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Well known for its coral reef, Hey Island is often referred to as Coral Island. Off Phuket's south coast, it has two lovely beaches on the North and the West. Although Koh Hey is designated as a marine reserve, it has accomodation, water sports and diving and restaurants. It is accessed by boats thaqt leave from Rawaii and Chalong beaches. There are also package tours available.
About 100 KM north-west of Phuket, you have the Similian Islands (Koh Similian).It is a group of nine granite islands, covered with tropical jungle and surrounded by white beaches and crystal clear water. thislands offer some of the best diving in Thailand and the world. The variation in the underwater environment found here is unique.
Koh Bon is located north of Similian Island. On the south-western point of the island is a world class diving site that consists of a 33 meter wall facing the small cove, and a step-down ridge that carries on to depths of over 45 meters. Koh Bon is one of the better places to see manta rays, especially towards the end of the season when there is more plankton in the water. The islands of Koh Tachaj, the Surin, and Richelieu Rock are also located in the same area.
Located south of Phrom Thep, this island is 3 KM from Rawaii and can be reached in 15 minutes by chartered boat from there. Apart from a fine beach, it also boasts natural surroundings and coral. A giant Buddha statue is located on the island.
Located midway between Phuket and Krabi mainland, Koh Yao Noi and its sister island Koh Yao Yai are a pair of islands where tourism is developing at a very slow pace. The locals maintain the old lifestyle by choice and they remain a pair of very quiet and peaceful refuges, far from the hustle and bustle of Phuket. Koh Yao Noi is a one-hour ride by a long-tail boat from Bang Rong Pier on the east coast of Phuket. The fare is 50 Baht with daily departures from Phuket at 9.30 am, 12 noon and 5 pm. The boat will make a short stop on Koh Yao Yai, then cross to Koh Yao Noi, only 8 minutes away. Long-tail boats can also be hired at Ao Po pier for charter to Koh Yao.
Nakha is a small and quiet island with fine sandy beaches, off Phuket's northeast shore. It offers the visitors a chance to visit its pearl farm, something not available at many islands. Boats can be hired from Ao Po Pier, off Pa Khlok Rd. and package tours including a visit to the pearl farm are also available at tour agencies.
This tiny island off Phuket's southeast coast is highly prized for its natural environment, including fine white beaches and crystal waters. It is ideal for swimming, diving, or fishing. Daytime excursion are available from from Ao Makham Deep Sea Port.Phone: 076 214 954-7.
Phi Phi islands, located about 48 KM south-east of Phuket, are a one and a half to three hour boat ride from Phuket, depending on the type of boat. The islands havemany steep, lightly vegetated cliffs rising vertically from the seabed and hidden bays concealing lovely beaches with calm clear waters. Phi Phi Don is the main island and there are regular ferries available. You can take a day trip or stay there in ione of the many hotels for an extended stay. Boats are also available from Ao Nang and the Chao Far Pier in Krabi Town
Snorkeling on the coral reefs. sea kayaking, mountain-biking, playing miniature golf! It's all available on Rang Yai island. You can hire a boat from Phuket Boat Lagoon from Laem Hin Pier on Phuket. For package tours, you can contact tour agensies including Richy Island Tour on phone 076 238 163.
Sire island is Separated from Phuket by the Khlong Tha Chin, a shallow mangrove swamp. It can be reached via the causeway that connects it to Phuket. Wat Koh Sire, on the hill, has A large Reclining Buddha and provides lovely view of the surroundings. Phuket's largest settlement of Sea Gipsies, or Chao Ley, are on Koh Sire at Leam Tuk-kae. There are some popular seafood restaurants on the island on its eastern coast.
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