My Favorite Phuket Day Trips – Easy, Fun, and Totally Worth It!
One of the best parts about staying in Phuket is that you dont have to go far to find adventure. Ive taken dozens of day trips over the years, and these are the ones I keep recommending (and taking again myself!). Whether youre here for beaches, snorkeling, or a bit of movie magic, these are easy to book and packed with memories.
Coral Island (Koh Hey) Perfect for a Quick Escape
- Departure: Chalong Pier
- Tour time: 8:30 AM 3:00 PM (Daily)
- Travel time: ~1520 mins by speedboat
- Great for: Families, beginners, or anyone short on time
I love this trip when I want something low-key. Its close, easy, and relaxing. You can snorkel right off the beach, or just lay under the palm trees with a drink in hand. The Banana Beach side is clean and quiet I usually bring a book and just zone out for hours.
Phi Phi Islands The Iconic Experience
- Departure: Boat Lagoon or Rassada Pier
- Tour time: 7:30 AM 5:00 PM
- Travel time: ~1 hour by speedboat
- Great for: First-timers, couples, photographers
This is the one I always take friends on. The stops at Maya Bay (yes, from The Beach movie), snorkeling at Pileh Lagoon, and lunch on Phi Phi Don are always a hit. If the sea is calm, the snorkeling here is chefs kiss. Bring a waterproof phone case youll want to take photos nonstop.
James Bond Island + Sea Canoe Adventure
- Departure: Ao Por Pier
- Tour time: 8:00 AM 4:30 PM
- Travel time: ~1.5 hours with stops
- Great for: Nature lovers, families, and Bond fans
Ive done this tour multiple times, and it never gets old. The limestone cliffs in Phang Nga Bay are jaw-dropping. We explored caves by canoe (paddled by a guide), spotted monkeys, and even passed through a floating village at Koh Panyee. The famous James Bond Island is small but fun for photos.
Similan Islands (OctMay only) The Clearest Water Ive Ever Seen
- Departure: Thap Lamu Pier (Khao Lak)
- Tour time: 6:00 AM 6:30 PM (Long but worth it!)
- Travel time: ~1.52 hours
- Great for: Snorkeling addicts and sea lovers
Only open seasonally, but if youre in Phuket between October and May, do not miss this. I still remember swimming in crystal-clear water with colorful fish all around me. The white sand here is like powder. Be ready for an early morning, but trust me youll sleep well after!
My Tips for Day Trips
- Bring a dry bag: Keep your phone, towel, and sunscreen safe.
- Wear reef-safe sunscreen: Protect your skin and the sea.
- Book early during high season: Spots fill up fast from DecemberMarch.
- Check weather conditions: Some trips may cancel if the sea is rough.
