Phuket is on of important cities in Thailand to visit, is a tropical paradise known for its vibrant beaches, lush jungles, and stunning coastlines. However, the islands surrounding Phuket are equally spectacular, offering crystal-clear waters, limestone cliffs, and secluded beaches. Whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation, or natural beauty, these nearby islands are must-visits.

1. Phi Phi Islands

The Phi Phi Islands are some of the most famous in Thailand, renowned for their jaw-dropping landscapes and vibrant marine life. Made up of six islands, Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Leh are the most popular.

• Phi Phi Leh is home to Maya Bay, made famous by the movie "The Beach." The bay is surrounded by steep cliffs and offers pristine white sand beaches and turquoise waters. While it can be crowded, it remains one of the most beautiful spots to visit.

• Phi Phi Don is the only inhabited island and offers plenty of options for snorkeling, diving, and hiking. It's also known for its lively nightlife, making it a favorite among backpackers and travelers looking for entertainment.

How to Get There: Around 45-90 minutes by speedboat from Phuket.

2. Similan Islands

The Similan Islands are a chain of 11 islands located northwest of Phuket and are famous for being one of the top dive destinations in the world. The underwater biodiversity is incredible, with vibrant coral reefs, whale sharks, manta rays, and hundreds of species of fish.

• The islands themselves feature powdery white beaches, lush jungles, and crystal-clear water. Popular diving and snorkeling spots include East of Eden and Elephant Head Rock.

• On land, you can hike through forests or climb granite boulders for panoramic views of the surrounding seascape.

How to Get There: 90 minutes to 2 hours by speedboat from Phuket. The best time to visit is during the dry season from November to April.

3. James Bond Island (Koh Tapu)

James Bond Island, or Koh Tapu, is famous for its appearance in the 1974 film "The Man with the Golden Gun". Located in Phang Nga Bay, it’s one of the most iconic and picturesque islands in the area.

• The island’s signature feature is a tall, thin limestone rock jutting out from the water. While the island itself is small, it's the surrounding area that makes this trip worthwhile.

• Explore the beautiful Phang Nga Bay, known for its limestone cliffs, hidden lagoons, and emerald-green waters. Many tours also include canoeing through the caves and mangroves.

How to Get There: A 1-hour boat ride from Phuket, often combined with a day tour of Phang Nga Bay.

4. Racha Islands (Koh Racha Yai & Koh Racha Noi)

The Racha Islands, consisting of Koh Racha Yai and Koh Racha Noi, are known for their tranquil beauty, making them ideal for a day trip or a quick escape from the crowds of Phuket.

• Koh Racha Yai is the more popular of the two, offering stunning beaches, clear waters, and great snorkeling opportunities. The main beach, Patok Bay, is a crescent-shaped stretch of powdery white sand with vibrant coral reefs just off the shore.

• Koh Racha Noi is more remote and less developed, with deeper waters perfect for diving. It’s mostly visited by experienced divers looking to explore the rich marine life.

How to Get There: 30-45 minutes by speedboat from Phuket.

5. Coral Island (Koh Hae)

Just a short distance from Phuket, Coral Island, also known as Koh Hae, is a perfect getaway for families or those looking for a fun day of water activities.

• The island is known for its clear waters, abundant coral reefs, and two main beaches: Banana Beach and Long Beach. Visitors can enjoy snorkeling, parasailing, banana boat rides, and even underwater walking.

• The island has several restaurants and bars, making it convenient for day trips. The calm waters and variety of activities make it a great choice for families with kids.

How to Get There: A 15-30 minute boat ride from Phuket.

6. Koh Yao Yai & Koh Yao Noi

Located between Phuket and Krabi, Koh Yao Yai and Koh Yao Noi offer a more laid-back experience compared to the busier tourist islands.

• Koh Yao Noi is the more developed of the two, with small boutique resorts, local villages, and pristine beaches. It's an ideal spot for those seeking peace, quiet, and a taste of traditional Thai life.

• Koh Yao Yai is less developed but equally beautiful, with vast stretches of unspoiled beaches and crystal-clear waters. The islands are perfect for cycling, kayaking, and simply relaxing.

How to Get There: 30-45 minutes by boat from Phuket.

7. Koh Khai Islands

The Koh Khai Islands are a small group of islands that are especially popular with families and snorkeling enthusiasts. The three islands—Koh Khai Nok, Koh Khai Nai, and Koh Khai Nui—offer shallow waters filled with colorful fish, perfect for kids and beginners.

• The islands have beautiful beaches where you can sunbathe, swim, and snorkel. It’s a great spot for a relaxed day trip from Phuket, and the islands are often less crowded than other popular spots.

• Koh Khai Nok is the most visited, with several beach bars and restaurants available.

How to Get There: 20-30 minutes by speedboat from Phuket.

8. Koh Bon

For those looking for a quieter and more intimate island experience, Koh Bon, located just off the southern coast of Phuket, is the perfect escape. This small, scenic island offers beautiful beaches, calm waters, and great snorkeling opportunities.

• The island’s main beach is a quiet, sandy stretch where you can relax without the crowds. Snorkeling off the coast reveals coral reefs and an array of colorful fish.

• Unlike some of the larger islands, Koh Bon doesn’t have any major developments, giving it a peaceful, untouched feel.

How to Get There: 15-20 minutes by boat from Phuket.

The islands around Phuket offer a wide variety of experiences, from the vibrant nightlife of Phi Phi Islands to the serene, undeveloped beauty of Koh Bon. Whether you're an adventure seeker, a family traveler, or someone in need of relaxation, the islands near Phuket provide the perfect escape into tropical paradise. Plan a day trip or spend several nights exploring these beautiful gems that lie just a boat ride away from Phuket.