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.
