Islands Snorkeling Trip w/ Lunch by Speedboat

day trips from phuket

7. Phuket City Tour: Karon View Point, Big Buddha & Wat Chalong (SHA Plus)

day trips from phuket

8. John Gray's Hong by Starlight with Sea Cave Kayaking and Loy Krathong Floating

day trips from phuket

9. James Bond Island w/Canoeing and Lunch by Speedboat

day trips from phuket

10. Full-Day Phi phi Island Tour in Phuket

day trips from phuket

11. Phi Phi Islands Day Tour from Phuket

day trips from phuket

12. Premium Phi Phi, bamboo island tour SpeedCatamaran

day trips from phuket

13. Phi Phi & Bamboo Islands Snorkeling Trip w/ Lunch by Speedboat

day trips from phuket

14. ️ Phuket Private Instagram Tour: All-Inclusive

day trips from phuket

15. Phi Phi Bamboo Island One-day Tour with Snorkeling

day trips from phuket

16. Phi Phi Don, Phi Phi Lay, Khai Nai Snorkeling Tour from Phuket

day trips from phuket

17. Atv Big Buddha Phuket Viewpoint

day trips from phuket

18. Phuket: Full-Day Phi Phi Islands, Maiton island Trip by Speed Catamaran

day trips from phuket

19. Small Group Only 20 People - Phi Phi & Bamboo Islands and Maya Bay with Lunch

day trips from phuket

20. Phi Phi Island Private Boat Tour

day trips from phuket

21. Private Phi Phi & Khai Islands Snorkeling Trip w/ Lunch by Speedboat

day trips from phuket

22. James Bond Island Longtail Boat Tour (Private & All-Inclusive)

day trips from phuket

23. Travstore Original Phuket Discovery Tour - Shared Half Day City Tour

day trips from phuket

24. 4-Waters Eco-Adventure Trip from Phuket Including Lunch

day trips from phuket

25. Khai Island Half Day Tour in 3 Islands (Khai Nai,Khai Nok,Khai Nui) from Phuket

day trips from phuket

26. Phuket Best Experience City Tour (SHA Plus)

day trips from phuket

27. Hype Yacht : VIP Tour Phi Phi Island & Maya Bay from Phuket

day trips from phuket

28. Phang Nga Bay & James Bond Island with Canoeing By Big Boat From Phuket

day trips from phuket

29. Sunset Boat Trip To Phang Nga Bay & James Bond - Phuket Sail Tour

day trips from phuket

30. Day Trip to James Bond Island by Premium Speedboat includes National Park Fees

What travellers are saying.

Samuelboy

  • Phi Phi Islands Adventure Day Trip with Seaview Lunch by V. Marine Tour
  • Jame Bond, Panyee Island, Hong Island and Naka Island by Speedboat From Phuket
  • Phang Nga Bay Sea Cave Canoeing & James Bond Island w/ Buffet Lunch by Big Boat
  • Phuket City Tour: Karon View Point, Big Buddha & Wat Chalong (SHA Plus)
  • Phi Phi Sunrise from Phuket by Simba Sea Trips
  • 5 Star Marine
  • Twilight Sea Canoe Phuket
  • ForeverVacation Phuket
  • Sri Thara Marine - Canoeing & James Bond Island
  • Indepth Dive Centre
  • Two Sea Tour
  • Coral Seekers
  • Aloha Ocean Adventures
  • Oceanic Divecenter
  • Phuket Tours Transfers
  • All 4 Diving Scuba Diving Phuket
  • Paddle Asia - Private Day Tours
  • Phuket Elephant Sanctuary

THE 10 BEST Day Trips from Phuket

Day trips from phuket.

  • Phuket to Ko Phi Phi Don
  • Phuket to Ao Phang Nga National Park
  • Phuket to Phang Nga
  • Phuket to Chalong
  • Up to 1 hour
  • 1 to 4 hours
  • 4 hours to 1 day
  • 5.0 of 5 bubbles
  • 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • Chinese (Simplified)
  • Likely to Sell Out
  • Special Offers
  • The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

day trips from phuket

1. Phang Nga Bay Sea Cave Canoeing & James Bond Island w/ Buffet Lunch by Big Boat

day trips from phuket

2. Phi Phi Islands Adventure Day Trip with Seaview Lunch by V. Marine Tour

day trips from phuket

3. Luxury Small Group Phi Phi Sunrise from Phuket by Simba Sea Trips

day trips from phuket

4. Luxury Boat to James bond islands with lunch and sunset dinner

day trips from phuket

5. Jame Bond, Panyee Island, Hong Island and Naka Island by Speedboat From Phuket

day trips from phuket

6. Phi Phi & Khai Islands Snorkeling Trip w/ Lunch by Speedboat

day trips from phuket

7. Phuket City Tour: Karon View Point, Big Buddha & Wat Chalong (SHA Plus)

day trips from phuket

8. John Gray's Hong by Starlight with Sea Cave Kayaking and Loy Krathong Floating

day trips from phuket

9. James Bond Island w/Canoeing and Lunch by Speedboat

day trips from phuket

10. Phi Phi Islands Day Tour from Phuket

day trips from phuket

11. Full Day Bicycle Tour in Koh Yao and Hong Islands

day trips from phuket

12. Premium Phi Phi, bamboo island tour SpeedCatamaran

day trips from phuket

13. Phi Phi & Bamboo Islands Snorkeling Trip w/ Lunch by Speedboat

day trips from phuket

14. ️ Phuket Private Instagram Tour: All-Inclusive

day trips from phuket

15. Phi Phi Don, Phi Phi Lay, Khai Nai Snorkeling Tour from Phuket

day trips from phuket

16. Phuket Best Sightseeing City Tour

day trips from phuket

17. Atv Big Buddha Phuket Viewpoint

day trips from phuket

18. Phuket: Full-Day Phi Phi Islands, Maiton island Trip by Speed Catamaran

day trips from phuket

19. Small Group Only 20 People - Phi Phi & Bamboo Islands and Maya Bay with Lunch

day trips from phuket

20. Phi Phi Island Private Boat Tour

day trips from phuket

21. Private Phi Phi & Khai Islands Snorkeling Trip w/ Lunch by Speedboat

day trips from phuket

22. James Bond Island Longtail Boat Tour (Private & All-Inclusive)

day trips from phuket

23. Travstore Original Phuket Discovery Tour - Shared Half Day City Tour

day trips from phuket

24. 4-Waters Eco-Adventure Trip from Phuket Including Lunch

day trips from phuket

25. Khai Island Half Day Tour in 3 Islands (Khai Nai,Khai Nok,Khai Nui) from Phuket

day trips from phuket

26. Phuket Best Experience City Tour (SHA Plus)

day trips from phuket

27. Hype Yacht : VIP Tour Phi Phi Island & Maya Bay from Phuket

day trips from phuket

28. Phang Nga Bay & James Bond Island with Canoeing By Big Boat From Phuket

day trips from phuket

29. Sunset Boat Trip To Phang Nga Bay & James Bond - Phuket Sail Tour

day trips from phuket

30. Day Trip to James Bond Island by Premium Speedboat includes National Park Fees

What travellers are saying.

Samuelboy

  • Phi Phi Islands Adventure Day Trip with Seaview Lunch by V. Marine Tour
  • Jame Bond, Panyee Island, Hong Island and Naka Island by Speedboat From Phuket
  • Phang Nga Bay Sea Cave Canoeing & James Bond Island w/ Buffet Lunch by Big Boat
  • Phuket City Tour: Karon View Point, Big Buddha & Wat Chalong (SHA Plus)
  • Phi Phi Sunrise from Phuket by Simba Sea Trips
  • 5 Star Marine
  • Twilight Sea Canoe Phuket
  • ForeverVacation Phuket
  • Sri Thara Marine - Canoeing & James Bond Island
  • Indepth Dive Centre
  • Two Sea Tour
  • Coral Seekers
  • Aloha Ocean Adventures
  • Oceanic Divecenter
  • Phuket Tours Transfers
  • All 4 Diving Scuba Diving Phuket
  • Paddle Asia - Private Day Tours
  • Phuket Elephant Sanctuary

THE 10 BEST Day Trips from Phuket

Day trips from phuket.

  • Phuket to Ko Phi Phi Don
  • Phuket to Ao Phang Nga National Park
  • Phuket to Phang Nga
  • Phuket to Chalong
  • Up to 1 hour
  • 1 to 4 hours
  • 4 hours to 1 day
  • 5.0 of 5 bubbles
  • 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • Chinese (Simplified)
  • Likely to Sell Out
  • Special Offers
  • The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

day trips from phuket

1. Phang Nga Bay Sea Cave Canoeing & James Bond Island w/ Buffet Lunch by Big Boat

day trips from phuket

2. Phi Phi Islands Adventure Day Trip with Seaview Lunch by V. Marine Tour

day trips from phuket

3. Luxury Small Group Phi Phi Sunrise from Phuket by Simba Sea Trips

day trips from phuket

4. Luxury Boat to James bond islands with lunch and sunset dinner

day trips from phuket

5. Jame Bond, Panyee Island, Hong Island and Naka Island by Speedboat From Phuket

day trips from phuket

6. Phi Phi & Khai Islands Snorkeling Trip w/ Lunch by Speedboat

day trips from phuket

7. Phuket City Tour: Karon View Point, Big Buddha & Wat Chalong (SHA Plus)

day trips from phuket

8. John Gray's Hong by Starlight with Sea Cave Kayaking and Loy Krathong Floating

day trips from phuket

9. James Bond Island w/Canoeing and Lunch by Speedboat

day trips from phuket

10. Phi Phi Islands Day Tour from Phuket

day trips from phuket

11. Phuket Full Day Tour in Khao Lak with Bamboo Rafting and ATV Bike

day trips from phuket

12. Premium Phi Phi, bamboo island tour SpeedCatamaran

day trips from phuket

13. Phi Phi & Bamboo Islands Snorkeling Trip w/ Lunch by Speedboat

day trips from phuket

14. ️ Phuket Private Instagram Tour: All-Inclusive

day trips from phuket

15. Phi Phi Don, Phi Phi Lay, Khai Nai Snorkeling Tour from Phuket

day trips from phuket

16. Atv Big Buddha Phuket Viewpoint

day trips from phuket

17. Phuket Jungle Wildlife Canoeing Small Group Tour with Pick up

day trips from phuket

18. Phuket: Full-Day Phi Phi Islands, Maiton island Trip by Speed Catamaran

day trips from phuket

19. Small Group Only 20 People - Phi Phi & Bamboo Islands and Maya Bay with Lunch

day trips from phuket

20. Phi Phi Island Private Boat Tour

day trips from phuket

21. Private Phi Phi & Khai Islands Snorkeling Trip w/ Lunch by Speedboat

day trips from phuket

22. James Bond Island Longtail Boat Tour (Private & All-Inclusive)

day trips from phuket

23. Travstore Original Phuket Discovery Tour - Shared Half Day City Tour

day trips from phuket

24. 4-Waters Eco-Adventure Trip from Phuket Including Lunch

day trips from phuket

25. Khai Island Half Day Tour in 3 Islands (Khai Nai,Khai Nok,Khai Nui) from Phuket

day trips from phuket

26. Phuket Best Experience City Tour (SHA Plus)

day trips from phuket

27. Hype Yacht : VIP Tour Phi Phi Island & Maya Bay from Phuket

day trips from phuket

28. Phang Nga Bay & James Bond Island with Canoeing By Big Boat From Phuket

day trips from phuket

29. Sunset Boat Trip To Phang Nga Bay & James Bond - Phuket Sail Tour

day trips from phuket

30. Day Trip to James Bond Island by Premium Speedboat includes National Park Fees

What travellers are saying.

Samuelboy

  • Phi Phi Islands Adventure Day Trip with Seaview Lunch by V. Marine Tour
  • Jame Bond, Panyee Island, Hong Island and Naka Island by Speedboat From Phuket
  • Phang Nga Bay Sea Cave Canoeing & James Bond Island w/ Buffet Lunch by Big Boat
  • Phuket City Tour: Karon View Point, Big Buddha & Wat Chalong (SHA Plus)
  • Phi Phi Sunrise from Phuket by Simba Sea Trips
  • 5 Star Marine
  • Twilight Sea Canoe Phuket
  • ForeverVacation Phuket
  • Sri Thara Marine - Canoeing & James Bond Island
  • Indepth Dive Centre
  • Two Sea Tour
  • Coral Seekers
  • Aloha Ocean Adventures
  • Oceanic Divecenter
  • Phuket Tours Transfers
  • All 4 Diving Scuba Diving Phuket
  • Paddle Asia - Private Day Tours
  • Phuket Elephant Sanctuary

THE 10 BEST Day Trips from Phuket

Day trips from phuket.

  • Phuket to Ko Phi Phi Don
  • Phuket to Ao Phang Nga National Park
  • Phuket to Phang Nga
  • Phuket to Chalong
  • Up to 1 hour
  • 1 to 4 hours
  • 4 hours to 1 day
  • 5.0 of 5 bubbles
  • 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
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day trips from phuket

1. Phang Nga Bay Sea Cave Canoeing & James Bond Island w/ Buffet Lunch by Big Boat

day trips from phuket

2. Phi Phi Islands Adventure Day Trip with Seaview Lunch by V. Marine Tour

day trips from phuket

3. Luxury Small Group Phi Phi Sunrise from Phuket by Simba Sea Trips

day trips from phuket

4. Luxury Boat to James bond islands with lunch and sunset dinner

day trips from phuket

5. Jame Bond, Panyee Island, Hong Island and Naka Island by Speedboat From Phuket

day trips from phuket

6. Phi Phi & Khai Islands Snorkeling Trip w/ Lunch by Speedboat

day trips from phuket

7. Phuket City Tour: Karon View Point, Big Buddha & Wat Chalong (SHA Plus)

day trips from phuket

8. John Gray's Hong by Starlight with Sea Cave Kayaking and Loy Krathong Floating

day trips from phuket

9. James Bond Island w/Canoeing and Lunch by Speedboat

day trips from phuket

10. Phang Nga Bay Instagram Tour with caves explore & Kayak

day trips from phuket

11. Phi Phi Islands Day Tour from Phuket

day trips from phuket

12. Premium Phi Phi, bamboo island tour SpeedCatamaran

day trips from phuket

13. Phi Phi & Bamboo Islands Snorkeling Trip w/ Lunch by Speedboat

day trips from phuket

14. ️ Phuket Private Instagram Tour: All-Inclusive

day trips from phuket

15. Phi Phi Don, Phi Phi Lay, Khai Nai Snorkeling Tour from Phuket

day trips from phuket

16. Atv Big Buddha Phuket Viewpoint

day trips from phuket

17. Phuket: Full-Day Phi Phi Islands, Maiton island Trip by Speed Catamaran

day trips from phuket

18. Small Group Only 20 People - Phi Phi & Bamboo Islands and Maya Bay with Lunch

day trips from phuket

19. Phi Phi Island Private Boat Tour

day trips from phuket

20. Private Phi Phi & Khai Islands Snorkeling Trip w/ Lunch by Speedboat

day trips from phuket

21. Sunrise Jamebond Island by Luxury Longtail Boat from Phuket

day trips from phuket

22. James Bond Island Longtail Boat Tour (Private & All-Inclusive)

day trips from phuket

23. Travstore Original Phuket Discovery Tour - Shared Half Day City Tour

day trips from phuket

24. 4-Waters Eco-Adventure Trip from Phuket Including Lunch

day trips from phuket

25. Khai Island Half Day Tour in 3 Islands (Khai Nai,Khai Nok,Khai Nui) from Phuket

day trips from phuket

26. Phuket Best Experience City Tour (SHA Plus)

day trips from phuket

27. Hype Yacht : VIP Tour Phi Phi Island & Maya Bay from Phuket

day trips from phuket

28. Phang Nga Bay & James Bond Island with Canoeing By Big Boat From Phuket

day trips from phuket

29. Sunset Boat Trip To Phang Nga Bay & James Bond - Phuket Sail Tour

day trips from phuket

30. Day Trip to James Bond Island by Premium Speedboat includes National Park Fees

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  • Phi Phi Islands Adventure Day Trip with Seaview Lunch by V. Marine Tour
  • Jame Bond, Panyee Island, Hong Island and Naka Island by Speedboat From Phuket
  • Phang Nga Bay Sea Cave Canoeing & James Bond Island w/ Buffet Lunch by Big Boat
  • Phuket City Tour: Karon View Point, Big Buddha & Wat Chalong (SHA Plus)
  • Phi Phi Sunrise from Phuket by Simba Sea Trips
  • 5 Star Marine
  • Twilight Sea Canoe Phuket
  • ForeverVacation Phuket
  • Sri Thara Marine - Canoeing & James Bond Island
  • Indepth Dive Centre
  • Two Sea Tour
  • Coral Seekers
  • Aloha Ocean Adventures
  • Oceanic Divecenter
  • Phuket Tours Transfers
  • All 4 Diving Scuba Diving Phuket
  • Paddle Asia - Private Day Tours
  • Phuket Elephant Sanctuary

Best Day Trips from Phuket

day trips from phuket

While in Phuket, I recommend joining at least one Phuket day trip .  Some of the best day trips from Phuket include exploring stunning tropical islands, snorkelling in crystal clear warm waters and swimming from some of the most spectacular beaches you’ve ever seen!

Phuket boat tours or a Phuket island tour are among the most popular tours.  Families often take a Phi Phi Island day trip from Phuket or even a Phuket Similan Islands day trip – or one of the many other Phuket boat trips, which usually include snorkelling and a delicious lunch.

This guide covers some of the more popular tours to help you find the best Phuket day trips .  The guide provides all the information you need, including trip length; activities included and price, so you can decide which are the best day trips in Phuket for your family holiday.  

So let’s get into it and find the best day tours in Phuket for your upcoming trip.

Talk to other families about their tips on visiting Phuket and join our Thrifty Family Travel Facebook Group or be inspired by our Instagram .

This post may contain compensated links. Please refer to my disclaimer here for more information.

Page Contents

  • 1 Best Day Trips from Phuket Map
  • 2.1.1 Speedboat tour to Phi Phi, Pileh Lagoon and Khai or Bamboo Island
  • 2.1.2 Premium day trip to Phi Phi, Maya Bay and Bamboo Island with lunch
  • 2.1.3 Snorkelling day trip to Phi Phi and more by VIP boat, catamaran or speedboat
  • 2.2.1 Full day longtail boat trip to James Bond Island
  • 2.2.2 Speedboat trip to James Bond, Naka and Hong Islands
  • 2.2.3 Big Boat Koh Hong by Starlight tour
  • 2.2.4 James Bond Island deluxe sunset cruise
  • 2.3.1 Early Bird Similan Islands day trip
  • 2.3.2 Snorkelling Similan Islands day tour
  • 2.4.1 Racha Island tour with snorkelling (and optional scuba diving)
  • 2.4.2 Racha, Coral and Maithon Island speedboat tour
  • 2.4.3 Sunset tour from Phuket to Coral Island
  • 2.5.1 White water rafting plus jungle and waterfall trek
  • 2.5.2 Rafting, zipline and ATV adventure tour from Phuket
  • 2.6.1 Mangrove jungle and hidden beach ATV tour
  • 2.6.2 Phuket ATV riding experience
  • 2.6.3 ATV adventure safari with optional zipline
  • 2.7.1 Phuket half day highlights tour
  • 2.7.2 Old Town, Big Buddha and temple tour
  • 2.7.3 Phuket highlights and hidden gems tour
  • 2.8.1 Khao Lak National Park day tour
  • 2.9.1 Khai Nok, Khai Nai and Khai Nui boat tour
  • 2.10.1 Snorkelling trip to the Surin Islands

Best Day Trips from Phuket Map

Before we get into the details of these best day trips Phuket offers, the map below shows the location of each destination covered in this guide.

Zoom in and out for a better view.

Best Phuket Day Trips

Below we cover some of the best day tours Phuket offers .  

Under each destination, we cover why it’s one of the best Phuket day tours and links to recommended tours.

All prices are in AUD.  Click here to convert the rate to your local currency.

Phi Phi Islands / Maya Beach 

day trips from phuket

For many, a tour to Maya Beach and the Phi Phi Islands is the best day trip from Phuket . Kids and adults alike can enjoy swimming in the crystal clear waters of the Andaman sea, and you can even encounter native marine life by donning a snorkel. 

Maya Bay is home to the breathtaking lagoon that starred in The Beach , a Leonardo di Caprio movie released in 2000. It offers plenty of swoon-worthy photo and filming opportunities, so if you have kids or teens who are into that, don’t forget the camera or GoPro.

This part of Phuket is characterised by soaring, green-clad limestone cliffs, clear turquoise waters, bone-white sands and coral reefs. Things to do during a from- Phuket day tour include snorkelling, swimming, picnicking on the beach and of course, capturing it all on camera. 

With plenty of space for the kids to splash and run around, this part of Thailand is a paradise for families. But, of course, you’ll need to book a boat tour to reach these incredible islands and beautiful beaches, so read on to find our favourites listed below. 

Speedboat tour to Phi Phi, Pileh Lagoon and Khai or Bamboo Island

Hop onto a speedboat to travel to Phi Phi and Pileh Lagoon, plus Bamboo or Khai Island. The vessel will ensure you arrive in the National park safely and without delay, giving you more time to enjoy these extremely picturesque locations. 

This speedboat tour includes lunch, refreshments and snacks so you won’t go hungry or thirsty. A snorkelling mask and a life jacket are supplied for safety, and your guide speaks English. Hotel transfers to and from the boat are provided with this one day trip from Phuket too. 

Price:  

Khai Island option: $94.15 per adult | $68.49 per child (4 – 11)

Bamboo Island option: $102.75 per adult | $77.05 per child (4 – 11)  

Click here to book your tour online

Premium day trip to Phi Phi, Maya Bay and Bamboo Island with lunch

This nine hour tour also whisks you off to the sites by speedboat but is limited to a maximum of 28 passengers for a more personal experience. The Phuket to Phi Phi day trip also takes in Pileh Lagoon, Monkey Beach and the Viking Cave.

Apart from the limited group size, this trip’s highlight is lunch on Phi Phi Don. This is served at a smart beach restaurant, so you can soak up the stunning views while refuelling. 

National park fees are included here, as are hotel transfers, snorkelling equipment, a lifejacket, fresh fruit, soft drinks and even seasickness meds if you need them!

Price: $164.82 per adult | $98.00 per child (under 12) | – Click here to book your tours online

Snorkelling day trip to Phi Phi and more by VIP boat, catamaran or speedboat

Book this Phuket day trip to Phi Phi and you can choose how you’d like to arrive! The options are a catamaran, speedboat or even a VIP boat. 

You can also pick your preferred destination. All trips go to Phi Phi and Maya, but then you can opt to visit Bamboo or Khai Island or Monkey Beach.

Kids won’t be able to resist the cute creatures at the latter, and all the family can pop on a snorkel to spot underwater life within the calm, warm waters. 

Do note that you must add the National Park fee when booking this tour unless you’re a Thai national. You can also remove the hotel transfers if you wish – we’ve included these in the rates below. 

Price: 

Monkey Beach by speedboat: $66.55 per adult + $17.15 National Park entry | $54.99 per child (4 – 10) + $8.55 National Park entry 

Khai Island by catamaran: $72.40 per adult + $17.15 National Park entry | $58.65 per child (4 – 10) + $8.55 National Park entry 

Bamboo Island option: $85.59 per adult + $17.15 National Park entry | $66.35 per child (4 – 10) + $8.55 National Park entry 

Click here to book your tours online

James Bond Island / Phang Nga Bay

day trips from phuket

Phang Nga Bay hit the silver screen when playing a starring role in The Man with the Golden Gun , a 1974 James Bond film with Roger Moore. As well as ‘James Bond Island’, the bay is famous for its towering limestone stacks jutting out of the water. There are also caves in the area to explore. 

Like Phi Phi and Maya Beach, you can take a Phuket day cruise to Phang Nga Bay. In fact, you don’t have to limit the adventure to daytime, as there are evening trips you can take too. Imagine the kids’ faces when they’re allowed to stay up late, cruising the Thai waters by luxury boat!

Sights to spot during your day include Ice Cream cave, which boasts a stalactite shaped like an ice cream in a cone. Children will also love seeing the friendly creatures of Monkey Cave and paddling in the shallow waters by Talu Cave. 

Some tours taking place by night are more family-friendly, while others are aimed at adults who deserve a night off, though children are also welcome to come along for a beach club experience at sea. 

As with day trips from Phuket to Phi Phi , you’ll need to access this part of the Andaman by boat. 

Here are four of the best organised, fully insured boat trips to book. 

Full day longtail boat trip to James Bond Island

Hop aboard a traditional Thai longboat for a real sense of place. It’s a ten hour tour, so during the from- Phuket one day trip, there’s plenty of time to visit Monkey Cave, Panyee Island and Talu Cave, as well as the immortalised James Bond Island.

You can meet the local primates at Monkey Cave and see beautiful carvings and statues. Meanwhile, a stop at Panyee Island lets you see how Thais live in an entire village built on stilts. You can also swim, paddle or even canoe in the Talu Cave area. 

Price: $86.69 per adult | $78.99 per child (0 – 11) – Click here to book your tours online

Speedboat trip to James Bond, Naka and Hong Islands

When you book this trip, a smooth speedboat ride will transport you to a clutch of Andaman’s most enchanting islands. The experience begins with a transfer from your hotel to Yamu Pier, where you’ll board a boat bound for Phang Nga Bay.

There are lots for kids and adults to see and do on one of the best island day trips from Phuket . See Panak Island, swim at a serene and idyllic lagoon and even take a kayak tour around Hong Island. During the day, you can also discover ancient artworks and a mangrove forest.

Price: $72.75 per adult | $64.19 per child (4 – 11) | children under 4 are free | – Click here to book your tours online

Big Boat Koh Hong by Starlight tour

If you can’t pick between seeing Phang Nga Bay by night or day, you don’t have to. Instead, book this ‘Koh Hong by Starlight’ tour aboard a big boat, and you can see the famous scenery before and after dark. 

This is the pick of the day trips from Phuket to James Bond island for those who want to experience it all, as it includes kayaking under professional guidance, native bird-spotting and Thai-style buffet meals. You can even set off a floating lantern during darkness if you want to. 

Price: $151 per adult | $78 per child (6 – 12) | children under 6 are free | – Click here to book your tours online

James Bond Island deluxe sunset cruise

Whether the adults go it alone or the kids stay up late to join in, an evening cruise makes a refreshing change from the usual day trips from Phuket to the islands . If you’re ready to party, this is the one for you, complete with day beds, a DJ, a dance floor and a bar.

Highlights include skimming across the Andaman by kayak, relaxing on board the ultra comfortable vessel, an international buffet lunch and a delicious sunset dinner with spectacular views. You can also laze in a water hammock on Yai Island. 

Price: $209.36 per adult | $178.18 per child (4 – 10) | children under 4 are free | – Click here to book your tours online

Similan Islands

day trips from phuket

The Similan Islands offer something a little different. Abundant in wildlife – including sea turtles – they’re more laid-back than other destinations in the area. If it’s not your first visit to Phuket, then the best day trips might take you somewhere new, making this an ideal option. This is also the perfect place for wildlife lovers. 

Located in the Andaman Sea, the Similan archipelago comprises nine pristine islands with white sandy beaches, stunning land and seascapes and a fascinating array of underwater life. 

Take a trip here and you’ll visit some interestingly-named spots too, including Honeymoon Bay for loved-up adults and Donald Duck Bay which will surely delight young kids! A trip to the Similan Islands is a must for children who like to explore the coastline, splash about in calm waters, or discover marine life. 

Again you can’t organise a Phuket to Similan Islands day trip off your own steam, so pre-book an organised tour to ensure you’re in safe hands. The following two are the best options for families. 

Early Bird Similan Islands day trip

A speedboat tour will whisk you to the Similan Islands for an eight to nine hour adventure. 

This Phuket to Similan Island day trip involves an early start, so you can get there with plenty of time to enjoy all there is to see – and the peace. 

During the day, you’ll visit Princess Bay, Donald Duck Bay, Honeymoon Bay and Sail Rock. Two prolonged snorkelling stops are also included, allowing you to try and spy a sea turtle. 

Note that a short hike to Sail Rock is required, and this tour is unsuitable for kids under 2. 

Price: $173.72 per adult | $109.13 per child (4 – 12) | children aged 2 – 3 are free | – Click here to book your tours online

Snorkelling Similan Islands day tour

This tour is a little longer, giving you even more time to observe what’s going on underwater. It’s the pick of the Phuket day cruises for anyone who wants to see a sea turtle. Species in the National Park include Leatherback, Hawksbill, Green and Olive Ridley sea turtles. 

A tasty Thai-style buffet lunch will be served at Ba Ngu Island, and you’ll also visit the glorious beach on Miang Island. 

All safety and snorkelling equipment is supplied, as is breakfast, snacks, fruit and soft drinks. 

Note that this trip isn’t suitable for kids aged 3 or under. 

Price: $136.62 per adult | $106.91 per child (4 – 11) – Click here to book your tours online

Racha and Coral Islands

day trips from phuket

Exploring Racha and Coral Islands is one for water babies and beach bums – though you can have as relaxing or active a time as you like. 

Coral Island – or as it’s known in Thai Ko He or Koh Hae – is only a few kilometres from Phuket, but spending time here feels like a whole world away. 

There are two main beaches here. Banana Beach offers the closest snorkelling to the shore, while Long Beach boasts a magnificent coral reef. Amenities like sun loungers and eateries are available on Coral Island. 

Ko Racha Yai, Raya Yai or Racha Island also lies off the southeast coast of Phuket. Primarily the island is known for a luxury five star resort, The Racha, and the diving and snorkelling opportunities offered. You can also relax on the pristine sands of Patok Bay here. 

Choosing between the two islands isn’t really the issue here. Either way, a day trip will get you to some superb snorkelling and diving spots and beautiful sandy beaches, making this the ideal day trip with older, active kids. 

Here are three of the best Phuket island trips to Coral and Racha Islands. 

Racha Island tour with snorkelling (and optional scuba diving)

If you’d like to scuba dive on your 1 day trip from Phuket , then this is one of the finest Phuket diving day trips you’ll find. This is because the underwater life around Racha Island is incredibly colourful and diverse. 

When selecting the diving experience, the day will begin with 15 minutes’ of instruction at Patok Bay or Ter Bay. 

Later in the day, you’ll enjoy lunch at a resort with a pool that you can swim in, plus a visit to a Coral Island beach. 

This trip is only suited to kids who are 10 years or older. 

Price: $68.65 per adult | $58.21 per child (10  – 11 only)  – Click here to book your tours online

Racha, Coral and Maithon Island speedboat tour

Discover three Thai island destinations in one trip with this speedboat day tour from Phuket . You’ll visit Coral, Racha and Maithon Islands and can sample snorkelling off the shore and unwinding on the pretty beaches.

The tour includes round-trip transfers, lunch, refreshments and the use of a lifejacket and snorkelling mask. 

Kids joining the trip must be aged 2 or over. 

Price: $47.55 per adult | $38.05 per child (2 – 11 only) – Click here to book your tours online

Sunset tour from Phuket to Coral Island

Rather than squeezing in a half day trip from Phuket , why not book a relaxing evening cruise to see Coral Island? Then, you can travel by catamaran in the afternoon, giving you time on the beach during the day and the chance to snorkel or catch fish. 

All soft drinks and food are provided, and you can purchase alcoholic drinks from the bar on board. 

This tour is suitable for children and lasts for six-and-a-half hours. 

Price: $47.05 per adult | $34.19 per child (4 – 12) | children aged under 4 are free | Click here to book your tours online

White Water Rafting

day trips from phuket

A white water rafting experience is one of the most exciting things to do in Thailand and makes a more active alternative to the standard kind of Phuket islands day trip . 

If you fancy the thrill of riding over open water in a purpose-built raft, then this is one of the top places in the world to try it. It can also be among the cheapest. 

This isn’t something you can do without an organised trip – you need all the right equipment, plus of course, expert guidance. The great news, though, is that you can combine your white water adventure with another adrenaline activity, such as ziplining or touring by All Terrain Vehicle (ATV).

There’s also the option of including a jungle trek, waterfalls or caves on this kind of Phuket one day tour package . 

Here are two top recommended white water rafting tours in Thailand. 

As long as your kids are four, five or older, they can, and will love, taking part!

White water rafting plus jungle and waterfall trek

This is surely one of the most exciting Phuket day excursions around! It includes a hike through the jungle, a waterfall, a ride in an ATV and even the chance to try making a traditional Thai dessert. 

Your exciting day out includes rafting on the Song Phraek river, taking a dip beneath Ton Pariwat Waterfall, discovering flora and fauna of Phang Nga Province and a Thai lunch with soft drinks and fruit. 

This experience isn’t suited to kids aged 5 or under.   cant find this option to check prices

Price: $181 per adult | $138 per child (6 – 12 only) | Click here to book your tours online

Rafting, zipline and ATV adventure tour from Phuket

This tour is far more exhilarating than any of those Phuket day trips to islands you may experience. As well as white water rafting, you’ll enjoy a thrilling zipline ride with fabulous views and a trip in an ATV.

You can also see a giant Buddha at Wat Suwan Kuha temple and ride along the river at speed for around five to seven kilometres. 

A Thai lunch with fruit and soft drinks is also included as part of the day. 

Kids taking part should be 4 or over, and weigh at least 45kg.

Price: $71.35 per adult | $61.85 per child (4 – 10) | Click here to book your tours online

day trips from phuket

Instead of a Phuket one day tour package by boat or bus, why not take to your very own ATV? These individual All Terrain Vehicles are really easy to learn to ride, and you can book experiences lasting an hour or longer. 

As long as they’re accompanied and supervised by a parent or guardian, kids aged eight or over can participate in this fun activity – and of course, they’ll love hurtling through the jungle and along bumpy tracks with a secret beach or the famous Big Buddha in their sights. 

Again this is one to book as an organised activity. For safety reasons, you’ll need to follow the instructor’s directions carefully and wear the helmet and gloves supplied. Once you’re all set, get ready for an hour or two of exhilarating riding.

Here are three of the best Phuket sightseeing day trips for exploring the island via ATV. Some include other exciting options, such as a zipline ride too.

Mangrove jungle and hidden beach ATV tour

This one or two hour tour begins with a safety briefing before setting off to discover Phuket. Once you’ve got into the swing of the ATV controls, you’ll set off to explore the rainforest, mangrove jungle, local villages, and palm plantations of the island.  

An advantage over the average Phuket island day tour is that it only lasts an hour or two, freeing up the rest of your day for other sightseeing or activities. 

If you want an added adrenaline rush, though, add the Flying Fox to your cart when booking: this is available as an add-on with the one hour ATV tour. 

If you want to see the lesser known side of Phuket, then this tour is perfect for you. 

1 hour ATV tour: $102.45 per adult | $84.64 per child (8 – 15 only)  

2 hour ATV tour or 1 hour plus Flying Fox: $129.18 per adult | $102.45 per child (8 – 15 only) 

Phuket ATV riding experience

As with all three tours, you don’t need prior ATV riding experience to take this Phuket island tour. Under professional guidance, you’ll quickly get the hang of steering over bumpy terrain to see the less touristy side of the destination. 

You can book a one or two hour tour, leaving you plenty of time for a half day Phuket city tour or other activity during the rest of the day. 

Adding the Flying Fox is also an option if you fancy even more of a thrill!

1 hour ATV tour: $74.69 per adult driver | $58.85 per adult passenger |$61.45 per child driver (8 – 15 only) | $49.25 per child passenger (8 – 15 only) 

2 hour ATV tour or 1 hour plus Flying Fox: $110.65 per adult driver | $89.89 per adult passenger |$87.75 per child driver (8 – 15 only) | $69.35 per child passenger (8 – 15 only) 

ATV adventure safari with optional zipline

Whizz past rubber plantations, over hills and through the jungle on an ATV with this tour. You can also visit the Big Buddha statue during your one or two hour experience – and there’s the option to add a zipline ride too.

Like the other ATV experiences, you can book onto this one as a driver or a passenger. 

The cost also includes hotel transfers and bottled water; they’ll even provide you with a raincoat during wet weather.

1 hour ATV tour: $77.05 per driver | $64.19 per passenger 

2 hour ATV tour: $95.25 per driver | $76.09 per passenger 

ATV tour plus Flying Fox: $123.05 per driver | $111.55 per passenger 

Click here to book your tickets online

Island  / City Tour

day trips from phuket

If you have the time for a Phuket full day city tour – or can even spare five or six hours for a Phuket half day tour instead – then this is a recommended way to see the sights of the island. Tours will take you to sites such as Big Buddha, the Old Town, Chalong temple and even the Thai island’s most Instagrammable spots!

The longer Phuket full day tour will also take you to other lovely spots, so the kids can splash around in the sea at Ao Sane Beach, see colourful homes on Soi Romanee in Phuket Old Town, take selfies at Rock Swing and enjoy a yummy lunch at Nui Beach. So there’s plenty to keep the kids occupied. 

If you want, the whole family can hike up to Cape Krating for panoramic views of the island’s stunning coastline. The shorter tours, meanwhile, are five or six hours long and include sites like a cashew nut factory as well as the Old Town, beaches, temples, statues and viewpoints.  

Here are three top Phuket island day tours to consider when planning your trip. 

Phuket half day highlights tour

At five hours’ duration, this is the pick of the Phuket half day tours for those short on time. You’ll discover Phuket Old Town, the Big Buddha and Chalong temple, and also get the chance to enjoy breathtaking views from the viewpoints visited. 

As so many colourful and beautiful sites are included, ensure everyone brings their camera along. That way, they can post on social media to make their friends envious! Perfect for keeping picky teens happy.  

The tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off.

Price: $62.36 per adult | $35.64 per child (3 – 11) | children aged under 3 are free | Click here to book your tours online

Old Town, Big Buddha and temple tour

If you have an extra hour to spare, this Phuket day tour package gives you a little longer to explore in depth. As well as the temple, the huge buddha statue and the Old Town, you’ll visit three utterly Instagrammable spots for magnificent views over the Andaman Coast.

This tour also takes in a Thai cashew processing plant for an insider’s perspective on food production. Ideal for kids who are learning all about where their food comes from. 

Again hotel transfers are included in the cost, which is per person rather than charged differently for kids and adults.  

Price: $43.92 per person | Click here to book your tours online

Phuket highlights and hidden gems tour

If you have ten hours at your disposal, this Phuket 1 day tour package will let you into a few little secrets and take you to the main tourist sites. You can take a dip, even don a snorkel at pretty Ao Sane Beach, and add an optional hike to the stunning Cape Krating viewpoint if you’d like to.

This tour is packed with Instagrammable moments, from the colourful buildings of Phuket Old Town to the mosaics decorating the temple. Kids will also love using the Rock Swing and taking a lunch break at Nui Beach. 

The day’s last stop is at Promthep Cape, another elevated point offering unparalleled views. 

Price: $67.16 per adult | $6.044 per child (0 – 11) | Click here to book your tours online

day trips from phuket

Khao Lak National Park is about 80 kilometres (or 50 miles) north of Phuket. It’s a large site packed with natural attractions such as waterfalls and various species of flora and fauna. These include Sunda flying lemurs and many birds, amphibians and reptile species.

The park also has some beaches close to the visitor centre, plus some extended hiking trails. However, accessing the latter requires a local guide, so they’re not really ideal for families. 

Otherwise, the park is perfect for kids, with lots of space to run around, a seaview restaurant at the visitor centre, and plenty of absorbing wildlife to spot.

Visitors to Khao Lak have two options. You can book a from- Phuket 1 day trip to explore the park under expert guidance or make your own way there. 

If you have a hire car, expect the drive each way to take about two-and-a-half hours. There is parking at the visitor centre, and accommodation too should you want to stay overnight. 

A day trip is a great option if you don’t fancy navigating the Thai highways. While local buses are available, the journey can take up to four-and-a-half hours each way. Depending on the route, you might need to change buses and either way, you’d have to reach the park by a 30 minute walk after alighting. 

The park is open daily from 8 am to 4.30 pm and the entry price is THB 100 per adult, THB 50 per child (3 – 14), with children under 3 free. 

For those who want to see Khao Lak National Park via an organised tour, read on for the pick of the Phuket day trip packages to the park. 

Khao Lak National Park day tour

This organised day trip includes various activities to keep kids and adults busy. After heading north from Phuket, you’ll stop at Sarasin Bridge and the Andaman Viewpoint before taking to the river on a raft made from bamboo! 

After cruising down the river’s calm waters, stops are made at the Sea Turtle Conservation Centre and the International Tsunami Museum. This brings to life the devastating effects this area experienced in 2004. 

The lovely, multi-level Lampi Waterfall is your last stop before boarding the coach back to Phuket. 

Drinks, hotel transfers and all fees are covered by the cost of this Phuket one day tour to Khao Lak. 

Price: $90 per person | Click here to book your tours online

Khai Nok, Khai Nai and Khai Nu

If you feel like getting off the beaten track or have been to Phuket before, you may seek something different. When you’ve made the Phuket day trips to Phi Phi – or simply don’t want to – a cruise to the idyllic islands of Khai Nok, Khai Nai and Khai Nui is a great alternative. 

At Khai Nok, Khai Nai and Khai Nui, it’s all about kicking back and enjoying paradise. On Khai Nai specifically, kids and adults who love felines will also be thrilled to meet the local cat population.

You’ll need to reach the islands by taking a boat trip over the Andaman Sea, so it’s not something you can arrange yourself. However, this is also perfect when you want to find a Phuket snorkelling day trip , as the equipment is provided and there’s clear water plus lots of colourful underwater life. 

Khai Nok, Khai Nai and Khai Nui boat tour

If natural, coastal beauty is your thing, you’ll love this cruise from Patong. For beach lovers, Phuket day excursions don’t get any better than this. You can lie back and soak up the sun, pop on a snorkel to explore the underwater world or feed the cats of Khai Nai. 

You’ll be supplied with fruit and other snacks as you cruise towards this trio of beautiful islands. In addition, there are great photo opportunities all day long – both from the boat and once you’ve disembarked on the islands. 

The price includes transfers to and from your hotel.

Price: $44.54 per person | Click here to book your tours online

Surin Islands

day trips from phuket

The Surin Islands archipelago comprises five Thai islands located around 60 kilometres (or 37 miles) from the mainland. They are in the Phang Nga Province and Mu Ko Surin National Park. Most visitors come here to snorkel or dive; the underwater life here is among the finest on the planet. 

Snorkelling or diving day trips from Phuket to the Surin Islands are thus popular. You can see all manner of marine life here, from sea turtles and tropical fish to whale sharks and manta rays. 

Around 100 bird species also inhabit the area. For kids and adults who love nature, this area is unmissable!

If underwater wildlife appeals to you, you can reach the Surin Islands by boat from Phuket. These also tend to include a visit to the charming thatched Sea Gypsy Moken Village. 

Snorkelling trip to the Surin Islands

Hop onto a luxury speedboat to take your trip to the stunning Surin Islands. This Phuket island hopping day trip includes three snorkelling stops plus a visit to the Sea Gypsy Moken Village to witness a fascinating and unique way of life. 

The day commences with a light breakfast as your tour guide briefs you. 

Once the trip begins, your first stop will be at Pineapple Gulf or The Nemo. Next, you can also take a dip and enjoy the views at Twin Beach. 

After the village visit and a Thai style buffet lunch, you’ll go to Mae Yai Gulf and the Tao Gulf for more underwater exploration before heading back to Phuket.  

Price: $152.66 per adult | $108.91 per child (4 – 11) | children aged under 4 are free | Click here to book your tours online

Hopefully you have found this article on Best Day Trips from Phuket helpful. We have other guides to help plan your trip to Phuket, including Best Things to do in Phuket with Kid s and Phuket Kids Club Hotels.

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What are the most popular tours in Phuket?

There are a lot of Phuket Tours to explore in and around the island, and many places are easy to reach, so what are the best? Some other great places need a boat or a minibus ride and a bit of planning. We list here 10 of the most popular day trip tours you should consider. Of course, we know there are many more, and we will add them as we try them.

The best Phuket tours start with Phang Nga Bay and often include a few nearby islands, such as Phi Phi and Similan Islands. Tours on the island itself include the Big Buddha , the much revered Chalong temple and the exploration of the old streets of Phuket Town .

1. Phang Nga Bay Tour

Seacanoe in Phang Nga Bay

(With John Gray Hong by Starlight: 3,950 baht – 11:30 am 10:00 pm – Other tours 1,600 baht)

Phang Nga Bay is a fantastic wonder of the world and is an absolute must-do while in Phuket. As with any favourite Phuket tour, Phang Nga tends to become busy, but it’s enormous, and some tours, like the famous John Gray SeaCanoe , know how to take you where and when other tourists don’t go. The massive limestone formations rising above the water seem to come straight out of the movie Avatar (or it was possibly the other way around). The place was even featured as a background in one Star Wars episode (the bad one, I think). Phang Nga Bay is one of the best tours in Phuket. Read more

Kayaking Phang Nga Bay with John Grey Seacanoe

What we like a) As mentioned above, it’s just fantastic. b) The sea is quiet all year round and even looks better with the big rain clouds! c) It’s not very far, and all tour agents will pick you up at your hotel — no stress. What We Don’t a) Not every tour is Eco-friendly; some have no real experience and make lots of noise and shout, disturbing the magical peace.

Popular Ways to Discover Phang Nga Bay

Island hopping with faraway yachting.

Island Hopping with Faraway Yachting

Embark on an awe-inspiring sailing journey to the majestic islands of Thailand with the number one, award-winning Phuket yacht charter operator, whose primary mission and focus is on the guest experience. Escape the crowds to the most remote and hidden islands of Thailand and make this the holiday of your lifetime – what are you waiting for?

Advertise on Phuket101!

2. Phi Phi Island Day Trip

Phi Phi Island in Thailand

(about 2,800 baht – full day)

Phi Phi seems to be the Phuket tour on everyone’s list of islands to visit. It usually is for several reasons: The islands look fabulous, with two bays surrounded by vertical limestone cliffs. The beach parties are notorious and can last all night. Backpackers seem to have made Phi Phi their destination of choice. It also is an excellent snorkelling and diving destination for all levels, from beginners to wreck diving. There is an even more straightforward reason: they saw Maya Bay in the movie “The Beach” and wanted to know the place for themselves. Read more

Viking Cave - Phi Phi Island

A typical day trip to Phi Phi :

7.30: Pick up at your hotel 8.30 : Meet and greet at Royal Phuket Marina, short briefing. 9.30 : Departure by speedboat 10.30 : Enjoy snorkelling and swimming at Camel Rock, Monkey Bay Sightseeing 11.45 : Snorkeling near Phi Phi Don 12.30 : Lunch in Tonsai Bay on Phi Phi Don 13.30 : Head to Phi Phi Ley: pass by Viking Cave, swim at Piley Lagoon, and Sightseeing at Maya Bay. 15.30 : Relax, swim and snorkel on Koh Khai Nai, a small island on the way back. 16.30 : Arrive at the pier and depart to your hotel.

What’s good: a) It’s still beautiful a beautiful island, despite being spoiled mainly by unstoppable construction. b) It’s not very far from Phuket and affordable if you go by ferry c) The island being in a bay, it is accessible all year round (unlike Similan) d) Maya Bay is open again!

What’s Not: a) Uncontrolled constructions have spoiled the island, and it keeps extending. b) Phi Phi can get crowded with young backpackers coming here for a serious party, so it may not be your vision of relaxing beaches.

Popular Ways to Discover Phi Phi Island

Private island hopping cruises with 5 star marine.

Island Hopping in Phuket with 5 Star Marine

Join 5 Star Marine's private tropical speedboat tours, and experience island hopping from one idyllic sandy island to the next. For an experience that most people only dream of, allow our experienced crew to tailor the perfect itinerary for your adventure, island hopping in paradise. From snorkelling in Phi Phi, picturesque lunches at Racha, and capturing memories of James Bond Island; to sea canoeing in Phang Nga Bay or even dolphin spotting with a sunset BBQ. The choice is yours with 5 Star Marine.

3. James Bond Island Tour and Koh Panyi Village

James Bond Island

(Start at 1,800 baht, including pickup and return to hotel – join trip)

Usually, James Bond and Koh Panyi are part of any Phang Nga Bay tour. If you have time, we recommend dedicating one day to a Canoe in Phang Nga Bay, then another day to James Bond, Koh Panyi, the village on stilts and the reclining Buddha inside a cave. Read more

Longtail boats in Phang Nga Bay

A typical day trip in Phang Nga Bay with James Bond Island and Koh Panyi Village:

9.00 : Pick up at hotel lobby 10.00 : Arrive at Royal Phuket Marina 10.30 : Visit Phang Nga Bay (James Bond Island) 12.00 : Buffet Thai lunch at Koh Panyee village 13.00 : Visit Khao Thalu to canoe inside a cave 15.30 : Visit Naka island for swimming 17.30 : Back at the Royal Phuket Marina and back to the hotel

What we like: a) Going there offers amazing photo opportunities; the location and the cruise to get there are jaw-dropping. b) The village on stilts is unique, unusual and fun to explore. What we don’t: a) It’s a major tourist attraction, so expect a lot of people at midday, which spoils a bit the exotic feeling

Popular Ways to Discover James Bond Island

4. south phuket with big buddha and phuket town.

What to do in Phuket, Thailand

The South Phuket tour is a popular option for visitors to the island, taking in many of the most famous landmarks and attractions in the southern part of the island. The tour is flexible and can be tailored to guests’ preferences, but typically includes stops at beautiful beaches such as Karon and Nai Harn, as well as viewpoints for panoramic views of the island. The tour also includes a visit to the iconic Big Buddha Temple, which offers visitors the chance to take in the stunning views and pray for good luck. Another highlight of the tour is the visit to Old Phuket Town, where visitors can explore the charming streets and take in the unique Sino-Portuguese architecture. The tour also includes a stop for lunch at Rawai Beach, known for its delicious seafood and affordable prices.

windmill-panorama-phuket

To book a such day trip, you can ask any travel agent, or even better, hire a local driver with a van to customise the trip according to your own preferences, it is cheap and super comfortable, between 2,400 and 2,700 baht, depending how far your hotel is to the south. See here a list of private vans .

Popular Ways to Discover South Phuket and Phuket Town

5. coral island day trip and racha island.

Koh Racha Island

(about 1,300 baht for both islands – full day)

Often packaged as one Phuket tour day trip, those two beautiful islands have white sandy beaches and the typical atmosphere of small tropical islands. They offer excellent snorkelling opportunities with plenty of fish coming and swimming around you. Racha Island is excellent for diving, especially for first-timers. Read more

the-racha-resort-bar

A typical Day trip to Coral and Racha Islands by speedboat

8.30 : Pick up from your hotel lobby 09.00 : Depart from Chalong Pier to Racha Island, and enjoy snorkelling and swimming 12.30 : Depart from Racha Island to Coral Island and have lunch at Kahung restaurant 14.30 : Snorkeling, swimming and relaxing on the beach 16.30 : Back to the pier and sent back to your hotel

What we like: a) It’s accessible all year round, and it doesn’t take too long to reach What we don’t: a) It can be bustling and touristic

Popular Ways to Discover Coral and Racha Islands

6. similan islands day trip.

phuket snorkeling

(about 2,600 baht – full day)

Unique and beautiful, the Similans have the white sand and blue water you only see in postcards. It’s so strikingly beautiful that your friends might believe you photoshopped your photos. But it is that blue even in photos taken with a mobile phone!

It used to be possible to spend the night in a tent or a basic bungalow with air-conditioning, but it seems that this option is not available at this time! Apart from snorkelling, sunning, and a small restaurant, there is not much to do, but it’s a Robinson Crusoe experience you don’t want to miss. Read more

Similan Islands

A typical day trip to the Similans

6.00 : Pick up from the hotel lobby 9.00 : Depart to Similan island 10.20 : Visit Miang Island (Koh 4) for swimming and snorkelling 11.30 : Have a Thai lunch box on the island 12.00 : Visit Payu Island (Koh 7 )for swimming and snorkelling 13.00 : Visit Ba-ngu (Koh 9) for swimming and snorkelling 14.00 : Visit Similan island (Koh 8) for swimming and snorkelling and climbing the viewpoint at Sailing rock 15.00 : Back to the pier 16.30 : Transfer back to your hotel

What we like: a) Everything! What we don’t: a) It’s closed half-year during the low season, mostly because of the sea condition. b) It’s quite a long way from Phuket. Usually, a van takes you from Phuket to Takua Pa, then 1.30 hours by speedboat

Popular Ways to Discover Similan Islands

7. island hopping on a sailing catamaran.

Amadeus drone great shot

(6 days and 5 nights)

Spending a week on a sailing cruise is the most romantic and eco-friendly way to discover the islands near Phuket and south Thailand, an experience like no other!

Amadeus cabin charter10

Day 1 – Chalong Pier, Phuket -> Tonsai Bay, Koh Phi Phi Day 2 – Tonsai Bay, Koh Phi Phi -> Kantiang beach, Koh Lanta Day 3 – Kantiang beach, Koh Lanta -> Koh Rok Nok island Day 4 – Koh Rok Island -> Koh Phi Phi Leh Day 5 – Koh Phi Phi Leh -> Koh Racha Yai Day 6 – Koh Racha Yai -> Chalong Pier, Phuket

8. Koh Khai Tours

Koh Khai Islands

(about 1,900 baht – Full day)

This tour goes to the tiny Koh Khai islands, found just a few kilometres off Phuket looks like a cartoon postcard of a tropical island. There is not much to do there apart from sunbathing, snorkelling or swimming with hundred fish and drinking fresh coconuts. It’s so back to basics but isn’t it why you came to Phuket in the first place?

koh khai nok

What we like: a) It’s an easy and not far, relaxing day out b) Plenty of photo opportunities to post on your Facebook and drive your friends insane What we don’t: a) Can be really busy

Popular Ways to Discover Khai Island

9. phuket town tour.

Phuket Town, Thailand

(about 900 baht – half day)

In recent years, Phuket town has become a charming city with several historic streets and many beautiful old Sino-Portuguese mansions, some renovated and some partly run down. You might get to see some local markets and even visit some Thai temple and their typical intricate gold, red and green roofs. Exploring the picturesque street now full of little cafes and shops is a popular photo opportunity, mostly since they buried those horrible electric cables. Read more

Yaowarat Road in Phuket Town

What we like: a) It’s a good exploration day, especially when the weather is not favourable to be on the beach b) It’s not such a big area, so it’s easy to walk along the streets and between landmarks What we don’t: a) It’s relatively small, so don’t put your expectations too high either

Popular Ways to Discover Phuket Town

10. andamanda waterpark.

Andamanda waterpark Phuket seen from above

Andamanda Phuket is an immense amusement water park built close to Phuket Town when approaching from Patong Beach. Encompassing an enormous 100,000 square meters, this water park features 25 attractions, incorporating numerous water slides, a 10,000 square meter swimming zone equipped with artificial waves, and the the longest lazy river in southeast Asia, extending to a remarkable 550 meters!

Andamanda Water Park in Phuket

11. Elephant Sanctuaries

Tree Tops Elephant Reserve Phuket

There are now many elephant sanctuaries around the island that allow you to interact with the elephants. You can feed them, walk with them and make unforgettable memories. The old-fashioned elephant trekking is over! Ask your hotel or travel agent for one of the sanctuaries but skip the trekking or elephant riding! Read more

Tree Top Elephant Reserve Phuket

What we like: a) It’s fun, unusual and the best way to see real elephants! What we don’t: a) Some of the sanctuaries may feel a little too touristic (they probably switched from trekking to the sanctuary to catch the wave)

Popular Ways to Discover Elephant Sanctuaries

12. phang nga bay private cruises.

Best tours in Phuket - Day trips and excursions

Phang Nga Bay is an amazing destination. With its countless islands and towering cliffs emerging from the sea, the scenery is truly extraordinary. It often ranks at the top for many tourists, however, the popular areas of Phang Nga Bay can become overcrowded, making it difficult to fully appreciate its natural beauty. Therefore, on that particular day, we made a decision along with a few friends to rent a private boat and explore Phang Nga Bay in a more exclusive manner, allowing us to reach each location before the crowds arrived.

Phang Nga Bay private cruises

13. Cooking Classes

BrassWok Thai Cooking class in Phuket

Due to the immense popularity of Thai cuisine and its frequent portrayal on television and social media, cooking classes have become increasingly favoured in Phuket. The island offers a multitude of cooking schools catering to various budgets, with options available in both hotels and privately run establishments. Certain classes even offer the opportunity to explore local markets, adding an enjoyable aspect to the overall experience. Read more

Popular Ways to Discover Thai Cooking Class

ATV in Phuket

ATV tours in Phuket offer exhilarating off-road adventures for visitors. These tours allow participants to explore the stunning natural landscapes of the island while riding all-terrain vehicles. With various routes available, tourists can discover hidden trails, lush jungles, and scenic viewpoints. ATV tours in Phuket cater to both beginners and experienced riders, providing a thrilling and memorable experience. From navigating through rugged terrains to enjoying breathtaking views, these tours offer an exciting way to explore Phuket’s outdoor beauty.

Popular Ways to Discover ATV Experience

15. zipline.

Flying Hanuman Phuket

There are 3 or 4 Ziplines around the island, and we tried Flying Hanuman in the forest near Patong Beach. Zipline is a great way to do something fun and exciting with friends and family. You can do something active, fun and unforgettable in the dense forest in Kathu. It’s enormous, impressive and safe; anyone can do it, even a four-year-old kid! Read more

Flying Hanuman Phuket

How to get there : Book directly with them or check with a local travel agent Price : starts at 2,300 baht (16 platforms) and 3,250 baht (28 platforms).

Popular Ways to Discover Zipline Experience

16. carnival magic phuket.

Carnival Magic - The Magical Kingdom of Lights

Carnival Magic is a new 40-acre nighttime Thai carnival theme park, known as the Magical Kingdom of Lights. It features numerous record-breaking attractions. The Kingdom of Lights is an illumination park that boasts a display of over 40 million lights, and The River Palace is an enormous indoor parade show theatre capable of seating over 2,200 spectators. It showcases the world’s largest indoor parade show, known as the River Carnival. Read more

Kingdom of Lights at Carnival Magic Phuket

17. Simon Cabaret Show

(starts 700 baht – 2 hours – Patong beach)

Simon Cabaret

Simon Cabaret is a long-running successful stage performance with beautiful sets and outstanding choreography. Of course, people go to Simon Cabaret for reasons other than the pretty costumes and the show. They want to see the surprisingly beautiful ladyboys with their own eyes! Photos are not allowed during the show, but the ‘girls’ will happily wait for you outside the theatre for a photo session. Read more

Simon Cabaret Phuket

What we like: a) Excellent stage performance. b) It’s literally in Patong Beach, so you can enjoy the show and still go out for a party after the show What We Don’t: a) Ladyboys are known to be pushy for a tip if you take photos after the show. They might pick the money from your hand; thank you very much

Popular Ways to Discover Simon Cabaret Show

18. siam niramit.

Siam Niramit Phuket Show

Siam Niramit Phuket is a surprising show narrating 700 years of Thailand’s history. The stage is immense, and the choreography involving more than a hundred people is spotless. The narration is simple and clear enough for everyone to understand each scene. The superb sound system immerses you in a fantastic world based on centuries of Thai myths and legends. It is seriously impressive.

siam-niramit-phuket1

19. Phuket Fantasea Show

Phuket Fantasea

(starts 1,800 baht – from 5 pm – Kamala Beach – closed on Thursday)

This longtime running show is still top-rated. It’s a giant theme park and a professional stage performance with dancers, acrobats and real elephants walking through the audience and then onto the stage. The setting is awe-inspiring, and the exceptionally well-executed show narrates the legend of Kamala, where the park is. Read more

phuket-fantasea-restaurant-11

What we like: a) It’s professional and beautifully crafted, including the many buildings in the park. b) There are a lot of fun photo opportunities outside the theatre. What we don’t: a) With 2,500 seats, the buffet is too big to be enjoyable b) The elephants performing in the show or giving tourists a short ride are a little controversial c) You can’t take photos inside, but we understand that it can be annoying

Contact a local tour agent in Phuket

john welcome 1

Phuket 101 is not a travel agency, but you can get in touch with a local tour agent to get better prices as well as local information or even custom tours by using this link: https://www.johnwelcometravel.com/

Contact a local tour agent

Fast Facts about Phuket Tours

Faqs about phuket tours.

a. Popular Phuket tours and day trips include island hopping tours, visits to the Big Buddha, exploring Phang Nga Bay, visiting the Phi Phi Islands, and exploring James Bond Island. Here are some favourites: Phang Nga Bay Phi Phi Island Coral Island Samet Nangshee

a. Some nearby islands that are worth visiting on a day trip from Phuket include the Phi Phi Islands, Racha Islands, Coral Island, and James Bond Island. These islands offer beautiful beaches, snorkelling and diving opportunities, and stunning natural scenery: Similan Island Phi Phi Island Coral Island Koh Khai Racha Island Island Hopping

a. If you want to stay on the island only, there are a few interesting ways to explore Rent a van with a driver Self-explore old Phuket Town Phuket Fantasea Show Simon Cabaret Show

a. In most cases, you can book safely from an online tour agent or even buy in the street once in Phuket. It is recommended to book Phuket tours and day trips in advance to ensure availability, especially during peak tourist seasons.

a. You should bring sunscreen, a hat, comfortable clothing and shoes, a camera, and any necessary medication. You may also want to bring a towel and swimwear if your tour involves water activities.

a. Meals and hotel transfers are often included in Phuket tours and day trips, but it depends on the tour. Be sure to check the tour description or ask the tour operator for details.

a. The best time to take Phuket tours and day trips is from November to April, during the dry season, as the sky is clear and the sea is quiet. However, tours are available year-round and some tours, such as Phang Nga Bay, have a unique charm during the monsoon season.

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The 8 Best Day Trips from Phuket

The 8 Best Day Trips from Phuket

  • Similan Islands
  • Phi Phi Islands
  • James Bond Island and the Floating Ocean Village
  • Coral Island
  • Koh Yao Islands
  • Surin Islands
  • Racha Islands

9 Tips for Traveling Around Phuket

The Andaman Sea Islands have gained a global reputation and for good reason. Yet with so many islands to explore, it can be difficult to decide how to spend your limited holiday time. To help narrow down your choices, consider the following options for a day trip from Phuket. Each island is different and enjoyable in its own way.

Beach Holiday in Phuket with Asia Highlights

Traveling to Phuket, one of the most popular beach destinations in Thailand, is a great choice! You and your loved ones can enjoy Thailand's natural beauty and cultural richness there. Many fascinating beaches are waiting for you! Just contact us immediately and our experienced staff will help you to plan an unforgettable beach holiday.

1. Similan Islands

This archipelago of nine islands is a seriously gorgeous spot known for having some of the best marine life in the Andaman Sea, attracting diving and snorkeling enthusiasts from all over the world. The islands are densely wooded but are also encircled by sandy white beaches that are perfect to relax on.

Why This Trip: This national marine park is only open from November to April, enabling the thriving underwater ecosystem to remain undamaged by over-tourism. Sharks, rays, coral, and schools of fish are abundant in this area, making it home to one of the most beautiful underwater experiences near Phuket. There are also several hiking trails to embark on and empty beaches to relax on.

Travel Essence: A once-in-a-lifetime underwater adventure awaits at this popular diving destination. After diving, travelers can also observe the turquoise-lined horizon from hiking trails on top of the island's forested hills.

How to Get There: Several tour companies provide speedboats which take approximately two hours from Phuket. Note that it tends to get more crowded during lunchtime, so an earlier departure is recommended if you prefer some seclusion.

Suggested Time: We recommend departing early in the morning so that you can have the entire day (8-10 hours) to explore the islands. Then return to Phuket in the early evening to enjoy the sunset.

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2. Phi Phi Islands

If you recognize the name of these islands, it is most likely because you know it from a movie (particularly the critically-acclaimed The Beach). This tropical dream-location is home to six islands surrounded by stunning limestone formations and sandy beaches. The two main islands are Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Leh.

Why This Trip: Visitors have the opportunity to enjoy many activities, including kayaking, visiting the famous Maya Bay (currently closed until mid-2021), riding in a long-tail boat, hiking island trails, exploring the Viking Caves, and even rock climbing. On the Phi Phi Islands, there's something for everyone.

Travel Essence: The towering limestone cliff formations bordering stretches of tranquil beaches differentiate the Phi Phi Islands from other Andaman Sea attractions. With its calm beauty and spotlight in Hollywood, these islands have become one of the most popular tropical playgrounds in Thailand.

How to Get There: Ferries departing from Phuket's Rassada Bay take two hours to reach the Phi Phi Islands. Private speedboat transfers are also available and can get there as quickly as 45 minutes with the added convenience of choosing where to be dropped off. >> How to Get to Phi Phi Island from Phuket?

Suggested Time: We recommend allotting at least a day (8-10 hours) to explore these islands. There are accommodation options available should you want to extend your stay to two or three days.

3. James Bond Island and the Floating Ocean Village

Gaining mass popularity from the 1974 Bond movie, James Bond Island and its surroundings are a stunningly scenic setting with iconic limestone karsts and tranquil bays. Although you won't find a secret lair, unfortunately.

A trip to this island can be combined with a trip to Koh Pannyi to experience the unique culture of this primarily Muslim floating village.

Why This Trip: Rent a kayak or sea canoe and find yourself floating around striking limestone formations, hugging cliffsides, and entering caves which lead you to hidden lagoons. This trip also gives visitors the rare opportunity to see an entire village built on stilts and pylons that support everything from small walkways to a football field, school, hospital, and several restaurants.

Travel Essence: This day trip offers a serene experience that includes nature, adventure, culture, and community in just one day. It comes as little surprise that this is one of the most highly-ranked tours in Phuket.

How to Get There: Grab a long-tail boat from Phuket to begin your tour or charter a speedboat.

Suggested Time: A full-day tour gives you ample time to explore all the islands and caves before heading to the floating village to enjoy a late lunch.

4. Coral Island

This nearby destination is an excellent stop to get your adrenaline pumping with water activities. Locally called Koh Hae, this remote island is only 4-kilometers long and is surrounded by warm water that is ideal for swimming. Coral Island has two distinct beaches: Long Beach and Banana Beach.

Why This Trip: It's quick to get here from Phuket and is an ideal place to spend a few hours soaking up the sun and enjoying its laid-back vibes. The island's weak currents make it an ideal swimming and snorkeling spot and visitors can also enjoy activities like parasailing, sea walking, and banana boat rides.

Travel Essence: While the scenery is not quite as dramatic as some of the other options, Coral Island is a simple and quick getaway from Phuket that can be enjoyed by everyone.

How to Get There: Rent a long-tail boat from Rawai Beach or Chalong Pier or book a private speedboat. The journey to Coral Island takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes.

Suggested Time: A couple of hours to half a day is generally enough time on this small island, given the short travel time.

5. Koh Yao Islands

Halfway to the mainland lies the large islands of Koh Yao Yai and Koh Yao Noi. Despite Koh Yao Noi receiving worldwide attention for its conservation programs, this part of the Phang Nga Province is still a peaceful refuge from the hustle and bustle of Phuket. 

Why This Trip: Unspoiled by mass tourism, visitors can experience the quiet beauty of these islands by taking a leisurely walk or bike ride around the shore. This is a great place to observe the local way of life, sample traditional Thai food, and snorkel off one of the many beaches. Koh Yao Noi is also an excellent rock climbing destination particularly for those interested in deep-water soloing.

Travel Essence: This is a great chance to witness the simplicity of the traditional Thai lifestyle and is a calm place to get away from the tourist crowds. 

How to Get There: Long-tail boats depart three times a day from Bang Rong Pier and take one hour to reach Koh Yao. For a 25-minute trip, charter a private speedboat that also offers the opportunity to explore the surrounding areas. 

Suggested Time: We recommend that visitors spend at least a whole day at Koh Yao in order to explore both islands (which are only 10 minutes apart). There are also many accommodation options available should you want to enjoy the island for more than one day.   

6. Surin Islands

This archipelago of five islands is an absolute gem for underwater seascapes and clear water that contains an incredible variety of marine life. The main island of Ko Surin is a national park and home to a unique and fragile marine ecosystem. 

The Surin Islands were once the home of the Moken Sea Nomads and a few still live here in a small village today.

Why This Trip: This is the treasure trove of diving spots in the Andaman Sea with sightings of whale sharks, moray eels, sea turtles, and more. Despite much of the national park being blocked off to tourists, there are still a range of hiking trails to be found with impressive species of plants and animals. Untouched bays, beaches, and mangroves are also there for exploration. 

The best time to visit the Surin Islands is from December to March when wildlife sightings are more common and the waters are clearer.

Travel Essence: The Surin Islands are the epitome of unspoiled beauty and a popular spot for diving enthusiasts who want to have up-close experiences with its thriving marine life.    How to Get There: There are no public boats available to this destination, but transport can be arranged through a tour company or private charter. 

Suggested Time: Leave at least an entire day to explore Surin's bays, hike, and snorkel or dive. Accommodation is also available for those who want to stay for more than one day.

This popular tourist destination is well-known for its 20-kilometer long strip of coastal resorts set against jungle-covered mountains.

Why This Trip: This island offers both tourism areas for those who seek entertainment and some secluded spots in the north to get away from the crowds. Khao Lak has a vast range of activities including canoeing or rafting on the rivers, exploring waterfalls, scuba diving, visiting temples, and interacting with the wildlife. 

Travel Essence: This national park boasts beautifully-preserved ancient rainforests and natural scenery that provides a variety of activities suitable for everyone. Khao Lak and its series of villages are a refreshing and easily-accessible destination from the busy city of Phuket. 

How to Get There: Khao Lak is linked to Phuket via a bridge and so can be reached by bus, taxi, or private car. 

Suggested Time: It takes one to three hours to reach Khao Lak from Phuket. There are a lot of options for things to do on this island, so it's a good idea to spend at least a full day here.

8. Racha Islands

This picture-perfect pair of islands have sandy beaches and excellent diving spots. While the rocky Koh Racha Noi is uninhabited (but suitable for fishing), Koh Racha Yai caters to travelers and is also home to a small Muslim population.

Why This Trip: This destination attracts larger groups of divers and snorkelers for its variety of great spots that are suitable for everyone from beginner to advanced divers. The main beach is shaped like a crescent and makes for the perfect place to spend a quiet day relaxing.  

Travel Essence: Crystal-clear waters and soft sandy beaches make this intimate island a popular spot for day trips. 

How to Get There: Go with a private tour or charter a boat from Chalong Pier or Rawai for a 45 to 60-minute trip. Long-tail boats are available but not advised due to the distance.  

Suggested Time: Half a day is enough time to explore the marine life around these islands. There are plenty of restaurants and beaches to explore to make a rewarding full day as well.

1.Bring plenty of sunscreen

2.Drink plenty of water on your trip

3.Spend time in the shade

4.Stick with your tour group as much as you can

5.Make sure you let the tour guide know about any food allergies

6.Bring quick-dry clothing if you are going on a boat journey

7.Do not drink tap water even if it is offered to you

8.Bring a waterproof bag for electronics and other valuables

9.Make sure you get a good night's sleep before you go snorkeling or diving

Explore Thailand's Islands With Asia Highlights

If you are planning a trip to Phuket and would like to explore some of the surrounding islands, then let us do all the planning and organizing for you. At Asia Highlights, we have helped hundreds of vacationers avoid the time and hassle of planning their travels themselves. Our team can make a customized itinerary that suits your specific travel needs and goals so that you can just focus on having the trip of a lifetime.

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  • Unique experiences tailored to your interests: Enjoy a premium trip that goes beyond the typical tourist attractions.
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day trips from phuket

We made a private tour through South China in January 2024. Altogether Chengdu was the highlight. We had an incredible day at Emeishan. In Chengdu our guidewas Helen. She was the diamond of all. Speaking fluently English, full of interesting stories, laughing and talking all the time. We missed her the rest of our tour. We highly recommend to go to Chengdu for 3 days when visiting China, especially with Helen.

day trips from phuket

Other highlights are too many to mention but here are a few Ken taking us to the Terracotta Warriors and our food tour in Xian was amazing,

Our day volunteering at the Panda Base was truly unforgettable. Helen, our guide, provided us with invaluable insights about Chengdu and the pandas, enriching our tour with her knowledge and expertise. We're grateful to Helen for accompanying us throughout the day and showcasing the highlights of China.

We had a booking with China Highlights through Silvia Ye who guarenteed a perfect organisation. In Chengdu our guide was Helen. She was the diamond of all. Speaking fluently English, full of interesting stories, laughing and talking all the time. We missed her the rest of our tour. We highly recommend to go to Chengdu for 3 days when visiting China, especially with Helen.

We traveled to China during the Chinese new year and we had Kris as our guide and he is simply knowledgeable,helpful and great.

We visited Guilin for 2 days and stayed in the Guilin Waterfall hotel. Guilin was absolutely beautiful! Our guide, William, was very knowledgeable and kind! He taught us so much about Guilin and the surrounding area! We really enjoyed trying the specialty rice noodles of Guilin. Our highlight was the Li river cruise.

Amazing tour and the guide Mr. 贺霄 was very accommodating with our needs and request as we have bought our 2 years old with us. Well explained for all the place we visited. Any additional cost were informed well ahead and didn't felt any pressure if we opt not to go for additional detour. The trip was relaxing/ laid back/no rushing with zero shopping!

We had an amazing to China. Our tour guide Martin in Shanghai was super knowledgeable, caring and very flexible with our itinerary. When my wife got sick in the Shanghai, he was able to arrange an English-speaking doctor on the spot and took us to the clinic. On top of the that, Martin and the driver stayed with us at the clinic for the whole duration and drove us back to the hotel afterwards. His genuine concern for our welfare and willingness to go the extra mile did not go unnoticed, and we were deeply touched by his kindness and compassion.

Guilin, but mostly Yangshuo was at the tail end of our China adventure so there was a lot to live up to. Having a guide like Gary Wei meant that our trip ended on a high! We arrived in Guilin very late from an 11 hour train journey. Gary met us with gifts of fruit, sweet bread and cakes which was so unexpected and thoughtful.Gary's knowledge of the area was exceptional and his attention to us the same. He really took our children under his wing - even tuning in to annoying sibling rivalry and managing to keep the peace very well! Gary was our personal photographer at times and even our Taiji instructor, making a beautiful video of us all doing Taiji in a scenic setting :)The cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo is definitely worth taking and we enjoyed our few nights in the area, riding bikes along the river, doing a cooking class and enjoying the scenery

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Best Trips from Phuket in 2024: Half-Day, Full-Day, and DIY trips

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Best Trips from Phuket, Thailand: Half-Day, Full-Day, and DIY trips - best tours and excursions, day trips and experiences

About doing trips from Phuket

Phuket is the best starting point for trips to the many extraordinary locations of Southern Thailand , like Maya Bay , Similan Islands , Surin Islands, and more.

[ ALSO READ ]

day trips from phuket

Phuket Travel Guide

There are many different platforms you can book your trips from Phuket at, but we highly recommend one of the top 3 ones in Thailand. You can read traveler reviews and see a detailed overview of each trip so you know what to expect.

  • Find day trips on GetYourGuide
  • Find day trips on Viator
  • Find day trips on Klook

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How to get to Phuket

Phuket is easily reachable from all over the world with frequent direct flights from Europe, Australia, and other Asian destinations, as well as connected flights from the US and elsewhere through  Bangkok . It’s really well-connected.

We recommend checking flight deals on Kiwi and booking your bus or train travel on 12go (the best booking site for trains, buses, transfers, ferries, and more).

From popular nearby southern Thai destinations like Krabi , Phi Phi Islands , and Koh Lanta, you can catch a speedboat or ferry to Phuket , which is often the fastest and most convenient.

Best day trips from Phuket

Phuket’s proximity to so many amazing places in Southern Thailand makes it the perfect base for day trips. So you can get picked up in Phuket in the morning, have a full day out, and return in the late afternoon/evening.

We’ve personally done a lot of day trips from Phuket . And even though Phuket itself has many fabulous spots, the trips made our stay in Phuket even better.

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1. Maya Bay and Phi Phi Islands day trip

The most popular day trip from Phuker is definitely the day trip to Maya Bay and Phi Phi Islands . You visit the famous Maya Bay as well as some other great spots in Phi Phi Islands like the Pi Leh Lagoon and, depending on the trip, Bamboo Island or Khai Island.

Best day trips from Phuket to Maya Bay and Phi Phi Islands - beach at Maya Bay

[ Watch on YouTube ]

>> Video: Maya Bay and Phi Phi Islands Day Trip <<

Highlighted trips:

  • Maya Bay, Phi Phi, and Bamboo Island with Buffet Lunch
  • Phi Phi, Maya Bay, Khai & Bamboo Island Day Trip
  • Luxury Small Group Phi Phi Sunrise

Beautiful beach at Maya Bay, Phi Phi Islands, Krabi

Maya Bay and Phi Phi Islands day trip

2. Phang Nga Bay day trip

With its emerald waters and towering limestone cliffs, Phang Nga Bay offers breathtaking natural beauty.

Phang Nga Bay is best visited on a day trip from Phuket, as you can do a lot in the bay in a day, from exploring the hidden caves and lagoons to visiting the famous James Bond Island, taking a boat through the mangrove forest, and much more!

Best day trips from Phuket - Phang Nga Bay

  • Classic Phang Nga Bay Tour
  • Hong by Starlight with Sea Cave Kayaking and Loy Krathong Floating
  • Phang Nga Treasures Sunrise Tour
  • James Bond Island & Canoeing Day Tour by Luxury Boat
  • James Bond Island Luxury Sunset Cruise
  • VIP tour Krabi Islands & Phang Nga Bay

Another great island to explore in Phang Nga Bay is Koh Hong , but unfortunately, there are very few tours going there from Phuket. It’s closer to Koh Yao and Krabi and mostly visited from there. So if you’re also visiting Koh Yao, you can check out the Koh Yao to Hong Island long-tail tour .

White sand beach with limestone cliffs, Hong Island, Krabi

Koh Hong: Phang Nga Bay’s Best Island

3. Similan Islands day trip

One of the best day trips from Phuket is a day trip to Similan Islands , a group of some of the best islands that Thailand has to offer. You can explore the beautiful beaches, hike up the famous viewpoint, and snorkel the beautiful coral reefs, which are full of life.

  • Similan Islands Early Bird Day Trip
  • Similan Islands Snorkeling Day Trip
  • Similan Islands Private Tour

Best day trips from Phuket - Similan Islands

>> Video: Similan Islands: Thailand’s Best Islands <<

Crystal clear waters of Similan Islands, Thailand

Similan Islands Day Trip

4. Surin Islands day trip

You can have some of the best snorkeling in Thailand by going from Phuket on a day trip to Surin Islands . It focuses a lot on snorkeling and a visit to the local Moken people.

  • Surin Islands Snorkeling Day Trip (Love Andaman)
  • Surin Islands Snorkeling Day Trip (SeaStar Andaman)

Best day trip from Phuket - Surin Islands Best Snorkeling in Thailand

>> Video: Surin Islands: Thailand’s Best Snorkeling <<

Street in Moken Village, Surin Islands

Surin Islands

day trips from phuket

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5. Koh Yao day trip

A great day trip option from Phuket is to the nearby, quiet islands of Koh Yao Yai and Koh Yao Noi, which are much less populated and less crowded than Phuket.

You can hop on a  speedboat to Koh Yao  and explore it on your own. Or you can book a  Yao Island Cycling and Beach Day Trip  where you cycle the 22km loop on Koh Yao Noi, visit the countryside and secluded beaches, and enjoy a Thai lunch.

6. Racha and Coral Island day trip

Another great option not too far away from Phuket is a day trip to Racha and Coral Island .

Racha Island is a captivating destination known for its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. It is perfect for relaxing on the beach or scuba diving and snorkeling.

Koh Hey – Coral Island, known for its Banana Beach, is a stunning island near Phuket. Its crystal-clear waters and pristine white sand make it the perfect destination for beach lovers. There are also many water sports and activities to enjoy.

  • Racha & Coral Islands Day Tour by Speedboat
  • Coral or Racha Island Catamaran Yacht Tour
  • Racha and Coral Island Water Sports Tour
  • Coral and Racha Islands Hype Luxury Catamaran

7. Khai Islands day trip

A more budget-friendly way to explore some nearby islands and go snorkeling is the day trip to Khai Islands . The islands are really close to Phuket, so even a half-day tour can be enough for most.

  • 3 Khai Islands Tour with Snorkeling or Scuba Diving (half day or full day)
  • Khai Nok, Khai Nai, and Khai Nui Island Day Trip (afternoon)
  • Khai Islands Snorkeling Speedboat Tour (half day morning/afternoon, full day)

8. Khao Sok trip

One of the best nature experiences you can have on a trip from Phuket is on a Khao Sok and Cheow Lan Lake Tour , where you can take a boat tour on the lake and stay in a floating raft house. And if you’re lucky, you can maybe even see some wild elephants on the lake’s shore!

There are two different areas you can explore in Khao Sok National Park , the area of the Khao Sok village and the Cheow Lan Lake .

  • 2-Day Cheow Lan Lake and Wildlife Tour
  • Khao Sok National Park Jungle Safari Full-Day Tour

Best trips from Phuket - Cheow Lan Lake in Khao Sok National Park

Khao Sok National Park

9. Diving trip

As a certified diver in Phuket , you have plenty of fun dives available, with the best being the scuba diving trips to Racha Yai and Racha Noi and even to Phi Phi Islands and the private island of Maithon.

Highlighted trips

  • Private Full-Day Scuba Diving in Phuket
  • Full-Day Koh Phi Phi Scuba Diving
  • Maithon Private Island Fun Diving

Best trips from Phuket - diving trips, fun dives

DIY – Best Do It Yourself trips from Phuket

Phuket is a great starting point for DIY, do-it-yourself trips by renting a car or motorbike or simply using convenient transport options like speedboats between Phuket and nearby destinations.

So even without booking a tour, you can do plenty from Phuket.

1. DIY trip to Phi Phi Islands

It sounds crazy, we know, but going on a day trip to Phi Phi Islands from Phuket by yourself is a common thing. Yes, you won’t have that much time there, but if you’re pressed for time, it’s a great way to explore one more awesome place in your own way.

As Phi Phi Don is the only inhabited island, it’s going to be your arrival port when you take a speedboat or ferry to Phi Phi Islands from Phuket.

  • Earliest arrival: 9:30
  • Latest departure: 16:00
  • Things to see: Phi Phi Viewpoint, Viking Beach, Long Beach

Now if you add a night in Phi Phi Islands and make it an overnight trip, you can have a full day there, plus a night where you can see a Muay Thai fight or watch a fire show. Or simply relax with a cocktail at sunset.

2. DIY trip to Railay Beach in Krabi

A great option for a day out from Phuket is a trip to Railay Beach in Krabi , which is only accessible by boat and is famous for the Phra Nang Beach and Cave.

Read More

Also read: Top Things To Do in Krabi

The easiest way to get there is to take a speedboat to Railay East , and then you simply head down from the port to Phra Nang Beach and maybe even enter the Bat Cave for some cool views of Railay West Beach.

  • Earliest arrival: 10:15
  • Latest departure: 15:45
  • Things to see: Railay Beach, Phra Nang Beach, Bat Cave

If you add a night in Railay Beach , you can enjoy the beach in the morning before anyone arrives, check out the Diamond Cave, or even hike up the East Railay Viewpoint.

3. Private boat charter in Phuket

The perk of Phuket being the biggest island in Thailand is also that you can find amazing options for a private boat charter in Phuket , so you can pick your own itinerary and go where you want to go, and in a much more relaxed way than on shared boat tours.

These trips do cost significantly more than shared tours. But if your budget permits or if you’re traveling with a group or bigger family, it’s absolutely worth it!

You get to customize your trip with local experts, and on the day you travel, you are joined by a competent skipper (captain) and a knowledgeable guide.

Highlighted charters (fully customizable by local experts) :

  • 5 Star Marine Private Boat Tour (max 15 persons)
  • Phi Phi Islands Private Boat Tour (max 15 persons)
  • Phang Nga Bay Private Boat Tour (max 15 persons)

Where to stay in Phuket

The best place to stay in Phuket depends on what you want from your stay, as there are many distinct areas on the island offering different experiences.

  • Must Read: Where To Stay in Phuket for All Budgets: Best Hotels and Areas

In Phuket, Karon and Kata are the best for a fantastic beach experience, Kamala for luxury stays, Nai Harn to be away from the crowds, and Old Town for history, food, and architecture.

Depending on where you stay in Phuket, tours and excursions you book might not provide a complimentary transfer from your hotel. Instead, you will likely have to pay an additional fee.

However, if you’re staying in places like Old Town, Kata, Karon, and Patong, you will be fine, as they are almost guaranteed to be covered.

Best trips from Phuket to incredible beaches

Best areas to stay in Phuket:

  • Phuket Old Town – main city, history, architecture, food
  • Kata – gorgeous beach, lovely area full of restaurants and hotels
  • Karon – great beach, quieter and great for families/couples
  • Surin – beautiful beaches with nearby luxury stays
  • Kamala – relaxed with a great beach
  • Patong – extremely touristy, famous for nightlife
  • Bang Tao – incredibly long beach, lots of space, all-inclusive hotels
  • Mai Khao – longest beach in Phuket, peaceful, nice resorts, nearby airport
  • Rawai – more local area, great nearby beaches, boats leave here for the south islands

Below are the top-reviewed stays in each area worth checking out for your Phuket visit.

Phuket Old Town

Hostel: The Z Nite Hostel | Black Panther Hostel | Capzule Bed Hotel: Alleyhill Phuket Upper-end Hotel: Courtyard by Marriott

Hostel: Nonnee Hotel: Kata White Villas Resort: Sawasdee Village

Karon Beach

Hostel: Fishtail Hostel Hotel: Kata Tranquil Villa Resort: Mandarava Resort and Spa

Hostel: ChillHub Hostel Hotel: Pen Villa Hotel Resort: Outrigger Resort

Kamala Beach

Budget: B3 House Hotel: The Umbrella House Resort: InterContinental Phuket

Hostel: Hip Hostel Hotel: The Villa Residences Resort: Holiday Inn Resort

Hostel: ChillHub Hostel Hotel: Hilton Garden Inn Resort: The Pavillions Resort

Budget: Mai Khao Beach Guest House Hotel: Mai Khao Beach Residence Resort: Anantara Vacation Club

Budget: Good 9 at Home Hotel: Wyndham La Vita Resort: Navatara Resort

Looking for more travel guides and Thailand travel inspiration?

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Escape from Phuket

January 11, 2022 by Robert Schrader Leave a Comment

It only recently dawned on me that Phuket is not so much an island as a peninsula barely split off from the mainland. The strait that separates the two is like a river that got too big for its banks; they are like a couple that have just recently divorced, but still keep in touch, maybe too much.

Crossing the Sarasin Bridge from Phang Nga to Phuket, alongside my friend Allano and his family, hammered this home. The bridge couldn’t have been longer than a kilometer; because there was a rainbow amid the storm clouds just to the east of it, I almost didn’t notice when our time on the saphan began or ended.

To put it bluntly, this realization—that Phuket is not an island, at least not in the way the Similan or Phi Phi islands or even the Yao islands are—allowed me to feel better about my long-held negative perception of Phuket: That a trip here is something to be endured more than enjoyed.

day trips from phuket

I was never fond of Phuket, not even in its heyday. So on the second Sunday of 2022, as the clouds of the pandemic were clearing, I tried to be understanding.

And yet while the birds were awake and the power lines were buzzing at 5:42 am, not a single convenience store was open, or even in operation. Open 24 Hours , insisted the sign on the FamilyMart near my Kata Beach hotel . Its windows were covered in newsprint on one side and a layer of dust on the other.

I would see seven shattered 7-Elevens—I didn’t count the other brands—during my two hour walk between the southern end of Kata Beach and the southern end of Patong, where I planned to turn left and traverse the kilometer-long uphill path to Freedom Beach on foot as well.

Unfortunately, a trio of feral dogs blocked the path less than 100 meters into my sojourn; I’m not afraid of dogs, but I am afraid of rabies. I walked back to the blighted main road, where half a dozen abandoned hotels stood eerily behind a faded billboard advertising Simon’s Cabaret, Phuket’s most acclaimed ladyboy song and dance extravaganza.

The driver of the yellow songthaew , which was apparently operating as a private taxi, sniffed me out before I could even begin to look for him.

Saam roy baat , he offered when I told him where I was going, justifying the exorbitant fare on account of the steepness of the road leading there—as if that made a difference for a vehicle with an engine. Since I am here, ostensibly, to contribute to the local economy, I only haggled him down to 250.

The bad news? Freedom Beach, in addition to being a fucking bitch to access, was nothing special compared to what I’ve seen elsewhere in Thailand, or even really compared to Kata or Karon—it may be better than Patong, which isn’t saying much.

In addition to having been disappointed by the overgrown vegetation blocking the viewpoint I paid a hundred baht to look down from, the beach itself emanated an unmistakable sewage smell, which strangely didn’t seem to bother any of the other tourists. I would say they all had Covid, except for the fact that people with omicron don’t lose their taste or smell.

day trips from phuket

The silver lining of my semi-shitty morning was that it teed up my afternoon, which I spent on the other side of the island in Phuket Town, to be excellent. Well, once I got there: I ended up having to wait an hour for the bus (which was also a songthaew ), during which time I shot down no less than half a dozen scamming taxi drivers.

I want to contribute to the local economy, but not that much.

The old town impressed me a great deal more this time than it had the last time I walked amid the colorful Sino-Portuguese shophouses of Soi Rommani and Soi Dibuk; this was strange, given how man other places I’ve traveled since then. Indeed, I still prefer Georgetown on Malaysia’s Penang island , which I visited long before I ever visited Phuket Town.

And yet at some point between fixating on the blue-and-white tiles under the turquoise arches of the Standard Chartered Bank Building, and downing a Thai whisky and coke at a kitschy Thai-French restaurant I’m not ashamed to admit I visited solely because I wanted to take photos there, the suddenly perfect sun of a day that had started off cloudy colored my entire mood brighter.

Like the good Phuket tourist I’ve never really been, I finished off the day with sunset at Promthep Cape, where I downed another Sangsom cocktail nearby two young and relatively attractive men who, based on their loud conversation, were nonetheless sex tourists.

On the way back to Kata with a taxi driver I’d paid more than I should’ve—I was too physical famished to fight or complain—the emerladine lights of distant fishing boats dotted the horizon, not unlike how you could spot of all Patong’s hookers from hundreds of meters away back in the day when they were plentiful and in-demand

(That’s not a fair metaphor to use, actually. I had an indisputably good first day back in Phuket, even if my experience at Promthep Cape had hammered home that I should’ve stayed in Nai Harn instead of Kata.)

day trips from phuket

The ghosts of prostitutes pasts were the last thing on my mind Monday morning as I sped away from Chalong Pier toward Racha Island. I also tried, mostly on account of the tour’s low price , to jettison expectations: 1,000 Baht doesn’t buy you much in 2022, at least not in Phuket.

Indeed, I knew that neither Koh Racha nor Koh Khai were going to be as spectacular as the Similan Islands had been—and I tried not to think about how Koh Haa or Koh Rok might’ve compared, had I had the chance to visit either of those places. So I fixated on Phuket, which quickly disappeared behind me as the boat traveled southward, the Big Buddha first imposing and then imperceptible in the blink of an eye.

Once I bored with the horizon, I focused on the water, the way the vessel braided and unbraided the surface of the sea as it shot through like a bullet. How had I never noticed this phenomenon before? It was like a physics problem in 3D; aerodynamics—no, hydrodynamics—in living color.

Before I could so much as come to grips with how to solve it, my speed suddenly decreased. An object in motion does not always stay in motion.

The beauty of Koh Racha, as with that of most Thai islands , sneaks up on you. The sea is dark and deep until it isn’t; by the time you realize you’re atop a crystalline, coral-bottomed pool, its fluorescence has practically blinded you. While I would’ve appreciated the perfection of the half-moon beach more without the cacophony of disparate long-tails and yachts and speedboats dotting the harbor, I took it all in for what it was worth.

While Koh Racha did not live up to the standards its cousin Koh Similan set, it looped me in with serendipitous references to my own biography.

On shore, as my feet sank so deep into wet powder that the broken coral pieces beneath it stabbed them, a black butterfly that followed me around like a stray puppy. Its presence evoked a 2010 bike trip to the Blue Lagoon of Vang Vieng, Laos, which had ended up birthing one of my favorite photos I’ve ever taken .

The shipwrecked-looking restaurant where the tour group had our buffet lunch called to mind Monsoon Marge’s at Six Flags Hurricane Harbor near St. Louis. I’d worked my first summer job in 2000 at the gift shop, wholly unaware of the castaway adventures that awaited me in middle age.

Coral Island, to be sure, was more sensually satisfying, probably because I actually gave myself time to roll around in the bathtub-warm shallows where sea meets land. As I dug my fingers deep into the sugary slurry, shell pieces sifted out of it—the sand was still in the process of becoming itself.

It’s like playing with the past , I thought to myself, feeling slightly deranged as I pondered the reality of the situation: The decomposed bones of all our ancestors were slipping through my fingers; I was as happy as the clams lurking just offshore, with a shit-eating grin at least as long as the Sarasin Bridge.

day trips from phuket

Everywhere in Phuket is really a day trip when you think about the island as I do: A renegade mainland peninsula for which the tides had different ideas. Phuket Town is a day trip from Kata, Karon and Kamala; Promthep Cape is a day trip from Mai Khao and Phuket Airport, the Big Buddha is a day trip from everywhere.

One day trip I didn’t take was to Koh Khao Ping Kan, more popularly known as James Bond Island. As I sat in my hotel room on my last morning in Phuket, awaiting my ride back to Phang Nga, I wondered if I might regret having skipped the landmark, which Allano had insisted to me was disappointing and not worth the money required to see it.

The wind rustling in the palms above my bungalow was uncharacteristically strong for a clear morning. It had a cooling cadence, of precisely the sort my sunburnt shoulder craved. It sounded cold, as if a snowstorm (and, therefore, the apocalypse) might’ve manifested just outside my window.

Other FAQ About Day Trips from Phuket

Can you do a day trip to phi phi island from phuket.

Although you can technically do a day trip to Phi Phi from Phuket by speedboat, it would be a very rushed day trip indeed. A better option might be to spend one night on Koh Phi Phi, using the first day to explore the main island. Then, on morning two, take a speedboat trip to Maya Bay, traveling back to Phuket that evening.

Can you do a day trip from Phuket to Krabi?

You can day a day trip from Phuket to Krabi, although this really depends on what you want to accomplish in Krabi. While you can see Krabi landmarks such as Koh Phi Phi and Railay Beach on a day trip, I personally think they’re worth spending a night to enjoy.

Which is better, Phuket or Phi Phi?

If you are looking for beautiful nature, stunning beaches and iconic Thai scenery, Phi Phi is your best bet. Phuket, while ostensibly an island, is arguably more about city-type culture than it is about island life. Take this to mean what you will!

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Phuket Day Trips | Best Day Trips from Phuket

Phuket is a beautiful island surrounded by tons of smaller islands perfect for Phuket Day Trips. Although Phuket can become an overwhelming area filled with tourists, partying, drinking and so much more. Traveling around Phuket is more than just the island itself but more importantly about exploring the surrounding islands and island hopping around the area.  Day Trips in Phuket are a perfect way to spice up your vacation or holiday.  If you are planning a trip to Phuket, this will be your perfect guide. If you are looking for a comprehensive guide to Thailand, check out The Perfect Thailand 10-Day Itinerary .

Phuket Day Trips

Tips for planning your perfect phuket day trip.

The best thing about Phuket is being able to travel for affordable prices to any nearby island by boat. Prior to booking your tickets for a day trip traveling to the islands surrounding Phuket, check out my tips below.

This article provides some great insights on insider tips on how to see Thailand.

  • When it comes to purchasing tickets for your day trips, I highly suggest you wait until you get there.  You can purchase your tickets for the day trips for a bargain and be able to barter down prices as needed. If you plan to barter, be sure to have cash on hand.  Most places do not accept cards and cash is the best way to make a deal. Although, if you want to secure a spot and are worried about spots not being available especially during the tourist season, feel free to book online. Most prices in person though are about half the cost of what you see online.
  • I highly recommend you bring some anti-nausea pills if you have a tendency to get motion sickness. Some of the speedboats can make you feel nauseous when they cut through the waves.
  • Wear your swimsuit under your dress or as clothes since many of the stops may be short,
  • Bring a Backpack for all of your belongings include sunblock, a towel, and toilet paper since they will not typically be available on the speedboat. I also suggest you pack your own water bottle if you need or like to drink more water than most.
  • Pack snacks.  If you get hungry, snacks are not readily available although most tours provide lunch.  In case you have issues with the food provided, at least you have some on hand.

If you are looking for things to do in Phuket other than Day Trips in Phuket, check out my post on the Top 10 Things to do in Phuket . Here are some of my favorite Phuket Day Trips.

READ: Best Place to stay in Phuket

Phuket Day Trips

Phi Phi Island

Phi Phi Island is the perfect place for your first time in Phuket.  There are tons of boats that go out daily to visit these beautiful islands and lagoons. Some of the most beautiful islands lie in Ko Phi Phi, so it is a highly coveted area to visit. It can be a crowded trip to take with so many people taking the same routes, but there are beautiful lagoons that you can jump straight into the ocean from the boat and enjoy swimming. Despite the high amount of tourists, it was one of my favorite trips.

Phuket Day Trips

Phang Nga Bay is the most popular out of all Phuket Day Trips

Phang Nga Bay is a beautiful area and usually, a tour that consists of visit James Bond Island which is a famous island that has been all around social media and event manipulated in photoshop to have a castle on it (which it doesn’t).  James Island is the perfect place to get souvenirs since there are so many stands on the island, but depending on your tour , you may not have time to shop. The best part of this trip is also being able to kayak in Phang Nga Bay through some very impressive caves and areas making this trip quite adventurous.  Don’t worry, if you can’t kayak, there is plenty of help from your tour guides.

Phuket Day Trips

Similan Islands

These islands are an impressive view to see and less known compared to Phi Phi Island.  The waters are clear with beautiful gorgeous blue waters. This place is less likely to be visited which makes it perfect Phuket Day Trip to get away from the crowds. There are plenty of areas to drive around if you love to scuba dive or snorkel with gorgeous views in and out of the water.

Phuket Day Trips

Railay Beach in Krabi

If you are trying to escape from the crowds, Railay Beach is the perfect location for you. It is one of the best Phuket beaches . Now you can’t completely escape tourists, but you will get less of that around here.  Railay Beach is perfect for a relaxing day. However, the trip to Railay Beach can be a bit time-consuming. It can take about 2 hours of travel time by boat depending on your location. While visiting Railey Beach, the Solivagant Soul recommends visiting the Phallic Cave.  The Phallic Cave is a cave filled with penises carved with wood which makes it an interesting place to check out during your Phuket day trips.

Elephant Hills in Khao Sok National Park By Kavey Eats

Khao Sok National Park

This national park is a popular park with wildlife in their natural habitats. If you love nature and love being in nature this is a trip worth looking into. This is a National Park that is readily accessible and filled with luscious greenery.  If you are interested in seeing Elephants in an eco-friendly and safe environment, check out the Elephant Sanctuary during your Phuket Day Trip.

Racha Islands

Racha Island is another great place for snorkeling and scuba diving making it a perfect location for your Phuket day trips.  There are plenty of areas to explore and a ton of luxury areas to stay in, including several bungalows on the water.

Surin Islands

Like Racha Islands, Surin Islands is perfect for snorkeling and scuba diving as well, although unfortunately, 90% of their coral has died. Some of the amazing wildlife you can see include whale sharks and manta rays. There are plenty of areas to go hiking as well. Additionally, this island contains another famous National Park in Thailand called Mu Koh Surin National Park.

RELATED: Top 10 Things to do in Phuket

Which Phuket Day Trip have you been on or which Day Trip do you want to add to your list? Leave your comment below! Liked this post, please pin, tweet or share!

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Hey, I'm NieNie, also known as Stephanie – a California native of hapa heritage (an American with a mix of Korean and German) with an enduring love for travel. Transitioning from my expat life in South Korea to embracing the experience of living in Germany, while also frequenting visits to my family in the Philippines, I'm documenting my adventure as a plus-size woman immersing herself in diverse cultures. Join me on Adventures with NieNie for travel tips, cultural insights, and inspiring stories from South Korea, the Philippines, and Germany. Let's embark on this adventure together!

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13 Comments

These all look goooorgeous! You must have had an amazing trip! 🙂

Oh! I wanted to go to James Bond Island when I was staying in Krabi but there was not enough people in the tour to go… so nah. Problems of traveling in shoulder season. Very nice compilation you got here!

Phuket is definitely on my bucket list and now it’s great to know that there is an eco-friendly elephant sanctuary nearby. I love elephants and would love the opportunity to see them upc close!

This is great! WE are heading to Phuket in July! These are great tips–we will follow, thanks!

These islands all look gorgeous! I love the idea of jumping right off of the boat into the water. It just sounds so idyllic and tropical. I’d probably tend toward the less touristy ones to avoid some of the crowds, so it was nice to see those options too.

Great guide to Phuket’s surrounding areas! I will make it out there one of these days 🙂

The rock formations in those bays are just amazing! Beautiful, and I can’t wait to go. Your 5 tips for planning the trip are suuuuuper handy, too. Thanks!

What a great list of ideas. I wish I had this list when I visited Phuket in 2006. I guess I will have to return to Phuket soon.

Every time I see pictures of that one lone rock standing I always wonder to myself how can it be real. I would absolutely love to visit someday and photograph it for myself 😀 Your photos are great by the way! Now I have to believe it’s real 😉

I wish I went to Phuket before I moved to the U.S. I would like to visit Koh Phi Phi, James Bond, and Phang Nga Bay. How far is from Phuket to those islands?

They are fairly close by speedboat! Where did you live abroad?

Love your detailed post… Phuket has so many beautiful places and beaches to visit. I love being in nature, hopefully will get to see these places in real.

Wow, great tips! All of these places seem like paradise- I don’t know how you could choose!!

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10 best island hopping tours and day trips from phuket for 2024.

Maya bay, Phi Phi island hopping tours and day trips from Phuket

Being the largest island in Thailand and one of the country’s most popular tourist destinations, boredom is something you will never experience in Phuket.

While there are endless things to do in Phuket and you can have tons of fun on the beautiful beaches, many of Phuket’s hidden gems are farther afield.

Phuket has 32 smaller islands in the Andaman sea surrounding it so island hopping from Phuket is super easy and something you really shouldn’t miss.

As I’ve lived in Phuket for over 3 years, I’ve been lucky enough to try out most of these island hopping tours and day trips from Phuket. So here is my pick of the 10 best including famous sights, popular islands and lesser-known local treasures.

Oceanstone by Holy Cow, Bang Tao beach, Phuket

There are tons of affordable tour packages that make amazing half day or full day trips from Phuket. Plus, the surrounding provinces of Phang Nga and Krabi offer even more wonderful and unique day trips.

Whether you’re after cultural gems or the best diving and snorkeling spots, a nature lover seeking some tranquility, or a beach bum looking for the ultimate Phuket island hopping experience, read on to discover the best Phuket day trips.

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The most convenient way to book the most popular Phuket day tours and trips is on Viator or Get Your Guide. These trusted platforms offer the chance to read real reviews and book your day trips before you get to Thailand. Most tours also include hotel pick-up for a stress-free experience.

P.S. If you’re traveling in peak season definitely book in advance as spots do fill up. If you haven’t booked your hotel yet check out   my guide on where to stay in Phuket and if you’d prefer to visit the islands independently, you can book your ferry tickets online at 12Go Asia.

Top 10 Island Hopping Tours and Day Trips from Phuket

1. old phuket town & big buddha.

Phuket town houses

Before you start exploring the nearby islands and taking day trips from Phuket, I recommend exploring the island’s culture and history with a Phuket city tour.

Phuket Town is the island’s cultural hub. If possible, go on a Sunday to experience the bustling Sunday walking market in the Old Town. However, whatever day you visit, you’ll find a vibrant atmosphere.

The best way to explore Phuket Town is on foot – strolling around admiring the 19th-century colorful houses and checking out the unique boutique shops and cafes.

Then, head to Wat Chalong , one of the most beautiful Buddhist temples in Phuket and then head to the famous Big Buddha temple.

This iconic sculpture is built high up on a mountain and is an impressive 148 feet tall and 83.5 feet wide. Along with its peaceful mountain atmosphere, you’ll find epic views over Phuket Island!

Big Buddha - Things to do in Phuket, Thailand

Getting there:

Phuket Town and Chalong are in the southeast of Phuket Island. If you’re staying in the beach towns on the west coast, like Patong Beach, it will be a 30-40 minute drive to the Old Town. The best time to go to the Big Buddha is at sunset.

While it’s easy to explore this area on your own via taxis, there is also a great half-day group Phuket City Tour   that can pick you up from your hotel. This is a great tour for anyone interested in history, culture and spirituality as it visits all three of Phuket’s cultural highlights – Phuket Old Town, Wat Chalong and the Big Buddha. 

Private, customisable tours and fun ATV trips up to the Big Buddhas are also possible. Check out all the options on Get Your Guide.

2. Phi Phi Islands

Koh Phi Phi, Thailand

The Phi Phi Islands are undoubtedly the most popular day trip destination from Phuket. Six islands make up the Phi Phi Islands, making it an ideal island-hopping Phuket day trip!

The largest and busiest island is Phi Phi Don – the archipelago’s only inhabited island. It is full of resorts and beautiful beaches, such as Monkey Beach.

Koh Phi Phi Leh is one of the uninhabited islands and home to Maya Bay, made famous after being used as the filming destination for the 2000 film “ The Beach .” Bamboo Island is another popular spot on Phi Phi island hopping tours.

The Phi Phi Islands are located off the east coast of Phuket, in the province of Krabi. Being a popular day trip from Phuket, you’ll have no trouble finding group tours to the Phi Phi islands.

For example,  this Phi Phi tour  includes stops at Maya Bay, Pileh Lagoon, Ko Phi Phi Don, Viking Cave and Bamboo Island. It’s one of the absolute best day trips from Phuket and they will also pick you up and drop you back from any hotel in Phuket.

However, if you’ve got more time you also have the option to stay overnight at one of the hotels on Phi Phi Don and visit Krabi the next day, where you can take a long tail boat to the incredible limestone cliffs of Railay Beach.

3. James Bond Island

Thailand limestone rocks. James Bond island

James Bond Island is another of the most popular tours from Phuket due to being the filming location of the 1974 James Bond movie “The Man with the Golden Gun.”

James Bond is just one of the 100 beautiful islands in Phang Nga Bay, northeast of Phuket. This area is full of fascinating limestone formations and sea caves, as well as many fantastic swimming and snorkeling spots.

Boat tours are best for exploring Phang Nga Bay, and there are many options. I took this  Luxury Sunset Cruise , which included a decent lunch and dinner onboard while cruising around Phang Nga Bay. Along with James Bond Island, this unique tour included sea canoeing through the limestone caves of Hong Island.

4. Racha Islands

Ko Racha Yai photo by Dmitriy Soloduhin on Unsplash

The Racha Islands consist of Racha Noi and Racha Yai, located in the southern part of Phuket, just below Coral Island. Racha Island is among the best scuba diving and snorkeling spots in the Andaman Sea, so you will find many diving trips going here.

The islands are a true paradise – white sand, crystal-clear waters, and no cars. Plus, it takes just 45 minutes to get there, making it one of the best day trips from Phuket for all water and beach lovers.

To explore the Racha Islands, you can join a group scuba diving or snorkeling tour, or you can easily arrange a long tail boat or speedboat transfer from Rawai or Chalong pier.

Another popular choice is the beach-club style  Hype Luxury Catamaran . On this trip, you have plenty of time to sunbathe on various Racha Island beaches and visit Banana Beach on the nearby Coral Island. On the way back, you’ll enjoy a “floating party” with tapas, drinks, and an on-board live DJ.

5. Naka Island

The Naka Island resort

Naka is another of the shortest day trips in Phuket. Naka Island is one of Phuket’s hidden gems and is ideal for anyone who seeks a relaxing day of sunbathing and swimming rather than adventure.

Naka is also home to the luxury hotel “ Naka Island Resort .” While it is expensive to stay here, day trippers can get a day pass to use the resort’s facilities, including the pool, use of snorkeling gear, and water sports equipment like kayaks.

Naka Island is just a 10-minute boat ride from Ao Por Grand Marina in the North East of Phuket. As it is such a short distance and there is not much to do on the island, consider including Naka in a self-guided island hopping trip with Koh Yao Yai & Koh Yao Noi (see below).

6. Koh Yao Yai & Koh Yao Noi

Koh Yao Yai photo by Marc Mintel on unsplash

Koh Yao Yai & Koh Yao Noi are two islands slightly east of Naka. Koh Yao Yai is the biggest, home to stunning resorts, beautiful beaches, and mesmerizing nature.

One resort I recommend checking out is Santhiya , a vast hillside resort built from natural teakwood. Santhiya offers a day pass to use the resort’s two pools (including an infinity hilltop one).

Koh Yao Noi is a much smaller island, which is just as beautiful, but the beaches offer different views from Koh Yao Yai. This is because the north of Koh Yao Noi faces the stunning limestone cliffs and caves of Phang Nga Bay. Meanwhile, the island’s south is full of lush nature, including rice fields and coconut groves.

You can access these two islands via a 20 to 30-minute ferry from the Royal Phuket marina in northeast Phuket. You can book your ferry easily online at 12Go Asia . There is also a ferry between both islands that takes just 10 minutes, making for effortless island hopping in Phuket.

7. Similan Islands

Similan Islands National Park

The Similan Islands are one of the most famous diving spots in the world. Thus, these pristine islands make for one of the most popular Phuket day trips. Here, you can spot turtles, leopard sharks, Shovelnose rays, and many more rare species.

However, while the turquoise waters and marine life are the top attractions here, the scenery is spectacular, too, with many unique rock formations. For example, the Sail Rock hike is one of the most popular on-land activities here.

The Similan archipelago consists of 11 islands, 70 km off the coast of Phang Nga. However, it is one of the longer day tours from Phuket, so prepare for a 10-12 hour day! There are also multi-day trip options, where you sleep at a campsite or in a cabin on one of the islands.

Check out the different options for Similan island trips on Get Your Guide to find the best one for you. Note that the Similan Islands are closed during the monsoon season (June to September).

8. Surin Islands

Paradise beach, Surin Islands, Thailand

While staying in Khao Lak I wanted to visit the Similan islands. But it was a busy period and the trips were all fully booked – so make sure you book in advance if you’re visiting Phuket in the peak season! Anyway, instead, I decided to visit the lesser-known Surin Islands .

What’s unique about these islands is that they are home to an indigenous tribe known as The Moken. The Moken were previously sea nomads/gypsies but settled in the Surin Islands in the 1990s.

Living in such an isolated region (a 4-hour boat ride to the mainland), the Moken live a semi-nomadic hunter-gatherer lifestyle. They sleep in very basic, humble wooden huts on the beach, and you can visit their village to see how they live.

Aside from the Moken, you’ll find some lovely beaches and snorkeling spots in the Surin Islands, including Mai Ngam Beach.

The Surin Islands are located far off the west coast of Phang Nga. The only way to visit the Surin Islands from Phuket is via a tour. I did a snorkeling trip similar to  this one , which included snorkeling, beach time, and a visit to the village.

While the Surin Islands are totally worth visiting, it is a VERY long boat ride (from Phuket or Khao Lak). Therefore, you spend much of the day on a small speed boat, which may not be ideal for some.

9. Khao Sok National Park

Khao Sok National Park

Khao Sok is an incredible national park in the northern part of Phang Nga, the province directly above Phuket. Khao Sok National Park is home to the oldest evergreen rainforest in the world – 160 million years old. Therefore, you can expect to find endless lush jungles and diverse wildlife, including 48 mammal species and 311 species of birds!

Another iconic part of Khao Sok is Cheow Lan Lake. Majestic limestone mountains and cliffs surround this serene lake, and there are many floating raft houses and bungalows – part of the resorts you can stay at.

You can visit Khao Sok on a day trip from Phuket. However, it is a long drive from Phuket Island (about 3.5 hours one way), so note that you will have to leave in the early morning and spend much of the day in a minivan.

Considering this, I highly recommend taking a 2 day 1 night Khao Sok tour where you’ll stay the night in one of the floating raft houses in Khao Sok National Park – which is a whole experience in itself. That way, you’ll get to experience the tranquility of the lake after dark and witness a breathtaking sunrise (if you’re up early enough).

You can also travel independently by bus and arrange your own accommodation, then you’ll also have the chance to explore the nearby Khao Lak, which, as you’re about to discover, is one of my favorite parts of Thailand!

10. Khao Lak

Bang Sak Beach in Khao Lak, Thailand

If you want to escape the crowds of Phuket and Patong beach during high season, Khao Lak is undoubtedly the place to go. Khao Lak is located on the west coast of Phang Nga and is incredibly quiet and largely untouched compared to Phuket.

The long stretch of coast offers numerous serene beaches, including Pakarang and Pak Weep Beach. Both of these beaches have quiet parts as well as mini “beach villages” with a few local restaurants and “on-the-beach” massage shops. There are also several waterfalls nearby and a place where you can go bamboo rafting along the river!

Depending on where you’re staying in Phuket, Khao Lak is a 1.5 to 2.5 drive, making it one of the most accessible day tours from Phuket. You can rent a car and drive yourself, take the public bus (from Phuket bus terminal 2, just north of Phuket town), or book a private transfer.

Final Thoughts

The vast amount of islands surrounding Phuket are one reason why I adore this part of Thailand so much so make sure you get out and explore!

Whether you’re here for one week or one month, be sure to check out all the attractions and things to do on Phuket island itself as well as leaving enough time to do a few of these Phuket day trips and island hopping tours to explore this Thai paradise fully.

And if you haven’t booked your hotel yet check out my insider’s guide on where to stay in Phuket . And, if you need help figuring out how to fit all the highlights into your holiday, check out my 7 day ultimate Phuket, Koh Phi Phi and Krabi itinerary for the ultimate Thailand beach experience.

And if you plan to see more of Thailand check out my other blogs and guides for more tips. My comprehensive Thailand Travel Guide and list of the best places to visit in Thailand will give you plenty of inspiration.

Pin me for later! 😉

My Guide to Where to Stay in Phuket: Best Beaches, Areas & Hotels (2024)

The ultimate 7 day phuket itinerary + koh phi phi & krabi (2024).

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Caroline Makepeace

The Ultimate 5 Day Phuket Itinerary

P huket is the largest island in Thailand and is well known for its crystal-clear waters, stunning beaches, and vibrant nightlife. In order to see the best of this island, putting together a 5-day Phuket itinerary is a good way to maximise your time.

In five days, you can have enough time to explore the island’s many beaches, such as Patong Beach, Karon Beach, and Kata Beach, as well as immerse yourself in Thai culture by visiting local temples and sacred sites, diving into cooking the Thai cuisine, and exploring the bustling markets.

You can also take advantage of Phuket’s proximity to nearby islands such as the Phi Phi Islands or James Bond Island, which allow you to experience some of the most beautiful scenery in Thailand.

If you’re thinking of spending 5 days in Phuket but not sure what to do or where to go, below is the ultimate 5-day itinerary for Phuket.

Is 5 days enough for Phuket?

Where to base yourself in phuket, stop 1: hit the beach or sit by the pool, stop 2: take a traditional thai cooking class with pat, stop 3: visit wat chalong and the big buddha, stop 4: enjoy an indulgent dinner at the hilton, stop 2: catch the sunset at the after beach bar in kata, stop 4: eat street food at the local karon temple night markets, stop 1: indulge in a thai massage, stop 2: old town phuket, stop 3: try water sports such as jet ski or parasailing, stop 4: simon cabaret show, stop 1: maya bay, stop 2: lagoon swim, stop 3: snorkeling spot, stop 4: lunch at don phi phi, stop 5: swimming spot, stop 1: elephant sanctuary, stop 2: bang pae waterfall, stop 3: promthep cape, getting around phuket, best time to visit phuket, save this to pinterest:.

Planning your trip to Phuket last-minute?

Don’t forget to plan ahead when  visiting Phuket! Here are some of the top tours, hotels, and useful items you may need before your trip!

Top Experiences and Tours in Phuket

  • Visit the Elephant Sanctuary in Phuket (a must for animal lovers!)
  • A day trip to the Phi Phi Islands (see the iconic Maya Bay!)
  • Watch the Simon Cabaret Show (an unmissable thing to do at night)

Top Accommodation and Hotels in Phuket

  • Amari Phuket, Patong Beach (luxury resort, near the nightlife but away from the noise)
  • Ozo Phuket, Kata Beach (a quiet resort, excellent for couples)
  • Pullman Phuket, Karon Beach (excellent location, ideal for families)

Phuket, Thailand is the perfect place for those wanting an indulgent getaway – whether for just the weekend, or a longer stay.

Personally, I think 5 days is the minimum number of days you need in Phuket as there is so much to see and do, plus you want to have a good amount of time to really enjoy the beaches and top attractions.

We stayed at the Hilton Phuket Arcadia Resort & Spa for 6 nights and had a fantastic family holiday enjoying all that was on offer on Thailand’s largest island.

We first visited Phuket 10 years earlier on our honeymoon and were not impressed. That was because we stayed in Patong Beach, the area notorious for wild party nights and a chaotic mess of street markets, pubs, and go go bars.

On our second stay in Phuket, we decided to stay in Karon Beach , which was perfect.

It is a much quieter destination more suited to families and those wanting to relax and appreciate, rather than paint the town scarlet!

We discovered that Phuket attracts many type of travelers, but where you base yourself really impacts your experience. If you stay in Karon Beach, Kata Beach or Kamala Beach, you can avoid the nightlife of Bangla Road and enjoy a relaxing beach vacation.

If you want to party, then Patong Beach is the place to go.

Wherever you stay, you can rent a car or scooter to get around and still be able to see the best of Phuket.

Honestly, all of Phuket’s attractions are within a scooter ride and it really doesn’t matter where you base yourself. You just got to pick an area with the vibe that’s right for you.

In the following Phuket itinerary, we’ve captured all of the highlights of Phuket, allowing you time to really get a sense of the Thai culture, discover the most beautiful scenery and indulge in the laid-back Phuket way.

Day 1: Phuket Town and Karon Beach

We’re going to assume that you arrive in Phuket the night before, so our first day in Phuket on this itinerary will be the first full day you have available.

If you traveled a long way, or if you landed in the morning, use the day that you arrive as a rest day before you start exploring.

On your first full day, rise early for breakfast in your hotel. Depending on where you’re staying, you might want to spend some time in the morning hitting the Phuket beaches and cooling off with a morning swim.

Some excellent beaches for a swim are Karon Beach, Kata Beach (And Kata Noi Beach, a smaller beach near Kata), Nai Harn Beach, Layan Beach or even Patong Beach in the day time.

You might also need to use your morning to get orientated, such as picking up a sim card and hiring a car or scooter, so use this morning as a chilled morning to get yourself ready for a Phuket adventure.

Thailand is full of difficult decisions, like should I drink a beer or a cocktail, or swim at the pool with ocean views or cross the road to swim in the warm ocean, with views?

You will find there is plenty of time to enjoy the beaches or swim by the pool in this 5 day Phuket itinerary, as we want you to have a relaxing vacation and enjoy the number one thing to do in Phuket – visit the beaches.

At the beginning or end of each day, allow some downtime by the pool or on the beach.

After lunch, opt to take a Thai cooking class with Pat. This is your first introduction to Thai culture and a way to mingle with the locals and learn from them.

Visiting Pat’s home and learning to cook Thai food was one of our Phuket highlights.

Pat’s home Thai cooking school first opened in 1996 in Phuket Town and has since been featured in many print media publications and TV programs.

Our experience began in the local market gathering the supplies for the food we were soon to prepare.

We had a lesson in the various uses of vegetables and herbs in Thai cooking as we walked through, picking up each new one to smell and feel the textures.

This introduction was the perfect way to get a feel for the basics of a delicious Thai meal and what sets it apart from the cuisine of its Asian neighbours. I certainly had a better understanding of where I was going wrong with my own attempts of cooking Thai food at home.

Pat’s open aired kitchen is attached to the side of her home and she never has more than 8 people per class , maintaining that small, homely feel.

After a welcome glass of iced lemongrass tea, we donned the aprons and set to work chopping, peeling, mortar and pestle bashing to create some of my favourite Thai meals: tom yum goong, spring rolls, green curry, som tum and banana in coconut milk.

What I loved the most was sharing the experience with Kalyra. She eagerly followed us through the markets learning about the different ingredients and enthusiastically helped me prepare the food. My Junior – Masterchef even rolled a near perfect spring roll.

I was even impressed with my ability to finally produce a delicious Thai meal thanks to Pat’s expert guidance.

Not far from Phuket Town is the stunning Wat Chalong . I was suffering from Bangkok belly on our visit and could barely focus on the aesthetic designs of the temple complex.

We’ve visited a lot of wats in South East Asia, and this one certainly had its own unique flare. Craig was more than impressed and found it to be a perfect temple for those new to Thailand.

The Grand Pagoda dominates the temple grounds–it’s cool and breezy location makes it just as popular as the splinter of Buddha’s bone that rests inside.

The pagoda walls depict Buddha’s life story and immense golden statues of the various Buddha poses sit in the main hall. Choose the one you wish to worship to most.

Pay attention to the fire crackers going off inside the brick oven out the front of the ordination hall. Thai people set them off to celebrate if they receive any good luck.

The Big Buddha sits on top of the Nakkerd Hills between Chalong and Kata and is 45 meter high and can be seen far and wide across Phuket.

Not only is it a place of tranquillity to receive your blessings, but it’s one of the best viewpoints in Phuket which has 360 degree views of the island.

The Buddha’s body is layered with Burmese marble which shines in the sun, making it a symbol of hope and a guarding force of protection.

It’s a great place to visit for sunset as it has sweeping views.

I have one rule in Thailand. No Western food allowed.

I would even put it in my black book of crimes you should never commit. My second rule is you should never stop eating, no matter how full you are.

Who cares you cooked up a smorgasbord for lunch, you have had a whole afternoon to digest it. It’s time to top up!

You can have an indulgent Thai dinner at the Thai Thai Restaurant at the Hilton. It’s a great way to ease into Thai cuisine when you’re not ready for street food yet.

Enjoy it, because tomorrow I’m sending you to a night market!

What I love the most about dining out in Thailand – and this restaurant excelled at this – is the outstanding service.

Our head waiter, Pop, was always on hand to ensure we were happy and content. He shared many stories with us of Thailand and his own life, always with an affectionate giggle.

We enjoyed crab cakes and Thai prawn salad for entrees, followed by slow cooked tilapia in coconut milk and Phuket yellow noodles.

I had to finish dinner with my favourite Thai desert—mango and sticky rice; Craig opted for the coconut ice cream and tried unsuccessfully to convince me his was better.

Lucky Kalyra was asleep in the chair or she would have backed him.

Now you can go back to your room and collapse. The pillows will mould around your head so you feel like you are sleeping on clouds.

Day 2: Phang Ngha Bay Boat Tour

Your day will start early so first stop will be the poolside breakfast buffet. Eat up as today is a BIG day!

Stop 1: Go on the James Bond Island Tour of Phang Nga Bay (Full Day)

I never wanted to go on his tour before because it was so James Bond focused, and I have never watched a movie.

Our friend Roger recommended it as one of his favorite things to do in Phuket , so we decided to give it a chance.

James Bond Island was made famous by his movie “ The Man with the Golden Gun ” It does not mean much to me, but the island itself is very picturesque and photo worthy.

Check prices and availability for James Bond Island Day Trips here.

Many of our followers on facebook recommended the Sea Canoes as the best way to enjoy the limestone tunnels and caves.

This was not really an option with our little ones, so we did a full day tour taking in four of the islands in the Phang Nga Bay area.

The seas were a little rough and the water murky, but if you arrived on a day when the Andaman Sea was blazing with its crystal clear emerald waters and the dramatic limestone mountains, I’d imagine it would be stunning.

The floating Muslim village at Koh Paynee was a fascinating stop.

The silted homes joined together in the mud swamps in front of a large limestone rock island was started 200 years ago by 3 Indonesian families now hosts nearly 1700 people and over 300 families.

We really loved our small kayak tour through the mangroves and tunnels of one island and swimming at Naka Island . It’s a full day tour and popular, but an enjoyable day out.

Do not delay in heading straight to the After Beach Bar on the hill behind Kata Noi. This place is legendary for sunset drinks and a relaxed vibe.

We arrived here after a day of cruising the beaches of the West Coast of Phuket. As soon as we arrived and saw the amazing views and felt the cool breeze we were happy.

It didn’t even faze us that we had chosen the one day in our two weeks in Thailand that was cloudy!!

Luckily there was a small break in the clouds so we were able to see a beautiful pink orb poking through.

Sit back with a cocktail and enjoy. Just don’t order a mojito – they were awful and they tried to charge me for three of them!

If you are not too exhausted, head to the Karon temple night markets held every Tuesday and Saturday night for some incredible street food and to shop for souvenirs.

The shopping here is cheap! It is mostly clothes with the odd tourist artifacts like lanterns and Buddha statues thrown in.

You can even pick up a cheap bowl of curry noodles for 30 baht and Thai banana pancake for 40 baht.

Day 3: Culture Day: Thai Massage, Phuket Old Town, Cabaret Show

After a long day on the boat yesterday, you might want to give yourself a little treat. I highly recommend you get yourself a Thai massage at least once on your trip.

Alternatively, you can visit a resort spa and opt for a relaxing hot stone massage or aromatherapy treatment.

You cannot come to Thailand without worshipping your body with a Thai massage. Crime number 10 to never commit in Thailand!

We’d already had our cheap 200 baht massage in Bangkok before arriving to Phuket and would definitely say it’s a good idea to get one before a flight home.

If you’re not familiar with the concept of a Thai massage, allow me to explain.

A Thai massage is a traditional form of bodywork that originated in Thailand over 2,500 years ago.

It is a type of massage that combines acupressure, stretching, and deep tissue techniques to help release tension and promote relaxation.

During a Thai massage, you typically lie on a mat on the floor while the practitioner uses their hands, elbows, knees, and feet to apply pressure to various points on the body.

The massage therapist may also use gentle stretching movements to help improve flexibility and range of motion.

Essentially it’s a cross between massage and some kind of sports yoga.

Thai massage has many benefits, including reducing stress and anxiety, improving circulation, boosting energy levels, and reducing muscle tension and pain.

Thai massage is often performed fully clothed, without the use of oils or lotions. It is becoming increasingly popular in western countries as a way to relax and rejuvenate the body and mind.

If this doesn’t sound relaxing to you, you can ramp up the feel good factor with a special spa treatment.

They may be expensive in comparisons to the ones you can get on the beach or in a room with 10 other people, but in comparison to Australian prices they’re really quite cheap.

A body scrub and a Thai-herbal-heat massage later we felt like new and improved version of ourselves. We possibly couldn’t get any more relaxed.

Disclaimer: Our stay at Hilton Arcadia was hosted in part by Thailand Tourism and Hilton Arcadia Phuket, though all thoughts, ideas and opinions in this guide are our own.

After a massage, you are probably feeling more energized and ready to explore. So take a trip over to Old Town Phuket, a charming and historic district located in the heart of Phuket.

One of the main reasons to visit Old Town Phuket is its fascinating mix of architecture. The district is home to beautifully preserved Sino-Portuguese buildings, some of which date back to the 19th century.

These buildings give visitors a glimpse into Phuket’s colonial past and offer a unique backdrop for exploring the area.

In addition to its stunning architecture, Old Town Phuket is also home to a vibrant street art scene.

Keep an eye out for colorful murals and graffiti that adorn the walls of many buildings throughout the district.

After exploring Old Town Phuket, head over to Patong Beach to try your hand at some watersports.

Patong Beach is a great place to try parasailing, jet skiing, or even just rent a kayak or stand up paddle board and hit the ocean.

If you’ve never tried any adventurous water sports before, this is a great place to try it because the prices are cheap and the bay is sheltered so you don’t get a huge strong wind blowing you in all directions.

One of the best things to do in Phuket at night is to attend a cabaret show.

A cabaret show in Phuket is a unique and entertaining experience that allows you to dive into Phuket’s long-standing traditions and history.

The shows are known for their elaborate costumes, stunning stage design, and talented performers. They offer a variety of performances, from traditional Thai dances to contemporary pop numbers, the shows cater to all tastes and interests.

The performances are also family-friendly, making them a great activity for travelers of all ages.

Check prices and availability for Simon Cabaret Show here.

Day 4: Phi Phi Islands Day Trip

Another popular day trip from Phuket is to the Phi Phi Islands, which are arguably the most beautiful islands in the Thailand archipelago.

You can stay on the larger of the two islands, Don Phi Phi, if you have more time, but it’s also easy to see the highlights on a day trip.

Check prices and availability for Phi Phi Islands Day Trips here.

The tour departs from Phuket at around 8am in the morning and you will hop into a speedboat or long tail boat and head to Phi Phi Islands. I would suggest getting a speedboat tour as they are faster, so you can visit more stops.

The first stop is Maya Bay, usually. The boat tours may swap these stops around so you can visit Maya Bay at a time when there are less people.

It’s the highlight of a Phi Phi Islands day tour because it’s Thailand’s most beautiful beach. It was made famous after it appeared in the movie The Beach starring Leonardo Dicaprio and is a protected beach.

It was closed for around five years or so due to overtourism, but now it’s open again for day tours only. You cannot swim in the beach, but it’s beauty is worth the journey.

You can sit back and admire the stunning limestone cliffs that surrounding it, and maybe even spot a black-tip reef shark in the water if you’re lucky.

The next stop is Pileh Lagoon, a hidden gem located between tall cliffs. It’s a great place to swim in the emerald-green waters of the lagoon and take in the breathtaking views around you.

If you didn’t see much marine life swimming in the lagoon, then don’t worry. The next stop is a snorkel spot at one of the best spots in Phi Phi Islands.

It’s usually a spot around Viking Cave, a sea cave that looks out into the open waters of the Andaman Sea.

Here is a great spot to discover the colorful coral and marine life that inhabit the waters, and marvel at the beauty of the underwater world.

I mentioned earlier that Don Phi Phi Island is the largest island in the Phi Phi Islands and is much more developed than the others.

It’s a great place for lunch at a local restaurant and to browse the market shops that line the two streets on the island.

Usually, if the weather is good, the tour will end with a swimming spot at a remote uninhabited island.

Usually, you will visit Bamboo Island, a small and secluded island with clear waters perfect for swimming.

Soak up the sun on the white sandy beach or swim in the crystal clear waters before you relax on the boat and enjoy the ride back to Phuket.

Day 5: Elephant Sanctuary, Bang Pae Waterfall, Promthep Cape

On the last day, we will visit some of the lesser known attractions and wildlife sanctuaries.

Visiting an elephant sanctuary is one of the most popular and rewarding experiences in Thailand, and allows tourists to see these majestic animals up close while supporting their welfare and conservation efforts.

One of the main reasons to visit an elephant sanctuary in Phuket is the opportunity to witness these beautiful creatures in their natural habitat.

However, not all sanctuaries provide a safe and ethical environment for elephants, so you do need to do your research carefully.

An ethical sanctuary allows you to observe them roaming freely, socializing with other elephants, and engaging in natural behaviors such as bathing and grazing but without getting involved.

Most of the elephants have been rescued from the tourism or logging industries.

Check prices and availability for Elephant Sanctuaries here.

Bangae Waterfall is a stunning natural attraction in Phuket’s Khao Phra Thaeo National Park.

One of the main reasons to visit Bang Pae Waterfall is its breathtaking beauty.

It is the largest and most impressive waterfall on the island, with water cascading down a series of rocky tiers.

You can cool off in the refreshing pool at the base of the falls or take a dip in the natural pools along the trail.

In addition to its natural beauty, Bang Pae Waterfall is surrounded by lush rainforest, making it a great place to explore and hike.

Another great sunset spot in Phuket is Promthep Cape, located at the southernmost point of Phuket island.

One of the main reasons to visit Promthep Cape is its breathtaking views. The cape overlooks the Andaman Sea and offers panoramic views of the coastline, islands, and surrounding mountains.

The sunset views from Promthep Cape are particularly stunning and draw large crowds of visitors every evening.

The best way to get around Phuket is to hire a scooter and drive yourself. It’s going to save you money, and also allows you the freedom to travel at your own pace.

With a family, a scooter isn’t a good option, but you can also hire a car as well.

Alternatively, you can take taxis. This is a convenient and reliable way to get around Phuket. They can be found at Phuket International Airport, major hotels, and tourist areas.

However, taxi fares in Phuket can be expensive, especially for long distances, so you might want to use a ride-share app such as Grab or Bolt.

Tuk-tuks are an experience in Thailand. They are three-wheeled vehicles that are a popular mode of transportation in Phuket.

They are cheaper than taxis, but prices can be negotiated, so it’s important to agree on a price before getting in.

Songthaews are like bus versions of tuk tuks. They are converted pickup trucks that operate as shared taxis.

They are a budget-friendly option, but routes and schedules can be limited, and they also take a long time to get from A to B, making them less convenient for travelers with specific plans.

The best time to visit Phuket depends on your preferences and travel plans, but winter is our prefered time of year to visit.

Phuket has a tropical climate, with high temperatures and humidity levels throughout the year, though it does have a long rainy season from June to October which can get in the way of your beach time.

The peak tourist season in Phuket is from November to February, when the weather is generally sunny and dry. December is the busiest month and can be crowded, so book accommodation and tours in advance.

The temperatures during this time are milder, making it a great time for outdoor activities such as hiking and beach hopping.

The sea is also calm during these months, making it ideal for water sports such as snorkeling and scuba diving.

March to May is the hot season in Phuket, with temperatures reaching up to 35°C.

April is also a time when you see pollution from the north come down to the south, which doesn’t usually reach Phuket, but it does mean you get a lot of people fleeing the north to escape the pollution and residing in Phuket.

So, expect accommodations to be booked up in these months as well.

This can make outdoor activities uncomfortable during the day, but the evenings are cooler and perfect for exploring the island’s nightlife scene.

Final Thoughts on This 5 Day Phuket Itinerary

Phuket is an island that offers so much to see and do, and 5 days is the perfect amount of time for those looking to explore the island’s diverse attractions and experiences.

I hope this Phuket itinerary gave you some inspiration about what to do and how to spend your days in Phuket.

If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to us in the comments.

Phuket is the largest island in Thailand and is well known for its crystal-clear waters, stunning beaches, and vibrant nightlife. In order to see the best of this island, putting together a 5-day Phuket itinerary …   The Ultimate 5 Day Phuket Itinerary Read More »

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Phuket in 2 Days: A Tropical Getaway Itinerary

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February 7, 2024 · 1 min read

Phuket 2 Days Itinerary

Embark on a 2-day journey to the vibrant island of Phuket, where the sun-kissed beaches and cultural delights await. Start your adventure at the bustling Patong Beach, a place where the azure waters meet the lively streets, offering a full day of sunbathing, water sports, and vibrant nightlife. After soaking up the sun, head to the serene Karon Beach, where two hours of tranquility and picturesque sunsets provide a perfect end to your first day. On day two, step back in time with a visit to Old Phuket Town, immersing yourself in the area's rich history and unique Sino-Portuguese architecture for two hours. Conclude your Phuket escapade with a magical evening at Phuket FantaSea, a theme park that blends the island's cultural heritage with dazzling performances and thrilling rides over three hours. This 2-day itinerary promises a blend of relaxation, culture, and entertainment, ensuring memories that will last a lifetime.

hotelStar

  • Day 1: Sun, Sand, and Serenity in Phuket

Patong Beach

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Begin your Phuket adventure with the vibrant Patong Beach, a place where the azure waters meet the bustling streets. As the first stop on your itinerary, Patong Beach offers a full day of exploration and relaxation. Located at 94 Thaveewong Road, this iconic beach is not just a stretch of powdery sand but a cultural monument of Thailand's island life. Whether you're looking to soak up the sun, indulge in water sports, or simply people-watch, Patong Beach is a microcosm of Phuket's lively spirit.

Attraction Info

  • 94Thaveewong RoadKratoo, 83 Tambon Patong, Amphoe Kathu, Chang Wat Phuket 83150, Thailand
  • Suggested tour duration: 1-2 days
  • Open 24 hours

Recommended Nearby Restaurants

Pan Yaah Seaview Cafe Restaurant & Bar

Karon Beach

Just a short journey from the lively Patong, Karon Beach awaits as your second destination of the day. Offering a more tranquil atmosphere, this expansive stretch of sand is the perfect spot to unwind after the day's earlier excitement. With its crystal-clear waters and a reputation as a monument to Phuket's natural beauty, Karon Beach is an idyllic spot to spend a couple of hours. Located in the heart of Karon, this beach is a haven for those seeking a peaceful retreat amidst their Thai getaway.

  • Karon Beach, Karon, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83100, Thailand
  • Suggested tour duration: 2-4 hour

Mom Tri's Kitchen

Where to Stay Tonight

Phuket emerald beach resort, baan karonburi resort, woraburi phuket resort & spa, karon princess hotel.

  • Day 2: Cultural Charms and Enchanting Evenings in Phuket

Old Phuket Town

As the sun climbs higher on your second day, begin your morning with a stroll through the vibrant streets of Old Phuket Town. Nestled in the heart of Mueang Phuket District, this quaint small town is a tapestry of rich history and colorful Sino-Portuguese architecture. Spend a couple of hours getting lost in its charm, admiring the beautifully preserved shophouses, and perhaps sipping on a local coffee as you watch the town come to life.

  • Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83000, Thailand

Raya Restaurant

Phuket FantaSea

As dusk falls, prepare to be dazzled at Phuket FantaSea, the island's renowned cultural theme park. Located in Kamala, this magical wonderland promises an evening filled with spectacular entertainment. Allocate a good three hours to fully immerse yourself in the grandeur of its theatrical shows, explore the myth-inspired theme park, and indulge in a feast that celebrates the flavors of Thai cuisine, all under the spell of Phuket's glittering night sky.

  • 99 Moo 3 Kamala Kathu Phuket 83150
  • Suggested tour duration: 3-4 hour
  • Open on Tue, Fri, Sun,5:30pm-11:30pm;Closed on Mon, Wed-Thu, Sat

Catch Beach Club

Beach Villa Kamala

West key kamala villa, glam habitat, chonlada holiday home - 2 br pool access bungalow - kamala beach, top things to do in phuket-2024.

Simon Cabaret Phuket

  • Since its opening in 1991, it has become one of the most popular cabaret shows in Southeast Asia.
  • This is a large-scale cabaret show for you to enjoy, with beautifully designed stage sets for each musical theme.
  • The distinctive costumes and charming performances will bring you a visual feast.

day trips from phuket

△ The cast is shocking and gorgeous

day trips from phuket

△ Stage Effects Stunning Costumes

Phuket Simon Cabaret Show is not only a song and dance show, the spectacular light colors and original song and dance shows attract thousands of tourists from all over the world every night. From the moment you step into the opera house, from the entire stage to the sparkling costumes to the outstanding dancers,with excellent choreography and incredible cross-dressing skills, you will experience this special night.

Patong Beach

* All user reviews in this article have been translated by machine.

* The information above is subject to change at any time. For the latest information, please check the websites of hotels and attractions.

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Bali to Phuket on Le Lapérouse

February 7 - 25, 2025

Koh Rok Island

Group Size: Le Lapérouse can accommodate up to 184 passengers for this voyage. Harvard Alumni Travels has reserved a limited number of cabins on this regularly scheduled PONANT voyage. Harvard passengers will be joined by various travelers from independent registrations.

Price: Starting from $18,030 per person double occupancy

Trip Overview

Join Harvard Alumni Travels on a voyage from Java and South China Seas then through the Straits of Malacca on a leisurely exploration of the richly varied nations of Indonesia, Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand. Setting out from Bali, call in Surabaya and Semarang on Java's north coast and explore the culturally diverse legacy of Indonesia in the Dutch colonial heritage of the cities, the ruins of a 14th-century Majapahit City at Trowulan, and the stunning 9th-century Buddhist temple complex of Borobudur. Cosmopolitan Singapore offers a sense of its extraordinary multicultural past in its Muslim, Indian, and Chinese neighborhoods, as well as the story of its remarkable 20th-century transformation from a modest backwater port into one of the world's leading metropolises. In the old colonial ports of Malacca and Georgetown, encounter more of the ethnic and religious diversity born from the maritime trade in cloth and spices that is characteristic of this part of the world, and then end your journey with calls at a some of the more spectacularly beautiful resort islands that dot the northern end of the Malacca Strait.

Schedule by Day

  • Feb 7: Depart U.S. for Bali, Indonesia
  • Feb 8: Overnight in Ubud, Bali
  • Feb 9: Overnight in Ubud, Bali
  • Feb 10: Benoa / Embark
  • Feb 11: At Sea
  • Feb 12: Probolinggo, Java
  • Feb 13: Surabaya
  • Feb 14: Semarang
  • Feb 15: Semarang
  • Feb 16: At Sea
  • Feb 17: Parai Beach
  • Feb 18: Singapore
  • Feb 19: Singapore
  • Feb 20: Malacca, Malaysia
  • Feb 21: Penang (Georgetown)
  • Feb 22: Langkawi
  • Feb 23: Ko Rok Nok Island, Thailand
  • Feb 24: Phang Nga
  • Feb 25: Phuket / Disembark / Fly to U.S.

Accommodations

  • Two hotel pre-nights on Feb 8 & 9, 2025
  • Fifteen nights aboard  Le Lapérouse

To be Announced

What to Expect

Busy pacing may include multiple hotel changes plus internal flights or long drives. May involve exposure to the outdoors, full days of touring, and walking up to two hours.

Study Leader(s)

James Salzman

Mode of Travel

Le Laperouse

Related Trips

Penguins on glacier

For More Information

Please email [email protected] or call our office at 800-422-1636 or 617-496-0806.

IMAGES

  1. The Best Day Trips from Phuket, Thailand

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  2. 10 Best Phuket Tours

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  4. Top 10 scenic day trips from Phuket

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  5. 10 Best Day Trips from Phuket 2021

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  6. The Best Day Trips from Phuket, Thailand

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VIDEO

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  27. Bali to Phuket on Le Lapérouse

    Trip Type. Group Size: Le Lapérouse can accommodate up to 184 passengers for this voyage. Harvard Alumni Travels has reserved a limited number of cabins on this regularly scheduled PONANT voyage. Harvard passengers will be joined by various travelers from independent registrations. Price: Starting from $18,030 per person double occupancy.

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