1. Phi Phi Islands
Remarkable cliffs and the famous Maya Bay, but also heavy boat traffic and crowds. Consider an early departure and check sea conditions for the open-water crossing.
Open in Google Maps ↗Best Day Trips & Journeys from Phuket
Islands, rainforest, Krabi and hot springs: know when to go for a day and when to stay overnight.
2. Phang Nga Bay & James Bond Island
Limestone towers, hidden lagoons and canoe trips make this very different from a beach outing. The sheltered bay is often gentler than an open-sea speedboat trip.
Open in Google Maps ↗3. Racha Yai Island
Clear water, pale beaches and snorkelling south of Phuket. The speedboat trip from Chalong is relatively short when conditions are good.
Open in Google Maps ↗4. Coral Island (Koh Hey)
A nearby island for a shorter boat trip and a few easy hours by the sea. Expect organised beach facilities and busy stretches at peak times.
Open in Google Maps ↗5. Similan Islands
White beaches, granite boulders and excellent snorkelling. It is a very long day from southern Phuket and the national park operates seasonally, usually October to May.
Open in Google Maps ↗6. Khao Sok National Park
Rainforest, dramatic cliffs and Cheow Lan Lake offer a complete change from the beach. A night away is far more rewarding than a rushed same-day return.
Open in Google Maps ↗7. Phuket Old Town
Colourful Sino-Portuguese streets, cafés and local heritage. An easy self-guided half-day excursion; on Sundays the Lard Yai walking market brings the area to life.
Open in Google Maps ↗8. Krabi & Ao Nang
Railay Beach, Hong Islands, dramatic limestone cliffs and inland nature make Krabi worth more than a day. Many island boat trips depart from Ao Nang; plan an overnight stay because driving from Nai Harn takes several hours.
Open in Google Maps ↗ · Railay Beach ↗ · Hong Islands ↗9. The Hotspring Beach Resort & Spa
Our favourite thermal-pool escape on the mainland just beyond Phuket. The round trip from Nai Harn can be tiring. In low season the comfortable hotel rooms are very inexpensive: staying overnight makes it feel like a real break rather than a driving marathon.
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