With Phuket now open to international travelers again, you might be wondering what activities you can enjoy during your Thailand vacation. Phuket holds many hidden gems, from enchanting waterfalls to cultural attractions. But did you know that some of Thailand's most beautiful islands are located around Phuket? There are 32 islands in total, each with its own unique charm. Whether you enjoy snorkeling, hiking, or simply relaxing on the beach, the islands surrounding Phuket offer an experience you shouldn't miss.

Thailand Insider is delighted to introduce you to the breathtaking islands around Phuket, which you may not yet be familiar with. Be sure to include a visit to these nearby islands in your next Thailand holiday plans!

Coral island

Just a few kilometers from Phuket Town lies the idyllic tropical paradise of Coral Island. Coral Island boasts two beaches, Long Beach and Banana Beach, offering both relaxing and adventurous activities. Spend a day on the tranquil, white sandy beaches or snorkel in the emerald-green waters.

For adventure seekers, a parasailing adventure offers a completely new perspective on the beaches. Numerous restaurants and bars line the coast, inviting you to enjoy authentic meals with unparalleled ocean views. To reach Coral Island, simply take a speedboat from Rawai Beach and you'll be in paradise in just 15 minutes!

Ko Racha Yai

South of Phuket lies Ko Racha Yai, an island with a U-shaped bay and the softest sand imaginable, perfect for sinking your toes into and feeling like you're in seventh heaven. The bay is ideal for diving and snorkeling, offering incredible visibility to experience everything the sea has to offer.

The island is car-free and offers absolute tranquility – only the gentle rustling of the palm trees and the soft lapping of the waves can be heard. During the day, you can swim with the fish, and in the evening, you can enjoy the sunset, which bathes the island in a warm light. The journey begins with a speedboat ride from Chalong Pier in Phuket (approximately 30–40 minutes). A stay on Ko Racha Yai is ideal for a short break of 2–3 days, as the island has limited accommodation options and is away from the tourist crowds.

Coconut Island

Coconut Island, or Ko Maphrao, lies off the east coast of Phuket and is a small, unspoiled island where rubber trees and native fruits and vegetables are cultivated in the center. The island is mainly inhabited by locals who farm and fish, offering visitors fresh ingredients and a charming experience.

The island is surrounded by lush mangrove forests, which provide a home for long-tailed macaques. To experience authentic life on Coconut Island, take a five-minute longtail boat ride from Laem Hin Pier.

James Bond Island

James Bond Island, famous from the 1974 Bond film "The Man with the Golden Gun," is popular for good reason. Located in Phang Nga Bay, the island boasts stunning, towering limestone cliffs, such as Ko Ping Ghan, a soaring rock formation with impressive caves. The island is a paradise for kayakers, who can experience the karst landscape up close.

James Bond Island is like a real-life postcard: emerald-green water, lush vegetation, and of course, the towering limestone cliffs. To get there, rent a longtail boat in Phuket or take the ferry.

Ko Bon

Off Rawai Beach on Phuket's southeast coast lies a rocky island with lush vegetation and small sandy coves. The island is known for its crystal-clear waters, perfect for diving. Explore the underwater world and encounter some of its inhabitants, including manta rays, leopard sharks, and barnacles. The island's wildlife is also diverse, with lizards, insects, and native birds all making their home here.

Aside from the wildlife, Ko Bon offers a relaxing retreat where you can unwind on the white sandy beach, soak up the sun, and relax in the shade of swaying palm trees. To get there, take a longboat from Rawai Beach.

Ko Khai Island

Three tiny islands form the picturesque island group of Ko Khai. Just 15 minutes off Phuket's east coast, Ko Khai Nai, Khai Nai and Ko Khai Nok captivate visitors with their incredible tranquility, fine sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters where colorful fish can be seen swimming.

After enjoying the sun on the beach, you can enjoy numerous water sports in the sea, including snorkeling, diving, and water skiing. You can reach the sea by ferry from Ko Lipe, which also stops at Ko Tarutao, another Thai island.

Maiton Island

Just a fifteen-minute speedboat ride off Phuket's east coast lies Maiton Island, a private oasis with expansive sandy beaches framed by lush green hills. The island is relatively quiet and offers a relaxing retreat away from the hustle and bustle of Phuket.

Swim in crystal-clear waters, sunbathe on warm, golden sandy beaches, or explore some of Thailand's most vibrant coral reefs. With a bit of luck, you might encounter octopuses or beautiful sea turtles. As the island is privately owned, getting there can be a little tricky. However, there are tour operators who can help you book a stay on this idyllic island paradise.

Explore the islands around Phuket!

Now that you have a better understanding of the idyllic islands surrounding Phuket, you can plan your itinerary. We've only introduced you to a few of the surrounding islands, but there are many more to discover. Your tropical island getaway in Thailand awaits! For more information on traveling to Thailand, please visit our "Travel Tips" page.