Phuket Island Tours 2026: Your Guide to Phi Phi, Racha & Beyond
Planning a Phuket getaway for 2026? Discover the best island tours around Phuket, from the iconic Phi Phi to the serene Racha, and find your perfect paradise.
To easily understand the islands around Phuket, think of it this way: 'Longtail boats, cliffs, and stunning ocean views mean Phi Phi Island / White sandy beaches and resort relaxation mean Racha Island / Nearby ocean activities mean Coral Island / Cave canoeing means Phang Nga Bay.'
Similan, opening from October, and the myriad islands surrounding Phuket –
Phi Phi Island, Racha Island, Coral Island, Similan Island, James Bond Island, Phang Nga Bay,
What exactly are these Phuket islands, and which tours should you take?
I'll break it down for you, all in one go!
The times below are estimated one-way, based on speedboats departing from the pier.
Excludes hotel to pier vehicle transfer, check-in, and intermediate stops.
Similan and Surin require vehicle transfer to the mainland, so they are described separately.
Island/Area | Characteristics/Vibe | Main Departure Point from Phuket | Estimated One-Way Travel Time | Main Activities | Accommodation/Key Considerations | |
Phi Phi Island PhiPhi | Phi Phi Don PhiPhi Don | The hub for Phi Phi travel, with accommodations, restaurants, and shops. Tonsai is convenient, while Long Beach and the North offer a resort relaxation vibe. | Rassada Pier → Tonsai or Laem Tong. Resort-specific boats depart from separate piers. | Tonsai: Speedboat approx. 1 hour / Ferry approx. 2 hours. Northern Laem Tong: approx. 1.5 hours / Ferry approx. 3 hours, varies depending on connection method. | Beach relaxation, viewpoints, restaurants/bars, longtail tours to surrounding islands. | Accommodation available. Tonsai is convenient for tours, Long Beach and the North for beach relaxation. |
Phi Phi Leh Phi Phi Leh | A prime spot for limestone cliffs, emerald lagoons, and longtail boat photos. This is home to Maya Bay and Pileh Lagoon. | Phuket's East tour pier or local tours from Phi Phi Don | From Phuket: approx. 1-1.5 hours. If staying on Phi Phi Don, depart by longtail from nearby. | Swimming and longtail boats in Pileh Lagoon, walking and photography at Maya Bay, snorkeling nearby, external viewing of Viking Cave. | No general accommodation. Water activities are limited to the lagoon and designated snorkeling spots. | |
Bamboo Island Bamboo Island / Koh Mai Phai | North of Phi Phi, featuring white sandy beaches and wide-open turquoise seas. Offers a different feel from Phi Phi Leh's cliff scenery. | Phuket for Phi Phi + Bamboo tours or Phi Phi Don | From Phuket: approx. 1-1.5 hours, longer if it's a stopover on a multi-island tour. | Beach relaxation, swimming, snorkeling nearby | Good to add to a Phi Phi tour, but for shorter tours, travel time becomes a bigger factor. Sometimes included in 7-hour longtail options. | |
Racha Island | Racha Yai, Raya Island Racha Yai | White sand, blue sea, island resorts. Perfect for combining swimming and relaxation. | Chalong Pier | Approx. 30-45 minutes | Swimming, snorkeling, diving, beach and resort relaxation | Accommodation available. An excellent choice for "beautiful sea + relaxing resort." The Racha Resort indicates approx. 35 minutes by boat. |
Racha Noi Racha Noi | South of Racha Yai. Focused on underwater activities rather than beach resorts. | Chalong Pier | Varies depending on boat type and whether Racha Yai is a stopover; check tour details. | Diving, snorkeling, fishing | More suitable for marine tours bundled with Racha Yai than for typical resort stays | |
Coral Island / Koh Hey Coral Island / Koh Hey | A beach activity island close to Phuket. Banana Beach is also located on this island. | Chalong Pier, or boats from Rawai | Chalong speedboat approx. 15-20 minutes. Rawai longtail takes longer. | Beach relaxation, swimming, kayaking, parasailing, banana boating, etc. | Convenient for short trips. Water activity costs are often separate in many tour packages. | |
Maiton / Maithon Island Maiton / Maithon | Yacht and catamaran cruising for relaxation, with many itineraries focused on enjoying the surrounding sea. | Chalong or Panwa tour piers | Speedboat approx. 20-30 minutes. Sailing catamarans can take significantly longer. | Snorkeling, swimming, paddleboarding, on-board slides/sunset viewing, wild dolphin watching | Landing on the island and accommodation availability must be checked separately. Dolphin sightings are not guaranteed. Phi Phi + Maiton tours are also available. | |
Khai Islands Khai Islands | Small, nearby islands. Feels like a light half-day island hopping and beach fun trip. | Phuket's East tour pier | Approx. 15-30 minutes | Beach relaxation, swimming, snorkeling, island hopping | Low travel burden. Suitable for short tours rather than quiet, long-term relaxation. | |
Phang Nga Bay Phang Nga Bay | Not just one island, but an entire bay. Key features are the limestone cliffs and cave landscapes rising from the sea. | Ao Po Pier/Marina, etc. | Speedboat to first destination approx. 45-60 minutes; larger boats take longer. | Cave canoeing/kayaking, Koh Hong/Phanak Island, James Bond Island, sunset | Focuses on scenery and canoeing rather than clear sea snorkeling. A different direction and type of trip compared to Similan. | |
Koh Yao Yai Koh Yao Yai | A large island with scattered quiet resorts, villages, and beaches. | Bang Rong Pier, resort-specific piers | Speedboat approx. 30 minutes, additional travel depending on resort location | Resort relaxation, beach walks, kayaking, island drives | Accommodation available. Suitable for a leisurely trip rather than packing in many activities. | |
Koh Yao Noi Koh Yao Noi | Small villages, tranquil accommodations, and Phang Nga Bay cliff views. A relaxed atmosphere. | Bang Rong Pier or resort-specific marina | Speedboat approx. 30-45 minutes | Resort relaxation, cycling/island exploration, kayaking, longtail tours to nearby islands | Accommodation available. Its strengths are quiet relaxation and cliff views rather than emerald lagoons like Phi Phi | |
Similan Islands Similan Islands | Bright white sand, granite rocks, clear waters, a marine national park. From Oct 15th | From Phuket, by land to Tab Lamu area pier, then by boat | Car approx. 1.5-2.5 hours + Boat approx. 70-90 minutes. Varies greatly depending on Phuket accommodation location. | Snorkeling, diving, beach relaxation, Sail Rock viewpoint | Staying in Khao Lak is advantageous for travel. Operating seasonally, so confirm opening dates and tour availability for your visit. | |
Surin Islands Surin Islands | Coral and fish observation, natural scenery, a trip with a high emphasis on snorkeling. | By land to Nam Khem Marina / Kuraburi, etc. Departure piers may differ from Similan. | From Phuket, car approx. 2-3 hours + boat approx. 90 minutes is typical. Varies by pier. | Snorkeling at various spots, beach relaxation, visiting Moken Village | A day trip from Phuket is a long day. Departing from Khao Lak is more convenient, and season confirmation is required | |
Koh Rok Koh Rok | Distant waters with white sand, clear water, and snorkeling. Often combined with Koh Haa. | Phuket's East tour pier, varies by operator | Speedboat around 2 hours, varies depending on itinerary and sea conditions | Snorkeling, swimming, beach relaxation, combined with Koh Haa | A long full-day tour due to travel. Confirm season and actual departure availability | |
Lone Island / Thanan Island Lone / Thanan | A route to leisurely explore islands close to South Phuket by private longtail boat. | Certain tours depart from the pier next to Phuket Aquarium | Exact travel time not specified in package | Beach relaxation, swimming, snorkeling, tidal sandbar scenery at Thanan | A separate itinerary from Phi Phi. Sometimes combined with Koh Hey or includes a squid fishing option |
[Location 6] Phi Phi Island
The Phi Phi Islands are a collective name for two stunning islands: Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Leh.
Here, you can immerse yourself in the magnificent beauty of Maya Bay and Pileh Lagoon, marvel at towering cliffs, and take a longtail boat ride through emerald waters, just like in the pictures above, all while enjoying fantastic snorkeling!
While personal preferences vary, many travelers consider it the next best choice after the legendary Similan Islands.
Journeys typically begin from eastern Phuket, with a thrilling speedboat ride taking about 1 to 1.5 hours to reach these breathtaking islands.
Most tours offer a full day of leisurely enjoyment,
and island hopping itineraries often include visits to Maiton Island or Khai Island.
[Compare Phi Phi Island Tours Here --->
" style="display:block;width:100%;max-height:320px;object-fit:cover;">Premium Catamaran Phi Phi Islands Tour + Maiton Island Sunset <Love Andaman>[Maiton Island]
If you're lucky, you might even spot dolphins frolicking in the waters! (Be sure to check detailed tour itineraries for specifics.)
[Khai Island]
Its main advantage is its close proximity. However, if you're seeking the absolute best in pristine sea and natural scenery, other tour options might be more suitable.
[Bamboo Island / Koh Mai Phai]
Discover pristine white sands and expansive turquoise waters north of Phi Phi – truly a sight to behold!
It offers a different kind of natural beauty compared to the dramatic cliffs of Phi Phi Leh, providing a serene escape.
You can reach it by traveling approximately 1 to 1.5 hours, either as part of a Phi Phi + Bamboo tour departing from Phuket or directly from Phi Phi Don.
(Note: Travel time may be longer if your tour includes multiple stops.)
It's a fantastic addition for beach relaxation, swimming, and snorkeling around the Phi Phi tour, but
if you add it to a shorter tour, travel time can take up a significant portion. Alternatively, it's sometimes included as part of 7-hour longtail boat options.
![Phi Phi Island & Bamboo Island Full-Day Tour [Sawanu Travel]](https://rmrjnibxulbdixuqguwc.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/post-content/imported-naver/image-1791481149171-1791481149171-437bb3f1.jpg)
Phi Phi Island & Bamboo Island Full-Day Tour [Sawanu Travel][Locations 04 & 05] Racha Island
Racha Island, a stunning destination reachable in just 30 minutes from Phuket Island, is the perfect island tour even for those with limited time!
🤿Racha Island · Banana Beach Snorkeling & Introductory DivingHere, you can spend your time enjoying thrilling snorkeling and diving adventures. Typically, just visiting Racha Island on its own can feel a bit
incomplete. That's why many island tours smartly combine Racha Island with Coral Island (Koh Hey) for a more fulfilling experience!
[Coral Island]
Coral Island is another gem that you can reach from Phuket Island by speedboat in a quick 15-20 minutes!
And guess what? The vibrant Banana Beach is also nestled right on Coral Island!
![✨ [Phuket] Racha Island, Coral Island, Promthep Cape Yacht Tour (Lunch, Dinner Included) – SUNSET](https://rmrjnibxulbdixuqguwc.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/post-content/imported-naver/image-1791481150964-1791481150964-aa772296.jpg)
✨ [Phuket] Racha Island, Coral Island, Promthep Cape Yacht Tour (Lunch, Dinner Included) – SUNSET(It seems like landing on the beach isn't really the main thing here...? Most of the time, you're floating on the water,
doing activities on island tours. That's just my personal opinion..)
[Similan Islands]
Thailand's finest(?) marine national park, where dazzling emerald seas meet pristine white-sand beaches,
Phuket's Similan Islands
are only open for a few months starting in October, making them even more precious.
You can enjoy swimming with tropical fish amidst clear, transparent waters and giant granite rocks
![[Phuket] Similan Islands Premium Speed Catamaran Day Tour | Viewpoint · Snorkeling · Emerald Sea](https://rmrjnibxulbdixuqguwc.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/post-content/imported-naver/image-1791481152004-1791481152004-006c63e8.jpg)
[Phuket] Similan Islands Premium Speed Catamaran Day Tour | Viewpoint · Snorkeling · Emerald SeaSo many people would choose the Similan Islands if they could only visit one place in Phuket,
it's truly a stunningly beautiful place!!!
However, you have to travel 70-90 minutes by speedboat to get there.
[Phang Nga Bay] [007 James Bond Island]
This isn't just one island, but an entire bay. The limestone cliffs and cave landscapes above the sea are absolutely stunning.
You can enjoy cave canoeing and kayaking, experiences you won't find anywhere else in Phuket.
It takes over an hour one-way by speedboat.
![[Trending] Phuket Phang Nga Bay Tour Package: James Bond Island + Phanak Island + Hong Island Canoe Tour (Private / Korean Guide)](https://rmrjnibxulbdixuqguwc.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/post-content/imported-naver/image-1791481153989-1791481153989-090a9aad.jpg)
[Trending] Phuket Phang Nga Bay Tour Package: James Bond Island + Phanak Island + Hong Island Canoe Tour (Private / Korean Guide)
Which Phuket Island Should You Visit?
How Should You Plan Your Phuket Island Tour?
It depends on what you want to experience.
For me, I wanted to "ride a wooden boat in a beautiful sea, swim plenty, and get that resort vibe," so
I've listed my Phuket island tour options below:
Desired Experience | Top Recommendation | Reason for Choice |
Cliffs · Jade Sea · Longtail Boat Photos · Swimming | Stay on Phi Phi Don + Private Longtail to Phi Phi Leh | Most aligned with the picture-perfect island vibe. Extend time for Phi Leh and snorkeling, skipping Monkey Island. |
White Sands · Swimming · Island Resort Relaxation | Racha Yai | Shorter travel from Phuket than Phi Phi, great for combining an island stay with water activities. |
Onboard Fun · Sunset · Dolphin Watching (Expected) | Maiton | Perfect for catamaran and yacht activities. Confirm dolphin sightings and island landing availability. |
Cave Canoeing · Cliff Scenery | Phang Nga Bay | For adding a different experience that isn't focused on swimming. |
Long, Relaxing Stay at a Quiet Resort | Koh Yao Yai · Koh Yao Noi | Better for enjoying the resort and island atmosphere rather than extensive island hopping. |
Accommodation on Phi Phi Island
Phi Phi Villa Resort Reviews & Special Deals, Koh Phi Phi 2026 | Trip.com~$133 and up
Pim Pim Holiday Resort Reviews & Special Deals, Koh Phi Phi 2026 | Trip.com~$259 and up
JJ Residence Reviews & Special Deals, Koh Phi Phi 2026 | Trip.comIf location and value for money are your top priorities,
this place also comes highly recommended.
#PhuketIsland #PhuketIslandTour #PhuketIslandTourComparison #PhuketPhiPhiSimilan #PhuketOneDayTourItinerary #PhuketPhangNgaBay #PhuketTravelItinerary #PhuketIslandTourItinerary #PhuketOcean #PhuketOceanActivities #IslandsNearPhuket #PhuketToPhiPhiIslandTravel #PhuketSimilanTravelTime #PhuketCoralIsland #PhuketKhaiIsland #PhuketMaitonIslandPhiPhi #PhiPhiMaitonIsland #PhuketSimilanOpeningSeason #PhuketDrySeasonTravel #OctoberPhuketTravel #PhuketTravelItinerary
Frequently Asked Questions
Which islands are open for travel to Phuket in October, and how long does it take to get there from Phuket?
The Similan Islands are open from October. From Phuket, you'll need to travel by land for about 1.5 to 2.5 hours by car to Tap Lamu pier, and then take a boat for another 70 to 90 minutes.
Among the islands around Phuket, where can one enjoy cave canoeing, and what are its main characteristics?
Cave canoeing can be enjoyed in Phang Nga Bay. Phang Nga Bay is not a single island but an entire bay, characterized by its stunning limestone cliffs and cave landscapes rising from the sea.
How long does it take by speedboat to get to Coral Island (Koh Hey), the closest beach activity island from Phuket?
Coral Island (Koh Hey) can be reached by speedboat in about 15 to 20 minutes from Phuket's Chalong Pier. Banana Beach is also located on this island.
Where is accommodation available and unavailable on the Phi Phi Islands, and what are the characteristics of each island?
Accommodation is available on Phi Phi Don; Tonsai is convenient for tours, while Long Beach/North offers a resort vacation atmosphere. In contrast, Phi Phi Leh does not allow general accommodation and is famous for its limestone cliffs, emerald lagoons, and Maya Bay.
If Racha Island and Coral Island are combined into a single tour, approximately how long does it take by speedboat from Phuket to each island?
Racha Island takes about 30 to 45 minutes by speedboat from Chalong Pier, and Coral Island takes about 15 to 20 minutes by speedboat from Chalong Pier. It's common for tours to combine Racha Island and Coral Island.
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