18 Surreal Islands Near Phuket You Should Definitely Explore In Thailand In 2022

Phuket gets thousands of visitors every year owing to its many exquisite beaches, fun club scene, and diving spots off the coast where you can see beautiful coral reefs and all kinds of marine life, including turtles, fish and even sharks. Of course, there is so much more to the province of Phuket than the beaches, for instance, the islands near Phuket. In the Andaman Sea and the Phang Nga Bay, these islands are some of the most scenic places in the tropics. These nice islands near Phuket will sweep you off your feet with their scenic beauty, and hole-in-the-wall shacks that serve delicious seafood.

Top 18 Islands Near Phuket

Here is a list of best islands located near the state of Phuket that you must visit on your trip to Thailand with family or friends. We’ve shortlisted these 18 islands near Phuket based on various parameters, such as distance from the city and more. Yu will also find information about how to get to islands near Phuket.

• Koh Phi Phi
• Koh Lanta
• Khao Phing Kan
• Similan Islands
• Koh Yao Noi
• Surin Islands
• Racha Islands
• Koh Hae
• Koh Bon
• Koh Khai Islands
• Maiton Island
• Koh Panyi
• Koh Hong
• James Bond
• Rang Yai
• Koh Yao Yai
• Koh Poda
• Koh Sirey

1. Koh Phi Phi

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One of the most popular islands near Phuket, this place rocketed to fame when it was featured in the movie – The Beach. It is part of the Phi Phi Islands, completely surrounded by emerald waters on all sides, with abundant white sandy beaches that will take your breath away. The Maya Bay is a group of nice islands near Phuket. It is surrounded on all sides by cliffs and other rock formations may very well be counted as a natural wonder of the world. The island is a national park, so you will be treated to some of the best marine life in Thailand.

Best month to visit: November to March

Where to stay: Ibiza House Phi Phi, Blanco Dorm Room and Restaurant

Best restaurants: Amico Restaurant, Cosmic Restaurant

How to reach: Ferries from Phuket to Phi Phi Islands take about two hours.

Must Read: 8 Patong Beach Resorts For A Laid Back Vacation In Phuket

2. Koh Lanta

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One of the best islands near Phuket, this place had its beach once announced as the best beach in the world by critics. Still, the place remains kind of a hidden gem. The emerald waters and the white sandy beaches are only made better by the extensive corals that can be found just off the shore and the towering limestone outcrops. You’ll experience one of the best diving experiences in these nice islands near Phuket. The waters are clear here. You can spot turtles and octopuses in addition to all kinds of fish. Apart from diving, there are plenty of things to do in Koh Lanta.

Best month to visit: December to April

Where to stay: Coco Lanta Resort, Long Beach Chalet

Best restaurants: Panorama, Thai Cat

How to reach: Ferry from Phuket will take around two hours.

Suggested Read: 32 Places To Visit In Phuket In 2022 For An Exciting Thai Vacation

3. Khao Phing Kan

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Popularly known as the James Bond Island (for obvious reasons – it features in the movie The Man With The Golden Gun), Phing Kan is counted among the quiet islands near Phuket. It is popular for its limestone formations, especially the funnel-shaped rock that is the perfect setting for the perfect shot. The mangrove forests and calm waters are also popular for trekking expeditions here and kayaking. The Khao Phing Kan islands near Phuket map is easily available online as well as in many departmental stores in Phuket.

Best month to visit: November to February

Where to stay: Phang Nga Bay Resort Hotel, Hotel Murano Phang Nga Bay

Best restaurants: Koh Panyee Village Restaurant, Khua Ari Bang Mat (near the island)

How to reach: Only minutes away from Phuket, several day tours and boats leave from Phuket.

Suggested Read: 12 Exciting Water Sports In Phuket You Should Not Miss On Your 2022 Thailand Trip

4. Similan Islands

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This group of quiet islands near Phuket is a popular diving destination for all the professionals. If you do go scuba diving in Thailand (for which you can only get certified in Phuket) you will know why. The water here is clear and the beautiful coral deposits are objectively some of the best in the world. It is one of the best islands near Phuket to visit. It is also distinct for the massive boulder deposits atop the hills here, perfect for pictures. The Similan Islands in Phuket are not visited by many people, and you can chill on the eerily clear beaches here for a peaceful vacation.

Best month to visit: December to February

Where to stay: Katathong Golf and Resort, TreeHouse Villas Koh Yao (near the island)

Best restaurants: Kohukai Cafe’, Dadfah Restaurant (near the island)

How to reach: One hour from Phuket by speedboat.

Suggested Read: 25 Best Things To Do In Phuket That You Must Not Miss On Your 2022 Vacation

5. Koh Yao Noi

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These are the typical quiet islands near Phuket to go to if peace and seclusion are on your mind. Simply get off your boat, tie a hammock up between two coconut trees and read a book. The topography is distinct. There are trees all around. The sand here almost gives off a golden sheen with light blue waters. You can book a two-wheeler to go around the island. Else, swimming, kayaking or diving are always options. It is one of the most superb islands near Phuket to visit, especially if you are on your honeymoon in Phuket.

Best month to visit: January to April

Where to stay: Cape Kudu Hotel, Koh Yao Seaview Bungalow

Best restaurants: Rice Paddy, Kaya

How to reach: One hour from Phuket by slow boat.

Suggested Read: Top Things To Do In Thailand On Honeymoon For A Perfect Start

6. Surin Island

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Close to the Similan Islands, the Surin Islands in Thailand is in the Mu Koh Surin national park. One of the few islands near Phuket resorts, Surin Island is most famous with visitors for its whale sharks, which are found just off the coast here. These enormous aquatic creatures can be as much as 12 metres long, yet they do not pose a danger to humans. In fact, the sharks are pretty friendly to the fishermen who live in villages here. Shark sighting diving tours are common, and seeing these animals in the wild is certainly an experience of a lifetime. The Surin islands near Phuket map is easily accessible in Phuket.

Best month to visit: December to March

Where to stay: NA

Best restaurants: Ao Chong Khad Restaurant, Ao Mai Ngam Restaurant

How to reach: 30 minutes ferry from Phuket

Suggested Read: 10 Best Hostels In Phuket That Reflect The Hip Culture Of This City

7. Racha Islands

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Think crystal clear blue waters and white beaches, and you have the twin Racha Islands. Out of the two, Koh Racha Yai is the bigger one while Koh Racha Noi is the smaller one. Yai serves as the more popular tourist destination with its sandy beaches and great resorts, while Noi is uninhabited and a bit rockier. Ao Tawan Tok is the most famous beach here which gets a little too crowded towards the evening. You will also find the best best Thailand island resorts here where you can spend a lavish vacation.

Best month to visit: April to May

Where to stay: Bungalow Raya Resort, Ban Raya Resort & Spa

Best restaurants: Sunset Beach Restaurant, Rayaburi On Beach Restaurant

How to reach: Take a ferry. It’s an hour away from Phuket.

Suggested Read: 7 Stunning Cruises In Phuket For A Perfect Thailand Vacation

8. Koh Hae

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The island, more popularly called the Coral Island, is one of the few islands near Phuket resorts that you get to from Phuket via speedboat. However, because of its proximity, Long Beach here is extremely crowded. With rows of speedboats from lined up at one end, it looks like a Sundance festival. However, there is the Banana beach at the other end of the Coral Island, which you can get to by walking to the end of Long Beach and onwards for about fifteen minutes. It is touted as the most accessible islands near Phuket to visit.

Best month to visit: December to May

Where to stay: Coral Island Resort

Best restaurants: Da Puccio Restaurant, Live India Indian Restaurant (near the island)

How to reach: 15 minutes speedboat from Phuket

Suggested Read: 10 Indian Restaurants In Phuket For The ‘Desi Food’

9. Koh Bon

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The Koh Bon island is relatively quiet even though it is quite close to Phuket, a fate not reserved for other islands around Phuket. The island is known for its extensive forests and crab beaches – yes, you can sunbathe here while hundreds of crabs run around the beach. The island is also known for its different cuisine, and you can find quite a many restaurants inland for some Thai food with a spin. The island is among the few islands near Phuket resorts.

Best month to visit: December to May

Where to stay: Tea Tree Boutique Resort, Thai Palace Resort (near the island)

Best restaurants: Bon Island Restaurant

How to reach: 15 minutes from Phuket by ferry

Suggested Read: 7 Phuket Day Tours To Ensure A Ravishing Week In Phuket

10. Koh Khai Islands

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This beautiful islands next to Phuket is extremely close to Phuket, but even the locals are not exactly aware of it. Essentially three islands grouped together, you will find a lot of exotic fishes here. The exciting part is the fishes are not scared of humans. Wanna get that perfect click with fishes all around? This is the place to go to. You can also dive or go for snorkeling. If all that does not appeal to you, simply sunbathe on the beach and take in the beauty that this island possesses.

Best month to visit: December to January

Where to stay: Santhiya Koh Yao Yai Resort & Spa, Blue Bay Resort (near the island)

Best restaurants: Saaitara Restaurant, Khantok Thai Cuisine

How to reach: it will take about half an hour by the ferry from Phuket.

Suggested Read: Things To Do In Krabi With Kids: A Handy Guide About Our Experiences With Our Daughter

11. Maiton Island

Maiton island is a cluster of islands next to Phuket. It is 15 minutes south of Phuket. It is an incredible spot for a picnic and snorkeling. Sometimes referred to as Maithon or Mai Ton, it is dotted by palm trees and known for its remarkable variety of coral reef. You will encounter turtles, cuttlefish and an array of other colorful tropical sea life at Maiton Island. Make sure to stop by here.

Best month to visit: December to March

Where to stay: Maiton Island Resort

Best restaurants: The Cove Phuket, The Grill

How to reach: it will take about 15 minutes by the ferry from Phuket.

Suggested Read: Thailand In January: Exciting Things To Do On A 5 Days Trip

12. Koh Panyi

Koh Panyi islands next to Phuket are entirely built on stilts. This village is an unusual and exciting place to visit. We suggest you visit the island either early morning or during the twilight hours. The island boasts of a grandiose mosque that serves as the meeting point for the Muslim community. Despite the rise in tourism, Ko Panyi’s economy depends majorly on agriculture and fishing. 

Best month to visit: December to January

Where to stay: JW Marriott Phuket Resort and Spa, Amantara Mai Khao Phuket Villas

Best restaurants: Genesis Garden, Sametnangshe Boutique (near the island)

How to reach: it will take about 30 minutes by the ferry from Phuket.

Suggested Read: 10 Blissful Beaches In Phuket For One To Explore On Their 2022 Vacay

13. Koh Hong

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Koh Hong is one of the four islands that are visited together. A full day tour of the island is always recommended. The island belongs to the national marine park. It offers picturesque views, options for a great Island hopping experience and is one of the best islands near Phuket. It is one of the best places to attend lit New Year Party in Thailand.

Best month to visit: November to April

Where to stay: Bhu Nga Thani Resort & Spa, Krabilife Resort (near the island)

Best restaurants: De Puta Madre Tapas Spanish Food, Hom Koei

How to reach: Ferry takes two hours from Phuket.

Suggested Read: These Best Places To Visit On A 6 Day Family Trip To Thailand Will Astound You!

14. James Bond

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The island offers great views that are perfect for surreal pictures. It became famous after few scenes of the old James Bond movie were shot here. You can enjoy cruising, eat delicious food at the beach and buy souvenirs at this famous islands around Phuket. 

Best month to visit: During the late fall and winter through early spring

Where to stay: TreeHouse Villas Koh Yao, The Hideout – Koh Yao Noi (near the island)

Best restaurants: Koh Panyee Village Restaurant, Khua Ari Bang Mat

How to reach: Ferry from Phuket takes an hour

Suggested Read: Thailand Honeymoon : Have A Fantastic Vacation With Your Better Half

15. Rang Yai Island

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From kayaking to camping, this beautiful island near Phuket offers adventure that will sweep you off your feet. It is dotted with Bamboo bungalows that would make you feel like staying in paradise. Life is simply beautiful here at this island. The array of adventure activities in Thailand that you can try here makes it one of the most interesting islands to visit around Phuket.

Best month to visit: December to March

Where to stay: Island Escape by Burasari, The Village Coconut Island Beach Resort

Best restaurants: Kruvit Raft, Taste Cape Yamu (near the island)

How to reach: Ferry takes two hours

16. Koh Yao Yai

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Located in the heart of Phang Nga Bay, Koh Yao Yai and Koh Yao Nai are the two islands close to Phuket. Yao Yai is the larger of two and is characterized by fishing villages, sandy shores, rubber plantations, and mangrove forests. There are plenty of diving sites on the island where you can explore the marvels of the ocean. It is one of the best islands near Phuket to stay as you can explore a different side to Thailand and also enjoy deep sea diving. Visiting this iland is one of the magical experiences in Thailand you cannot afford to miss.

Best month to visit: January-April

Where to stay: Santhiya Koh Yao Yai Resort & Spa, Koh Yao Heaven Beach Resort, Yao Yai Beach Resort

Best restaurants: Baan Rim Nam Restaurant, Laanmaye Restaurant, Chantara Restaurant

How to reach: There are frequent ferries from Bang Rong Pier to Koh Yao Nai island. The first ferry leaves at 7:40 AM and the last one at 5:40 PM. You can take a taxi in Phuket to get to the pier.

17. Koh Poda

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A part of Poda group of islands, Koh Poda is where you will find your ideal escape. The island has an abundance of natural beauty and marine life that makes it one of the best islands around Phuket. The picturesque landscapes with white sandy beaches and turquoise waters will take your breath away. The picture-perfect island is one of the most amazing islands to visit around Phuket.

Best month to visit: November-March

Where to stay: Ava Sea Resort, Railay Viewpoint Resort, Krabi Heritage Hotel

Best restaurants: Railay Family Restaurant, Kohinoor Indian Restaurant & Pizza

How to reach: You can take a long tail ferry ride from Ao Nang Thailand anytime.

18. Koh Sirey

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Koh Sirey may not be a large island in Phuket district, but since good things come in small packages, this island also offers amazing wonders of nature. It is one of those islands close to Phuket where you can enjoy life at a slow pace. It is not originally a tourist spot. You will see that the island dotted with Golden Buddhas and scruffy seashores. It is one of the best islands to stay near Phuket.

Best month to visit: November-April

Where to stay: The Westin Siray Bay Resort & Spa Phuket, Blu Monkey Hub & Hotel Phuket, Vitamin Sea Hostel Phuket

Best restaurants: Prego by the Beach, The Vegan Table, La Gaetana

How to reach: You will find a crossing bridge to the island past the Rashada Pier on Phuket island.

Further Read: Nightlife In Phuket: 12 Bustling Hotspots You Must Check Out!

These islands near Phuket are some of the most beautiful places you will see near Thailand. No trip to Phuket will be complete without visiting at least some of these. So, book your Thailand trip right away for the amazing experiences Phuket has to offer! Make sure to plan this trip with your family or your loved ones for an immersive experience. You will have the time of your life here. We promise you won’t be disappointed.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Islands Near Phuket

Which islands are close to Phuket?

There are a number of islands near Phuket that one can explore on their Phuket vacation but these are the best islands that one cannot afford to miss – Koh Racha Yai, Surin Island, Koh Bon, Koh Lanta, and Similan Islands.

How far is Similan Island from Phuket?

The distance between the Similan Islands and Phuket turns out to be around 85 kilometers that can be covered easily.

Which is the most beautiful beach in Phuket?

A traveler planning a vacation to Phuket cannot miss out on the famous Freedom Beach which is blessed with white sand and clear waters and thus it is one of the most beautiful beaches in Phuket.

How far is Coral Island from Phuket?

If you are looking for Coral Island then you will be happy to know that it is located only 10 kilometers away from Phuket. Coral Island is famous for its colorful reefs and white sand beach.

How far is Krabi from Phuket?

The distance between Krabi and Phuket is 180 kilometers and if you are planning to cover the distance by sea then it is better.

How many islands are there in Phuket?

There are more than 15 islands in Phuket that one can explore on their vacation.

Is Phuket expensive for tourists?

Yes, Phuket is one of the expensive places to visit in Thailand.

How much does a meal cost in Phuket, Thailand?

A basic meal costs around 90-150 baht in Phuket. The rates might increase if you are planning to lunch at a lavish restaurant.

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