Attractions : Phuket
Town | Beaches
| Island
| Bay | Cape
| Kathu District
| Thalang District
Coral Island or Hey Island
This island off Phuket's south coast is so well known
for its coral reef that it is often referred to simply
as Coral Island. In addition to the splendid reefs there
are two fine beaches on the north and west. Koh Hey is
part of a marine preserve, but accommodations, restaurants,
various watersports and diving are all available. Boats
leave from Rawai and Chalong. Package tours are also available.
Mai Ton Island
This tiny island off Phuket's southeast coast is highly
prized for its still perfect natural environment, including
fine white beaches and crystal waters; ideal for swimming,
diving, or fishing. The only business of any kind is the
plush Maiton Island Resort. Those not wishing to stay
overnight may take a daytime excursion leaving from Ao
Makham Deep Sea Port..
Taphao Yai Island
10 minutes from Phuket by ferry from Ao Makam on Phuket's
southeast coast. The island is home to the Bucerotes hornbill.
To get there from Phuket Town take Chao Fa Rd., to the
Sakdidet Rd., intersection, turn left on Sakdidet and
follow it 8 kms. to Ao Makham. The road splits in the
vicinity of oil storage facilities; take the left fork
about 200 meters to the Ko Taphao ferry pier. Dining and
accommodations are available on the island.
Raya (or Racha ) Islands
Two islands running roughly northeast to southwest off
Phuket's southern coast.
- Raya Yai Island On the west coast is a fine beach closed
in by the hill that stretch away from it like to arms
of a horseshoe called alternately Ao Tawan Tok or Ao Bungalow.
Clean sandy beach and crystal clear waters of Raya Yai
attract day trippers from Phuket. From the top of the
hill to the south of the bay is the viewpoint from which
the whole island can be seen. On the east, at Ao Kon Kae
Bay, is an excellent site for diving.
- Raya Noi Island.This island, 10 kms. from Raya Yai,
is the result of coral reef build up, and there are more
rocks than beaches. In a small bay on the west is a boat
anchorage. The waters at Raya Noi are emerald green, and
fishing is famous, but swimming is not recommendable.
To get there contact a charter boat at Ao Chalong or
Rawai, or go to travel agent for details on package tours
to the islands. By long-tailed boat the travel time is
about two hours. Larger boats operated by tour companies
will make the trip in about one hour. Travel to Raya Islands
is restricted to dry season and periods when the monsoon
is not blowing.
Rang Yai Island
Lying off Phuket's east coat, this small island has been
developed for out-of-doors minded tourist. Among the many
activities are snorkeling on the coral reefs. sea kayaking,
mountain-biking, playing miniature golf, and visiting
the island's pearl farm. To travel to Rang Yai Island,
boats may be hired from Laem Hin Pier from Phuket Boat
Lagoon.
Sire Island
Separated from the mainland of Phuket by the Khlong Tha
Chin, a shallow mangrove swamp, this twenty square kilometer
island is connected by a causeway to the city. Wat Ko
Sire, on the hill, has a large Reclining Buddha and provides
fine views of the surroundings. Phuket's largest settlement
of Sea Gypsies, or Chao Ley,are on Ko Sire at Leam Tuk-kae.
Swimming is not present because of the muddy bottom. There
are some popular seafood restaurants on the east shore.
Provided
by Tourism Authority of Thailand
