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One day trip 4 Krabi Islands tour – Phuket

From: $ 77

Adult: (Age +11)

Child: (Age < 11)

infant: (Age < 3)

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4 Krabi islands tour from Phuket 

4 Krabi islands tour from Phuket – Free transfer from Patong, Kalim, Kathu, Kata beach, Karon, Phuket Town;

Only 100 Thai Baht extra per person for land transfer from Kamala, Leam Hin, Ao Por, Boat Lagoon, Bangtao, Surin;

Only 200 Thai Baht extra per person for land transfer from Laguna, Rawai, Nai Harn beach.

TP4. 4 Krabi islands tour from Phuket. Discover from Phuket Four of the most beautiful islands near Krabi! Full day trip with great speed boat and great and gentle staff, sightseeing wonderful locations including a nice buffet in unforgettable location staff. This trip is highly recommended to get a true view of Thailand nature and shoot amazing pictures .

4 Krabi islands tour from Phuket price includes National Park fees.

“7.00 AM – 7.30 AM: Transportation”. Pick up from your hotel and transfer to the pier to start 4 Krabi islands tour from Phuket.

“08.00 AM – 17.30 PM: swimming and sightseeing, meals and relax”.  Depart from Rassada Pier to Nopparat Thara Beach and by speedboat we reach Tub Island for relaxing on the white sandy linkage between Tub island and Chicken Island at low tide. Enjoy than swimming and snorkeling at Chicken Island among coral reef and fishes. Enjoy Thai Lunch time than we move to Poda Island ideal fro sunbathing and swimming and amazing pictures. We will visit also Pranang Cave to learn the history that is the sacred images for the local people. We will than visit Railay beach and Ao Nang Beach to than depart to return to Phuket Pier, arriving at Pier we will organize your transfer back to your hotel in Phuket.

One day trip 4 Krabi Islands tour from Phuket KEY DETAILS: 

• DEPARTURE / RETURN LOCATION: Your Hotel in Phuket.
• DEPARTURE TIME: 7:20 -8.00 AM.
• RETURN TIME: Approximately 6:00 PM.
• WEAR: Swimming suits, light t-shirt.
• Includes transports from you departing point to the pier and back.
• Includes soft drinks, drinking water, buffet lunch.
• Life jacket, tour guide, insurance. Transportation in minivan.

WHAT TO BRING:

• Swimming suits, light t-shirt, beach towel.
• Sunblock and sunglasses, camera.

4 Krabi islands tour from Phuket. The itinerary and timing above are approximate and may be modified without notice to fit the tide and local weather conditions. If above tour does not meet your requirement and you wish to customize your own tour, please feel free to contact us and tell us your preference. We will do our best to provide the best service we can.

4 Krabi islands tour from Phuket – Discover  tours to Hong Island  – James Bond Island tours

See also  Krabi to four Islands tour by speedboat.

See also  4 Islands tour by long tail boat from Krabi.

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Day Tour from Phuket to 4 Islands in Krabi by Ferry & Speedboat

• Hotel round-trip transfers
• Ferry cruise from Rassada Port to Nopparat Thara Pier in Ao Nang
• Thai lunch - Halal, other diets (e.g. vegetarian) are available on request
• Drinking water and fruit
• Snorkeling equipment & life jacket
• Professional English-speaking guide
• Basic accident insurance
• National Park entrance fee of 200 THB per adult and 100 THB per child to be paid at point of entry.
• Hotel pickup from remote locations in Phuket, or from private villas/rentals
• Entry/Admission - Tup Island
• Entry/Admission - Chicken Island
• Entry/Admission - Koh Poda Island
• Rassada Pier/Rassada Harbour, 64/423 Anupas Phuket Karn road, Tha Rue Mai road, tambon Rassada, อำเภอเมืองภูเก็ต ภูเก็ต 83000, Thailand Meet at Ao Nang Travel & tour office at Rassada Port in the south of Phuket Town 30 minutes before scheduled departure.
• Get a free hotel round-trip from Phuket Town, Patong, Kata, Karon and Chalong. The exact pick-up time will be confirmed by email after you have made the booking. If you stay in Bangtao, Kamala, Nai Yang, Naihan, Phuket Airport, Surin Beach and Rawai, there is an extra charge of 200 THB per person. If you stay in Ao Yon, Ao Sane, Baan Krating, Cape Panwa, Layan and Naithon, there is an extra charge of 400 THB per person. If you stay at another location please come to the meeting point at Ao Nang Travel & Tour office at Rassada Port in the south of Phuket Town 30 minutes before scheduled departure. Pickup times for each zone: • Bang Tao Beach: 07:00 - 07:15 • Cape Panwa: 07:00 - 07:15 • Chalong Beach: 07:30 • Kamala Beach: 07:00 - 07:15 • Karon Beach: 07:00 - 07:15 • Kata Beach: 07:00 - 07:15 • Nai Harn Beach: 07:00 - 07:15 • Nai Yang Beach: 07:00 - 07:15 • Patong Beach: 07:00 - 07:15 • Phuket Town: 07:30 - 08:00 • Rawai Beach: 07:00 - 07:15 • Surin Beach: 07:00 - 07:15
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Infants must sit on laps
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Not recommended for travelers with back problems
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
• Most travelers can participate
• This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
• This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 45 travelers
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

Similar experiences

• You'll start at Rassada Pier/Rassada Harbour Or, you can also get picked up See departure details
• 1 Phuket Stop: 60 minutes See details
• 2 Rassada Pier/Rassada Harbour Stop: 30 minutes See details
• 3 Aonang Travel and Tour Co.,Ltd. Stop: 90 minutes See details
• 4 Nopparat Thara Pier Stop: 15 minutes See details
• 5 Tup Island Stop: 45 minutes - Admission excluded See details
• 6 Chicken Island Stop: 50 minutes See details
• 7 Chicken Island Stop: 60 minutes - Admission excluded See details
• 8 Koh Poda Island Stop: 90 minutes - Admission excluded See details
• 9 Hat Noppharat Thara – Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park Stop: 30 minutes See details Pass by Ao Nang
• You'll return to the starting point

• N3776XAthomasl 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great tour We really enjoyed it, our tour was from krabi. About 1h30 minutes, through the countryside. 1) long tail boat - great experience 2) kayaking - we were being driven around and our guy was very good, went under the rock ( see pic ) 3) James Bond island - that was very cool, could walk around, things on the island not too pricey. 4) panaye village - village on stilts. We went around it and really enjoyed that. 5) temple - could feed the monkeys, which I really enjoyed and around a temple. A must go tour, we really liked it Read more Written March 30, 2024
• Bonus_n_Howel 0 contributions 3.0 of 5 bubbles Snorkeling trip to Similan islands - Pick-up: somewhat early but on time, careful driving and clean vehicle, no flexibility on preferred departure and return time as group dependent - At the pier: well organized industry for processing vast number of tourists, longish waiting times, clean amenities, fair food - Boat trip: fast, modern and well crewed, treats on board, safe and clean snorkeling gear - Sites: two snorkeling sites and two at the beach stays. Beautiful underwater, overcrowded on the surface (expect at least half a dozen of other boats with each around 30 snorkelers ) - Lunch break: poor to fair, beach overcrowded see above - Staff: professional, caring and nice - Value for money: fair if you don’t mind a crowd Read more Written March 28, 2024
• riyazhasham 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Excellent It was a wonderful experience. Staff was warm and friendly, lots of good food and the highlight was the canoe trips in the caves and lagoons Read more Written March 27, 2024
• 534cherriec 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles Smooth ride but lots of people on board Slightly cramped with overloading amount of people on the boat but the boat is very on top of schedule so I would recommend it if the trip isn't too long. Read more Written March 27, 2024
• passas2024 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Amazing kids' adventure We were two families with the kids. We didn't want to go as were so tired from all the trips in Krabi, so our kids went by themselves. As the youngest boy was just 5 years old staff went with them, follow and helped them on every pass. After the enjoyable adventure they also packed some snacks for the kids. Recommended. Read more Written March 27, 2024
• gawain22 0 contributions 3.0 of 5 bubbles I don't understand the hype Overall, the trip was very well organized. The guide was very nice and informative. I just had trouble lot understanding some of the things he said. I have found this to have happened with a lot of the guides here in Thailand. I was very disappointed overall in the snorkeling. That has nothing to do with this company. It is just that I am used to the Caribbean where the waters are much clearer and there are more fish. I didn't really see anything much. Read more Written March 26, 2024
• Vacation00343977605 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Fantastic trip! A fantastic trip that was well- run by a lively, young team who looked after us well, being a bit of an older couple. The snorkeling and lunch were excellent. The climb up to the emerald lagoon was worth it for the views, but be warned that the steps are very steep and have wide gaps between them, so not ideal if you suffer from vertigo or joint problems! Read more Written March 25, 2024
• nigelhS3664BJ 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles Day in Angthong Marine Park. A lovely day on a speed boat, staff were excellent and very friendly…. Snorkelling in the morning amongst coral and fishes in abundance. Lunch was excellent, best I’ve had on an excursion. Afternoon at Blue lagoon was good, personally would have preferred more snorkelling. Downside I thought speedboat was overcrowded and safety as secondary as no indication as to where they all were or how to fit them….. Read more Written March 25, 2024
• Zsuzsa K 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles an unforgettable adventure The tour was excellent. nice staff, there was enough time for snorkeling. We saw beautiful corals and fishes. I really recommend it to everyone who likes to snorkel. Read more Written March 22, 2024
• Nwlgraham 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Wow! What an amazing experience. It was beautifully organised from start to finish. Collected from hotel and brought to the meeting point where we were organised into smaller groups . There was a fun truck ride to the port and then we boarded the boat which was very spacious. The group of tourists was small enough to be fun rather than a scrum and everyone had plenty of space . The canoe experience was out of this world and my husband and I had the lovely guide Bao. Who was knowledgeable and charming . We felt totally safe and were given clear instructions to make sure we knew how to get on and off the canoe . This is probably one of the best tours I have ever done . It is also wonderful because they support the local fisherman . Pleeeease!!!!! take some cash to tip them at the end because they really deserve it !!! Finally the food was absolutely delicious . Thanks guys for a memorable adventure 🙏💗 Read more Written March 22, 2024
• GoPlaces64212210245 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles Great day out. Hong island is beautiful but unfortunately there were many jellyfish so we could not go in the sea to snorkel after my husband was stung. Climbed the stairs for a spectacular view. Boat trip well organised and. Host was very courteous and knowledgeable. Barbecue was lovely. Sunset view was beautiful. Would recommend. Read more Written March 21, 2024
• Sam S 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Bang Bang Chop Chop An excellent experience! The team at the school are extremely knowledgeable, great instructors and overall they are great fun! Bang Bang Chop Chop! We prepared and cooked three dish’s, a soup, a curry, and a noodle dish. We also got shown how to create morning glory and then treated to mango sticky rice. If you are staying in Krabi and want a Thai Cooking experience, this is the place to go. Read more Written March 21, 2024
• J9167MAerikam 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Wonderful tour I went with my son and granddaughter. They both had an amazing time! I had done this tour before a couple of decades back... The food was really good and the staff was very friendly. Our kayak guide was super accommodating and had a lot of knowledge. He was amazing with my granddaughter as well! This was one of the highlights of our trip! Read more Written March 21, 2024
• Z637GAlukeb 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles The tour guide and tour from heaven. Wow. Thank you so much Dest. What an incredible tour guide and one of the most amazing weekends of our lives. We loved every second. Made lovely friends and experiences and saw things we never thought we would. Thank you so much Dest. Read more Written March 20, 2024
• BaronBrianofCali 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Top Notch Professionalism and Customer Service What a fantastic tour and tour company. Complimentary breakfast is provided while you check in for your particular tour. Very organized competent staff help you throughout the day. The snorkeling was wonderful and the boat cruise was outstanding. The provided buffet lunch was delicious and plentiful. I especially appreciated the staff for all of their assistance. My leg was injured and I was walking with a cane and the crew and staff always helped me walk on piers and on and off the boat. They were all so kind and helpful and looked after me with so much attention. The tour group is "top drawer," and I highly recommend taking an adventure trip with them; their professionalism is outstanding. I can't wait for my next visit with them. Read more Written March 20, 2024

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Day Tour from Phuket to 4 Islands in Krabi by Ferry & Speedboat provided by Trip Store Krabi

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Home > Tours by Destination > Phuket > Krabi 4 Islands Day Trip by Big Boat & Speedboat

Krabi 4 Islands Day Trip by Big Boat & Speedboat

• Thale Waek (Separated sea), Tub Island
• Tub Island & Poda Island
• Poda Island
• Chicken Island
• West Railay Beach
• Phra Nang Beach
• Phra Nang Cave

Daytrip from Phuket to Poda Island, Chicken Island, Tup Island and Talay Waek (Separated sea)

Cruise in comfort from Phuket to Krabi in a boat big enough that you won't feel the waves to visit the peaceful beaches on the Krabi coast. At Ao Nang, transfer to a speedboat to hop from island to island, taking in the white sands and clear water around Krabi. Visit Chicken Island, Poda Island and Tup Island where "Talay Weak" is located. Go swimming, snorkelling, and sunbathing and enjoy a delicious lunch served on the island.

Pickup from hotel by air-conditioned vehicle and transfer to Rasada Harbour Pier.

Depart Phuket by big boat to Nopparat Thara Beach, Ao Nang, Krabi.

Arrive at Nopparat Thara Beach and switch to speedboat.

11:30 - 15:00

• 1 st Stop - Pranang Beach Pranang Beach, which is a secluded part of the mainland which can only be reached by boat. Take a short walk to Princess Cave, with its decorative spirit house, or spend your free time sunbathing, swimming and exploring.
• 1 st Stop - Tup Island Tup Island, where you can enjoy snorkelling or exploring this beautiful tropical paradise. During the low tide, you can walk along the white sandbar as know as "Talay Waek" to the neighbouring island.
• 2 nd Stop - Chicken Island (Koh Kai) Chicken Island, which is named after its uniquely-shaped limestone rock. Enjoy swimming and snorkeling among coral reef and colorful tropical fishes and other marine lifes. This is where you will enjoy a tasty lunch.
• 3 rd Stop - Poda Island Poda Island, which combines picturesque plantations in the lowlands with majestic cliffs and a beautiful white sandy beach ideal for relaxing, sunbathing and swimming.

Depart from Ao Nang Beach to Phuket by big boat.

Return to Phuket by big boat and transfer back to hotel.

Note: Tour program may be changed depending on sea and weather conditions without prior notice.

• Trip by big boat and speedboat
• Round-trip hotel transfer (Free transfer from/to Patong, Kata, Karon, Chalong, Phuket Town, Kamala, Nai Harn, Rawai, Cape Panwa, Bangtao, Surin, Nai Yang and Phuket Airport. Surcharge may be applied for other areas)
• English-speaking guide
• Snorkel and mask
• Life jacket
• Soft drink, tea and coffee
• National Park Fee of THB 400 per person for adult and THB 200 per person for child (4 - 11 years old), payable directly to the Thai government staff.
• Cancellations made at least 24 hours prior to activity date - Full refund will be issued .

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Phuket to Krabi Tours & Trips

Find adventures that start in Phuket and then finish in Krabi. Trips from Phuket to Krabi are most popular in April, with the most tours doing this route then.

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International Versions

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Travelling from Phuket To Krabi: The Best Ways To Get There

Discovering the beauty of southern thailand: getting from phuket to krabi.

G’day mates! Captain Mark here, and I’m excited to tell you all about one of my favourite places in Southern Thailand – Krabi. With its stunning beaches, incredible limestone cliffs, and vibrant local culture, Krabi has something for everyone. In this blog, we’ll be covering all the ins and outs of traveling from Phuket to Krabi and exploring the must see beauty of this magical region. So grab your sunscreen and your sense of adventure, and let’s get started!

Looking to discover the must-visit and see places in Krabi? Look no further than our latest blog post! We’ll be covering all the ins and outs of traveling from Phuket to Krabi and exploring the breathtaking beauty of this magical region. Don’t miss out – check out our blog now!

How Far Is Krabi From Phuket?

If you’re planning your trip to Thailand, you might be wondering how far Krabi is from Phuket. Well, the distance by road between these two beautiful destinations is around 160 kilometers. The journey takes around two to three hours, depending on your mode of transportation. It might seem like a long way, but there are plenty of ways to travel between Phuket and Krabi. Trust me, the journey is worth it!

Phuket To Krabi - How Do I Get From Phuket To Krabi?

Whether you’re looking for stunning beaches, breathtaking scenery, or outdoor adventures, Krabi has something for everyone. With its limestone cliffs, turquoise waters, and lush rainforests, it’s no wonder that Krabi is a favorite destination among travelers. So, if you’re wondering how to get from Phuket to Krabi, you have a few options. Here are the top 5 best ways to get to Krabi from Phuket:

1. Hopping On a Local Bus To Krabi From Phuket

If you’re considering taking a bus from Phuket to Krabi, there are a few things you should know. Firstly, it’s essential to arrive at the bus terminal early to secure your seat and avoid disappointment, especially during peak travel seasons. There are various types of buses available, ranging from basic to more luxurious, with different seating options and amenities. While the basic buses may be more affordable, they may not provide the most comfortable ride. On the other hand, airconditioned buses offer amenities such as air conditioning, reclining seats, and even onboard toilets. Unless on a very tight budget, this is not something I would recommend for those visiting Thailand for the first time. For the very reason that this can be quite a challenging experience if you have not travelled on a local Thai transportation service before.

Here’s where you can check the timetables and buy a bus ticket online from Phuket to krabi: https://www.busonlineticket.co.th/ 

2. Getting A Taxi To Krabi From Phuket

If you’re after a comfortable and convenient travel experience, then taking a taxi from Phuket to Krabi might just be the perfect choice for you. Unlike buses, taxis provide a private and personalized journey that allows you to relax and enjoy the ride without the crowds or long waiting times. One of the advantages of hiring a taxi is the flexibility to choose your departure time and route. With the ability to hire a taxi at any time of day or night, drivers can also take alternative routes to avoid traffic or get you to specific destinations. It’s always a good idea to negotiate the fare with the driver beforehand to avoid any unexpected charges or disagreements later on.

3. Book Your Ferry Tickets To Krabi From Phuket

If you’re looking to soak in the picturesque beauty of the Andaman Sea, taking a ferry from Phuket to Krabi is a great option. The journey is not only comfortable and well-equipped but also offers breathtaking views of the surrounding islands and the ocean, making it a memorable experience. Departing regularly from Rassada Pier in Phuket, ferries take about 2 hours to reach Krabi. With air-conditioned cabins, seating areas, and onboard amenities like snacks and drinks, ferries offer a comfortable and relaxing way to travel. Another advantage of taking a ferry is the opportunity to explore the beautiful islands and beaches along the way, with stops at popular destinations such as Koh Phi Phi and Railay Beach. However, it’s essential to keep in mind that ferry schedules may be impacted by weather conditions or seasonal changes in demand. It’s recommended to check schedules in advance and book tickets early to ensure a hassle-free journey.

Here’s where you can check the ferry’s timetable from Phuket to Krabi: https://www.phuketferry.com/phuket.html?

4. Private Speedboat Transfer From Phuket To Krabi

Speedboats depart from various locations in Phuket and take around 1-2 hours to reach Krabi. With speeds of up to 50 knots, speedboats provide a thrilling ride through the Andaman Sea, offering stunning views of the surrounding islands and coastline. Customize your tour and visit popular attractions and beaches such as Railay Beach and the Four Islands at your own pace. However, keep in mind that the ride can be bumpy and rough, and passengers may get wet from the spray of the sea. Be sure to wear appropriate clothing and sun protection to make the most of this unforgettable experience.

5. Speed Boat Join In Transfer Via Kho Yao Yai and Kho Yao Noi

Looking to get from Phuket to Krabi? Consider taking a speed boat join in transfer via Kho Yao Yai and Kho Yao Noi. This method of transportation typically takes 2-3 hours and offers a comfortable level of comfort. The journey starts at Bang Rong, northeast of Phuket and ends in Krabi. The price of a one-way ticket can vary between 200 THB to 400 THB (approximately 9-18 AUD), making it an affordable option for travelers on a budget. Book your ticket now and enjoy a scenic and convenient transfer to Krabi!

Discover the Beauty of Phang Nga and Krabi in One Day : Full Day Boat Trip from Phuket

If you’re short on time and looking to explore Krabi without staying overnight, a full day boat trip from Phuket is the perfect solution! Not only does this option save you the hassle of finding accommodation, but it also allows you to see some of the most beautiful and iconic landmarks in Phang Nga & Krabi in just one day. You’ll get picked up early in the morning and head out to discover both Phang Nga Bay and Krabi islands. Explore the hidden lagoons and caves at Phanak Island, see the iconic James Bond Island, and visit the unique floating village at Koh Panyi. After a delicious lunch over the water, we’ll visit the 2,000-year-old Sea Gypsy cave paintings at Khao Kian and head to the Krabi side of the bay for beautiful beaches, swimming, and snorkeling. Our expert guides will take you to the best spots for an unforgettable day trip. So what are you waiting for? Book your boat tour now and let us show you the wonders of Southern Thailand!

Happy travels await!

We hope this guide has been helpful in planning your journey from Phuket to Krabi. By choosing the transportation option that best suits your needs and budget, you can make the most of your time in Thailand and enjoy all that these two beautiful destinations have to offer. If you enjoyed reading this blog, we invite you to explore our other travel articles, such as our guide to the best weekend markets in Phuket and our recommended half-day tours in Phuket. These resources offer valuable insights and tips to help you make the most of your travels in Thailand. Thank you for reading and happy travels!

PHI PHI ISLAND

Island hopping, must see places in krabi thailand.

I want to book this tour “DISCOVER THE BEAUTY OF PHANG NGA AND KRABI IN ONE DAY: FULL DAY BOAT TRIP FROM PHUKET” We are 8 adults and 3 children

Please suggest day trip from phuket to krabi

I too want to book this tour

Iam interested in this tour Discover the beauty of phang and krabi in one day full day boat trip from phuket On October 27th myself and my wife is there availability cost, etc

I want to book for 2 persons one day trip in 1st week of march

We would like to do this day tour Phang & Krabi, can you tell me cost for two adults please?

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Day Trips from Phuket

The 9 Best Day Trips from Phuket, Thailand

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When in Phuket, make the most of Southern Thailand's natural features. White-sand beaches, placid mangrove coasts, old-growth rainforest, and superb underwater landscapes can all be found close to the island.

Located in the neighboring provinces of Phang Nga, Surat Thani, and Krabi, this list of Phuket day trips includes some hyper-popular places like Phang Nga Bay and Koh Phi Phi, as well as off-the-beaten-path stops such as Cheow.

Phang Nga Bay: Striking Limestone Islands

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Ao Phang Nga National Park’s 100-plus limestone islands look almost alien in origin, with gravity-defying spires and steep, jungle-carpeted peaks rising from the sea.

Many day trips to Phang Nga Bay include a photo op at Koh Tapu, famous for its cameo role in a James Bond movie ; kayaking through Koh Panak and Koh Hong’s sea caves; and a lunch stopover at the Muslim fishing village of Koh Panyee.

Getting there: Tours of Phang Nga bay usually originate from Bang Rong Pier .

Travel tip: Leave in the early morning or mid-afternoon to avoid the tourist crush. Most trips to Phang Nga take place over a few hours in the middle of the day. 

Khao Sok National Park: Jungle Adventures

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The rebels that camped out in Khao Sok’s jungles in the 70s and 80s unwittingly saved it from deforestation. The jungle today is unspoiled and spectacular—with waterfalls, caves, and rare animals that might occasionally cross your path!

Make the most out of the National Park’s 280-plus square miles by kayaking down the Sok River through almost impenetrable rainforest; walking down jungle trails to Khao Sok’s scenic waterfalls; or braving Nam Talu Cave’s 2,700-foot-long passage.

Book your park adventure at the Visitor Center near Khao Sok’s main entrance, or through the official site .

Getting there: Ride the bus to Surat Thani from Phuket’s Bus Terminal 2 ; get off at the park entrance near Khlong Sok Village. It’s a four-hour drive—the earlier you leave, the better. (Private tours leave before dawn.)

Travel tip: Khao Sok receives the most rainfall in all of Thailand, so plan your trip around the area’s dry season from December to April .  

Koh Phi Phi: Beaches & “The Beach”

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While Koh Phi Phi is one of Thailand’s most famous beach destinations, the crowds heading there have taken a bit of the shine off. Still, its close access to Phuket and gorgeous white-sand beaches remain a potent draw for Phuket visitors.

Six islands make up Koh Phi Phi, including Koh Phi Phi Don, home of Monkey Beach’s macaques and Laem Thong’s dazzling white sands. As the main port for the islands, the village of Tonsai Bay on Koh Phi Phi Don will be your first stop; the town is replete with budget resorts and restaurants.

Getting there: Ferries from Phuket’s Rassada Pier depart three times daily (four in high season) to make the two-hour trip to Tonsai Bay.

Travel tip: Ko Phi Phi Le, whose Maya Bay served as a backdrop for Leonardo DiCaprio’s star turn on The Beach, closed in 2018 due to overtourism; it is tentatively rescheduled to reopen in June 2021.

Khao Lak: Laid-Back Culture and Nature

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The town of Khao Lak is better known as a jump-off point to Similan and Ko Surin, but its natural attractions and cultural cachet make it worth a detour.

Start with the beaches—La On Village and nearby Nang Thong Beach are two of the most popular. Further inland, explore Khao Lak's national parks (Khao Lak Lam Ru and Thai Muang) along with their waterfalls and other natural wonders.

Closer to town, you’ll find the Bang Niang Night Market (open between 2 p.m. and 10 p.m. every Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday), and the International Tsunami Museum commemorating the 2004 tsunami that killed more than 4,000 in Khao Lak alone.

Getting there: Take the bus to Takua Pa from Phuket Bus Terminal 2; disembark when the bus passes through Khao Lak. Buses leave every hour for the 1.5-hour-long trip.

Travel tip: Visit during the Turtle Festival in the first week of March, when volunteers release turtle hatchlings at Thai Muang National Park Beach.  

Koh Similan: Diving & Snorkeling Destination

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The promise of excellent snorkeling and scuba diving is what draws adventure seekers to Mu Koh Similan National Park, which covers more than 87 square miles and is made up of 11 islands: most notably Koh Similan (Island Number 8), site of the scenic Sail Rock and white-sand beach; Koh Payu (Island No. 6), the Park’s best snorkeling spot; and lunch at Koh Miang (Island No. 4), with a chance to explore the island’s thick jungle cover.

Around the islands, a diverse collection of aquatic life can be seen by divers. Whale sharks are a common sight; their visits reach an absolute peak between January and March.

Getting there: Ride a bus from Phuket to Khao Lak (1.5 hours), where boats cover the distance from the pier to Koh Similan in a little over an hour. The park is only open during peak season, from October 16 to May 15.

Travel tip: Tourist entry to Koh Similan is highly regulated. Visitors need to purchase a Marine Park ticket before entering; package tour companies can take care of this for you, factoring the ticket price into the total package. 

Railay Peninsula: Rock Climbing Hotspot

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Rock climbers have made a mecca out of the limestone cliff faces of Railay Peninsula in Krabi Province. Some 700 bolted routes wind up Railay's cliffs and caves; local climbing shops provide ropes, chalk bags, and other essential gear in addition to conducting classes for beginners.

Diamond Cave Wall and the Pinnacle are two favorite spots for novice climbers, while more experienced climbers can try the challenging cliffs (and deepwater solo experience) at Tonsai. After your climb, relax at Phra Nang Beach or explore the sea by kayak.

Getting there: Take the Ao Nang Princess Ferry from Rassada Pier in Phuket to Railay. The trip takes a little over two hours, with a stopover at Ao Nang. Longtail boats can take you from the Railay pier to your preferred beach.

Travel tip: Peak climbing season occurs in the dry season from November to April.  

Cheow Lan Lake: Artificial Lake in a Rainforest

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This artificial lake is technically part of Khao Sok Park, but it deserves its own position as a day trip from Phuket. Created in 1987 to power a hydroelectric plant, Cheow Lan Lake is a 63-square-mile reservoir fringed by old-growth rainforest and studded with curious limestone formations.

A scenic lake tour of Cheow Lan crosses from one end of the lake to the other in two hours. Early-morning boat safaris glide along the shores to catch views of forest wildlife, including longtail macaques and great hornbills.

Getting there: Package tours can be arranged for early-morning departures from your Phuket hotel; the 110-mile trip will take three to four hours each way. The Ratchaprapha Dam marina hosts boats for lake trips and their booking offices.

Travel tip: Don't visit in the rainy season from May to November, as wildlife stops visiting the lake edge and chilly rains will completely dampen the boating experience. 

Takua Pa: Old Town and a "Little Amazon"

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The sleepy town of Takua Pa has a surprising history behind it. Like Phuket Town, Takua Pa grew rich off of the tin trade. The distinctive mansions (resembling those of both Phuket Town and Penang in Malaysia ) can be seen on Thanon Si Takua Pa and adjoining streets.

This town is famous for its khanom pia (Chinese cake), made at Tuangrat Taosor from a generations-old recipe. For a nature-based experience, ride a boat down Takua Pa’s “Little Amazon," a riverside mangrove forest thick with overgrowth and the occasional monkey and snake traipsing through the canopy!

Getting there: Take the bus to Takua Pa from Phuket Bus Terminal 2; these leave every hour, and take two hours to cover the distance.

Travel tip: Time your visit to coincide with Old Takua Pa Sunday Market and its collection of Thai street food . This market takes place every Sunday evening between November and May. 

Koh Surin: Best Diving in the Andamans

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Divers visiting Mu Koh Surin National Park can expect to see a rich proliferation of undersea life within the park’s 50-odd square miles. Any visit might bring you face-to-face with whitetip reef sharks, leatherback turtles, moray eels, and the occasional whale shark (the latter most commonly congregating at Richelieu Rock).

Above the water’s surface, visitors can swim at one of the park’s beaches; embark on a hiking tour into the interior; or visit a Moken “sea gypsy” village. The Visitor Center rents out snorkels, approves hikes, and provides camping facilities in the park.

Getting there: Private speedboat tours from Phuket are the best arrangements you can make. You can also go to Khao Lak on your own and arrange for a return boat trip from there.

Travel tip: Visit during peak diving season between December and April, when the water temperature and wind are at their best. Visit after February for your best chances of spotting large pelagic species in the waters.  

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17 of the best day trips from Krabi, Phuket and Khao Lak

Located on Thailand’s Andaman Coast, Krabi and Phuket are two of Thailand’s most popular tourist destinations. If you’re planning to visit either destination and looking for ideas for day trips, we’ve got you covered. We’ve also included some suggestions if you’re staying in Khao Lak to the north of Phuket. Shown here in no particular order is our pick of some of the best day trips on the Andaman Coast.

1) Hong Islands

This collection of islands is one of the many highlights of the Andaman Coast. In Thai, the word ‘ hong ‘ means ‘room’ and when you visit the eponymous main island you discover why it’s given that name. The room in question is actually a hidden bay that slowly reveals itself as you enter the chamber by boat.

On the opposite side of Hong Island, a nature trail and viewpoint offer panoramic views of the beaches below and the other nearby islands. A typical day tour from Krabi or Phuket will also include stops at other islands including Ko Lao Lading.

2) Phang Nga Bay

One of the best-known attractions in the region, Phang Nga Bay is not to be missed. This is where iconic scenes from the classic 1970s movie, The Man with the Golden Gun , were filmed. The island where Bond and Scaramanga faced off is Ko Khao Ping Gan with the needle-shaped limestone karst of Khao Tapu jutting out of the sea in the background. Ko Khao Ping Gan is now nicknamed ‘James Bond Island’ and features on tour itineraries from Phuket, Krabi and Khao Lak.

Phang Nga Bay is also the location of the floating village of Ko Panyee. A village was first established here by nomadic fishermen at the end of the 18th century. While tourism now brings additional revenue to the village, fishing remains the main source of income for islanders. Ko Panyee is home to a mosque, school and even a floating football pitch .

3) Samet Nangshe Viewpoint

For an alternative view of Phang Nga Bay, travel to the viewpoint at Samet Nangshe on the mainland. Although you can visit on a day trip, there is also the option to stay here overnight to make the most of the sublime sunset and sunrise views.

4) Kayaking at Ao Thalane or Phang Nga

If you’re staying in Krabi, you can explore the coastline at Ao Thalane by kayak. After undergoing a full training session and safety briefing, you’ll cruise through mangrove forests, caves, quiet lagoons, and explore Tham Bok Korani National Park. With this eco-friendly form of adventure, you’ll have the chance to spot wildlife you may otherwise miss in a faster and noisier boat.

Staying in Phuket on your holiday? Check out what’s on offer from the award-winning John Gray Sea Canoes . This well-established business gives visitors the chance to see the serene beauty of Phang Nga Bay from another perspective and avoid the crowds.

5) Live Like Locals in Phuket

If you’re holidaying in Phuket, spend some time away from the beach to experience local life. Under the Live Like Locals initiative you will be welcomed to local communities and be able to learn about the culture, traditions and lifestyle of the people who have lived in Phuket for many generations. Live Like Locals is an excellent example of community-based tourism that benefits local people and tourists.

6) Local life on Ko Klang

If you’re staying in Krabi, you can also experience local life thanks to the wonders of community-based tourism. From Krabi Town, make the short boat trip across the estuary to the island of Ko Klang. Villagers on the island run an excellent responsible tourism project that enables visitors to learn about the traditional way of life on Ko Klang.

If you like to travel by yourself, you can catch the boat from Krabi Town and arrange a tour independently when you arrive on Ko Klang. Alternatively, make all the arrangements through a responsible tour operator such as Local Alike , Andaman Discoveries or Krabi Eco Cycle .

7) Local life at Laem Sak

The opportunity to experience local life is one of the many benefits of travel. And in Thailand there is growing appreciation of community-based tourism. Communities like Laem Sak in Krabi province who were recognised for their achievements at the Responsible Thailand Awards 2022 .

The Tourism Community Enterprise at Krabi’s Laem Sak district comprises 10 villages and more than 400 members. The enterprise encourages the community to protect the marine ecosystem and mangroves. This in turn enables tourists to visit and learn about local life in this multi-cultural community. Although we’ve included it as a day trip, it’s even more rewarding if you stay overnight in the area and go early morning fishing or island-hopping with your local guides.

8) Phi Phi Islands

A boat tour of the Phi Phi Islands is undoubtedly one of the most popular day trips from Krabi or Phuket. The scenery is spectacular, but the popularity of the islands and ease of access from Phuket and Krabi does mean some tours can get busy.

The most famous spot in the islands, Maya Bay, has taken steps to reduce over-tourism with a limit on daily visitor numbers and boats no longer allowed to land directly on the famous beach.

9) Similan Islands

Located in the Andaman Sea close to Khao Lak, the Similan Islands are a group of islands which are part of the protected Mu Ko Surin National Park.

Some of the islands can be visited on a day trip from Khao Lak or Phuket, but it’s good to see that others remain off-limits to protect marine life. Ko Similan is the biggest island in the group and a great location for snorkelling and diving.

10) Surin Islands

The Surin Islands are another excellent location for diving and snorkelling . Like the Similan Islands, the Surin Islands also benefit from National Park status. But unlike the Similans, one of the islands here, Ko Surin Tai, is inhabited.

Ko Surin Tai is home to the Moken community. Sometimes referred to as ‘Chao Leh’ (People of the Sea), the Moken are renowned for their affinity with the sea and were living here long before the area was designated a National Park.

11) Ko Yao Noi

The twin islands of Ko Yao Noi and Ko Yao Yai are well worth spending at least a few nights on. But if you have limited time, a day trip from Phuket to Ko Yao Noi is a good introduction to the quiet charm of these islands.

The beaches of Ko Yao Noi might not be as attractive as those found on nearby Phuket, but the views of Phang Nga Bay are sublime. With relatively few tourists opting to stay here, Ko Yao Noi has a very different atmosphere to Phuket. Organised day trips from Phuket will include a ride across by longtail boat and the chance to cycle along Ko Yao Noi’s quiet rural roads through villages and rubber-tree plantations.

12) Phuket Elephant Sanctuary

Phuket Elephant Sanctuary is a final home for working elephants. The sanctuary follows the same hands-off model championed by Lek Chailert founder of Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai and Save Elephant Foundation.

Located in the north-east of the island, Phuket Elephant Sanctuary offers a number of visitor experiences. This includes the 600 metre-long canopy walkway where you can observe rescued elephants as they roam freely in the jungle below.

13) Phang Nga Elephant Park

Phang Nga Elephant Park is a small, family-owned elephant centre near Khao Lak. The park is smaller than Phuket Elephant Sanctuary and adopts a more intimate approach that enables visitors to get closer to the elephants.

As with the sanctuary on Phuket, visitors to Phang Nga Elephant Park can rest assured this is an ethical facility that looks after the animals, their mahouts, and the people who visit. Transfers are included from Khao Lak, Phang Nga, Phuket, Krabi and Khao Sok.

14) Phuket Old Town

If you’re staying on any of Phuket’s beaches, drag yourself away from the sand to spend at least half a day exploring the delightful Phuket Old Town . While Thailand’s largest island is now famous as a tourist destination, that wasn’t always the case. Long before the advent of tourism, Phuket’s wealth came from the tin mining industry and maritime trade.

Phuket’s tin mining industry flourished during the 1800s and attracted European and Chinese merchants. A number of the original buildings built by those traders can still be seen in the historic Phuket Old Town district. Admire the Sino-Portuguese architecture as you wander around the Old Town. You’ll also find colourful street art, charming boutiques and quaint cafes. Not to mention a fabulous food scene, some lively cocktail bars and atmospheric live music venues. Time your visit to Phuket Town for a Sunday afternoon or evening and you can also take in the excellent Walking Street Market that sets up along Thalang Road.

15) Takua Pa Old Town

If you’re staying in the Khao Lak area, a trip to Takua Pa is a good alternative to Phuket Old Town. Just as they did in Phuket, Chinese and European merchants migrated here to make money from the area’s tin mining industry.

The Sino-Portuguese buildings the merchants built remain in situ and, as with Phuket, many people in this area of Thailand have Chinese heritage. If you visit on a Sunday afternoon in the high season months (November-April), you can also visit the Takua Pa Walking Street in the Old Town area.

16) Little Amazon, Takua Pa

A trip to Takua Pa Old Town can be combined with a visit to the ‘Little Amazon’. This stretch of waterways and mangrove forests might lack the scale of the real Amazon, but it’s a fun place for people of all ages to explore with the opportunity to witness an array of wildlife in the treetops including birds, monkeys and snakes.

17) Khao Sok National Park

Make the trip inland to visit the stunning Khao Sok National Park . Ideally, this is an area to spend at least a night or two at somewhere like Elephant Hills or Anurak Community Lodge , but you can still see some of the main highlights on a day trip.

The scenery at Khao Sok is spectacular with vertiginous limestone mountains and lush forest. A typical day trip will include a longtail boat ride along Cheow Larn Lake and a visit to Ratchaprapa Dam.

For more ideas of what to see and do on the Andaman Coast near Krabi and Phuket, check out these links:

• Discover another side to Phuket
• Sample the gastronomic delights of Phuket
• 20 Phuket street foods and where to find them
• Get sporty in Phuket
• Dive into paradise on the Andaman Coast
• Khao Sok National Park
• 10 reasons to add Krabi to your Thailand itinerary

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Want to come face to face with some prehistoric creatures? Pay a visit to Dinosaur Valley at Nong Nooch Tropical in Pattaya. These tropical gardens occupy a space larger than some countries, so there’s plenty of room for over 100 of these Jurassic giants to “roam”. 🎥: @anyuta_fabula 📍: Pattaya

Do you have two weeks to spend travelling around Thailand? Here’s an itinerary that’ll enable you to get a glimpse of every region: Begin with four days in the bright lights of Bangkok; followed by four days immersing in the spectacular nature of Chiang Mai; three days exploring the temples in Chiang Rai; and finally three days on the picture-perfect beaches of Koh Samui. What are your travel plans? Let us know in the comments. 🎥: @wisteria_voyage 📍: Across Thailand

The lovely @hannahsummerstravels recently enjoyed a trip to Thailand and on her travels spent some time in Trang. Read on to find out more about her experience…. In Hannah’s words: “Trang, Thailand - a dim sum and dough lover’s dreeeam! This is my ideal destination (local, under the radar) and commission - writing about the town’s obsession with breakfast (and nine meals a day 🫠). Trang is a small, rarely visited town in the south of the country where the locals feast - virtually 24 hours a day - on dim sum, roast pork ‘moo yang’, freshly fried dough with custard, roti and tea and coffee made thick with condensed milk 🤤 It was one of the most exciting, relaxed places places I’ve visited in the country, and should be on every dim sum lover’s Thailand itinerary (so happy that some of you already have plans to go!) We dropped in here on the way to Koh Lanta, an island I LOVED that’s around two hours away (aim for @pimalaikohlanta, more on that later). All the details will be out soon in @natgeotraveluk Food magazine. Thanks to photographer @ulfsvane for making this one extra fun to research 📸 if you’re planning a trip, check out @fanclubthailand and speak to @insideasiatours 🗺️ (always up for hearing about amazing local food stories/spots - send your recs my way!)”

Are you ready for some Michelin-starred cuisine in Bangkok? Book a table at J’aime by Jean-Michel Lorain at U Sathorn, where you’ll be treated to an innovative French tasting menu par excellence. Like if you’re a foodie drawn to the finer things in life. 🎥 @acroxthepond 📍J’aime , Bangkok

Terminal 21 takes you on a trip around the world from one destination – a unique and immersive airport-themed shopping centre in Pattaya. Each of the floors have a different city as its theme, including: Paris, London, Rome, Tokyo, San Francisco and Hollywood. There are even replicas of the Eiffel Tower and Leaning Tower of Pisa. You can shop until you drop with around 600 shops, a cinema, restaurants and a food court with plenty of reasonably-priced food options. 🎥: @onelifetravelwow 📍: Pattaya

Thai New Year, or Songkran, takes place on 13th April, however the holiday period lasts three days. It is often celebrated by a huge water fight, with the water representing purification. It is a time when people reunite with their families and pay their respects to older adults, ancestors and sacred Buddha images. If you’re visiting Thailand during Songkran, you will have an amazing time, but do prepare to get wet. Are you visiting Thailand during Songkran? If so where in the country will you be? 🎥: @gyun_s and @bright.yun_ 📍: Bangkok

Pattaya is more than just its beaches and ‘Walking Street’ – there are so many beautiful spots to visit including cafes, bars, restaurants and attractions. You’ll find a replica of the Eiffel Tower in Terminal 21 Shopping Mall. For those with a sweet tooth, there is Great & Grand Sweet Destination. Soak up the history and spirituality at stunning temples. 🎥: @worldpitou 📍: Pattaya

Koh Ngam is a small island, 400 metres of the southeast of Koh Chang and accessible from there by kayak. The name Koh Ngam means ‘beautiful island’ and in this case it really does live up to its name. With a spectacular double-sided white sandy beach, visitors to Koh Ngam can experience both sunrise and sunset from the same beach. 🎥: @valentin_wie_der_sommer 📍: Koh Ngam

Khao Yai is a national park, less than 3 hours from Bangkok. It covers more than 2,000 square kilometres over 4 provinces. Temperatures in Khao Yai are lower than other areas of the country, making it a more comfortable place to explore the flora and fauna that call Khao Yai home, including 280 different species of bird. The air is clear and the nature trails are perfect for trekking, whether you want to explore for 45 minutes or 6 hours. A night safari is also available to book, allowing visitors the chance to spot some of the more nocturnal species in the park. It is also the perfect location for birdwatching, skygazing or camping. 🎥: @worldpitou 📍: Khao Yai

Markets are always a popular day-trip option when travelling, but most will not compare to the floating market in Damnoen Saduak, one of the biggest and most popular in Thailand. Here, the sights, sounds and smells are incomparable and you’ll find boats filled with exotic fruit, vegetables, fish, homewares and more. Others sell treats and snacks including fried chicken, pad thai, ice cream or sticky rice. There are also traditional wooden houses on stilts to see along the way. You can explore by boat or by foot. Just an hour away from Bangkok, yet feeling like a world away - the floating market will ensure a unique and memorable experience from your Thailand adventure. 🎥: @asianlife_fr 📍: Damnoen Saduak

If you take a speedboat trip from Koh Kood, you’ll find the stunning island of Koh Mak. It’s a small, quiet island, privately-owned by five families and a great place to relax. Here are five suggestions on things to do if you choose to visit Koh Mak: 1. Relax at Turtle Beach – Turtle Beach (Ao Tao Kai) is a remote beach on the far northern tip of the island that is totally worth the difficult trip to reach (via a very small road in a bit of disrepair or by kayak from Happy Days resort). It is stunning and you may well have the full beach to yourself when you visit. 2. Explore Koh Kham – a small island a ten-minute boat ride away with black volcanic rocks dotting the shoreline in various shapes and formations. A great location for snorkelling and diving with crystal clear waters and beautiful coral reefs. 3. Visit Ao Soun Yai Beach – One of the two main beaches on the island, stretching 2km. There are bars, restaurants and resorts nearby and plenty of shade from palm trees to relax under. 4. Dine at Ta-Lay Time restaurant – The perfect spot for dinner at sunset, this budget-friendly restaurant has the best views and gorgeous food. 5. Stay at Naivacha Tent -This glamping spot has an unbeatable beachfront location with great facilities including free wi-fi. It’s a great alternative to a traditional bungalow. Which of these would you choose to do first on your arrival to Koh Mak? 🎥: @alikainwanderlust 📍: Koh Mak

The White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) is a Buddhist temple in Chiang Rai. It shimmers in the sunlight due to its blend of whitewash and transparent mirrored chips adorning the structure of the temple. It must be seen with its incredible detail, sculptures and beauty. There is so much to view in the grounds and visitors can purchase a medallion from the temple store, write their name on it and hang it on a pagoda-shaped tree to commemorate their visit. Like this post if The White Temple is on your ‘to-visit’ list. 🎥: @letsjustgoaway14 📍: Chiang Rai

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How to Travel from Phuket to Krabi?

Phuket and Krabi are separated by the Andaman Sea. The distance between Phuket and Krabi is 160 kilometers by land.

You can travel between Phuket and Krabi by land or water. Ferry/speedboat, bus, and taxi are the three main ways to travel from Phuket to Krabi.

• There is no direct flight from Phuket to Krabi, so flying is not recommended.
• The fastest way to get from Phuket to Krabi is by speedboat.
• The cheapest way is by bus.
• During rainy season (June - October), taking a taxi (private transfer) is recommended. Because ferries/speedboats will be delayed or canceled because of rough seas sometimes.

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Phuket to Krabi by Ferry/Speedboat (Fastest)

• Cost: about 800–1,200 THB (US$24–36) p/p
• Journey time: 2–2½ hours (speedboat); 3-8 hours (ferry)

From Bang Rong Pier (north of Phuket), there are two speedboats to Krabi. They arrive at different piers: one at Nopparat Thara Pier, which is close to Ao Nang Beach, and the other at Floating Pier, which is close to Railay Beach.

The departure time is 9:30am and they take about 2 hours. The sea is often rough. If you suffer from seasickness, traveling by taxi is recommended instead.

From Rassada Pier (south of Phuket), there are ferries to Krabi once a day in the high seasons and three times a week in the low seasons. The direct trip takes about 2½-3 hours.

Another option is stopping over on Phi Phi Island, and then continuing the journey to Krabi later in the day. The whole journey will take 4-8 hours.

Check the sample itineraries for Thailand tours:  Top 5 Thailand Itineraries for 10 Days .

Phuket to Krabi by Taxi (Comfortable)

• Journey time: 2–2½ hours

Traveling from Phuket to Krabi by taxi is the most flexible and comfortable way. You can choose the pick-up and arrival points.

This is recommended if you'll carry a lot of luggage or have children or elderly people in your group — basically this is the best option for those who are prone to travel sickness.

Some taxis may refuse to use the meter or charge excessive prices. To avoid these problems, we recommend you book a taxi online or ask the hotel to call one for you. Then you will get a reasonable price.

Phuket to Krabi by Bus (Cheapest)

• Cost: about 2,600 THB ($78) per car (2–3 people)
• Journey time: 2½ hours

Phuket Bus Terminal 2 has hourly buses to Krabi Bus Terminal daily from 7:30am to 9:30pm. It won't be comfortable, but it could be a good local life experience and a chance to meet locals. Krabi Bus Terminal is 5 km (3 miles) from downtown Krabi.

Another way, shared minivan, is similar to going by bus. Ten seats are available per minivan. It is more convenient than a bus station bus in that it can pick you up from your hotel. However, you need to expect a painful amount of waiting time as the minivan will go from hotel to hotel picking up other passengers. You can purchase tickets from travel agents on the streets or at hotels.

What is the most recommended way to travel from Phuket to Krabi?

Speedboat and taxi are the two recommended ways. What will be best for you depends on your destination in Krabi.

If you book a hotel in Krabi near Ao Nang or Railay beach, which have speedboat piers, a speedboat would be fast and convenient.

If your destination is in/near Krabi town, or you fancy a comfortable and flexible journey, taxi would be the best choice.

You could choose a private tour with private transfers for zero-hassle, relaxing journeys.

We can help you arrange a worry-free private tour in Thailand.

• For a medium budget, touring Thailand typically costs around US$150–200  per day per person (including airfares within Thailand, 4-star hotels, attractions, guides, and transfers). 
• For a higher budget of US$200–250 per day per person, more comfort can be enjoyed (including airfares within Thailand, 5-star hotels, attractions, guides, and transfers). 

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Our guide lele is a wealth of information, Lele is very professional and very attentive to our needs. Lele is amazing. Lele got everything spot on. It probably helps that Guilin is a brilliant place to visit so Lele has great material to work with but that doesn't take anything away from how much Lele helped make it a great trip.

Our guide for Beijing was super knowledgeable and experienced and able to help us to achieve as much as we wanted within the time given. We had a fun time guided by him as he is also super humorous and you can see how he interacts with the vendors and people whom he comes by. Thank you for a very enjoyable time in Beijing and accommodating to all our needs!

Our China Highlight guide. Michael, was attentive, thoughtful and knowledgeable. He narrated many interesting historical events about Chengdu while touring around the city and having afternoon tea with us. He was thoughtful to provide us with snacks during long hikes at Leshan or walks around the city.

She was very flexible and added extra time when we needed it and we felt extremely well taken care of. She also chose the best restaurants for us,

Our tour guide Helen, was excellent, she was very kind, professional and passionate for her work and she also loves Pandas! She will take you to take the best panda photos and to know more about Chengdu city. Our tour was great, she took us to all our destinations always with the best spots: Temples, pagodas, famous streets, theaters, pandas...you name it! Everything was great.

He picked up our pre-booked boat/other excursions tickets so we were able to avoid all the long lines and chaos. He is knowledgeable of the places we visited, courteous, fun to travel with and well-versed in Chinese classics.

Tom is the guide that will take you to where no other guide will. We pushed for the experience and Tom and the team delivered more than what we could have ever asked for. His English speaking ability and his Chinese history knowledge is second to none.

Our day trip to Hangzhou was phenomenal. Derek, our guide, was impeccable. By far the best guide we have had so far. He is extremely knowledgeable about the country’s history and geography and was always excited to share his insights.

Xian es encantadora, el hotel Eastern house boutique muy buena elección por parte de la agencia, los desayunos muy completos para complacer todo tipo de gusto, lo recomiendo 100%, el itinerario fue muy acertado fueron 2 días en la ciudad xian, compartimos con la guía Susana, la atención, la amabilidad y sobre todo su profesionalismo fue lo que marcó la diferencia, sus detalles, estaba siempre en el lugar y momento correcto para hacer de xian un lugar inolvidable.

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5 Dreamy Day Trips from Krabi that Prove Thailand is Drop Dead Gorgeous

Note: This post may contain affiliate links. If you choose to book through these links, I receive a small commission, which I will undoubtedly blow on more flights (it’s a vicious cycle).  All of this internet voodoo takes place at no additional cost to you. 

Inside: From the stunning limestone cliffs of Phang Nga Bay to the glittering beaches of the Phi Phi Islands, here’s why Krabi is the perfect home base to discover the wonders of Thailand.

Ahh, Thailand.

It’s one of my favorite countries in the world to visit. In fact, I’ve included Thailand on the itinerary for 8 out of 10 of my Round-the-World trips . I just can’t get enough.

It’s so much more than just the fascinating culture and friendly smiles of welcoming locals. From gilded temples to sparkling white-sand beaches, Thailand is home to a stunning landscape that beckons travelers (like me) back again and again.

And let’s be honest, Thai food is worth the trip alone. From street food to seafood, it’s a culinary adventure.

But while the bustling city of Bangkok is a must when visiting Thailand, the incredible Thai islands are the real show stopper.

Read More: Everything’s Better in Bangkok

I’m talking about some of the world’s dreamiest tropical islands. More than 1,400 islands, in fact. Thailand’s beautifully diverse islands wow visitors with turquoise lagoons, white-sand beaches, coral reefs, and abundant marine life.

And many of those Instagram-worthy islands can be explored within a short speedboat ride of popular resort destinations like Phuket and Krabi.

But first, do I need a Covid test for Thailand?

As of October 2022, Thailand is fully open to all travelers regardless of vaccination status and without the need for pre-arrival testing. After several years of Covid-related restrictions, this is welcome news!

Now, let’s get back to the fun stuff!

Which is better Krabi or Phuket?

Yes, most of the lovely islands I list below can also be visited by day trip from Phuket. However, I much prefer Krabi as a home base for island-hopping in Thailand.

And here’s why.

A small province in the south of Thailand, Krabi is bordered by the calm, azure Andaman Sea on one side and Malaysia on the other. It’s a more tranquil option than the popular tourist hub of Phuket, and that’s why Krabi is the perfect place to unwind and relax on an empty beach.

Tip: If you don’t like crowds, never, ever go to Phuket over Chinese New Year.

Read More: Packed in Phuket: A Lesson in What Not to Do for Chinese New Year

Sure, Phuket is mountainous and beautiful. But it’s also jam-packed with high-end resorts. And that equals traffic.

So when given the choice between the mega-resorts and traffic of Phuket versus laid-back Krabi, I choose Krabi.

Every. Single. Time.

The province of Krabi boasts some of Thailand’s most spectacular beaches. Resorts here are more spread out, beaches are less crowded and sunsets are divine.

So if you’re trying to decide between Phuket and Krabi, choose Krabi. You won’t regret it.

How to Get from Bangkok to Krabi

While there are a few international flights directly to Krabi (from Singapore, Malaysia, Qatar, and China), most international flights arrive in Thailand via Bangkok.

From there, it’s a quick, easy, and affordable flight to Krabi’s (KBV) airport with round-trip flights averaging less than $100 US.

Flights to Krabi are available from both of Bangkok’s airports, Suvarnabhumi International Airport (BKK – where international flights arrive) and Don Mueang International Airport (DMK – home to most domestic flights).

Flights from Don Mueang tend to be a little cheaper. However, if you’re arriving on an international flight into BKK and heading straight to Krabi, it’s not worth the considerable hassle to change airports.

Of course, if you’re spending a few days in Bangkok before heading on to the islands, flights from Don Mueang are a great option.

Do I need a rental car in Krabi?

It’s not necessary to have a rental car in Krabi. Transportation options are readily available at the airport and most day trips include pickup at your resort.

That said, I always prefer to rent a car when visiting Krabi. I enjoy the freedom of having my own wheels to explore on my own schedule.

And since Krabi covers a much larger area than Phuket, having a car can be an advantage to get from your resort to Krabi Town or to the pier to hire a long-tail boat for the day.

I would NOT, however, recommend getting a car in Phuket. Distances in Phuket are shorter, traffic is a real issue, and taxis and tuk-tuks are an affordable way to get around.

By comparison, driving the country roads of Krabi province is very straightforward as long as you’re comfortable driving on the left. If you do decide to rent a car, I like DiscoverCars.com for finding the best deals with no surprises at the counter.

Discover Cars

My favorite rental car booking site to use all over the world. No hidden costs, free cancellation, and 24/7 customer support.

What’s the best time to visit Krabi?

For both Phuket and Krabi, the best time to visit is mid-November through April which is considered high season. You’ll find the holiday months of December and January especially popular, as well as the weeks surrounding Chinese New Year.

During the high season months, you’ll enjoy sunny skies and calmer seas for boat trips making this an ideal time to visit.

However, you can visit either destination year-round. But if you do visit in the summer rainy season, expect the occasional torrential downpour and a 50/50 chance of canceled boat trips.

All of my trips to Thailand have been in the high season months. Except for one visit to Krabi in July. Yes, we got a lot of rain on that trip, but we also got fewer crowds and terrific hotel deals. So there are a few perks to visiting in the low season.

Read More: The Full Monsoon-Season-Monty in Krabi Thailand

How many days in Krabi is enough?

Honestly, you could spend a month in Krabi and still keep finding new islands and beaches to explore. Or you could spend just a week and squeeze in all the terrific island day trips I’ve listed below.

I’d say a week is the minimum amount of time to properly explore the region and some of the best nearby islands. But if you have 10 days or two weeks, even better.

Where to stay in Krabi

Krabi has everything from 5-star luxury resorts and charming boutique properties to budget hotels and apartment rentals. I’m a big fan of some of Krabi’s resort options since resorts of this caliber outside of Southeast Asia would be twice the price.

In other words, it’s easy to find luxury for less in Thailand.

Here are a few of my favorites:

• Banyan Tree Krabi – For a real splurge, this chic beachfront resort is a true oasis. Situated on beautiful Tab Kaek Beach, each room is a spacious suite with stylish decor. The best part? Every suite comes complete with a private pool. If you’ve always dreamed of a suite with your own private pool, this is one of the most affordable places to find it. In fact, a room with a private pool will run you twice as much per night at the Rayavadee (below).
• Dusit Thani Krabi Beach Resort – I first stayed at this affordable, luxury resort back when it was the Sheraton Krabi and it’s always been one of my favorite places to stay when visiting Krabi. Located on peaceful Klong Muang Beach, this resort has everything you need for a relaxing Krabi holiday…at half the price of the other two options on this list. Bonus: There are several restaurants within walking distance so you can avoid the typical overpriced resort restaurants.
• Rayavadee Krabi – When it comes to natural, scenic locations, the Rayavadee resort is hard to beat. Located on Railay Beach, Rayavadee is surrounded by soaring limestone cliffs and swaying palms. All rooms are private villas (called “Pavilions”) that blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings.

What are the best islands to visit from Krabi?

So let’s get to the good stuff…island hopping!

If you’re visiting Krabi, here are five great island day trips to add to your must-do list:

1. Hong Island

Set against the spectacular backdrop of Phang Nga Bay, the four small islands that make up the Koh Hong group are widely considered to be some of the area’s most beautiful.

A part of the National Marine Park, the largest of the four islands is the superbly scenic Hong Island. This uninhabited island features soaring limestone cliffs and a vast interior lagoon (the “ chamber ” from whence its Thai name, “ Hong ” originates).

The deep emerald green of the lagoon is accessed through a dramatic cliff passage and is best explored by kayak or longtail boat. And don’t forget to bring a few slices of bread to feed the schools of tropical fish that will eagerly eat right out of your hand just a few steps from shore.

Krabi to Hong Island by Speedboat Tour

There are plenty of group day trips that visit the Hong Islands. The benefit of a group tour is that they allow you to also visit the small beautiful islands of Pakbia, Rai, Lahding, and Daeng in one easy trip.

The downside, of course, is that you’ll be visiting the islands with lots of other day-trippers.

Hong Island One-Day Tour by Speed Boat

A speed boat group tour is the most affordable way to see Hong Island from Krabi. This 6-hour trip allows you to take in more of the surrounding islands and also includes lunch, drinks, and snacks. The only downside is you’ll be visiting with a group.

Krabi to Hong Island on Your Own

The closest beach to reach Hong Island is Klong Muang, where I recently stayed at the Dusit Thani Krabi. A longtail boat from this quiet beach will have you stepping off the dock onto Hong Island in just over 30 minutes.

Krabi to Hong Island by Private Longtail Boat

If you want to book your Hong Island trip in advance instead of hiring a longtail boat when you arrive, this private tour is a great choice. They also provide transportation from your hotel:

Hong Island Tour by Private Longtail Boat

A private longtail boat is the only way to beat the crowds at Hong Island and this trip is my favorite option. Ignore the start times listed, they’ll customize the trip to whenever you want to go. My advice? Get an early start and head out by 7:30am.

Fair warning, go early if you want to capture the image above. We arrived a little after 8:00am and tour boats began to show up in force by 10:00am and continued throughout the day. On your own, you can easily visit Hong Island as a half-day trip (in the morning) and plan something else for the afternoon.

Bottom Line:  If you’re looking for a quick and easy trip to a beautiful offshore island, Hong Island is a terrific choice.

2. Phi Phi Islands

The Phi Phi islands are an archipelago of six islands in Thailand. The two largest and most well-known islands are Ko Phi Phi Don and its sister island, Ko Phi Phi Leh.

The islands catapulted to fame in 2000 when Phi Phi Leh’s stunning Maya Bay was featured in the film “ The Beach ” with Leonardo DiCaprio. Due to large waves that make the entrance to the bay dangerous in the low season, it’s only possible to visit Maya Bay from November to April.

However, in 2018 severe over-tourism led Thai officials to temporarily close Maya Bay to visitors. While it was initially announced to be a 6-month closure, the bay remained closed to visitors for several years.

Thankfully, as of October 1, 2023, Maya Bay is once again open to visitors. So get there while you can!

Tip: Before you book a Phi Phi Islands tour, check with the tour operator to be sure it includes a stop at Maya Bay. While the bay has re-opened, not all tour operators have added this stop back to the itinerary.

Read More:  Heaven on Earth – Ko Phi Phi Thailand

Can you spend the night on Phi Phi Don?

Indeed you can! And there are some gorgeous resorts on the island. Here are a few great resort options on Phi Phi Don:

• Zeavola Resort  – Generally speaking, hotels are pretty affordable on Phi Phi Don. But if you’re looking for a bit of a splurge, this secluded beachfront resort is my top choice on the island. Located on the northern tip of Phi Phi Don, this 10-acre retreat with a private, pristine beach is a true oasis on an island better known for backpackers and guesthouses.
• Phi Phi Holiday Resort  – Just a bit further south from Zeavola on the tranquil northern peninsula, this resort benefits from the same scenic location at a more affordable price. While the rooms are slightly dated (compared to Zeavola), they are sparkling clean and well-equipped. And the stretch of beachfront at this resort is so gorgeous you’ll have trouble tearing yourself away to explore the rest of the island.
• HIP Seaview Resort @ Phi Phi  – Situated on a hilltop with panoramic sea views (hence the name), this boutique resort is a steal with most rates below $100 US/night. Rooms are comfy bungalow-style, most offering stunning views thanks to the elevated location. The flip side of that? To reach the beach, you’ll need to navigate a considerable stairway.

Krabi to the Phi Phi Islands by Tour

If you don’t have enough time to spend the night on beautiful Phi Phi Don, you can still visit the island from Krabi by day trip. Due to the travel time out to the island and back, most tours last at least 7 hours.

There are dozens of tour options to choose from. Here are a few good ones:

Krabi to the Phi Phi Islands on Your Own

To go it on your own, you have two options – ferry or speed boat. The ferry is the most popular (and affordable) option and takes about 90 minutes. During high season, it’s advisable to book your tickets in advance. Ferries depart from Krabi’s Klong Jilad Pier.

All ferries arrive on Phi Phi Don’s Ton Sai Pier.

Speed boats to Phi Phi take about an hour and are available from Ao Nang Pier, Railay Beach Pier, and the Krabi River Marina.

Because timetables and prices change frequently, it’s best to get the most current information from your hotel before planning your day trip.

3. The 4 Islands Tour

One of the most popular day trips from Krabi, the 4 Islands Tour includes Koh Poda, Ko Kai (Chicken Island), Tup Island, and Phranang Cave Beach.

This day trip includes 4 small islands with breathtaking beaches and terrific snorkeling. Plan on a full day for this one, too. The average trip is a minimum of 6 hours and typically includes lunch.

4 Island Sunset Snorkeling Cruise + bioluminescent Night Snorkel

This is my favorite of the “4-islands” trips because it actually includes 5 islands! Plus sunset and a very awesome night snorkel. You’ll spend the day exploring on a classic junk boat instead of a speed boat and a buffet dinner is also included.

Bottom Line:  If you’re looking to squeeze in several unique islands in a single day, the 4-Islands tour is your best bet.

4. Phang Nga Bay (James Bond Island & Koh Panyee)

Yes, James Bond island is a bit of a tourist trap. But the boat trip to get there is one of the world’s most scenic. So, to me, it’s still well worth the trip.

Bonus:   Most tours combine the trip to James Bond island with a fascinating stop at Koh Panyee .

James Bond Island

Made famous in the movie, “ The Man with the Golden Gun, ” James Bond island is one of Thailand’s most popular photo-ops. Though the movie places the location in China, Thailand is the island’s true home.

It’s an extremely frequent stop with the jam-packed tourist boats so the tiny island is pretty much always crawling with people. My advice? Get your photo op and savor the outstanding boat ride through Phang Nga Bay.

When three families set sail from Indonesia some 200 years ago in search of a new place to live, the vertical limestone cliffs of this tiny island hardly seemed a logical choice. But the first of these families were lured by the abundance of fish and raised a flag atop the cliff to signal the others – giving the island its name, Koh Panyee or the Island of the Flag.

Today, more than 1,400 people from 315 families call Koh Panyee home.

Over the years they have expanded their village to include hundreds of huts, restaurants, and houses built on stilts over the shallow sea, as well as a school, a mosque, and a health center.

While fishing was once the sole industry for these villagers, tourism now dominates the local economy. Restaurants overlooking the sea here are the typical stop for lunch when spending the day touring Phang Nga Bay.

Krabi to Phang Nga Bay by Tour

Options abound from the Krabi area for a leisurely day trip around beautiful Phang Nga Bay. This is one of my favorites:

Island Hopping to James Bond Islands from Krabi with Speedboat

While this IS a speedboat tour, they limit the group size to a max of 17 people so it’s more of a “small group” tour than the larger speedboats. Plus the guide does a great job of staggering island visits to avoid most of the crowds. This full-day trip also includes lunch.

Krabi to Phang Nga Bay on Your Own

If you have a car and you’re up for an adventure, make the 90-minute drive to Phang Nga’s Surakul Pier.

There, you’ll find plenty of longtail boats available for hire for a tour of the bay. You can join another small group or hire your own longtail boat for the day as I did a few years ago on  Round the World #5 . It was a relaxing and affordable way to explore the bay and its top sights.

Read More:  Beloved Bangkok & a Trip to Phang Nga Bay

5. Koh Lanta

Originally settled by a nomadic clan of sea gypsies more than 500 years ago, today Koh Lanta still remains 95% Muslim lending it a more conservative culture than other parts of Thailand.

Stretching nearly 20 miles and boasting 11 white sand beaches, Lanta Yai is the main tourist destination in the archipelago. It’s also where most hotels and tourist facilities are located.

Koh Lanta is one of my favorite Thai islands. It’s less touristy than many others and is known for long stretches of empty beaches. So, in my opinion, it’s worth spending several days. But the island can be visited on a day trip from Krabi.

Read More:   Paradise Found on Koh Lanta – Thailand’s Best Island to Unwind

Tip:   If you do decide to spend a few days and you’re looking for a great hotel right on the beach, check out the   Lanta Castaway Resort . 

Krabi to Koh Lanta by Tour

Most tours to “Koh Lanta” actually visit several of the small surrounding islands like Koh Rok and Koh Haa. Many also visit the stunning Emerald Cave on Koh Mook. Plan on a full day and several idyllic islands to explore.

Krabi to Koh Lanta on Your Own

Koh Lanta is easily accessible by speedboat or ferry. The ferry takes a little over 2 hours and can be crowded and uncomfortable during the high season.

Alternatively, from Krabi’s private speedboat dock, the journey takes just 15 minutes. Of course, that convenience costs more, but if you’re visiting just for the day, the time savings is definitely worth it.

Wrapping it up!

And there you have it, the 5 best island-hopping day trips you can’t miss when visiting the Province of Krabi.

So whether you’re looking for sunbathing, snorkeling, or just a day on the water exploring some of Thailand’s best islands, Krabi is the perfect launching point.

And if you’re searching for more terrific destinations in Thailand, start here:

3 Reasons Koh Lipe is the Best Thai Island You’ve Never Heard Of

Koh Samui: Thailand’s Next Great Tourism Star

Chiang Mai – Northern Thailand

Kicking Back in Khao Lak Thailand

Back to the Beach…Phuket Thailand

Thai Beach Perfection – Phuket & Khao Lak

And if you’re headed to Bangkok, here’s everything you need to know:

Long Lights & Late Nights in Bangkok

Whatever/Whenever Wows at W Bangkok

Bedtime in Bangkok

Chatuchak Market Bangkok

Two Massages, a Fish Spa & a Pharmacy: An Ode to Bangkok’s Khao San Road

Best domestic travel ticket deals

Best hotel deals in Thailand

Amazing experiences in Thailand

6 Best Ways How To Get From Phuket To Krabi?

When I have to pick the transport for the planned route, I look at two things. Will I see new places and meet new people and what will be the cost of it. So let’s take a look at what options do we have if we want to travel from Phuket to Krabi and back.

What are the 6 best ways how to get from Phuket to Krabi?

• By ferry from Rassada pier in Phuket to Klong Jilad Pier in Krabi
• By bus from Phuket Bus Terminal 2 to Krabi Bus Terminal
• By minibus from your hotel
• By private speedboat
• By rental car

Of course, there are other options like cycling or hitchhiking but I will exclude both of these because cycling in Thailand will be too dangerous and locals are not familiar with the idea of hitchhiking.

Now as we’re aware of the traveling options from Phuket to Krabi lets take a closer look and compare each of them.

Get From Phuket To Krabi By Ferry

When planning your trip from Phuket to Krabi by ferry, you should know that ferry on its way to Krabi makes a stop at Ao Nang Beach.

I would recommend staying in Ao Nang over the Krabi. I will write a separate article and explain why.

As I have already mentioned it ferry from Phuket leaves at Rassada Pier. In high season it is recommended to be there early to avoid long lines and to get the best seats.

We had the ferry from Phuket to Krabi in September which is low season. It was almost empty, and it was easy to walk around. We took pictures outside for as long as we wanted. Then we went downstairs to get the coffee and then back to ferry front deck where we enjoyed it.

How much does the ferry cost from Phuket to Krabi?

The price for the ferry from Phuket to Krabi for adults is THB 690 (USD 21,68 or EUR 19,10) per person. For kids, it is THB 490 (USD 15,40 or EUR 13,57).

The price also includes minibus transfer from your hotel to Rassada Pier and from Klong Jilad Pier in Krabi to your new hotel.

Note that these transfers are okay from touristy places in Phuket like Patong Beach or Kata Beach, but more distant areas like Rawai Beach might be a problem. You have to make sure that transfer will be able to pick you up in the morning.

In my case, I bought the ferry ticket in Kata Beach, but as I was staying in Rawai Beach, I had to book the taxi in advance with the help of my hotel. That cost me extra THB 600 (USD 18,86 or EUR 16,61) to get from Rawai Beach to Rassada Pier in Phuket.

One more thing. There is only one ferry per der from Phuket to Krabi, and it leaves at 8:30 AM so you will have to wake up early.

How long is the ferry ride from Phuket to Krabi?

The ferry ride from Phuket to Krabi is 2 hours and 45 minutes long.

If the weather is nice, I believe it is the best way how to get from Phuket to Krabi.

Once you get closer to Ao Nang and Krabi, you will see many small and beautiful islands all around you. Have a camera with good zoom and stabilizer, and you will be able to make some awesome pictures.

Note that the ferry ride probably will be the smoothest ride among other options as speedboat might be quite bumpy, and the Thai roads aren’t the best as well.

Where to buy ferry tickets from Phuket to Krabi?

There are several options but I would like to highlight only one, and that is buying the ferry ticket at any travel agency in Phuket. So anywhere in Phuket Town, Patong Beach, Karon Beach, etc.

I suggest this because then you will also get the transfer from your place of staying to the Rassada Pier in Phuket. As ferry is leaving only at 8:30 AM it makes it a perfect option.

But you can also buy the ferry ticket online or at the Rassada Pier in Phuket.

Speedboat From Phuket To Krabi

I suggest choosing speedboats for island hopping tours only. This way you will spend less time on the boat, and you will have more time to spend on beautiful islands in Phuket.

So, how to get from Phuket to Krabi by speedboat?

First of all, there are private tours only.

The idea is simple. With more travelers, the speedboat gets cheaper.

The total one-way price for the speedboat that has space for six passengers will be about THB 14 000 (USD 440,27 or EUR 387,65).

So if you are six travelers, you will have to pay THB 2 333 (USD 73,39 or EUR 64,58) each to get from Phuket to Krabi by speedboat.

It is almost five times more expensive than the ferry, but there is an even cheaper alternative.

If you would be a group of 15 travelers you could hire the speedboat with space for 15 passengers. In this case, the ride from Phuket to Krabi would cost only THB 1400 (USD 44,03 or EUR 38,75) per person.

And if you are a good negotiator, the price could get even more attractive.

If you choose the speedboat over other options, I believe it will be possible to negotiate to stop at random islands on the way to Krabi.

From Phuket To Krabi By Bus

It probably will be the second or maybe even the first choice for most of the travelers because you can not get seasick on the bus 🙂

Where to buy the bus ticket from Phuket to Krabi?

The only place where to get bus ticket is in the Phuket Bus Terminal 2 or in the bus itself.

The ticket will cost you THB 117 (USD 3,68 or EUR 3,24) for a regular government licensed bus.

The bus ride from Phuket Town to Krabi Town will take about 3 hours, and in Krabi, you will finish your trip in Krabi Bus Terminal.

In early morning buses from Phuket to Krabi leave every 30 minutes.

Bus from Phuket to Krabi is going past the Phuket airport. So you might want to check the map for options getting onto the bus at some place close to you.

From Phuket To Krabi By Minibus

The best thing about minibus is that it will pick you up from your hotel.

Minibus with nine seats in it will cost you starting from THB 3 200 (USD 100 or EUR 88,60).

To book one ask at your hotel reception or you could book online.

I’ve driven minibusses in Thailand quite a lot, and I’ve noticed that Thai drivers like loud music so be prepared for two hours long party 🙂

Taxi from Phuket To Krabi

Taxi is similar to the minibus. Only, in this case, it is cheaper. It will cost you starting from THB 2 500 (USD 78,65 or EUR 69,19) to get to Krabi.

Booking a taxi at your hotel almost always will be more expensive than catching a taxi on the street. It is because most hotels have their flat rates for taxi rides to the most popular tourist destinations. And of course, these rates include a commission for the hotel.

I already mentioned booking a taxi with the help of my hotel from Rawai Beach to Rassada Pier in Phuket. That ride cost me THB 600 (USD 18,89 or EUR 16,61) which I find quite expensive, but I had no other options.

I am not sure that taxi drivers from the street will agree to drive you to Krabi. I doubt it because drivers booked through the hotel are more like private drivers. Their cars have no stickers or signs that would indicate that this is a taxi.

From Phuket To Krabi By Rental Car

The last one is the option to rent a car at Phuket airport and drive it to the Krabi airport.

I have to admit that I haven’t driven a car in Thailand and therefore I can not say anything specific about this option but it sounds good enough and you might want to consider it.

I checked a couple of car rental websites and seemed like it will cost you about THB 1 400 (USD 44 or EUR 38,70) to rent a car in Phuket for one day.

Related Questions

Can you buy ferry tickets at Rassada Pier? Yes, you can, but you should be aware that purchasing ferry tickets at Rassada Pier might be more expensive than buying tickets elsewhere. It is because taxi drivers and other services get a commission from getting you to the pier.

What is the distance from Phuket to Krabi? The distance between Phuket and Krabi by land is 158,9 kilometers (98,7 miles) long. Distance from Phuket to Krabi by water is 60 kilometers (37,2 miles) long.

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The ultimate 7 day phuket itinerary + koh phi phi & krabi (2024).

No Thailand trip is complete without visiting the country’s biggest, most diverse and most popular island – Phuket!

Located in the south of Thailand, in the gorgeous Andaman Sea, Phuket is known for its beautiful beaches, buzzing night markets, breath taking natural scenery and world-class resorts.

But being such a big and vibrant island, which beaches, attractions and other islands should you visit and how do you fit all the highlights into one epic Thailand adventure!? Well, this post contains all you need to know…

I’m an expat who has been living in Phuket for over 3 years and has explored the island from top to bottom. So I’ve created what I think is the best Phuket itinerary with my insider tips.

This fun-filled 7 day itinerary for Phuket, Thailand includes the must-see’s, hidden gems, and island hopping to Koh Phi Phi and Krabi while skipping the over-rated places to make the most of your time here.

No time to read now? Pin this for later!

The Ultimate 7 Day Phuket Itinerary – How to Spend 7 Days in Phuket, Koh Phi Phi and Krabi.

The first part of planning your Phuket itinerary is setting your dates and booking in your flights and accommodation – then you can start deciding all the fun things you’re going to do!

Phuket’s international airport makes getting to the island easy. The best time to visit Phuket weatherwise is between December and March. This is also the peak season so book your flights, accommodation and activities like island hopping trips in advance. I’ll include plenty more Phuket travel tips at the end of this article.

Where To Stay in Phuket, Thailand

As Thailand’s largest island, there’s a huge range of different areas and places to stay in Phuket to suit all budgets and types of traveller.

From luxury hotels and family friendly resorts, to budget hotels and backpacker hostels, there’s no shortage of choice so the best place for you will really depend on what you are looking for.

Each place has a very different vibe so you can find out more about Phuket’s best hotels, resorts, and areas in my comprehensive guide on where to stay in Phuket .

The best beaches in Phuket are located on the West Coast. Lively Patong Beach is best for nightlife and budget travelers, while Kata beach, Karon beach and Kamala beach are popular with families and couples as they offer a more balanced experience.

Further north, Bang Tao beach and Mai Khao beach offer unspoiled beaches, luxury resorts and a peaceful atmosphere. Old Phuket Town is the historical and cultural heart of the island and offers cafes, markets and colourful, heritage and boutique hotels .

To follow this itinerary I’d recommend staying near Nai Harn and Rawai  in the south as these are the most stunning and trendy areas to stay right now.

Here are my top accommodation picks for Nai Harn and Rawai that provide a convenient base for this Phuket itinerary:

• Best Luxury Hotel: The Nai Harn – Perched on a hill overlooking Nai Harn beach this stunning 5 star hotel offers a beach-club style pool and bar area and an amazing breakfast buffet!
• Best Mid-Range Hotel:  Selina   – Stylish “all-in-one resort” with a beachfront restaurant and pool, wellness deck, and co-working space perfect for digital nomads.
• Best Budget Hote l: Roost Glamping – Unique and glamourous camping experience with a pool and proper beds in stylish bells tents surrounded by nature.

Be aware that it is a 1-hour (or more) drive from Phuket International Airport which is located in the north of the island to Rawai in the South.

Staying at Kata Beach is also a good option as there’s a bit more choice and it’s more centrally located but the beaches are busier here.

How Long To Spend In Phuket

There’s so many beautiful places to visit and things to do in Phuket that a weekend or 3 days in Phuket is not enough time to see it all.

Along with exploring different beaches and attractions on Phuket island itself, you’ll also want to visit a few nearby islands. And maybe you want to see the nearby provinces of Phang Nga or Krabi , too?

If so, I highly recommend staying at least 7 days in Phuket (or more). Seven days is just enough time to enjoy all the top offerings of Phuket, plus check out the famous Phi Phi islands and some parts of Phang Nga Bay and Krabi too.

While the following itinerary can easily fit into seven days, if you have more time and want to take it slower I recommend staying in Phuket for 10 days or 2 weeks. You could extend your stay in Krabi, add a couple more island day trips or stay a few nights on Phuket’s other beautiful islands like Koh Yao Yai.

For more inspiration check out my Phuket Island Hopping And Day Trips guide – I guarantee you won’t get bored!

But how can you fit it all into seven days? The following 7 days in Phuket itinerary will show you how!

The Best 7 Day Phuket, Krabi, Phi Phi Itinerary

Day 1 – arrive, settle in and relax.

Ease into your 7 day Phuket itinerary by spending the first day settling into your hotel and enjoying the beaches and local attractions. Make your arrival smooth and stress free by prebooking an airport transfer to avoid getting ripped off by taxis.

Once you’ve checked into your accommodation and unpacked, head to the beautiful Nai Harn beach  to refresh in the turquoise waters of the Andaman Sea and soak up the sun.

Just before sunset, drive or  hike up the hill to The Windmill  for an epic sunset. Alternatively, head to the nearby  Yanui beach  for a sunset kayaking session!

Go for dinner at one of the incredible seafood restaurants along Rawai Beach. I recommend  Nikita’s  (book ahead to get a waterside table!). After dinner, head across the road to Freedom Bar or Rawai Reggae Bar for live music and drinks.

Or, if you are feeling jet lagged and want to get an early night for a big day of beach hopping tomorrow, treat yourself to one of the spa treatments at your hotel.

Day 2 – Explore Phuket’s Famous West Coast Beaches

Phuket is home to some of the best beaches in Thailand, so it only makes sense to begin your Phuket itinerary with a beach day!

Start the day by  hiking up to Promthep Cape  in Rawai – the most southern point in Phuket. This stunning peninsula gets crowded every evening for sunset, but in the morning, it’s peaceful and beautiful. You can enjoy the view from the top or hike down to the end of the cape.

From here, head to  Kata Beach for a morning surf session but make sure to stop at the viewpoint where you can get a stunning view of three beaches.

I f you prefer to sunbathe, check out Kata’s smaller sister – Kata Noi Beach . This tiny cove is home to numerous luxury resorts, giving it an almost private beach vibe.

Enjoy lunch in Kata town before taking a short drive to Karon Beach , one of the longest and most stunning white sand beaches in Phuket. 

Along the way, stop at the trendy ‘ A Blanket & A Pillow Cafe ‘ for an iced coffee with an epic view overlooking the south of Karon beach.

Conclude your afternoon with a long walk or relaxing beach massage on Karon Beach before heading to Patong for the evening.

Hail one of the many tuk tuks for a fun ride to the famous Bangla Road at Patong beach , a bustling strip of bars and nightclubs.

Tuck into some delicious and affordable Thai cuisine at Patong Night Market . Here, you can get some of the cheapest and tastiest Pad Thai, delicious fresh fruit, and Thai desserts.

Patong is undoubtedly the hub of Phuket nightlife, but Bangla Road can be pretty noisy and seedy so isn’t everyone’s cup of tea but it’s worth checking it out at least once.

If you prefer a more chilled and elegant evening, head to one of the rooftop bars for spectacular sunset views or back to Karon Beach for cocktails and fire shows at  Tann Terrace .

Day 3 – Enjoy Unspoilt Beaches and Elephant Sanctuaries

For day 3 in Phuket, explore the island’s north, where you will find many more stunning beaches and fabulous attractions.

Bang Tao Beach  is 6 km of white sand with crystal clear waters ideal for swimming. The nearby  Surin Beach is much smaller but has a wild, untouched vibe. Parts of it are also shaded by palm trees, helping you escape the heat!

I recommend enjoying a leisurely lunch complete with an ice-cold beer at one of the beach clubs, such as Hugo Hug, Carpe Diem, or Catch.

After lunch, if you want more beach time, head to Banana Beach or Mai Khao Beach , two peaceful and beautiful beaches in the far north of the island.

If you’re all beached out, head to  Phuket Elephant Sanctuary in Thalang. Unlike many of Phuket’s ‘elephant camps, ‘ this ethical elephant sanctuary does not harm elephants by offering rides or bathing sessions. Instead, you can admire the beautiful mammals from above on a 1.5-hour canopy walkway tour .

Looking for an epic dining experience? Then, on the way back to your hotel, stop at  Three Monkeys , one of Phuket’s most famous restaurants. Three Monkeys boasts a breath taking hilltop location built amidst a lush rainforest. The food and drink are a bit more expensive than other places, but it’s worth it because the views and experience are priceless!

Day 4 – Discover Temples, Thai Culture and Phuket Old Town

Now you’ve seen some of Phuket’s beaches it’s time for some Thai culture! On day 4, visit Phuket town to see Phuket’s cultural hub and explore some nearby temples.

Start the day with a  Thai cooking class where you visit a local market to buy the ingredients before making some famous Thai food such as pad thai, vegetable spring rolls and green curry. At the end of the cooking class, you can taste your creations, filling your belly for an afternoon of sightseeing.

Continue your cultural exploration with a visit to  Wat Chalong , one of Phuket’s most significant historical landmarks. This temple is just as popular with locals as it is with tourists. So you can learn first hand about the Thai culture of merit-making, a Buddhist practice for clearing bad karma and bringing good luck.

For sunset head up to the famous  Big Buddha nearby. This is not your standard temple; it is a 45-meter (148 feet) tall and 25.45-meter (83.5 feet) wide white Buddha statue sitting atop one of the highest mountains on Phuket island.

The concrete statue is covered with Burmese white marble, and you can spot it from various points on the island. Still, it’s well worth seeing it up close, where you will also get an incredible view over the south of the island. It’s a popular sunset spot.

In the evening, head to  Phuket Old Town  to check out the colourful historic shophouses, boutiques and cafes. For dinner try some top-quality Thai food or international cuisine.

The best and easiest way to see all of these cultural attractions is with a tour like this half day Phuket City Tour which takes you to the Big Buddha, Wat Chalong, Phuket Town and an amazing viewpoint.

If you’re visiting Phuket Old Town on the weekend, check out the night markets for cheap but delicious street food. Try to visit on a Sunday to experience the Phuket Sunday Walking Street Market , when the streets really come to life and a great place to pick up some cool and unique souvenirs and gifts!

If you’re there on a weekday, don’t worry, as there are plenty of incredible restaurants in Phuket Town.  Go Benz  is extremely popular among locals, with long queues leading down the street every night.

Then, for dessert, grab some French toast from Phuketique before enjoying a cocktail or two at one of Phuket Town’s MANY cute bars.

Day 5 – Visit Phang Nga Bay & James Bond Island

For day 5, it’s time to get out of Phuket and explore the stunning Phang Nga Bay, located in the next province north of Phuket.

Morning & Afternoon

One of the most popular ways to explore Phang Nga Bay is with a boat trip to James Bond Island . This island became famous after being used as a filming location for the 1974 James Bond movie “ The Man with the Golden Gun.”

There are many different types of boat trips available to James Bond Island, including via speed boat, luxury yacht, and traditional long-tail boat.

I recommend choosing a day trip that includes kayaking, such as this  James Bond Island Day Trip With Lunch . This trip includes  kayaking through the caves of Panak Island and sea canoeing around Koh Hong Island’s emerald lagoons – the highlights of the Phang Nga Bay.

As most James Bond Island hopping trips last 8 to 9 hours, expect to return to your hotel around 6 p.m.

As tomorrow involves another big day trip, I recommend a quiet dinner near your hotel before an early night. If you want something unique, check out Rock Salt at The Nai Harn or Rustic And Blue overlooking Rawai Beach.

Day 6 – Visit The Phi Phi Islands And Maya Bay

No itinerary for Phuket is complete without a day trip to Phi Phi islands and the famous Maya Bay. So set an early alarm to make the most of this incredible part of Phuket and Krabi!

The best way to get to Phi Phi islands from Phuket is via speedboat. There are MANY tours available, which you can book online or in person, or you can take the public ferry  directly from Rassada Pier in Phuket Town.

Most tours will pick you up from your hotel and include multiple stops in the Phi Phi islands. For example, this top rated  Phi Phi Islands and Maya Bay Day Trip includes three snorkeling stops, along with sightseeing stops in Maya Bay, Viking Cave, and Monkey Beach (where you can see wild monkeys) and lunch.

Maya Bay  is the most popular tourist destination in the Phi Phi islands, famed for being the filming destination for the 2000 film “ The Beach. ” While you can no longer swim at Maya Bay it’s still a spectacular sight to witness. Bamboo Island  is another highlight on Phi Phi island hopping tours due to its serene location for swimming, snorkeling and scuba diving.

If you want to enjoy the island’s party vibe spend the night on Phi Phi Don  (the archipelago’s only inhabited island). While the island is considerably more expensive than mainland Phuket or Krabi, there are plenty of budget accommodations alongside the luxury hotels.

If you want to experience the island’s nightlife stay somewhere like Phi Phi Villa Resort . This beachfront resort is close enough to Ton Sai Village to enjoy the parties but far away enough to get a peaceful nights sleep!

Alternatively, you can take the ferry from Ton Sai pier in Phi Phi Don to Krabi and enjoy an evening in Krabi Town or at Ao Nang night market  before the final day of your Krabi Phuket itinerary. There are many hotels in Ao Nang but my favourite place to stay in Krabi is the stunning Railay Bay Resort . 

Be aware that the last ferry to Krabi is at 5 p.m. and takes 2 hours. You can also get a private speedboat transfer at a time that suits you which only takes 1 hour and includes a transfer to your hotel or the airport.

Day 7 – Explore Krabi And Railay Beach

On the final day of your Phuket and Krabi itinerary, spend some time exploring the sights, attractions, and beaches in Krabi.

If you stayed in Krabi last night, you can start the final day of your Phuket Krabi Phi Phi itinerary bright and early. You could even join a jam-packed  4 Islands Krabi Day Tour ,  which visits the beautiful Phra Nang Cave Beach at Railay, along with stops at Koh Poda, Chicken Island, Koh Tub, and Koh Mor.

However, if you stayed in Phi Phi the night before, take the first ferry to Krabi at 9 a.m. or the 10 a.m. speedboat, arriving by 11 a.m.

One must-visit in Krabi is  Railay Beach . You can take a long tail boat here to explore the incredible limestone cliffs, kayak through the hidden lagoons, and hike the impressive bat cave.

Once you’ve worked up an appetite, eat lunch at one of the restaurants along  Ao Nang beach  before a spot of sunbathing. Or escape the crowds by driving 30 minutes north to the peaceful  Klong Muang Beach .

If you’re up for more of a jungle adventure you could explore the Tiger Cave Temple , and bathe in the hot springs and emerald pool. This Krabi Jungle Tour will take you there.

If you’re leaving Krabi today, head to the airport to catch your flight. To avoid traveling back on yourself to Phuket you might want to consider flying out from Krabi airport. Otherwise, enjoy a final night in Krabi Town before your onward journey tomorrow!

More Tips For Planning Your Itinerary For Phuket

Before you book in your Phuket itinerary, here’s a few important tips to help you plan your trip to Phuket.

Best Time to Visit Phuket

As a tropical island, Phuket is warm all year round, but has different seasons that you should be aware of.

The best time to visit Phuket is between December to March when you can expect consistently good weather – blue skies and plenty of sunshine but it’s not too hot and humid.

This is also the peak tourist season and the busiest, and most expensive, time to visit Phuket, so you should decide on your itinerary in advance and book in your accommodation, activities and day trips before arriving to avoid disappointment. I use Booking.com and Agoda to book hotels as they have the biggest selection at the best prices.

April and May are a good time to visit Phuket if you don’t mind the heat. The island is not too crowded by this time, but it can be very hot, ranging from 27°C to 36°C, which makes sightseeing a little uncomfortable.

Also consider November , it can be a lovely month to visit as Phuket is relatively quiet but the weather can unpredictable as it’s the end of the rainy season.

June to October is the rainy season which sees short but frequent tropical downpours, cloudy and overcast skies. You’ll still get some sunny, dry days but the weather can be quite unpredictable and rough seas mean that it is sometimes not safe to swim during this time.

How to Get to Phuket and Get Around

Traveling to Phuket is easy as the island is home to Phuket International Airport (HKT) It’s Thailand’s second busiest airport and receives many direct flights from all over the world. I find the best connections and cheapest flight deals with WayAway and even get cashback.

For this Phuket – Krabi itinerary you might want to consider flying into Phuket airport and then flying out from Krabi Airport to avoid traveling back on yourself.

There are also buses from all over the country, the best place to book buses, trains and even ferries in Thailand is on 12Go Asia . But as Phuket is approximately a 12-hours from Bangkok, flying might be the quickest and easiest option, even if you’re visiting Phuket as part of a larger trip around Thailand.

Most nationalities can either get a visa exemption for 30 days, or a visa on arrival, which makes entering Thailand easy and convenient.

Once you arrive there are several options for getting from the airport to your accommodation. The easiest way is to book an airport transfer through your Viator, your hotel or a reputable company. There are also taxi and bus services on offer at the airport but taxis often overcharge.

Taxis in Phuket can be expensive, by Thai standards, so agree the rate first before hopping in. I recommend using online apps like Grab or Bolt for a cheaper and more convenient option.

The best place to book activities, tours and day trips in advance is on Viator   or  Get Your Guide , because there’s a lot of choice and you can read reviews so you know what to expect and can ensure your trip is a memorable experience for all the right reasons! If you’re visiting multiple places in one day a tour can be better value than taking lots of taxis.

If you’re on a budget then you can travel around Phuket by using the Smart Bus , which runs between the airport and Rawai stopping at all the major beach towns. A single ride is 100 THB, and you can also buy day or multi-day passes. 

Riding in a tuk-tuk can be a fun experience that you should definitely try at least once when you’re in Thailand, but they are more expensive than taxis and most suitable for short distances.

For the most freedom you can rent a scooter or motorbike to explore Phuket. However, the roads can be busy and windy so I’d only recommend this if you already have experience driving in Thailand or Asia before. Make sure you have an international driving license (the police do check) and insurance that covers this too.

Ready To Start Planning Your Own Phuket and Krabi itinerary?

I hope this 7-day Phuket itinerary has given you lots of inspiration for what to do in Phuket. Koh Phi Phi and Krabi.  This itinerary features all the top sights of this magnificent Thai island as well as the surrounding area and, as one of the most diverse Phuket itineraries, there is something for everyone.

Whether you find temples fascinating, seek serene snorkeling spots or the perfect mango sticky rice, or simply want to relax on picture-perfect beaches, following this itinerary for Phuket and Krabi will show you some of the most stunning places in Thailand and is sure to be an amazing adventure!

I hope this itinerary helps you plan your trip to this amazing part of Thailand. If you’re thinking of traveling to other parts of the country check out other blogs and guides for more tips. My comprehensive Thailand Travel Guide and list of the best places to visit in Thailand will give you plenty more inspiration and handy tips. 

Read More Thailand and Phuket Blog Posts:

• All My Thailand Blog Posts
• The Perfect 2 Week Thailand Itinerary: Best of North and South
• Things to do in Phuket
• Where to Stay in Phuket
• Best Island Hopping Tours and Day Trips from Phuket

10 Best Island Hopping Tours and Day Trips From Phuket for 2024

21 best places to visit in thailand for first-timers (2024).

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6 Best Phi Phi Island Tours from Phuket by Boat (2024)

Looking for awesome tours from phuket to phi phi island.

Well, you’ve landed on the right article. I’ve evaluated some of the best Phi Phi Island tours from Phuket to assure they’re highly rated and well-reviewed.

I’ve been to Thailand 10+ times over the last decade and now call it my winter home. Among all the incredible places, Phi Phi Island is one of the prettiest spots in the country, especially when you add in nearby Maya Bay.

In a rush? Reserve this Phi Phi Islands Adventure Day Trip with Seaview Lunch for a popular 5 Star experience that combines visits to 4 islands.

Zip around the limestone cliffs while snorkeling in stunning seas; anyone who is hanging out in Phuket should make the trip to the absolute paradise that is Phi Phi. Most of these trips include multiple stops surrounding small islands, too.

Curious which of these tours is right for you? Keep reading to find out what works for you: small-group or private, luxury yacht, or budget-friendly options.

My Top 3 Picks: Best Phi Phi Island Tour from Phuket

Phi Phi Islands Adventure Day Trip with Seaview Lunch

Visits 4 Islands

Hotel Transfer + Buffet Lunch

5 Customization Options

Phi Phi Private Boat Tour

Private Speedboat to 7 Destinations

15 People Group Flat Rate

Phi Phi Sunrise

Sunrise Trip to 6 Destinations

Avoid the Crowds

Breakfast & Lunch

Top Tours to Phi Phi Island from Phuket

Phi Phi in Thailand is made up of six different islands: Phi Phi Don, Phi Phi Leh, Biddah Nok, Biddah Nai, Yung, and Pai.

If you’re a solo traveler , you can buy ferry tickets for this route from 12Go Asia , Thailand’s main transportation aggregator. They have multiple ferries and speedboats departing throughout the day.

Going alone means you can only go to Phi Phi Don, not the other nearby destinations or the famous Maya Bay. For those, you’ll need to join a tour or be a bit crazy (like me) and go ocean kayaking.

Tip! For most trips, the 400 baht per person national park fee is not included in the price.

1. Phi Phi Islands Adventure Day Trip with Seaview Lunch

Best Overall Phi Phi Islands Tour

  RATING:  4.5/5 Stars | LENGTH:  8 Hours |   Book it!

Experience the jewel of the Andaman Sea by visiting four different islands on this Viator award-winning Adventure Day Trip with Seaview Lunch by V. Marine Tour.

Accommodating a maximum of 25 travelers , you can choose between five customizable options, including add-ons such as private transfer, a GoPro photographer, or a private lunch.

Snorkel in two locations : Bamboo Island and Pileh Lagoon . Learn about the birds in the local delicacy “bird’s nest soup” at Viking Cave and a close encounter with the playful residents of Monkey Beach . Wander through the beautiful Maya Bay , a paradise famed for its appearance in the Hollywood blockbuster, ‘The Beach.’

Lunch will be a seaview buffet that caters to many dietary restrictions and will not be shared with other boat trips.

This popular tour puts your comfort at the forefront, offering Phuket hotel transfers, snacks, a buffet lunch, snorkeling equipment, and life jackets.

2. Phi Phi Island Private Boat Tour

Best Private Tour

  RATING:  5/5 Stars | LENGTH:  6-8 Hours |   Book it!

Experience the magic of Thailand all for just you and your group with this private Phi Phi boat tour. This private excursion guarantees 6-8 hours of customizable adventure cruising through the region, all at a flat fee for up to 15 people.

Beat the crowds with an early stop at Maya Bay . Snorkeling in Pileh Bay’s mesmerizing blue lagoon is next, with all snorkeling equipment provided. Then, learn the history behind Viking Cave and the natural habitats of the residents at Monkey Beach.

Break for lunch, where your local English-speaking guide will provide top-notch restaurant recommendations for your meal, or you can choose yourself.

In the afternoon, set sail to Nui Beach and Rang Yai for a final snorkel or a sunset on the white sandy beach.

Snorkeling gear, drinks, and transport are included, with the option to store any luggage. Secure this flat fee for your group and customize your pace for the day.

3. Phi Phi Sunrise Trip

Best Option to Avoid the Crowds

  RATING:  5/5 Stars | LENGTH:  8 Hours |   Book it!

Rise and shine in the wee hours of the morning for this Sunrise by Simba Sea Trips . Hop on this 8 hour full-day tour, outsmarting the crowds with an early sunrise start.

The trip prides itself on being among the first to arrive at the iconic Maya Bay. Plus, you get to have a complimentary breakfast on the beach.

Then, like many other tour itineraries, snorkel at the emerald lagoons, caves, and see monkeys playing around. Before the day ends, you can choose your final destination: Bamboo Island or Rang Yai .

Arrive back for lunch at the popular Soho pool club restaurant, a great end to the trip.

The tour is capped at a maximum of 18 travelers . The inclusions are generous, with National Park fees (a rarity), meals, driver/guide, hotel transfer, snorkeling equipment, and even WiFi onboard.

4. Phi Phi and James Bond Private Boat Tour

Best Combination of James Bond and Phi Phi

Jet to not one but two national parks on this private Phi Phi and James Bond Private Boat Tour , for you and your group. This full-day itinerary lasts 6-8 hours, accommodating up to 15 attendees for a flat fee booking.

Your itinerary will start like many others on this list, featuring famous Thai spots like Maya Beach, Pileh Lagoon, and the Viking Cave. That’s where the similarities end.

Pause for a local lunch before setting sail to Phang Nga Bay . Here, you’ll witness the filming location for “The Man with the Golden Gun” at James Bond Island.

Then, glide around Hong Island in a complimentary canoe ride , ending your adventure lounging on the unspoiled beaches of Ko Rang Yai.

Your package includes perks such as beverages, WiFi, private transportation, and snacks. Just a heads up, National Park Fees are not included in this trip, and the fee is going up to 700 baht per adult since you’ll be visiting multiple national parks.

5. Snorkeling Phi Phi, Khai, MayaBay, Maiton, Bamboo Islands Tour

Most Budget-Friendly Day Trip

  RATING:  4.5/5 Stars | LENGTH:  8-10 Hours |   Book it!

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, save your dollars with this Phuket to Phi Phi Tour.

As one of the cheapest options on the market, expect to get what you pay for. Travel with up to 35 fellow explorers on a fixed but extensive full-day itinerary.

It covers a range of classic sites and some hidden gems like Loh Samah Bay and Maiton Private Island. You’ll also get a complimentary buffet lunch .

For those seeking more comfort, the premium upgrade gets you a smaller group, better service, and the addition of Bamboo Island to your sightseeing list.

Regardless of your choice, each tour includes hotel transfers, all national park fees, a buffet lunch with halal and vegetarian options, beverages, snacks, fruits, snorkeling equipment, and safety equipment. Quite the bang for your baht!

6. Hype Yacht : VIP Tour Phi Phi & Maya Bay

Most Flexible Private Luxury Excursion

  RATING:  5/5 Stars | LENGTH:  8.5 Hours |   Book it!

This VIP Hype Yacht – Phi Phi & Maya Bay Tour is your golden ticket to fancy town. With 8.5 hours of exclusive use of a luxurious yacht , grab up to 15 of your friends to make this dream come true.

But really this is just an excuse to have a floating party! Chill to cool beats spun by your own private DJ as you feast on a tasty gourmet lunch at Maya Bay . Oh, and there are loads of yummy snacks and refreshing complimentary drinks all day.

Packed onboard is other exciting stuff, like snorkeling gear to explore the incredible underwater world. And guess what? Everything’s included . Yes, even the National Park Fees .

The only downside? It’s only bookable 3 times a week from November through April. But for the other half a year, you can opt instead to go to Krabi and Phang Nga Bay with the same Hype Yacht.

FAQs About Phuket to Phi Phi Tours

Phi Phi tours range from $50 to $150 for a shared boat, while private boats can cost around $1000 for 15 people. But this is just an average.

To reach Phi Phi from Phuket , you can take a ferry or speedboat. Ferries are more affordable but slower, taking about 2 hours. Speedboats are faster, taking around 45 minutes to 1 hour. Both options are readily available and can be booked through a operator or at the pier yourself.

While a day trip to Phi Phi Island can give you a taste of its beauty and attractions, I recommend spending at least an overnight if you have the time. If you have only one day, visit popular spots like Maya Bay, Monkey Beach, and the Viewpoint.

Yes, a Phuket to Phi Phi day trip is definitely worth it. It’s known for its limestone cliffs, crystal clear water, coral reefs, and vibrant marine life. You can go snorkeling, swimming, sunbathing, and exploring iconic locations like Maya Bay.

Phi Phi can be a bit pricey compared to other spots in Thailand, especially for places to stay and things to do. But there are choices for every budget, so you’ll find both fancy and affordable options.

The best time to visit Phi Phi Island is during the dry season, from November to April. The weather is usually sunny with minimal rainfall, perfect for beach activities and exploring. However, this is peak season, so expect bigger crowds and higher prices. For a quieter but wetter experience, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of May to October.

Phuket is a tourist hub of activities and vibrant nightlife. It’s a place with endless options. In contrast, Phi Phi is smaller and more relaxed, known for its natural beauty. If you want more of a city vibe, choose Phuket. For a serene getaway, Phi Phi is perfect.

Swimming in the archipelago is generally considered safe, but be aware of the tides and currents, especially during certain seasons when the sea conditions can change. Swim in designated swimming areas and avoid areas with strong waves or dangerous rocks.

Final Thoughts: Best Phi Phi Island Tour

Phi Phi and the whole area around Phuket (like Krabi & Railay Beach, Khao Lak, Khao Sok National Park, and smaller islands like Koh Phayam ) are seriously amazing spots in Southeast Asia .

With towering karst cliffs and clear turquoise waters, these places are a must-visit on any Thailand itinerary. Aside from Phi Phi Don, you’ll need to join a tour to explore the other destinations.

In case you’re still not sure which to pick:

• For an award-winning classic, join this Adventure Day Trip with Seaview Lunch.
• For a private experience, sign up for this Private Boat Tour.
• To avoid the crowds, book this Sunrise trip.

Where Next in South Thailand?

I’ve been to Thailand 10+ times in my life and now spend my winters there. Check out these other posts to see if any of these destinations pique your interest. 

• Phuket To Krabi: 7 Ways To Get There Via Land & Sea
• 7 Best Phi Phi Island Tours from Phuket
• Koh Phayam, Thailand: A No FOMO Guide To One Of The Best Thai Islands
• To Phi Phi Island From Phuket: How To Get There Via Ferry & Speedboat
• Bangkok To Ayutthaya: How To Get There Via Train, Minibus, & Tour

Have Travel Questions About Thailand? Maybe I’ve Answered Them

• Languages Spoken In Thailand: Do They Speak English In Thailand?
• Motorbike Rental In Phuket: 9 Quick Tips Before You Sign
• Is There Uber In Thailand? (Uber In Bangkok And Beyond)
• 30 Day Tourist Visa Extension Thailand: Step-By-Step Guide
• Price Of Massages In Thailand: Honest Rates For All Types Of Massages
• Chiang Khong To Huay Xai: How To Cross The Thailand-Laos Border
• Bangkok vs Chiang Mai: Thai-Ing To Decide Which City Is Better?

The post 6 Best Phi Phi Island Tours from Phuket by Boat (2024) appeared first on Nomadicated .

‘The White Lotus’ Thailand is next. These hotels do it on a budget.

Six resorts that will get you four seasons treatment on a best western budget.

HBO’s hottest hotel group, “The White Lotus,” is expanding to Thailand — on screen at least. The location for season 3 has been confirmed , and Bloomberg reported in January that loose-lipped industry insiders say filming is taking place at the Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui , the Anantara Mai Khao Phuket Villas and a still-undisclosed hotel in Bangkok. The network has stayed quiet on specific hotels.

The news is a boon for Four Seasons and the Thailand-based Anantara group; the show’s previous two seasons, set in Hawaii and Sicily , have proved to turbocharge travelers’ interest in their already popular respective locales. After the seasons aired, bookings soared at Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea and the Four Seasons’ San Domenico Palace in Taormina.

It’s safe to say that these Thai resorts can expect a similar uptick in reservations after season 3 premieres in 2025. But living out the White Lotus fantasy isn’t within every traveler’s reach. One night at the Four Seasons in Koh Samui will cost you at least $1,400. And while at $660 per night, starting rates at the Anantara in Phuket are a fair bit lower — they’re still not exactly a steal for anyone but the most deep-pocketed visitors.

Nightly rates at Thailand’s big-brand luxury resorts can often be on par with those in Europe or the United States, but a burgeoning ecosystem of local hospitality groups and independently owned hotels offers many of the same five-star perks at a fraction of the price. For about $180, the average rate of a night in a three-star hotel room in Miami Beach, you can book a villa with a private pool and round-the-clock service on the beach in Koh Samui.

Here are six Thailand beach retreats offering five-star luxury on a Best Western budget.

Meliá Koh Samui

On palm-pinned Choeng Mon Beach, a few bays east of the Four Seasons Koh Samui, sits the first Thai outpost of Spanish hotel brand Meliá . Still fresh from its opening in 2020, this family-friendly resort aims for midmarket rather than high-end, but that doesn’t make it any less worthy of its five-star label. Rooms, starting at $181 per night, riff on the island’s maritime past with nautical rope decor and licks of ocean-blue, while its top-level suites occupy reclaimed teakwood barges. Even the standard rooms open to a bubble bath on their balcony, and suites with either a private pool or direct access to a more than 2,200-foot pool that meanders through the resort’s manicured tropical gardens have the option to have breakfast delivered in a floating basket (if that’s your thing).

The Surin, Phuket

Rumors circulated that Amanpuri, one of Phuket’s ritziest beach retreats, would be one of the film sets for the third season of “The White Lotus.” They were ultimately dispelled, but the resort remains a firm favorite with wealthy travelers. With rates often shooting to well over $1500 per night, this is territory for the privileged few — but insiders know that the Surin next door offers similar perks and the same palm-tufted setting at a fraction of the cost. This beachfront spot is the only resort offering access to Amanpuri’s semiprivate Pansea Beach, one of Phuket’s prettiest. Pitched up among the treetops, the Surin’s airy deluxe cottages start at $220 per night and overlook the Andaman Sea from their snug, parasol-shaded balconies. The resort is part of White Lotus lore, too: it was here that creator Mike White first hinted at Thailand being the show’s next location.

Cape Kudu, Koh Yao Noi

A short speedboat-hop from Phuket, the island of Koh Yao Noi feels like a trip back in time. Its palm-fringed beaches remain blissfully free of tourist crowds, and sleepy coconut farms — not shopping malls or amusement parks — still cover most of its jungled inland. Cape Kudu , on the sunrise-facing east coast, is one of the island’s chicest places to stay. Its breezy rooms and villas come furnished with lots of linen, sun-bleached woods and wickerwork; a similarly laid-back theme dresses the spa, restaurant and beanbag-lined infinity pool. With low-season rates from May to October starting at $122 per night, this small resort offers excellent bang for your baht. And those dazzling views over Phang Nga Bay’s dramatic karst formations? They’re free.

The Sarojin, Khao Lak

This resort in the beachside holiday hub of Khao Lak, about an hour north of Phuket, delivers a textbook example of classic Thai hospitality — fresh orchids, jasmine-scented towels and lilting sawatdi ka, or hello, greetings included. The Sarojin ’s rooms are teakwood-clad wonders with spalike bathrooms and heaps of private space, but you’ll probably spend more time in one of the pool cabanas, which are lined with gauzy curtains billowing in the breeze. A powder-sugar beach stretches out in front and is a jumping-off point for kayak trips and sailings on the resort’s charter yacht, which can end with candlelit dinners on a nearby private islet. Rates for garden views start at $180 per night and include leisurely all-day breakfast with sparkling wine served until 6 p.m.

The ShellSea, Krabi

From taxis to cocktails, prices on Thailand’s most popular islands are generally much higher than on the mainland. The beaches, however, can be equally pretty — which makes booking a seafront resort ashore a smart way to cut holiday costs (additionally, you’ll save on boat transfers and plane tickets — flights to Thailand’s island destinations tend to be pricey). One of southern Thailand’s most popular hideouts is Krabi, a string of honey-hued beaches and jungle-cloaked karst formations. The ShellSea resort, a ten-minute drive from postcard-pretty Ao Nang beach, makes for a plush base with suites from $120 per night, a spa and three swimming pools. A hammock-lined private beach hugs part of the resort’s oceanfront, while island-hopping day trips can take you to Phang Nga Bay’s prettiest stretches of sand.

SAii Koh Samui Choengmon

While Koh Samui’s three-mile Chaweng Beach, sits just ten minutes from its doorstep, SAii Koh Samui Choengmon ’s perch on little-developed Hanuman Bay feels a world away from the crowds. Its most affordable room will set you back about $170, but the amenities are anything but cheap. At this all-villa resort, even the entry-level digs open to a generously sized sun deck and private pool, have a tropic-tinged bathroom with rain shower and include bespoke bathroom amenities mixed with your preferred scents. Other perks include complimentary yoga classes every morning, and a pick-and-mix of free snacks to bring back to your room.

Chris Schalkx is a Bangkok-based travel writer. You can follow him on Instagram: @chrsschlkx.

More travel tips

Vacation planning: Start with a strategy to maximize days off by taking PTO around holidays. Experts recommend taking multiple short trips for peak happiness . Want to take an ambitious trip? Here are 12 destinations to try this year — without crowds.

Cheap flights: Follow our best advice for scoring low airfare , including setting flight price alerts and subscribing to deal newsletters. If you’re set on an expensive getaway, here’s a plan to save up without straining your credit limit.

Airport chaos: We’ve got advice for every scenario , from canceled flights to lost luggage . Stuck at the rental car counter? These tips can speed up the process. And following these 52 rules of flying should make the experience better for everyone.

Expert advice: Our By The Way Concierge solves readers’ dilemmas , including whether it’s okay to ditch a partner at security, or what happens if you get caught flying with weed . Submit your question here . Or you could look to the gurus: Lonely Planet and Rick Steves .