Beautiful islands around Phuket are far more numerous than most visitors discover, as the Andaman Sea holds many hidden gems beyond the world-famous Phi Phi Islands. Yacht Charter on a private vessel is the best way to explore these islands freely and on your own terms.
1. Phi Phi Islands – The Queen of the Andaman Sea
The Phi Phi archipelago consists of two main islands, Koh Phi Phi Don and Koh Phi Phi Leh. The latter is home to Maya Bay, widely considered one of the most beautiful bays in the world. Emerald water, towering limestone cliffs, and white sand make this an unmissable stop for anyone visiting Phuket.
2. Racha Yai Island – A World-Class Diving Destination
Racha Yai Island sits approximately two hours by boat from Phuket, but the journey is well worth it. The island offers internationally recognised dive sites with excellent underwater visibility, where clownfish, whitetip reef sharks, and diverse coral can all be seen in a single dive.
3. Racha Noi Island – For the More Experienced Diver
Racha Noi is smaller and further than Racha Yai, but delivers a superior diving experience for those with more experience. Stronger currents bring greater marine diversity, and whale sharks have been spotted here during certain seasons.
4. Koh Mai Thon – A Private Island Close to Phuket
Koh Mai Thon is just 45 minutes from Chalong Pier and offers beautiful beaches and clear water that rivals far more distant islands. Because it is not a standard stop on group tour routes, it remains quiet and genuinely private, making it ideal for those who want to truly switch off.
5. Koh Lon – A Fishing Village in the Middle of the Sea
Koh Lon is just 15 minutes by boat from Rawai Beach but feels like a completely different world. The island is home to a traditional fishing and sea nomad community that still lives much as it always has. Fresh seafood is cheap, the beaches are quiet, and the atmosphere is nothing like a tourist island.
6. Koh Yao Noi – Views That Take Your Breath Away
Koh Yao Noi sits in the middle of Phang Nga Bay, surrounded by towering limestone formations that create scenery difficult to describe in words. The island retains a high level of natural character and is home to a traditional Muslim fishing community that gives it a dimension most Phuket islands lack.
7. Koh Kai – Three Small Islands with Impossibly Clear Water
Koh Kai is actually three small islands — Koh Kai Nok, Koh Kai Nai, and Koh Kai Nui — sitting close together and surrounded by water so clear the sand below is visible from the surface. It is an excellent spot for snorkeling and photography.
8. Koh Hae – The Coral Island Close to Patong
Koh Hae, also known as Coral Island, sits close to Patong Beach and is popular for snorkeling and a wide range of water activities. The water is clear, facilities are available, and it suits visitors staying in the Patong area who want a sea experience without traveling far.
Expert Tips for Island Hopping Around Phuket
Experts in Phuket boat trips recommend against trying to visit every island in a single trip, as each island has its own character and atmosphere that deserves time. Spending time properly at one or two islands is a far better experience than rushing through five or six in a day.
Experts also suggest choosing islands based on what you actually want to do. For diving, choose Racha Island. For scenery, choose Phi Phi or Koh Yao Noi. For peace and quiet, choose Koh Mai Thon or Koh Lon.
Conclusion
The beautiful islands around Phuket offer something for every kind of traveler, whether you want to dive, photograph, relax, or experience something of local life. Planning ahead and matching your island to what you want will make the Phuket trip both more enjoyable and more memorable.
For those wanting to know what other sea activities are worth trying in Phuket, read more at Phuket Sea Activities – 10 Things You Must Try at Least Once
