Thailand––which is also known as the Land of Smiles––has been one of the hottest tourist destinations for many years. If you have planned for a trip here and want to experience everything in one place, then Phuket is the place to go! Once you’re on the island, you can explore the beaches, take in the culture, and even visit the surrounding islands. In fact, Phuket is near many islands that you should check out while you’re here!
In this article, we will share five stunning islands within Phuket that you shouldn’t miss out on during your trip:
1. Koh Phi Phi
A must-see destination in the country, Koh Phi Phi allows you to witness aqua waters and golden sands. Indeed, it’s an Asian paradise that was the location for the critically-acclaimed movie, The Beach. As soon as you get on the island, you will pick up on its tropical, infectious vibe that will motivate you to explore the hidden treasures. The Phi Phi Leh National Park is a must-see destination, as the unparalleled beauty of spots such as Pileh Lagoon could bring a tear to any eye.
2. Koh Yao Islands
If you have a day or two to explore the islands, then the Koh Yao islands, which consists of two islands—the Koh Yao Yai and Koh Yao Noi––is where you should go. Aside from the beautiful beaches, this is where you can go if you want to truly experience local living. You can rent a motorbike to explore the islands, but if you’re looking for a spot to unwind, then you have plenty of resort accommodations to choose from.
3. James Bond Island
Only 90 minutes away from Phuket if you travel via ferry, the scenic James Bond Island is another island worth exploring. Its beauty was in the 1974-James Bond movie, which is when it received its name. Since then, the island has lured many tourists that made the island one of the country’s must-see destinations. Right in the middle of the sea stands a limestone karst, which is a popular photo spot. While you’re here, you should also visit Koh Panyi, which is a floating village with a floating football pitch!
4. Coral Island
Also known as Koh Hey, the island has some of the best snorkeling spots. There are two beaches here—Long Beach and Banana Beach. But aside from the beautiful beaches, the corals are what makes the island so special, as the abundance of corals in the area is a magnet for divers. As such, it’s a popular dive spot for beginners because the seas are calm. If you haven’t tried diving yet, you can learn how to do so on the island.
5. Similan Islands
Your trip to Phuket wouldn’t be complete without diving in the waters on Similan Islands, and this place is one of the best dive sites in the country. However, even if you don’t dive, there are many other things you can do here, such as viewing the beautiful rock formations and enjoying the serene beaches. On top of that, if you like mountain climbing, there are various magnificent landscapes here you can also explore!
Conclusion
At this point, you now know five stunning islands to explore during your Phuket trip. Whether you’re a diver or simply love to enjoy the quietness at the beach, you will surely find a location to spend most of your time in. After a full days’ worth of activities, the best way to lay back and relax is to book hospitable accommodation!
Are you looking for one of the best hotels in Patong? Diamond Cliff Phuket offers an authentic Thai luxury resort with breathtaking panoramic views of the Andaman Sea. Get in touch with us today to book your stay!