Explore Maya Bay and Phi Phi Island on Tours from Phuket
Phuket, Thailand’s largest island and a major tourist hotspot, offers endless activities and stunning beaches. However, many of its hidden gems lie beyond its shores. With 32 smaller islands in the surrounding Andaman Sea, island hopping is a must-do highlight of any trip to Thailand.
Having lived in Phuket for over three years, I’ve experienced most of these island hopping tours and day trips. Here are my top picks, featuring both famous sights and lesser-known treasures.
Affordable Tour Packages
Phuket offers numerous affordable half-day and full-day tour packages. Nearby provinces like Phang Nga and Krabi also provide unique and wonderful day trips.
Booking Your Day Trips
The easiest way to book popular Phuket day tours is through platforms like Viator or Get Your Guide, which offer real reviews and convenient hotel pick-up options. If traveling during peak season, booking in advance is recommended. For independent travel, ferry tickets can be booked online via 12Go Asia.
Top Island Hopping Tours and Day Trips from Phuket
- Old Phuket Town & Big Buddha
Begin with a cultural tour of Phuket itself. Old Phuket Town, the island’s cultural hub, is best explored on foot. Admire the 19th-century colorful houses and visit unique boutique hotels, shops, and cafes. Don’t miss Wat Chalong and the iconic Big Buddha, which offers epic views over Phuket Island.
Getting There:
Phuket Town and Chalong are southeast of Phuket Island. It’s a 30-40 minute drive from the west coast beach towns. Visiting the Big Buddha at sunset is ideal. A half-day group Phuket City Tour is also available.
- Phi Phi Islands
The Phi Phi Islands are a top day trip destination from Phuket, comprising six islands. Phi Phi Don is the busiest, while uninhabited Phi Phi Leh features Maya Bay, famous from “The Beach” film. Bamboo Island is another popular spot.
Getting There:
Group tours to the Phi Phi Islands are plentiful, including stops at Maya Bay, Pileh Lagoon, Ko Phi Phi Don, Viking Cave, and Bamboo Island. Overnight stays on Phi Phi Don and further trips to Krabi are also options.
- James Bond Island
James Bond Island in Phang Nga Bay is renowned for its role in “The Man with the Golden Gun.” The bay features fascinating limestone formations, sea caves, and excellent snorkeling spots.
Getting There:
Boat tours are ideal for exploring Phang Nga Bay. Luxury sunset cruises with meals and sea canoeing options are available.
- Racha Islands
Racha Yai and Racha Noi, located south of Phuket, are paradise for scuba diving and snorkeling with crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches.
Getting There:
Accessible via group tours, long tail boats, or speedboat transfers from Rawai or Chalong pier. The Hype Luxury Catamaran trip offers a beach club-style experience.
- Naka Island
Naka Island, close to Ao Por Grand Marina, is perfect for a relaxing day of sunbathing and swimming. The luxury Naka Island Resort offers day passes for its facilities.
Getting There:
Just a 10-minute boat ride from Ao Por Grand Marina. Combine with visits to Koh Yao Yai & Koh Yao Noi.
- Koh Yao Yai & Koh Yao Noi
Koh Yao Yai features stunning resorts and beaches, while Koh Yao Noi offers views of Phang Nga Bay’s limestone cliffs and caves, along with lush nature.
Getting There:
Accessible via a 20-30 minute ferry from Royal Phuket Marina. A 10-minute ferry connects the two islands.
- Similan Islands
The Similan Islands are famed for diving, with diverse marine life and unique rock formations.
Getting There:
70 km off the coast of Phang Nga, prepare for a 10-12 hour day trip or consider multi-day options. Closed during the monsoon season (June-September).
- Surin Islands
The lesser-known Surin Islands are home to the Moken tribe and offer beautiful beaches and snorkeling spots.
Getting There:
Only accessible via tours, the trip involves a long boat ride.
- Khao Sok National Park
Khao Sok boasts the world’s oldest evergreen rainforest and diverse wildlife, along with the stunning Cheow Lan Lake.
Getting There:
A long drive from Phuket (about 3.5 hours), consider a 2-day tour with an overnight stay in a floating raft house.
- Khao Lak
Khao Lak offers serene beaches and a peaceful escape from Phuket’s crowds, with nearby waterfalls and bamboo rafting opportunities.
Getting There:
1.5 to 2.5-hour drive from Phuket. Options include renting a car, taking a public bus, or booking a private transfer.
- Railay, Krabi
Railay Bay in Krabi features dramatic limestone cliffs and turquoise waters, ideal for rock climbing and scenic relaxation.
Getting There:
2.5-3 hours by ferry or bus from Phuket to Ao Nang, followed by a 10-minute longtail boat ride to Railay. An overnight stay is recommended.
Final Thoughts
Phuket’s surrounding islands offer endless exploration opportunities. Ensure you explore both the island itself and these incredible day trips to fully experience this Thai paradise. For more travel tips, check out guides on where to stay in Phuket and ultimate itineraries for Phuket, Koh Phi Phi, and Krabi.
