Your holiday in Phuket shouldn’t be limited to what’s on the island itself. Surrounding it are more islands and captivating cultural sights. Here are the best family day trips to look forward to.
Phuket
Phuket is Thailand’s largest island, and one of its most beloved. It’s not easy to describe Phuket’s allure, but one thing is for sure – its popularity has never been in dispute. The natural attractions the island is known for are simply gorgeous.
There was a time when its traveller profile wasn’t as diverse as it is now. Everyone knew it as a backpacker’s paradise, but today this Andaman Sea island attracts a wide range of visitors, including couples, luxury seekers, business travellers, and of course, families.
Before You Go
Phuket International Airport is well-connected, with direct flights from major cities across Asia, the Middle East, and even Europe. Already in Thailand? You can catch a domestic flight from Bangkok, Chiang Mai, or Krabi. Once you land, take a taxi to your hotel, or opt for an airport transfer or rental car.
As for accommodation, Phuket offers a wide range of choices, from budget to luxury. What kind of place should you choose? It’s your call – what kind of holiday are you after? Staying closer to the beach is always a good idea. Also, consider factors like sustainability and community involvement. Want to bring your beloved furry friend along? Anantara Mai Khao Phuket Villas, a popular five-star Phuket family resort, is perfect for your next getaway.
The best time to visit is during the dry season, from November to April, when you’ll enjoy plenty of sunshine and calm seas. This is also the high season, so it’s wise to book flights and accommodation in advance. From May to October, Phuket experiences more rain, but the island is lush and less crowded.
Phang Nga Bay
Just east of Phuket is Phang Nga Bay, a stunning expanse of emerald water dotted with over 40 islands and limestone karsts. Spanning around 400 square kilometres, it’s a place that feels like a scene out of a fairytale. Once you’re out on the water, you’ll see why this bay is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The two major highlights are James Bond Island, made famous by The Man with the Golden Gun, and Koh Panyi, a floating village with wooden homes, schools, and shops perched above the water on stilts.
You can take a boat trip from Phuket, which typically lasts around eight to nine hours – enough time to soak it all in.
Similan Islands
Crystal-clear waters and breathtaking marine life – is this what you’re dreaming of? Then, a trip to the Similan Islands should be at the top of your list. Often featured among the best diving and snorkelling spots in the world, this remote archipelago, part of Mu Ko Similan National Park, is a protected paradise that feels a world away from Phuket’s busy beaches.
Underneath the water lies pure magic. Visibility can reach up to 30 metres, revealing vibrant coral gardens, schools of reef fish, and manta rays. You might even spot a whale shark gliding by. A speedboat ride from Phuket will get you there in about 90 minutes. And when you’re not exploring the reefs, you can kick back on the white beaches, soak up the sunshine, and enjoy the unspoiled beauty of the islands.
Keep in mind, the Similans are only open to visitors during the official season from November to April, as part of efforts to protect their fragile ecosystem. Dates shift each year, so be sure to confirm the schedule before visiting.
Surin Islands
A true off-the-beaten-path adventure awaits on the Surin Islands, one that both adults and children will love. Located far off the west coast of Phang Nga, these remote gems can only be reached by speedboat, but the journey is more than worth it. This island is the definition of tropical beauty – imagine yourself surrounded by rainforests, white beaches, and turquoise waters.
Like their better-known neighbours to the south, the Similan Islands, the Surins offer some of the best snorkelling and diving in Thailand. For water-sport enthusiasts, the lure of coral reefs is hard to resist. If you decide to take the plunge, keep an eye out for sea turtles and reef sharks frolicking among tropical fish.
The natural beauty of the islands is a big part of their appeal, but another aspect is their cultural richness. These islands are home to the Moken people, an indigenous seafaring tribe sometimes called ‘sea gypsies.’ The Moken settled here in the 1990s. To get a feel for their way of life, visit their village.
Koh Yao Noi
As addictive as it is, Phuket’s buzz can feel a bit overwhelming at times. Don’t worry – Koh Yao Noi offers the perfect escape. Sitting in the heart of Phang Nga Bay, this stunning island has a slower pace of life and an abundance of nature. Just a short boat ride away, it feels like a completely different world, with rice paddies, coconut groves, and beaches.
Rent a bike to explore it properly. The island is only 13 km long, so you can easily spend a day winding through its serene landscapes, stopping at hidden viewpoints and peaceful stretches of sand. Whenever you’re hungry, step into a seaside restaurant to enjoy a delicious seafood meal.
