Phuket Guide
Islands and day trips from Kamala
Some of the most beautiful places in southern Thailand are a boat ride or a drive from Phuket: limestone bays, island villages and viewpoints over the Andaman Sea. These are the days out we recommend, with honest notes on how long they take from Kamala.
Phang Nga Bay
Limestone cliffs, caves and lagoons by boat.
Phi Phi
A full day, via Rassada Pier on the east coast.
Sunset
Promthep Cape, at Phuket’s southern tip.
Start early
Most boat trips leave in the morning.
By boat
Phang Nga Bay and James Bond Island
Towering limestone cliffs, emerald water, hidden caves and quiet lagoons: Phang Nga Bay is one of the great sights of Thailand, and the best way to see it is from the water. Tours leave early; choose a speedboat for speed or a longtail boat for a slower, more intimate trip.
The bay’s most famous rock, Ko Tapu, rose to fame in the 1974 James Bond film The Man with the Golden Gun, and the island opposite is now known as James Bond Island. It is busy at peak times, so a private boat and an early start make a real difference.
Many trips also visit Koh Panyi, a village built on stilts over the water.
An island day
Phi Phi in a day, from Kamala
Phi Phi is two main islands, Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Leh, between Phuket and Krabi. From the estate, allow about an hour by road to Rassada Pier on Phuket’s east coast, then cross by ferry or speedboat to Tonsai Pier on Phi Phi Don.
The speedboat takes about 45 minutes and is fast rather than comfortable; the ferry is slower but considerably more pleasant. There is a small island entry fee at the pier, payable in cash.
Tonsai village has no cars. Walk through to the open beach on the far side for calmer water, kayaks and views of the cliffs.
Close to home
Viewpoints on Phuket
Promthep Cape, at the island’s southernmost point, is Phuket’s classic sunset viewpoint, with views over the Andaman Sea and a lighthouse. Combine it with Nai Harn or Yanui beach, or the seafood market at Rawai.
The Big Buddha on Nakkerd Hill offers wide views over Chalong Bay by day. Read more in our culture guide.
Further afield
Longer days out
Samet Nangshe viewpoint in Phang Nga province looks over a sea of limestone islets. It is about an hour and a half’s drive north of Phuket. From the car park, take a pick-up truck up the steep track or walk for at least 35 minutes. Sunrise and sunset are spectacular.
Khao Sok National Park is about three and a half hours by road: rainforest, limestone cliffs and the remarkable Cheow Lan Lake. It is best enjoyed as an overnight trip rather than a day out. The dry season, November to April, is the most comfortable time to go.
Planning
Before you book
Sea conditions matter. From May to October some boat trips are cancelled or rough, so keep your plans flexible. Ask the team for current advice on timings, transport and the best days for your stay.
Phuket beaches
From quiet coves to long bays, and when to swim. Read the beach guide →
Weather and seasons
When the sea is calm and boat trips run smoothly. See the seasons →
Phuket markets
Rawai seafood market pairs well with Promthep Cape. See the markets →
Stay in Kamala
Adventure by day, quiet by night
Spacious one- and two-bedroom holiday apartments in a quiet tropical seaside estate in Kamala, with the rest of Phuket within easy reach.
Check availability