The Similan Islands are in the Andaman Sea, off the coast of Phang Nga Province. As one of the most well-known island groups in the region, these islands are highly sought-after for snorkeling and scuba diving because they are known to have some of the best coral reefs on the planet.
Similan Islands Set to Close in May 2024
The beaches of several of the Similan Islands are home to enormous rock formations that give this place a unique and unforgettable quality.
When To Go There
Now is the last chance to reserve your private tour with 5 Star Marine before the breathtaking Similan Islands close on May 15th 2024. There are only a few months remaining to explore the islands before they are closed.
Closing of Similan Islands
To protect the marine habitat and promote its recovery, the Similan Islands are closed to visitors each year from May 16 to October 15 (updated January 08, 2024). The exact date varies a little from year to year, however, this page has the most recent details.
Closing time: This gives beaches, marine life, and coral reefs time to recover from the negative effects of tourism, like pollution and physical damage. This helps ensure that the Islands will always be a stunning and sustainable natural destination for coming generations.
Furthermore, during this time of year, the Andaman Sea has severe monsoon weather, which can result in strong winds and waves that make it dangerous for people and boats to get to the islands.
Restoration of Ecosystems
In spite of their fame, the Similan Islands have a delicate ecosystem. Therefore, in order to maintain the natural beauty of these islands, the National Park requests that all visitors abide by the stated rules starting in October of each year. To prevent damaging or upsetting coral reefs, refrain from littering or polluting, and limit your hiking to designated paths and walkways to avoid upsetting the delicate environment.
Ocean Life
The Similan Islands are included in the approximately 140 square kilometer Mu Ko Similan National Park. Along with a variety of bird and mammal species, the park is home to a wide variety of marine life, including tropical fish, sea turtles, and reef sharks.
Beneath the astonishingly transparent turquoise oceans lie stunning coral reefs and other uncommon aquatic life, including whales, dolphins, and moray eels. It is estimated that there are more than 500 different kinds of hard and soft coral in the Similan Islands due to the diversity of the marine life and coral.
To discuss your needs or to schedule a custom private day trip itinerary, please get in touch with us. We offer a variety of inspiring day tours, including trips to the Similan Islands.
REMINDER – The Similan Islands will close on May 15th 2024. They will reopen on October 15th 2024. This is a normal yearly closure.
A Commitment to Phuket Marine Safety | Phuket Marine Safety Event 2024
Phuket Marine Industry Safety Event January 15th | Changing Phuket Marine Safety
The stunning archipelago of Phuket, Phi Phi, and Phang Nga Bay offers a marine paradise for those seeking unforgettable leisure activities. From crystal-clear waters to vibrant coral reefs, this tropical haven is a haven for water enthusiasts.
Phuket has an estimated 130km coastline, so of course it’s a watersports and marine leisure hub. Speedboat tours to Phi Phi and Phang Nga Bay, Yacht Charters, Bareboat Charters, Diving Liveaboards, Free Diving, Scuba Diving, Snorkeling tours, Jet Ski Tours, SUP, Surfing, Longtail tours, Ferries to Phi Phi and other islands, and a host of other watersports activities, all happen in and around Phuket.
Sadly, over the years there have been accidents that have cast a shadow over Marine Safety in Phuket, and at no time has the Phuket marine industry come together to talk about the safety issues and also at no time has the Phuket marine industry come together to commit to increased safety in the industry.
This is about the change
A Commitment to Phuket Marine Safety!
Recent Marine Incidents have spotlighted Safety in the local, national, and international media. It is time for the Phuket marine industry to come together and make a public commitment to increased safety standards.
The Phuket Governor, Vice Governor, Marine Director, and related Agencies will join in undertaking a commitment to improved safety standards.
The Government cannot do this alone, and Phuket Marine operators, owners and suppliers need to also step forward and commit.
You can join us at an Industry First Event where we can move forward to a Phase 1 commitment to safety as an industry.
MARINE INDUSTRY SAFETY EVENT
A Commitment to Phuket Marine Safety!
Date: 15th January 2024
Time: 05:00 PM – 07:00 PM (07:00 PM – 08:00 PM Networking Session)
Venue: The WhiteHouse Phuket Boat Lagoon
Drinks and Snacks will be provided – Attendance is FREE
Sign Up Online Here – https://forms.gle/SEpY6cN6LfAH6zWc8
Now is the time to step forward, to come together, to commit, and to lift industry standards and protocols.
Are you ready to make A Commitment to Phuket Marine Safety
The list below is the Phuket Province and Government who will be attending the marine safety event on the 15th of January at Phuket Boat Lagoon Marina from 5 pm.
1.ผู้ว่าราชการจังหวัดภูเก็ต จำนวน 4 ท่าน – The Governor
2.รองผู้ว่าราชการผู้เก็ต จำนวน 2 ท่าน – The Vice Governor
3.กรมเจ้าท่าจังหวัดภูเก็ต – Marine Department
4.ตำรวจน้ำภูเก็ต – Marine Police
5.ด่านตรวจคนเข้าเมืองจังหวัดภูเก็ต – Phuket Immigration
6.นายอำเภอเมืองภูเก็ต – Chief of Muang District
- นายอำเภอกะทู้-Chief of Kathu District
8.นายอำเภอถลาง- Chief of Muang District
9.ตำรวจภูธรจังหวัดภูเก็ต – Phuket Provincial Police
10.องค์การบริหารส่วนจังหวัดภูเก็ต – Phuket Provincial Administrative Organization
11.ตำรวจท่องเที่ยว – Tourist Police
12.ทรัพยากรจังหวัดภูเก็ต – Phuket Province Resources
13.ทรัพยากรชายฝั่ง จังหวัดภูเก็ต – Coastal Resources Phuket Province
14.การท่องเที่ยวและกีฬา จังหวัดภูเก็ต – Phuket Provincial of Tourism and Sports
15.สำนักงานคณะกรรมการคุ้มครองผู้บริโภค – Office of The Consumer Protection Board (OCBP)
16.องค์การบริหารส่วนตำบลเทพกระษัตรี – Thepkrasattri Sub-District Administration Organization
17.องค์การบริหารส่วนตำบลเชิงทะเล – Choeng Tale Sub-District Administration Organization
National Park Fees – How Much Are They?
There are more than 140 national parks in Thailand, all offering an authentic menu of adventures so that you can experience the landscapes, wildlife, and nature of Thailand in all its glory, depending on which one you are visiting.
When visiting Phuket or it’s surrounding island there would be a number of national parks which you may like to explore. The most popular national parks are:
National Park Fee: The National Park Fee at Phi Phi is 400 THB Per Adult and 200 THB Per Child.
What To Expect: The Phi Phi islands are an archipelago of 6 islands, with the 2 main islands being Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Leh. These picture postcard islands are excellent tropical getaways in Southeast Asia and are one of the most popular private Phuket boat tours.
Phi Phi has pristine beaches, stunning limestone rock formations, and clear turquoise waters teeming with colourful sea life.
Phi Phi Don is the largest and most populated island of the 6. The second largest island, Ko Phi Phi Le is visited by many people and does have stunning beaches, and the other 4 islands which are not much more than large limestone rocks jutting out of the sea, such as Bida Nok, Bida Nai, and Bamboo Island.
What can you see and do in Phi Phi?
Pileh Lagoon – This stunning inlet is found near the equally stunning Maya Bay beach. It is among the most beautiful places to visit in Thailand. It can get quite busy as you can only access Pileh lagoon during certain tide times.
Monkey Beach – Monkey Beach is located in Yong Kasem Bay; on the west coast of the larger Island of Phi Phi Don. Just be careful as the monkeys can be very naughty and are used to people so don’t show much fear.
Camel Rock – A rock that looks like a camel, hence the name Camel Rock
Viking Cave – Viking Cave is one of the most notable natural sites on Koh Phi Phi Leh. Located at the bottom of a tall limestone cliff it is home to a colony of swiftlets which are the birds that produce the nests for birds nest soup. The harvest of bird’s nests is rather a risky job – scaffolds are built with bamboo, on which the hunters climb in the dark to collect these valuable nests.
Viking Cave owes its name to the paintings found in the cave – they represent various types of boats, including what resembles a Scandinavian Drakkar (Viking ship)
National Park Fee: The National Park Fee at James Bond Island is 300 THB Per Adult and 150 THB Per Child.
What To Expect: For fans of the iconic spy franchise, the James Bond Island Phang Nga Bay tour is a must. Explore Phang Nga Bay and witness the distinctive limestone karsts that served as a backdrop for the James Bond movie “The Man with the Golden Gun.” Kayak through sea caves at Hong Island, visit the floating village at Ko Panyee, and soak in the natural beauty that surrounds you.
But there is so much more to Phang Nga Bay than just James Bond Island.
With lofty limestone karsts and a myriad of islands (over 40), the scenery in Phang Nga Bay is stunning. It’s not just the stunning islands that all shoot up from the emerald waters, it’s the caves, the caverns, and the hidden lagoons that all help make Panag Nga Bay something truly special.
- Ice Cream Cave
- Bat Cave
- Oyster Cave
- Mangrove Lagoon
- Or how about a game of football on a floating pitch at the floating village of Ko Panyee, and after you have built up an appetite you can enjoy some fresh seafood at the floating village.
National Park Fee: The National Park Fee at Krabi Island is 400 THB Per Adult and 200 THB Per Child.
What To Expect: Koh Hong is off the east coast of Phuket, in fact Koh Hong is closer to Krabi than it is to Phuket. Koh Hong island is known for its stunning natural beauty, soft white sand, and sparkling, crystal clear waters, making it a one-of-a-kind place for relaxation and island adventure.
Koh Hong had a view point added to it during the pandemic and this is a must do experience climbing to see a beautiful view of the surrounding islands.
National Park Fee: The national park fee at Similan is 500 THB per Adult and 250 THB per Child. Payment is made in cash on the day to the Park Rangers.
What To Expect: This is one of the best-known island groups in this area, and its fame is heavily due to having some of the most spectacular coral reefs in the world. When you first come to these islands, you will see huge boulders sitting on the shores on several of the islands, and these create a distinctive feature for this area.
The beaches are snow white, with soft sand and are perfect for enjoying a lunch picnic or just to relax upon. You can often enjoy a deserted beach just to yourselves here.
National Park Fee: The National Park Fee at Koh Ha and Koh Rok Island is 500 THB Per Adult and 250 THB Per Child.
What To Expect: Thailand is renowned for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life. Among the numerous breathtaking islands in the country, Koh Rok and Koh Ha stand out as true gems in the Andaman Sea. These islands, part of the Mu Koh Lanta National Park, offer an enchanting escape for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Snorkeling at Koh Ha reveals a mesmerizing world of colorful coral formations, swaying sea fans, and an array of marine species. Keep an eye out for curious clownfish, graceful sea turtles, and schools of tropical fish dancing in harmony. The underwater tunnels and caves add an extra layer of excitement if you want to grab some diving gear and dive.
Koh Ha and Koh Rok are two hidden paradises in Thailand that offer unforgettable experiences for divers, snorkelers, and nature enthusiasts. Their stunning underwater worlds, serene beaches, and lush landscapes make them must-visit destinations for anyone seeking a slice of tropical heaven in the Andaman Sea. Just remember to treat these natural wonders with care and respect to ensure they remain pristine for years to come.
So how does this work? Well simple!
When you arrive at the 5 Star Marine pier at Boat lagoon Marina you will be met by your guide who will help you plan your tour. Once you know where you are going, and more to the point, which National Parks you will be going into, the guide will work out the fees, and all you do is pay our office team cash.
If you do not have cash you can pay it as part of your tour fee to us. Please note card payments attract a 3% credit card fee. Please take note that the national park fee is not included in your quoted price. Payment is in cash on the day of the tour. Payment should be made to your guide who will organize your national park ticket.
Can You See Bioluminescence All Year In Phuket?
If you’re looking for a truly unique and memorable experience, then a private bioluminescence and sea canoeing tour should be at the very top of your list. This tour offers a spectacular afternoon and early evening out on the water, combining the opportunity to experience this stunning natural phenomenon as well as exhilarating sea canoeing activities.
What is Bioluminescence?
The amazing natural phenomena known as bioluminescence is the production and emission of light by living things. Usually, a chemical reaction that takes place inside of specialized cells or organelles produces this light. There are bioluminescent species in the seas, woodlands, and caverns, among other places in nature.
The Bioluminescent planktons are amazing to see during the night of the new moon. So, if you are planning to visit Phuket and would like to view the Bioluminescence we can see it within Phang Nga Bay in the darker caves and hongs of the Bay during the early evening hours.
What exactly is bioluminescence you might ask! Well, this is the capacity of some creatures to emit light and can be found in numerous forms in the Phang Nga Bay area. One of the most noteworthy instances is the bioluminescent plankton present in the bay’s waters. These tiny organisms emit a bright white light when disturbed, producing a captivating appearance in the water. The phenomenon is caused by chemical reactions within the plankton, which produce light as a by-product.
Bioluminescence serves various purposes in nature, such as:
Predation: Some bioluminescent organisms use their light to attract prey or to lure prey into a trap.
Camouflage: Some animals can control their bioluminescence to match their background, helping them hide from predators or prey.
Communication: Bioluminescent signals are used for communication among members of the same species, such as mating displays.
Defense: Some organisms can release a burst of bioluminescence as a distraction or to startle predators.
Counterillumination: Some marine animals use bioluminescence to match the ambient light, making them less visible to predators from below.
Can You See Bioluminescence All Year In Phuket?
Bioluminescence can be seen year-round in Phuket, Thailand. The plankton that causes bioluminescence lives all around the island, and the calm waters provide an ideal environment for the organisms to thrive.
However, some say that the bioluminescence is sometimes brighter than others, and that the time of year doesn’t make a difference.
Others say that the best time to see bioluminescence is after sunset, when the water is calmer and the light from the plankton is more impressive.
Bioluminescence is a natural phenomenon that can occur at almost any time of the year, but it needs to be dark to see it.
The organisms don’t glow if they encounter light. Some say that bioluminescent plankton are easier to see during the time just before, during, and just after the start of the new moon because it’s darkest.
For the ultimate natural phenomenon experience, you can trust 5 Star Marine’s Private Bioluminescence and Sea Canoeing Tour to bring you itineraries that are only available to small and private booking groups, and not offered with any other boat tour company. So, sit back and relax whilst you enjoy the bespoke and unforgettable experience in Phang Nga Bay.
Happy New Year 2024 | 5 Star Marine Phuket, Thailand
Happy New Year from us all here at 5 Star Marine Phuket
So, I was takes to write a blog about the New Year here at 5 Star Marine Phuket and to be very honest with you, I couldn’t really think of anything to write. I already wrote about how 2023 was the biggest and best year for 5 Star Marine Phuket so I thought I would look at the most common New Year’s Resolutions instead.
Plus, it was pretty easy to do the research on this topic this time of year.
The Most Common New Year’s Resolutions
As the calendar turns its page to a new year, people around the world engage in a collective tradition: making New Year’s resolutions. These promises signify a fresh start, a chance to embrace positive change and personal growth. So, let’s look at the most common New Year’s resolutions that people make as they embark on a journey of self-improvement. (I hope Jay Leshark our YouTube host is reading this, as he really needs self-improvement)
Get Fit and Healthy: A Timeless Classic
Perhaps the most perennial of all resolutions, the commitment to fitness and health consistently tops the list. Whether it’s hitting the gym, adopting a new exercise routine, or making healthier dietary choices, the aspiration for a fitter lifestyle is a universal goal that spans generations.
Learn Something New: Broadening Horizons
The pursuit of knowledge is a resolution that transcends age and backgrounds. From picking up a musical instrument to learning a new language or acquiring a new skill, the desire to expand one’s horizons and engage in lifelong learning remains a powerful and common resolution. How about learning to snorkel at Phi Phi Islands, just click here to book it – https://5starmarinephuket.com/locations/phi-phi-islands-2/
Save Money: Financial Fitness for the Future
With the dawn of each new year comes a renewed commitment to financial responsibility. Many individuals pledge to save more, budget wisely, or invest for their future. This resolution reflects the universal desire for financial stability and security. Or save up for a 5 Star Marine Phuket Boat Tour
Travel More: Wanderlust and Exploration – FYI 5 Star Marine Phuket can help with this one….
Krabi National Park
The allure of new adventures and experiences prompts many to resolve to travel more in the coming year. Whether it’s exploring far-off destinations (Phuket, Thailand) or discovering hidden gems closer to home, the resolution to travel is a testament to the human spirit’s innate curiosity and thirst for discovery.
Just pick your tour – https://5starmarinephuket.com/locations/
Quit Bad Habits: Breaking Free from the Old
New Year’s resolutions often involve breaking free from detrimental habits. From quitting smoking to reducing screen time (Shaun needs this one), individuals strive to eliminate behaviors that hinder personal growth and well-being, seeking a healthier and more balanced lifestyle.
Focus on Mental Health: Mindful Well-being
In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the importance of mental health. Resolutions centered around mindfulness, stress reduction, and seeking professional help if needed underscore the commitment to emotional well-being, promoting a holistic approach to personal health.
Build Stronger Relationships: Nurturing Connections
The desire for meaningful connections with family, friends, and loved ones is a timeless resolution. Many aim to invest more time and effort in building and strengthening relationships, recognizing the profound impact that positive connections have on overall happiness and fulfillment. YouTube host Jay Leshark needs to just find a relationship first.
New Year’s resolutions, though often made with the best intentions, can be challenging to keep. As we embrace the opportunities that a new year brings, these resolutions serve as roadmaps guiding us toward a future filled with personal development, self-discovery, and the pursuit of happiness. You could off most of these with a private boat trip with us here at 5 Star marine Phuket. All you need to do is pick where you want to go.
The Year That Was 2023
5 Star Marine Phuket awesome 2023
2023 at 5 Star Marine Phuket has been one of the biggest and in the words of Bill and Ted, Most awesomeness ever.
Before we look at the highlights from 5 Star Marine Phuket’s year let’s take a quick look back at what happened in Phuket over the past 12 months:
Phuket, Thailand, A Year in Review: Unforgettable Moments in Phuket 2023
From cultural celebrations to environmental initiatives, the island has experienced a lot of events and happenings that have left an indelible mark on both locals and visitors alike.
Phuket Sustainability Festival: Paving the Way for a Greener Future
Phuket took a giant leap towards environmental conservation with the inaugural Phuket Sustainability Festival. Held in collaboration with local businesses, NGOs, and government bodies, the event showcased innovative eco-friendly solutions, from sustainable tourism practices to waste reduction initiatives.
Phuket Old Town Revitalization Project: Preserving Heritage Architecture
The Old Town of Phuket underwent a transformative facelift as part of the town’s revitalization project. Historic buildings were restored, streets were pedestrianized, and vibrant murals depicting the island’s history adorned the walls. This initiative not only breathed new life into the area but also provided a renewed sense of pride for the locals in their cultural heritage.
Phuket International Music Festival: A Symphony of Sounds
Music aficionados reveled in the melodious notes of the Phuket International Music Festival. The event showcased a diverse lineup of local and international artists, spanning genres from traditional Thai music to contemporary pop and rock. It not only served as a platform for entertainment but also fostered cultural exchange and appreciation.
Phuket’s Marine Conservation Initiatives: Protecting the Oceanic Wonderland
Recognizing the importance of marine conservation, Phuket took proactive steps to protect its underwater ecosystems. Local dive operators, conservation groups, and governmental bodies collaborated on initiatives to combat coral bleaching, reduce plastic pollution, and promote responsible diving practices.
The community united in efforts to safeguard the island’s underwater wonders for future generations.
Of course was so much more that happened but we just can’t cover everything.
The year that was at 5 Star Marine Phuket
2023 was also the biggest and best year for 5 Star Marine Phuket. It’s again hard to go into detail to cover all the amazing things that happened in 2023 (we recommend that you watch the video), but let’s look at some of the highlights:
Brand new tours Added
This year we have add 2 brand new tours to our list of experiences.
The amazing bioluminescence tour that has become our most popular tour.
Check it out here – https://5starmarinephuket.com/locations/phang-nga-bay-private-bioluminescence-and-sea-canoeing-tour/
We also added the Samet Nangshe Viewpoint tour which you can see here – https://5starmarinephuket.com/locations/samet-nangshe-viewpoint-james-bond-island-private-tour/
Shaun and Lisa awarded for being amazing people
Not only was Lisa presented an award for all her hard work for charity on International Woman’s Day, but then both Shaun and Lisa were invited to meet the King of Thailand, King Vajiralongkorn.
Famous people on board
Not only did we have Suga from BTS out for a private boat tour, we also had ex NBA champion Dwight Howard, who not only did one tour, but 3 tours.
NEW boats
We added a brand-new VIP boat to our fleet. In March Lisa 2 arrived – https://5starmarinephuket.com/#marine-fleet
5 Star Marine Best of the Best Tripadvisor
This year we not only had one tour in the top 10 things to do in the whole of Thailand, we had 2. That’s right two tours in the top 10 things to do in the whole of Thailand.
Now of course there was so much more that happened during 2023, but the biggest thing was that we ran more tours than we even had. It was the busyest year in the history of 5 Star Marine Phuket, and for that we thank each and every one of you.
Thank you all.
We wish you all a fabulous 2024 and if you have never been on a 5 Star Marine Phuket Tour then 2024 is your year.
Maya Bay Closing 2024
Maya Bay Beach was closed for over 2 years by the Thai Government to help the environment as it had become ruined by over-tourism, and it reopened in January 2022 with new rules and regulations that help to manage the tourists and how they access the bay.
Maya Bay, Thailand with its towering limestone cliffs, clear waters, coral reefs, and white sandy beach, is one of the most beautiful locations in Thailand. The main beach on Maya Bay is about 200 meters long, with soft white sand and exquisitely wonderful Corals, in fact, the whole bay is one big beautiful Coral Reef.
Although small in size just 200 meters long and 15 meters wide — the bay has drawn global attention since it featured in the Hollywood movie The Beach, starring Leonardo DiCaprio, filmed there in 1999 and released in 2000.
The Beach movie was directed by Danny Boyle and was based on the 1996 novel of the same name by Alex Garland. It was not a huge hit at the box office and Leonardo DiCaprio who played Richard, a young American seeking adventure, was nominated for a Raspberry Award for the worst actor the year the movie was released. He lost to John Travolta as Terl from Battlefield Earth and as Russ Richards in Lucky Numbers.
Here’s a fact: Ewan McGregor was cast as the main character of The Beach, before leaving due to disputes with the director.
On August 1, 2024, the popular Maya Bay is scheduled to close once more for a period of two months. This is a component of the updated National Parks plan to preserve the recently recovered maritime ecosystem. This closure is consistent with the closing of other national parks, such as the islands of Koh Ha and Koh Rok National Park, and the Similan and Surin National Park.
Walking will not be permitted on Maya Bay, but swimming, sightseeing, and taking pictures from behind the roped line will still be permitted. These regulations are precisely the same ones that were put in place during the lengthy closure.
At 5 Star Marine, we wholeheartedly endorse the closure of the park as a sustainable solution. Although some tourists may be disappointed to learn they are unable to stroll along the famous beach, this is necessary for the Bay’s long-term health.
Before Maya Bay was closed for good a few years ago, the reefs there had suffered substantial damage, and there was very little to no marine life. Since the closure, the reef has begun to recover, the marine life has returned in large numbers, and some reef sharks are now resident in Maya Bay.
You can still see the famous Pileh Lagoon, Monkey Beach, Viking Cave, Bamboo Island, Camel Rock, Phi Phi Don, and other attractions if you are visiting Phi Phi during the closed period. Maya Bay is the reason Phi Phi is so well-known, but that is not all it has to offer.
IMPORTANT NOTE: Maya Bay will close August 1st 2024 for a period of 2 months. During this time Phi Phi Islands are OPEN. Tours will still run to Phi Phi Island, but instead of walking on Maya Bay you can take a photo from the roped line in front of Maya Bay.
Phuket’s Beach Bliss: A Guide to the Island’s Best Beaches by Shaun Stenning
According to Shaun Stenning, Phuket, Thailand’s largest island, is a tropical paradise known for its stunning beaches that attract travelers from all corners of the globe. With its crystal-clear waters, powdery sands, and vibrant coastal culture, Phuket offers a beach experience like no other.
In this guide, we’ll take you on a journey to explore the island’s top beaches, each offering its unique charm and character.
Patong Beach
Located on the west coast of Phuket, Patong Beach is the island’s most famous and vibrant beach. It’s the go-to destination for those seeking a lively atmosphere, bustling nightlife, and a wide range of water sports and activities. While Patong is known for its energetic vibe, it also boasts a beautiful shoreline where you can unwind and watch the sunset.
Kata Beach
According to Shaun Stenning, For a more relaxed and family-friendly experience, Kata Beach is an excellent choice. This crescent-shaped bay is known for its clear waters and gentle waves, making it ideal for swimming and snorkeling. The surrounding area offers a variety of restaurants, cafes, and shops, perfect for a leisurely day by the sea.
Karon Beach
Adjacent to Kata Beach, Karon Beach is the third-longest beach on the island and offers a serene setting for sunbathing and beach strolls. It’s an excellent spot for those who appreciate a quieter atmosphere while still having access to dining options and water activities.
Surin Beach
Surin Beach is a luxurious stretch of sand dotted with some upscale resorts. The beach’s azure waters and soft sands are perfect for relaxation. It’s also a popular spot to watch the sunset. It’s a great place for snorkeling during high season at the north end, and when the tide is out it’s a great place for rock pooling with the kids.
Nai Harn Beach
Nai Harn Beach is a hidden gem located on the island’s southern tip. Nestled between lush hills, it offers a picturesque setting for sun worshippers. The waters are calm and inviting, making it suitable for swimming and snorkeling. The nearby Nai Harn Lake Park is perfect for a post-beach stroll or a picnic.
Freedom Beach
For those in search of seclusion, Freedom Beach is an oasis of tranquility accessible by boat or a jungle hike. This hidden gem boasts soft white sands and clear turquoise waters, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. It’s a paradise for nature lovers.
Ya Nui Beach
Located near Promthep Cape, Ya Nui Beach is a charming cove known for its snorkeling opportunities and stunning views. The waters here are teeming with marine life, making it a great spot for underwater exploration. The nearby windmill viewpoint offers a breathtaking panorama of the Andaman Sea.
Ao Sane Beach
Ao Sane Beach is a hidden treasure comprising small rocky coves perfect for snorkeling and diving. The underwater world here is a kaleidoscope of colors, making it a must-visit for water enthusiasts. Rustic beachfront restaurants provide a cozy atmosphere to relax and savor Thai cuisine.
Shaun Stenning said, Phuket’s beaches cater to every type of traveler, whether you’re looking for vibrant nightlife, family-friendly shores, luxurious retreats, or hidden oases of tranquility. No matter which beach you choose, you’re sure to be captivated by the island’s natural beauty and warm hospitality. So, pack your swimsuit and sunscreen and get ready to explore the beach bliss that Phuket has to offer!
Favorite Locations
If you are looking for the best Phuket Island destination to visit then I am sure you would just go on your phone and search in Google “Best Phuket Islands to visit”
Yes, that is great, and Google, Alexa, and Siri are all great resources to get multitude of information, BUT I was taught, when visiting a new country or a new city, that if you want to know where the best food is or the best bars and restaurants are, or the best places to hang out or even the best Phuket Islands to visit then you should ask a local.
Our 5 Star marine Phuket team, has over 40 years of experience running Phuket Boat Tours, and not just that many of the 5 Star Marine Phuket Team grow up in Phuket or Phi Phi, or Phang Nga Bay so they have more than just the years of experience out on Boat Tours, they have their whole life living and experiencing the wonders of this beautiful area.
We had one simple question to ask the 5 Star Marine Phuket team and that was; What is your favorite Phuket Tour Destination?
The top 4 Phuket Island Tour destinations from the 5 Star Marine Phuket Team were:
Koh Ha (Including Koh Rok)
If you are looking for something a little more exotic, lesser known, and arguably as beautiful, (if not more), than the Similan Islands, then Koh Ha and Koh Rok are perfect. These small islands are situated South of Phuket. The stunning water clarity with a diverse range of colourful marine life and corals, therefore make Koh Ha and Koh Rok some of the best snorkelling opportunities you can find
Phi Phi
Phi Phi is a really well know location and of course has one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, Maya Bay made famous after being featured in the 2000 movie, “The Beach” featuring Leonardo DiCaprio. While many people mistakenly believe that Phi Phi is made up of just one Island, in fact, it is a group of 6 islands in total. Phi Phi also offers you experiences such as Monkey Beach and Viking Cave, as well as opportunities to swim with Black Tip Reef Sharks.
James Bond Island
Phang Nga Bay truly is one of nature’s spectacular works of art; where the vast karst rock scenery presents a visually stunning location, and the most famous island in the whole of Phang Nga Bay is James Bond Island. This famous landmark in Phang Nga Bay found its way onto the international tourist map through its starring role in the James Bond movie The Man with the Golden Gun.
Racha
Lying about 20kms south of Phuket, the Racha Islands comprise two islands, Koh Racha Yai and Koh Racha Noi. To confuse matters they are also known as Koh Raya Yai and Koh Raya Noi. Raya Islands provide the ideal destination to enjoy nature. With some of the best snorkelling reefs in Thailand and quiet, tropical white powdery beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters, they provide a balanced combination of relaxing, tranquil locations with amazing sea life.
So, there you have it, the locals have spoken. Of course, there are many more destinations that you can visit and explore while out on a 5 Star Marine Phuket Private Boat Tour. Just drop us a message and we will be happy to guide you to the best destination for your ultimate Phuket Island experience.
James Bond Island and Phang Nag Bay Private Boat Tour
Phang Nga bay is a popular Private Phuket Boat Tour including the iconic James Bond Island. The 5 Star Marine Phuket boat tour into Phang Nga Bay from Phuket takes you into some awesome limestone caves and stunning hidden lagoons as well as kayaking up close to the limestone Kasts and visiting the amazing floating football pitch in Koh Panyi at Phang Nga Bay, Thailand, and of course going to James Bond Island, the island used in the James Bond movie “The Man with the Golden Gun”
Before you get to see the amazing James Bond Island, whose name in Thailand as Ko Ta Pu, (Also known Khao Ping Kan, BUT that is a different island, don’t worry I will explain all later), take your time to enjoy the spectacle that is Phang Nga Bay. This stunning bay offers you so much to see and do. The hundreds of caves alone could take you months to explore and that’s not to mention the stunning hidden lagoons and beaches or the stunning limestone Karsts that rise up from the emerald waters which you can explore up close by kayak. Phang Nga Bay is part of what was once a huge coral reef that covered much of what is now Southeast Asia.
One of the other amazing sights to visit when you head out for a Private Phang Nga Bay boat tour is the world’s only floating football pitch. This amazing floating football pitch is at Koh Panyi, which is a fishing village in Phang Nga Province, Thailand, notable for being built on stilts by Malay fishermen. The football pitch was built by children who rather than spend the day fishing, wanted to play football. So, they found some old buoys and slowly made their very own floating football pitch.
James Bond Island is one of the must do’s when you are on holiday in Phuket, as I mentioned earlier it has many names. So, the island that most people take their selfies in front of is what is called Ko Ta Pu, translated into English, which means Nail Island. This was the island that in the James Bond Movie “The Man with the Golden Gun” was the backdrop when James Bond and Scaramanga had their duel. The island that your private boat will drop you off is called Khao Ping Kan, but both are more commonly known as James Bond Island.
If you are looking for a real epic day trip, checking out the awesome spectacular scenery that only Phang Nga Bay can offer then book up a Private Phang Nga Bay Boat Tour. You will not be disappointed.
Fun Fact:
Did you know that Ko Ta Pu, was also used in another James Bond film, Tomorrow Never Dies, BUT it was said to be in Vietnam.
YouTube host Jay Leshark and camera man, and awesome 5 Star Marine Phuket tour Guide Alex head out to spend a day exploring Phang Nga Bay. They float into caves, and find hidden lagoons, before kayaking and getting up close with the stunning limestone rock formations, and then they finally get that perfect Instagram picture at James Bond Island. Oh yes and Jay gets to check out the amazing floating football pitch at Koh Panyi. Must remember to take a football next time.
