Offshore Islands

Phuket itself is only just an island, linked to Phang Nga province by the Sarasin bridge. All around Phuket are small offshore islands which can be visited for the day or a few hours. Some have accomodation, some are just gorgeous little specks in the ocean. Some are good for diving too.

Islands close to Phuket

Koh Yao Noi

I wish I had more time to explore Koh Yao Noi and it's larger neighbour Koh Yao Yai. These islands are officially in Phang Nga province, but easily reached from Phuket by ferry. Must get over there again soon before the locals sell up their land to the resorts. At the moment, it's gorgeous...

• Koh Yao Noi



Koh Kaew Yai

Just 1km offshore from Phromthep Cape (the southwesterly tip of Phuket), Koh Kaew Yai is a small island and a place of worship. It is said that the Buddha first stepped ashore on this island before landing on Phuket at nearby Rawai beach. You can get a longtail boat to Koh Kaew Yai from Rawai.

• Koh Kaew Yai

Koh Rang Yai

Off the east coast, Koh Rang Yai is a private island, but you can get a longtail boat here from Laem Hin - nice place to stay for half a day. In between is Koh Maphrao (yet to be blogged...)

• Koh Rang Yai

Koh Sirey

Sirey island is on the east side of Phuket Town.. rather like Phuket Island, it's connected by a bridge, but has a different feel and has many quiet areas as well as being home to sea gypsies. You can find a few restaurants and also an abalone farm here.

• More about Koh Sirey



Further offshore...

Phi Phi is easily reached in a day trip, though it's better to stay a night or two. Can be crowded during the day with all the daytrippers. Scenery is beautiful. The Similan Islands are about 90km from Phuket and are better known for diving, but day trips for snorkeling are possible and you can even stay on the islands in national park accommodation.

• Phi Phi Islands
• Seaplane Flight to Phi Phi
• Similan Islands



More islands to come such as Koh Racha Yai, Koh Maphrao, Koh Lone...just give me time, I do work 6 days a week, so that leaves little time for exploring offshore islands! Oh to be a full time blogger!