The ranking
| Rank | Island | Distance and trip | Best for | Our view |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Phi Phi (Leh, Don, Bamboo) | about 1 h by speedboat, 2 h by ferry | Scenery, Maya Bay, Pileh | The most beautiful, but the busiest |
| 2 | Racha | about 45 min by speedboat | Clear water, Siam Bay, diving | Best value for time |
| 3 | Similan | 1 h 15 to 1 h 30 from the coast, 15 Oct-15 May | Snorkelling, white sand, boulders | Best underwater, long day |
| 4 | Hong and Phang Nga Bay | about 1 h 30 | Lagoon, kayaking, limestone | The calmest by kayak |
| 5 | Bamboo | on the Phi Phi circuit | Fine sand beach, snorkelling | Often included in Phi Phi |
| 6 | Coral | 25 to 30 min by speedboat | Quiet beach, half day | The closest, for children |
How to choose
- One day, one choice: Phi Phi by speedboat with Maya and Bamboo.
- Half day: Racha and Coral; see Racha.
- Snorkelling: Similan in season, otherwise Racha.
- Sleeping on the island: see sleep on Phi Phi or day trip.
Season and safety
From May to October, monsoon swell reduces departures and the Similans are closed (reopened 15 October 2026 until 15 May 2027 according to park announcements). Prefer November to April. For the trip itself see the list of day trips and the ferry to Phi Phi.
FAQ
Which island to visit first near Phuket?
Phi Phi if you have a day, Racha if you have half a day.
Can you stay overnight on the Similans?
No, overnight stays are banned: you go for the day.
Is there a white-sand beach near Phuket?
Yes: Racha, Bamboo and Coral have fine sand and clear water.
La rédaction Phuket Authority, October 2026.
