Joanna James
Phuket is Thailand's largest island, but if you want to escape the crowds and enjoy the tropical vibes, check out smaller islands surrounding Phuket as they are ideal for a day out on the sands.
This is a gorgeous archipelago of six islands that are highly popular for its breathtaking surroundings. Catering to just about every taste, the islands have many allures. The largest is Koh Phi Phi Don. It is the only one of the lot that is inhabited. The main village is a vibrant locale, located between stunning Dalum and Tonsai bays. The most popular beach here is Laem Thong, while the surrounding area is well serviced by restaurants, bars and beach cafes. Here, you can choose to chill on the beach all day or explore the lush jungles.
Just about 100kms from Phuket Island, home of hotels like Kata Rocks; the nine islands that make up this group is part of a marine national park, sharing the same name. If rustic is your choir, it does not get any better than these beautiful islands. Virtually untouched for hundreds of years, these islands are home to some of the best dive locations in the world and are, in fact, ranked amongst the 10 best dive sites worldwide. The Similan Islands are ideal for day trips and is easy to reach from your Phuket luxury villas. Thailand at its best is represented in these islands; home to powdery white sand beaches, crystal clear seas, lush vegetation all around and an absolutely laid-back ambience. If you are on the scout for simple island pleasures, this is the place to head to.
These two islands are located just 20kms from Phuket. Also called Raya Islands the two islets named Racha Noi and Racha Yai are best known as top snorkelling and scuba diving sites. The sea around this area has an abundance of marine life and is quite a treat to explore. Racha Yai is the only one of the two that is occupied; there you will find a Muslim fisher village and some dining facilities. The best time to experience the tranquil nature of the island is after 4pm when the visiting tourists have left.
Just 5kms from the south-east coast of Phuket, this island locally known as Koh Hae is home to Long Beach and Banana Beach. Both beaches are facing the north, and offer excellent diving and snorkelling opportunities; there are a few restaurants and bars there and lots of crowds during the day.
These two islands are rather large in comparison to the others, and are located between the coasts of Phuket and Krabi. They sit at the mouth of beautiful Phang Nga Bay. Yao Yai is the touristier of the two which are a mere 45 minutes away by ferry and 20 minutes by speedboat from Phuket. The islands have well preserved their ancient charms and are still home to Muslim farmers and fishermen.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
