While there's plenty to see on Phuket, several smaller surrounding islands, each offering unique sights of their own, are easily accessible within an hour or two by boat. Many have excellent snorkelling and diving sites, while others simply offer nice patches of sand on which to spend a quiet day. To reach them, hire a long-tail boat or charter an island-hopping tour. Accommodation is available on a number of the islands - some of it rustic, some very exclusive.

Phi Phi Islands

Part of a marine national park in Krabi province, the two stunning islands of Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Ley are an integral part of many visitors' itineraries - and are now the second most popular destination in the Andaman region of Thailand, after Phuket. Diving, snorkelling and a whole host of tours and other activities on offer. A wide range of accommodation on Phi Phi Don; the rugged Phi Phi Ley is uninhabited.

Similan Islands

For divers and marine life fanatics, no trip to Thailand is complete without a few days spent at the Similan archipelago, which is rated as one of the world's top dive destinations. The tropical beauty of the pristine 9-island group will appeal to non-divers as well - the virgin jungle, fine sands and unusual granite formations on the islands are nearly as breathtaking as the depths of the sea that encompasses them. Accommodation is limited to basic government-run bungalows and tents that get booked up very quickly - it's therefore recommended to join a liveaboard trip and stay on the boat.

Surin Islands

This remote, wild chain of 5 islands is located about 160 km north of Phuket near the Burmese border. The Surins are best known for their abundance of large marine life including leopard sharks and manta rays. Usually explored on liveaboard dive trips. The most famous site is Richelieu Rock for near-guaranteed sightings of whale sharks. Blanketed with jungle vegetation, the islands' interiors are also great for hiking; there are better trails here than in the Similans. Basic accommodation available on one island only.

Raya Islands

The Raya islands, directly south of Phuket, offer some of the best diving and snorkelling in the area with numerous coral formations and clear waters. Raya Yai is also a fine place to just relax on its soft white sands. Raya Noi, farther to the south, is uninhabited with only one tiny beach. The diving between Raya Yai and Noi is usually very good and offers a chance to see big fish, although generally for advanced divers as the current is very strong.

Koh Yao Yai and Koh Yao Noi

Two large islands (together about 138 sq km) right in the middle of Phang Nga bay between Phuket and Krabi. While fishing remains the predominant economic activity and way of life here, the islands are slowly opening up to tourism. Some innovative, community-driven eco tours and small-scale, mostly family-run bungalows and resorts have been developed. A great place to enjoy nature and get a taste of local culture.

Other Phuket Islands