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Welcome to the Phuket Tourism News. Each week Shaun and Jay Leshark will bring you weekly Phuket Tourism News. Phuket News that is for you, Phuket News for those coming to Phuket, and Phuket Tourism News that is what you need to make sure you have an amazing time when you come on holiday to Phuket.
Thailand’s Prime Minister Prayuth’s visit to Phuket
Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha was in Phuket last week and visited the Soi King Kaew area in Ratsada, one of the poorest neighborhoods on the island, to promote the ‘Ratsada Green in the City’ mangrove tourism project.
The Thailand Prime Minister and his entourage met with local residents to explain the project, and why it is so important to be protecting mangroves not just in Phuket but throughout the whole of Thailand.
The aim of the project is to create a learning center and elevated walkways through the mangroves for people to learn about and appreciate their natural beauty.
Bangla Road Patong Bar crack downs
Night entertainment operators in Patong say their businesses have lost about B100 million in the past week following a raid on a local bar operated by a foreigner who allegedly employed girls aged under 18 as sex workers. Weerawit Kruesombat, chairman of Patong Entertainment Business Association, yesterday met nightspot operators to come up with measures to prevent venues from becoming involved in illegal activities.
This was in response to a raid conducted by a special task force unit from the Department of Provincial Administration, on a bar in Soi Bangla in Kathu district, Patong, Phuket in which two suspects.
Songkran 2023
The fun is coming back to Songkran, organisers have promised, as the first large scale celebration of the occasion in three years is set to take place at Limelight Avenue Mall in Phuket Town next month.
Songkran is Thailand’s most famous festival. The ‘water splashing’ festival marks the beginning of the traditional Thai New Year. The name Songkran comes from a Sanskrit word meaning ‘passing’ or ‘approaching’. Although getting well and truly soaked is what makes this festival so famous. The festival is an all-out water war, with unsuspecting victims and eager participants being blasted by high powered super-soakers.
Songkran Festival takes place in April every year, from the 13th to the 15th. The festival usually lasts three days, though festivities can start early or end later in some cities.
Which is the best Phuket Elephant sanctuary to visit?
Phuket Nature Elephant Reserve
The Phuket Nature Elephant Reserve is an accredited and sustainable Elephant Sanctuary located on the west coast of the tropical island of Phuket, Thailand. Founded in 2019, elephant conservation is of the utmost importance to us, and the elephant’s welfare is their main goal.
Phuket Elephant Sanctuary
Phuket Elephant Sanctuary was founded by Mr. Montri Todtane, who owned an elephant riding camp in Southern Phuket in the past and decided to change his approach towards a more compassionate form of elephant tourism in 2016.
Inspired by Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai, Phuket Elephant Sanctuary is a new and final home for elephants who have worked their entire lives in the logging and tourism industry. By joining our programs, visitors can support ethical elephant tourism while enjoying an inspiring and educational experience.
Upcoming Events in Phuket
Marriott Bonvoy on Wheels BLOC Party
Tiesto at Andamanda Water Park
Phuket Tourism News now in audio format
We have added the Phuket Tourism News in audio format and you can now listen to it on Apple Music and Spotify or on your favorite podcast provider.
Just search Phuket Tourism News or click the icons below:
A private speedboat excursion to the islands and coves surrounding Phuket is an excellent way to explore Thailand’s Andaman Sea. These islands are renowned for their crystal-clear seas, pristine white sandy beaches and varied aquatic life, making them perfect for an inspired day trip with 5 Star Marine.
The whole region is home to a varied assortment of marine species, including colourful tropical fish, sea turtles and even whale sharks thanks to its abundance of coral reefs and underwater ecosystems. Our experienced guides are on hand to provide you with crucial knowledge about the marine environment to help ensure that your trip goes smoothly, is memorable, and of course is relaxing. Furthermore, you get to choose either adventure or relaxation (or a combination), as all of 5 Star Marine’s private day trips are customisable.
With so many excellent day trips from Phuket to select from, we have rounded up our top 5 to awaken your interests and inspire you to get out there and explore:
A private speedboat trip to the Phi Phi Islands is a bucket-list experience that everyone should experience at least once. This area is a collection of six small islands off the coast of Thailand, with Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Leh being the main islands.
Phi Phi Islands are known for their stunning scenery, turquoise waters and breath-taking beaches. On your private speedboat tour with 5 Star Marine you will have the freedom to explore the islands at your own pace and according to your interests. Whether you want to go snorkelling, swimming, soak up some rays or simply relax on the beach, we can help craft an itinerary that is perfect for you.
One of the highlights of a Phi Phi day trip is visiting Maya Bay; the area which was made famous by the movie “The Beach” which starred Leonardo DiCaprio. The bay is surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and idyllic turquoise waters. You may also want stop at Monkey Beach, where you’ll be greeted by playful macaques, or visit Bamboo Island where you can enjoy a picnic lunch and snorkel among vibrant coral reefs and tropical fish. If you fancy a hidden cove with emerald-green waters, then Pileh Lagoon is perfect spot for a swim to cool off.
2. Racha Islands
Raya or Racha Islands are made up of two beautiful islands; Koh Racha Yai and Koh Racha Noi, and they provide a perfect day trip location to relax and appreciate nature. Offering a balanced mix of peaceful, serene settings together with incredible marine life and some of Thailand’s finest snorkelling areas, these quiet, tropical white powdery beaches and crystal-clear blue seas are a stunning day trip option.
Located under 1 hour from 5 Star Marine’s base in Boat Lagoon, you can easily see why these islands are popular for relaxation, beach time and great snorkelling. Some areas to note include Siam Bay, which is located on Koh Racha Yai and is renowned for its exquisite coral reefs and marine life including exciting fish species and even sea turtles.
Although most people visit Koh Racha Yai (located just 20 kilometres south of Phuket); we would also suggest allowing 5 Star Marine to take you slightly further to the smaller island, Koh Racha Noi – an uninhabited rocky island with an abundance of outstanding snorkelling bays.
3. The Khai Islands
For the ultimate family friendly day trip from Phuket, nothing quite beats the Khai Islands. The Khai Islands are a trio of small islands (Khai Nai, Khai Nau and Khai Nok) located just a short distance from Phuket, around a 20-minute speedboat ride away. They are popular for their picturesque white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters for shallow snorkelling.
During your private speedboat tour with 5 Star Marine, you will have the freedom to explore the islands at your own pace and according to your own schedule; stopping off at selected beaches or snorkelling spots that catch your eye. Snorkelling is a popular activity because the warm waters are teeming with marine life and you will get the chance to swim alongside schools of fish in shallow waters for a memorable experience.
Khai Nok Island offers the opportunity to sunbathe on the white sandy beaches and take a stroll around or simply relax. The other islands are perfect for a quick swim, picnic lunch or a snorkelling adventure.
4. James Bond Island
James Bond Island located in Phang Nga Bay, is one of the most famous places to visit, and for an excellent reason. This limestone island was featured in the film “The Man with the Golden Gun” in 1974. The James Bond Island private day trip with 5 Star Marine remains a highly enjoyable and popular experience. During your exciting day, the experienced crew will take you out so that you can take in the sights of Phang Nga Bay’s most iconic location.
As this is a protected marine area, boats are not able to get too close, therefore the nearby Koh Ping Ghan (an island where a large leaning rock stands) gives a perfect vantage point for pictures of the famous island. It also has several caves to explore and some small stalls.
You may choose to try a spot of sea canoeing afterwards. This provides a fascinating way to explore the Phang Nga Bay area and to explore the bay’s limestone cliffs, caves and lagoons. Enter through small tunnels and into caverns and lagoons that larger boats cannot reach, finding hidden gems and creating special memories.
5. Sunset BBQ and Dolphin Spotting
This is certainly a truly unique and unforgettable afternoon experience. When you book a private Sunset Beach BBQ and Dolphin Spotting trip, you get the perfect blend of snorkelling, dolphin spotting and traditional Thai style private beach BBQ.
Join us for a special occasion and family friendly afternoon where you can experience snorkelling in crystal clear waters before taking part in our respectful dolphin spotting programme which can be tailored to your requirements. At 5 Star Marine, we understand that getting the opportunity to see dolphins in the wild is a spectacular experience.
At sunset, indulge in a private beach BBQ featuring authentic satay and accompaniments which are grilled on the beach for you by our attentive crew. In between dips in the refreshing turquoise sea, enjoy a crafted ‘drink of the day’ on the fine white sands as you watch the sky light up in a thousand colours for an unforgettable tropical sunset experience.
With so many inspired day trips to create magical moments, please contact us to discuss any mentioned here, or to book a bespoke private day trip itinerary.
Shaun Stenning
+66 (0) 93720 6221
Welcome to the Phuket Tourism News. Each week Shaun and Jay Leshark will bring you weekly Phuket Tourism News. Phuket News that is for you, Phuket News for those coming to Phuket, and Phuket Tourism News that is what you need to make sure you have an amazing time when you come on holiday to Phuket.
International Woman’s Day
The 8th March 2023 was a huge day for women around the words as ladies, men, kids all got together to celebrate International Woman’s Day. Here in Phuket, there were a host of events and happenings to celebrate the day, including a huge fundraiser at the 4 points by Sheraton to help raise funds for Phuket Has Been Good to Us. The local Government also held events across the island including a presentation to owner of 5 Star Marine Phuket wife, Lisa, who was celebrated for all her amazing work over the past few years here in Phuket. Well done Lisa and to all the hardworking ladies in Phuket.
Department of Marine and Coastal Resources Trains Move Divers on Coral Restoration
Phuket Tourism News now in audio format
In more positive Thailand Government news, the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources has been running course for a wide variety of local divers and marine industry professionals to train them up on how to best help coral restoration. Coral is extremally sensitive to its environment and so trying to grow coral or even just trying to manage coral is very difficult. The training given by the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources will be ongoing so that more divers are trained to help protect Thailand’s coral reefs as well as helping to restore the reefs back to how they were.
Phuket Tourist Police Looking for Volunteers
Tourist Police in Phuket are seeking foreign volunteers to provide assistance to law enforcers in dealing with other “aliens” This was the headline in the local English speaking newspaper last week. We all hope that when they say aliens, they mean any human from a different county and not that ET has landed in Phuket and is out causing trouble on Bangla Road.
Phuket Expo 2028
Over the past 12 months, all business and individulas in Phuket have been asked to support Thailand’s bid to host the Specialised Expo under the name of the Expo 2028 Phuket Thailand under the theme of “Future of Life: Living in Harmony, Sharing Prosperity”, where health and wealth are in balance, all lives can thrive and prosper, and the environment and nature are restored.
There are billboards everywhere around Phuket and many business have posters up, the biggest question many people have is, What is the Specialised Expo?
I guess that in 2028 if Phuket wins the rights to host it, we will find out what it is.
What is the Best 5 Star Marine Phuket tour to go on?
There are so many awesome tours to go on, there is something for everyone. To find your favorite tour then you can visit the destination page to get all the information on all the private Phuket speed boat tours that we run.
Shaun is a huge fan of the Koh Hong tour
Jay is a massive Phi Phi fan.
Which is your favorite 5 Star Marne Phuket tour?
Phuket Tourism News now in audio format
We have added the Phuket Tourism News in audio format and you can now listen to it on Apple Music and Spotify or on your favorite podcast provider.
Just search Phuket Tourism News or click the icons below:
Do you want to visit Phi Phi, but don’t know 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.
History of Phi Phi and Maya Bay
Phi Phi Don was populated by Thai Malays fishermen during the late-1940s, and later became a coconut plantation.
The islands came to worldwide prominence when Ko Phi Phi Le, Maya Bay was used as a location for the 2000 movie “The Beach” featuring Leonardo DiCaprio. After the movie was released Maya Bay became one of the world’s most popular beaches with thousands of tourists and locals wanting to visit Maya Bay and swim in the stunning crystal-clear waters. Over the years the huge number of tourists had massive negative effects on Maya Bay, and the ecosystem.
It wasn’t until 2020 when COVID stopped all travel that the local Thai National Park Authorities took control and realized that when no one came the ecosystem started to repair itself.
They then took more control and banded boats from coming to close to the beach, as well as building a proper entrance to the bay from the backside of Maya Bay, as well as limiting the number of people who can visit the beach each day, and stopped everyone from swimming in the bay.
They also have implemented a plan to close Maya Bay every year for a few months to give time for the ecosystem to rest so that the Thai National Park Authorities can assist with the situation.
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)
By selecting to go on a private VIP speedboat tour of Phi Phi Islands with 5 Star Marine you will ensure that you discover the area in the best possible conditions, with the least number of tourists, and also get to discover hidden coves and caves that you will not experience on group tours. To book a Phi Phi Private Speed Boat Tour then click here
Welcome to the Phuket Tourism News. Each week Shaun and Jay Leshark will bring you weekly Phuket Tourism News. Phuket News that is for you, Phuket News for those coming to Phuket, and Phuket Tourism News that is what you need to make sure you have an amazing time when you come on holiday to Phuket.
Increase in Flights to Phuket
International flights to Phuket airport are expected to continue growing in numbers on March as more carriers get permissions to add the island to their networks of routes.
The Phuket branch of the Airports of Thailand (AoT Phuket), lists 3,710 inbound and outbound flights by 52 carriers in March. There is also a continued growth on domestic flights to Phuket and the number arriving to Phuket airport is expected to reach almost the same amount as the international flights, 3,760 in March.
Singapore Airlines, Qatar Airways and AirAsia Berhad all have 56 flights per week coming in to Phuket with Aeroflot Russian Airlines coming in with 54 flights per week.
The number of Chinese flights may well increase the numbers further as some carriers are still waiting for approval of their applications to come into Phuket. Currently only Juneyao and Spring Airlines arrive from China with a 40 flights from Juneyao and 28 flights from Spring.
Phuket Tourism News now in audio format
Don’t have time to watch a video? We have added the Phuket Tourism News in audio format and you can now listen to it on Apple Music and Spotify or on your favorite podcast provider.
Just search Phuket Tourism News or click the icons below:
Among the more than 150 islands of the stunning Phang Nga Bay, Koh Hong is by far one of the most beautiful destinations with possibly some of the best views of Phnag Nga Bay from it’s awesome viewpoint.
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.
“Hong” means room in Thai and the island gets its name from this ‘room-like’ interior lagoon surrounded by limestone cliffs with only a small channel to the open sea. We spent our afternoon enjoying a quiet swim inside this untouched beauty that consists of amazing emerald waters, cool ocean breezes, and incredible vibe which seems to wrap everyone in comfort. I forgot the world for a while. This place needs to be seen to be believed.
Ko Hong Krabi and the smaller Krabi province archipelagos are typically quieter than the more popular Phi Phi or Phang Nga Bay area tours. However, the sheer natural beauty you get to encounter really is something else. This area provides you with everything you could want from a day out with your friends or family – whether it be snorkelling, discovering white sandy private beaches, hiking or sightseeing – there is something to keep everyone happy.
Ko Hong sits in-between the Koh Yao Islands and Krabi mainland, and already had a great name for itself with its stunning lagoon. Entering through a narrow passageway you are greeted by the scenic and mesmerising Ko Hong Lagoon. This striking turquoise body of shallow water is surrounded by high rock walls lined with lush mangroves giving a forgotten world feeling to it. Only accessible by small boat or longtail, some areas are so clear and shallow you can easily see your feet on the underwater sand.
After taking in the vibrant colours of Ko Hong Lagoon, let your adventurous side loose and make your way around to the most recent addition to the island; the breath-taking 360o Viewpoint. This impressive metal staircase structure was built in 2020, and was designed to give panoramic 360o views of Krabi and the surrounding islands. It certainly delivers, and is arguably one of the best seascape views of the Krabi island sets, Phang Nga Bay and surrounding islands in the national park that you can get from anywhere.
After enjoying these stunning panoramic seascapes, make your way back down to shore and catch your breath before heading out to your pick of fantastic snorkelling and island locations nearby. With clear waters, secluded lagoons and abundant marine life in the shallow and deep-water coral reefs; you could even get lucky enough to spot a reef shark on your adventure.
Welcome to the Phuket Tourism News. Each week Shaun and Jay Leshark will bring you weekly Phuket Tourism News. Phuket News that is for you, Phuket News for those coming to Phuket, and Phuket Tourism News that is what you need to make sure you have an amazing time when you come on holiday to Phuket.
Airport effectiveness
The Phuket immigration had to open all its passport control counters at Phuket International Airport last week when seven flights all landed one after an another. However even thou they were overwhelmed with tourists, the average waiting times from the planes landing and guests coming out was only 90mins. That includes passport control and bag collection, and some 1,450 passengers passed checks within 40 mins.
It is impossible to say how many total passages passed through during the rush, as the Phuket Information Center has stopped posting daily arrival reports. The daily average for January 2023 was 11,486.
Russia, India, Kazakhstan, UK and China are the top nationalities coming into Phuket with Russia being way out in from with almost 4 times as many pax 153,449 compared to the 33,873 from India and the 33,756 from Kazakhstan which are 2nd and 3rd on the list.
Airlines are optimistic about the recovery this year with the opening up of China being the key driver.
Thailand government is warning airlines
The Provincial Public-Private Joint Economic Development Committee in Phuket has warned airlines not to sell overpriced tickets to tourists who wish to travel to the resort island, especially during long holidays.
The committee pointed out that overpriced airfares during New Year and Valentines were off putting to travelers. Tickets prices were set to be increase again, for the long Maka Bucha Day and the up coming Songkran festival.
The committee have also added that they are going to look bringing in fines for anyone found to be ticket gouging on popular routes and possible jail time.
Blood donations in Thailand
Some Blood type reserves in Thailand are very low and even more so on Phuket. In the past some foreign nationals who wanted to give blood were turned away due to some very old blood donation rules that have been out of date for decades.
Foreigners in Phuket and nationwide have been invited to join the never-ending blood donation campaign to replenish much-needed reserves.
Emphasis is on donating Rh-negative blood types, which are not common among Asians, but critically needed for providing help to other foreigners especially so on Phuket where the high season has seen an increase of accidents manly due to tourists riding motorbikes.
The Phuket Red Cross outreach campaign has stared and will continue throughout March.
What is the Best local Thai Food?
We all know that Thai food is awesome and when you’re here in Phuket eating Thai food is a huge part of your holiday experience. Exotic flavours and fragrances, make Thai cuisine so popular around the world, BUT there is more to Thai food that a simple Pad Thai, or a Green Curry or a Tom Yum Goon.
When in Phuket, try some of the local Thai dishes rather than the more popular western Thai Dishes.
If you need some help, just check out these videos when 5 Star Marine YouTube Host Jay Leshark took an amazing food tour in Phuket Town – Click Here
And when Jay took a cooking class in Phuket – Click Here
Upcoming Events in Phuket
Shadow Play performance by Nong Diaw
International Women’s Day Lunch
Phuket Tourism News now in audio format
Don’t have time to watch a video? We have added the Phuket Tourism News in audio format and you can now listen to it on Apple Music and Spotify or your favorite podcast provider.
Just search Phuket Tourism News or click the icons below
One of the biggest things that I have learned in life, is that Freedom is something that many of us take for granted. I grow up in a country that gave us freedom. Freedom to choose, freedom to move around, freedom to do almost anything.
In the good old USA, they have a constitution that is basically a document that states “YOU ARE FREE”. Ok, I have somewhat paraphrased the 4 page 4,543 words. William Wallace did a whole battle cry on the English taking their Freedom, (Good work Mel Gibson)
Why, am I talking about Freedom? The simple reason is that we at 5 Star Marine Phuket offer you FREEDOM.
Unlike many other Phuket Boat tours, we offer all our tours the freedom to choose, the freedom to do what you want to do, to get the experiences that you want to get from your very own private boat tour, hence why our Captains Choice tour is one of our most popular.
What is the Captain’s Choice Tour?
When you get to the 5 Star Marine Phuket office one of our guides will meet and greet you and then take some time to talk to you to find out what YOU want to do, What YOU want to see, what YOU want to eat, where you want to go?
Once the guide has this info, they will consider the weather, the tides, and all other conditions and then create a tour there and then, just for YOU.
I think you get the idea here
Our team has years and years of experience and many of our guides are from this area, they grow up in Phi Phi, in Phang Nga, in Phuket so this is their back yard and they are dedicated to making your time on the sea a 5-star experience in every way. So, whether you are looking to go snorkeling in deserted spots, have a romantic beach picnic off the beaten track, want to explore hidden caves or need help creating your perfect private beach celebration – we have something to delight everyone.
They know the best spots and the best times to go to those spots.
We are here to make your Captain’s Choice Tour exactly what you desire – so ask us.
Welcome to the Phuket Tourism News. Each week Shaun and Jay Leshark will bring you weekly Phuket Tourism News. Phuket News that is for you, Phuket News for those coming to Phuket, and Phuket Tourism News that is what you need to make sure you have an amazing time when you come on holiday to Phuket.
Jelly Fish in Phuket
Last week some of Phuket beaches issued jellyfish warnings after there was an increase in stings. Phuket Marine Resources Conservation Centre with local administrative organisations have been stocking up the Phuket West Coast lifeguard stations with extra bottles of vinegar and other medical supplies to help treat stings. The west coast, including Patong Beach, has seen an increase in stings in the past week. The reports of jellyfish stings have all be minor with most people getting treated at the beach with vinegar.
“More than 30 people have recently been stung by jellyfish while playing in the water at the beach. Most of the people were not seriously harmed.”
“There are many species of jellyfish. For normal jellyfish stings, vinegar can be poured over the area continuously for at least 30 seconds to help, but never pour fresh water, drinking water or alcohol onto the sting.” Said Suchart Ratanaruangsri, who is the director of the Phuket Marine Resources Conservation Centre.
Phuket Weddings – Over 100 on Valentine’s Day
More than 100 Thai and foreign couples in Phuket celebrated Valentine’s Day by registering their marriage across the island. For the special mass weddings here in Phuket, District Chiefs from around Phuket Island gave away gifts and souvenirs for the couples. In Mueang District every couple that registered was put into a lucky draw for more gifts including gold worth over 7,500 THB.
Congratulations to all the couples and remember if you want to celebrate your honeymoon in style then you can book a 5 Star Marine Phuket private boat tour.
Best Island destination for families
There are 100’s of islands to visit in Phang Nga Bay, Phi Phi and Krabi, BUT what are some of the best to visit for families.
Khai Islands
The close by Khai islands day trip is very good for families.
The Khai Islands is made up of 3 separate islands:
Each of the three Islands offers something slightly different for you to experience; Khai Nai offers clear, shallow water and snorkelling which is perfect for families with young children. Khai Nau is also an excellent spot for some snorkelling right off the boat, and has a great variety of coral and marine life to explore. Finally, Khai Nok has some good off the beach snorkelling and offers you the opportunity to relax on the beach.
Accessible in only 15 to 20 minutes from the 5 Star Marine pier at Boat Lagoon.
Coral Island
Coral Island, also known locally as Koh He, is an easy and family friendly day-trip destination from Phuket.
This beautiful island has 2 main beaches (Long Beach and Banana Beach), where you can find a handful of restaurants, enjoy a few different snorkelling spots or just relax on its sandy beaches.
At Long Beach, you can rent a canoe and explore or just relax at one of the restaurants on the white sandy beach. Just around the island, Banana Beach Club serves a good selection of dishes, plus offers massages, canoes and plenty of Instagram-worthy set ups. You can enjoy some decent snorkelling from the shore there also. It is both kid and adult friendly with big loungers, tables in the shade and fun areas to explore for all.
You can also combine this tour with an afternoon stop at Mai Ton on the way back to try your luck spotting the dolphins there.
Upcoming Events in Phuket
A perfect destination for Snorkeling and Fishing and MORE
The meaning of the name Maiton represents idealism, intuition, romance, generosity, creativity, wisdom, and tolerance
Maiton island is an understated paradise. A beautiful tropical island just off the Southeast coast of Phuket
It’s a fantastic day out and only 30 minutes from the 5 Star Marine Phuket pier.
The island is small and only spans 2.5 km across at its widest point but with a large and quiet beach and a lush green hill as a backdrop. It has beautiful white sands and tropical palm trees, as well as pristine waters that are home to vibrant coral reefs.
The island is still relatively untouched by tourism, the white sandy beaches are soft, pristine, and full of stunning washed-up corals and seashells, and the natural environment of Maiton Island has not been disturbed by mass tourism.
There are not too many things to do on this island but if you are feeling fit and strong you can hike up the hill to get stunning views looking south towards Phi Phi and north towards Phang Nga Bay.
Maiton Island is famous for its unspoiled nature and the spectacular underwater world, and the best things to do at Maiton Island all happen in the clear tropical waters around the island.
Maiton Island offers some fantastic snorkeling. The coral reefs are alive and teeming with a variety of tropical fish and you can also Enjoy a mesmerizing experience through a giant clam garden. The best time for snorkeling at Maiton island is from December to May when the sea around Maiton is crystal clear like a blue mirror.
After a couple of hours of snorkeling, it’s time to catch dinner.
Head out a little deeper and drop in a hook and bait and you will soon catch a fish or 3, and if they are big enough then you have dinner sorted as well, which you can give to the 5 Star Marine Phuket Team and they can take care of this for you and have it cooked up with Thai flavors and spices on the BBQ while watching the sun set behind Phuket.
And finally, is seeing dolphins in Phuket on your bucket list?
Maiton Island is also home to a pod of dolphins, and if you’re lucky enough, you will be able to see these incredibly playful animals. The best time to see the dolphins is first thing in the morning or around the early evening.
Maiton Island is a fantastic destination for a 5 Star Marine Phuket private tour, as it has so much to offer.
You will definitely have a 5 Star Experience when you book a 5 Star Marine Phuket private tour to Maiton Island.
For information on this and all our 5 Star Marine Phuket Tours click here
