Phi Phi Islands

Travel to the Phi Phi Islands

Koh Phi Phi can be reached by boat either from Krabi or Phuket. In downtown Krabi tourists can take a boat at Chaofa pier. The boat leaves for Koh Phi Phi daily. Boat tickets are available at the pier or from travel agents in the town. It takes about 2 hours and a half for the journey. Regular boats from Ao Nang to Koh Phi Phi are also available during high season.

Mu Koh Phi Phi

An archipelago of six islands consists of Koh Phi Phi Don and Koh Phi Phi Le as the major islands. The superb scenery of the islands includes high hills with jutting cliffs surrounded by marvelous beaches and emerald sea, hiding underneath a bank of coral reefs and colorful marine life. Places to visit of Mu Koh Phi Phi include

• Koh Phi Phi Don

covers a total area of 28 square kilometers : 8 kilometers in length and 3.5 at its broadest point. At the north end is Cape Laem Thong, where there is a Chao Ley, or sea gipsy village. These sea gypsies emigrated from Koh Lipeh in Tarutao National Park, near the border with Malaysia. Diving at Laem Thong is excellent, as it is also at Hua Rah Ket to the extreme south. There are long beaches with rocks scattered about. Two curving bays are especially beautiful : Ton Sai and Loh Dalam. This is also where accommodations and tourist services are found.

• Koh Phi Phi Le

is 6.6 square kilometers in total area : 3 kilometers in length and 1 at its broadest point. The island is entirely limestone and steep cliffs rising from the sea very nearly ring it. Surrounding waters average about 20 meters in depth, reaching 34 meters at the deepest point off the island's southern tip. Phi Phi Ley has several beautiful bays : Pileh, Maya and Loh Samah ; Ao Pileh is very nearly enclosed by the limestone walls of the island's cliffs, so that the water appears almost to be an island sea. On Phi Phi Ley's northeast is the famous Viking Cave; this was renamed by H.M.Rama IX when he visited it in 1972, Tam Pya Nak, from the shape of a particular boulder, which resembles in shape the head of the great serpent of Buddhist legend, the Naga. It is a place much revered by the local people who come there to collect the swift's nests used to make Bird's Nest Soup, a Chinese delicacy. On the eastern and southern walls of the cave are colored drawings dating from historic times. There are pictures of elephants and also of various boats : European, Arab and Chinese sailing ships ; baroques, motorboats, and steamships. It is theorized that these pirates who paused in their travels from west to east, sheltering in the cave to escape the monsoon winds, transfer cargo, or make repairs. Travel to the Phi Phi Islands Tour operators in both Phuket and Krabi provide transport and tour packages to this popular destination. Regular boat service is available form Jao Fah pier in Krabi.

• Koh Phai

lies also to the north of Phi Phi Don, not far from Koh Yung. Sandy beaches are on the north and east sides of the island. Broad coral reefs stretch away into the south.

• Koh Yung

lies to the north of Phi Phi Don. There is a rocky beach on the east side, and a smaller strand of sand in a fold of the hill. Many beautiful and various corals are found there.

Attractions in Phang-Nga of Thailand

Ko Phra Thong

This is a large island northwest of Phang-nga. Located in Tambon Phra Thong, the island is an ideal holiday paradise containing unspoilt natural beauty as well as wonderful beaches. There is a large fresh water reservoir on the island. You can charter a boat ride from Khura Buri pier to the island. The trip takes just over an hour. Private accommodation is available.



Mu Ko Similan National Park


Similan is a Yawi or Malay word, which means nine or a group of nine islands. This is located in Tambon Ko Phra Thong, Amphoe Khura Buri, occupying an area of 32,000 acres. It was declared a national park on 1st September 1982. Similan is a small group of islands comprising nine islands stretching from north to south, respectively, namely: Ko Bon, Ko Bayu, Ko Similan, Ko Payu, Ko Miang (two adjoining islands), Ko Payan, Ko Payang, and Ko Huyong. The National Parks office is located on Ko Miang. Similan is highly praised for its beautiful scenery, both onshore and underwater. It is situated 70 kilometres from Phang-nga town. Best time to visit is between November and April.
Interesting attractions in the National Park include:
Ko Similan or Ko Paet is the largest island in this group of islands. It has a distinctive horseshoe-shaped bay. The average depth of the water is 60 feet. Underwater is full of rock formations and coral reefs in several shapes and forms such as deer, leaf, brain, and mushroom. The latter one is the most unspoiled coral found in the country. Its soft sandy beach is very beautiful and diving around here will let you see a lot of fishes and coral. To the north, lies a striking large rock formation with astonishing shapes such as boot and Donald Ducks head. The upper part of the beach is an ideal lookout point with a rock of a sailing boat shape.
Ko Ba-ngu is the ninth island of the Similan group of islands. It has a strange feature. Looking from one point, the shape of a skull can be seen. Underwater is as beautiful as a valley full of coral reefs, deep gorge, and various sizes of fish.
Ko Huyong, the island offers the whitest and longest beach of all the nine islands. During turtles' egg laying season, from November to February, there would be tracks on the beach from turtles that come onshore to lay eggs, resembling centipede tracks.
Ko Miang is the second largest island among 9 islands after Similan Island. It is where the office of the National Park is located. The island offers a scenic beach which is suitable for camping.
Diving Spots
There are several diving spots that suit both snorkelling and scuba diving. The famous scuba diving spots including rock formations that lie to the west of Ko Tachai where whale sharks can be seen, Ko Bon, Christmas Point rock formation, Fantasy rock formation, and Ao Kwang En (to the east of Ko Paet), etc.
Snorkelling spots are scattered around these nine islands. The interesting points are by the sailing boat rock, Ao Kwang En, and behind Miang Island.
How to Get There
Thap Lamu Pier, located 70 kilometres north of Phang-nga at Amphoe Thai Mueang, is the nearest point to Similan. A boat trip takes around 3 hours. There is no regular boat service for travellers to the island. Boats leaving from Thap Lamu are suitable for group tours and the boat rentals range from 8,000-10,000 baht, depending on various factors. It is sometimes possible for individuals to hitch a ride or pay a reasonable fraction of the rental cost on a boat chartered by a group. This method is by no means certain and should be an obtion only for the adventurous who have time to spare. Visitors may contact the park office at Thap Lamu (Tel: 0 7659 5045) for further information.
A boat trip from Patong Beach, Phuket takes around four hours. Visitors can contact Seatran Travel Tel: 0 76219391-2. Diving companies in Phuket also organise a three-day trip. Prices range from 9,000 to 25,000 baht, depending on the level of luxury, and include food, and accommodations.
Accommodation
There are bungalows and tents as well as restaurants available on the island. For more information contact Mu Ko Similan National Park, Mu 1, Thap Lamu, Tambon Lam Kaen, Amphoe Thai Mueang, Phang-nga 82120, tel. 0 7642 1365 or 0 7659 5045.





Mu Ko Surin National Park

Situated in Tambon Ko Phra Thong and covering an area of 84,375 rais (33,750 acres), Mu Ko Surin is an archipelago of 5 islands: Ko Surin Nuea, Ko Surin Tai, Ko Ri, Ko Khai, and Ko Klang. It was declared a national park on July 9, 1981. The archipelago is located in the Andaman Sea, near the Thai-Burmese sea border, to the west coast of Thailand. There are beautiful and unspoilt coral reefs; the area is suitable for snorkelling. The best time to visit is from November to April.
Ko Surin Nuea has several bays. The most well-known bay is Ao Mae Yai, the largest bay that offers calm waters. To the southeast of Ko Surin Nuea lies Ao Luek, which is so deep that the sea appears dark green, offering splendid shallow corals as well as sea weeds, sea flowers, coral lines, and various species of fish. Sea Gypsy Village, a Singha, or Morgan, Sea Gypsy tribe resides on the shore of Hat Sai En, Ko Surin Nuea. There are 130-150 sea gypsies who still hold on to their traditional ways of life and still live in their boats. On shore, there is a wooden sculpture resembling the Indian Totem Pole and is considered a sacred area. Every year, on the 15th day of the waxing moon in April, the sea gypsies in this village would worship their respected spirits. The event lasts for 3 days. Ao Mai Ngam, situated to the west of Ko Surin Nuea with the National Parks office nearby. There is a 2-kilometre walking path that you can take to enjoy the natural features of Hat Mai Ngam or you can take a longboat ride. The lovely bay provides fresh water and a long beach that is best for snorkelling and swimming. Ao Chak, situated to the north of Ko Surin Nuea. The bay possesses unspoilt coral reefs.Interesting attractions on Ko Surin Tai include Ao Tao, situated to the east of the island. The bay is home to numerous sea turtles and magnificent coral reefs. Ao Phakkat, situated to the south of Ko Surin Tai. It is where unspoilt coral reefs can be seen.
Ko Klang or Ko Pachumba has a scenic bay called Ao Mangkon. The bay is teeming with splendid coral reefs and many schools of various kinds of fish.Ko Khai or Ko Torilla, situated to the south of Ko Surin Tai. On the eastern side of the island there is a long stretch of unspoilt and picturesque coral reef. Snorkelling is the most recommended activity here.
How to Get There
Travelling to Mu Ko Surin can be initiated from several different points:- Khura Buri Pier is the nearest point to Mu Ko Surin. Khura Buri is some 125 kilometres north of Phang-nga. A boat trip takes around 4 hours. There is no regular boat service for travellers to Ko Surin. Boats leaving from Khura Buri are suitable for group tours.
- Amphoe Kapoe Pier is in Ranong Province. The trip takes 7 hours. Visitors may contact Chansom Tara Hotel (tel: 0 7783 5317-9) which has boats leaving Chan Damri Beach for trips to Mu Ko Surin.
Note: The best way for individual travellers is to join a trip out of Phuket that includes Mu Ko Surin on the itinerary. This typically lasts at least 3 days and includes visits to Mu Ko Similan.
Accommodation
There are lodges, bungalows, tents, and restaurants available. Admission fee is 200 baht. Scuba diving equipments are available for rent. For more information, contact Mu Ko Surin National Park, Amphoe Khura Buri, Phang-nga, 82150, tel: 0 7649 1378, 0 7641 9028.

Ko Yao

Ko Yao covers an area of 137 square kilometres. The majority of the population are Muslim. The island is made up of 2 large islands: Ko Yao Noi and Ko Yao Yai. Attractions on Ko Yao Noi include:Hat Pa Sai, situated 7 kilometres from the District Office on Ko Yao Noi. This white sandy beach is covered with shady trees. From Hat Pa Sai, a scenic view of the islands of Krabi province can be seen in the distance.
Hat Tha Kao,situated 5 kilometres from the District Office on Ko Yao Noi. The beach features boulders, rocks, and pebbles of various shapes, size, and coloration. During the low tide, you can walk to another small island nearby.
Attractions on Ko Yao Yai include:
Ao Ti Kut, located at Ko Yao Yai. This bay has a white sandy beach. To the north of the bay, there is a beautiful rocky cape with a beach lined with pine trees.
Ao Klong Son offers a beach of fine, white sand and shady pine trees. On the left end of the beach is a colourful rock formation with equally beautiful multi-coloured pebbles. Swimming and snorkelling to see beautiful coral is recommended.
Ao Hin Kong, situated on Ko Yao Yai. It is a shady beach lined with Cotyletobium trees. This bay is home to young rays, which makes it unsuitable for swimming. Ao Hin Kong is also a habitat of Muslims who earn their living from fishing.
Ao Lan, the bay offers a beautiful beach, ideal for swimming. To the north, there is a cape which has a steep cliff and at the base of the cliff, the water is quite deep. Boat riding is the most convenient mode of transport to get there.
Ao Sai is blessed with powdery white sand. The bay also has beautiful rock formations. Swimming can be enjoyed.
Hat Lo Pa Raet features a long stretch of a white sandy beach teeming with groves of coconut trees. To the north of the bay is a cape with a beautiful rock formation and the water around the cape is suitable for swimming.
Laem Nok Ok, located on Ko Yao Yai. The beach here has rock formations and pebbles of many colours. Swimming is recommended.

How to Get There
Travelling to Ko Yao can be made from Phuket, Phang-nga, and Krabi, but the most convenient route of all is from Phuket.
To get to Ko Yao Noi, visitors can take a ferry departing from Phukets Bang Rong Pier at 11 a.m., 12 noon, 1 p.m. 2.30 p.m. and 5 p.m. On return, the ferry departs from Ko Yao Noi at 7 a.m. and 7.30 a.m. One-way fare is 40 baht. The trip takes 45 minutes. A chartered long-tail boat costs 1,000 baht per trip.
Travelling to Ko Yao Yai,visitors need to ride a ferry from Phukets Thian Sin Pier. The ferry leaves the pier at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. On return, the ferry departs from Ko Yao Yais Lo Chak pier at 12 noon. The trip takes an hour. One-way fare is 50 baht.
There are also long-tail boat shuttle services between Ko Yao Noi and Ko Yao Yai. The trip takes 10 minutes.

Phang-nga : General Information

The province of Phang-nga is located some 788 kilometres from Bangkok. It covers an area of 4,170 square kilometres. Phang-nga is a province with two characters - land and sea - and packed with national parks that guard magnificent scenery with immensely different attractions. Most famous is Ao Phang-nga National Park, a geological wonder filled with islets, sunken caverns and startling rock formations rising sheer out of the sea. The bay is extremely sheltered ideal for expeditions of sea canoes to explore the many fascinating caverns with their own eco-systems.Phang-nga's andaman coast offers parks of a different kind. The island groups of Surin and Similan are renowned for their beautiful unspoilt beaches and spectacular underwater scenery, attracting divers from around the world. Khao Lak is a coastal park full of birds, mammals and scenic waterfalls, with a number of hotel developments after Tsunami disaster in December 2004.

Transfers

• Car

First route: From Bangkok, take Highway No. 4, passing the provinces of Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chumphon, and Ranong, then drive straight to Phang-nga town. It is 788 kilometres from Bangkok. The trip takes around 12 hours.2) Second route: From Bangkok, take Highway No.4 to Chumphon, from there, take Higway No. 41 to Amphoe Tha Chang, then go straight to an intersection where a right turn is made to Highway No. 401, keep driving to Amphoe Ban Ta Khun for about 50 kilometres, and then take Highway No. 415 for 30 kilometres, take a right turn to Phang-nga town. Visitors travelling from Phuket should use Highway No. 402, passing Sarasin Bridge to Ban Khok Kloi, take a right turn to Amphoe Takua Thung. It is 87 kilometres from Phuket. The journey takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes.

• Bus

There are daily bus services from Bangkok to Phang-nga. Travelling time is 12 hours. For more information call the Southern Bus Terminal at tel. 0 2435 1199-200 or the Phang-nga Bus Terminal at tel: 0 7641 2300, 0 7641 2014 or visit http://www.transport.co.th/.

• Rail

There is no direct train to Phang-nga. The State Railways of Thailand operates daily train services between Bangkok and Surat Thani. A trip to Phang-nga can be made by getting off at the Surat Thani Railway Station and then ride a bus for another two hours. For more information call Bangkoks Hualamphong Railway Station at tel. 1690, 0 2223 7010, 0 2223 7020 or visit http://www.railway.co.th/.

• Air

Thai Airways International operates Bangkok-Phuket flights daily. From Phuket, take a bus or rent a car to Phang-nga for about 58 kilometres. For more information, call Thai Airways at tel: 1566 or 0 2280 0060, 0 2628 2000 or visit http://www.thaiairways.com/.

Beaches in Phuket

Mai Khao Beach
9 kilometers of deserted beach characterize Mai Khao where there is little tourist business. The beach is part of the Sirinat National Park and protected. The water is fine for swimming during the dry season; the rainy season brings big waves and strong currents that are dangerous. This lonely beach is another area where sea turtles come to lay eggs. It is also home to what the Thais call a sea cicada, which is a form of marine life. To get there go to the northern tip of Phuket; the beach lies along the road's length

Sai Kaew Beach
This strip of sand is just the north portion of Mai Khao Beach and has much the same character. Located west of the bridges spanning the channel between Phuket and Phang–nga provinces.

Nai Yang Beach
This is where the National Park office is located. The beach itself is on a long curving bay lined with evergreens that provide shade to picnicker. The large coral reef is home to many different species of fish, and Nai Yang is well known as a site where sea turtles come to lay their eggs during the period from November to February; the population of these has however, dropped off greatly. First class accommodations are available and small food vendors cater to the many day trippers. To get there take the Nai Yang Rd., and look for signs indicating the park entrance.
Rawai Beach
Site of the Chao Ley or Sea Gypsy village, many restaurants and bungalows, shell handicraft shops, and both fishing and charter boats to the nearby islands. The beach itself is just ok for swimming and protected by the Coral island in front. Rawai is 7 km west of Chalong Circle.

Nai Thon Beach
This quiet bay nestled at the foot of high hills has a 900meter long fine strip of the sand. There are some accommodations but virtually no other business. The beach is good for swimming outside the monsoon season and a coral reef at the southern end provides good snorkeling. Located between Bang Thao Bay and Nai Yang Beach, Nai Thon Beach can be reached by taking Thep Krasatri Rd. Turn at the first traffic light north of Thalang Town to Nai Yang Rd. Look for signs indicating the turn-off to Nai Ton.

Bang Tao Beach
Bangthao is a large open bay with one of Phuket's longest beaches. It was once used for tin mining, but has since been developed into a luxury resort. Most of it is occupied by the Laguna Beach Resort, a massive five-hotel development with golf course. There are, however, accommodations available outside Laguna at the bay's south end. Dry season swimming is excellent, and at the bay's north end is a smaller bay, almost completely enclosed, at the mouth of which is some fine coral. Plenty of places to eat, tour companies, and other tourist facilities available either at Laguna or in the nearby town of Choeng Thale. The beach is located off Sri Sunthon Rd., in Choeng Thale. As for access to Laguna; the south end of the bay may be approached by taking the road north from Surin Beach. To get to the far north end from Sri Sunthon Rd., take the road leading to Laguna, but do not enter, continue on to the town of Bandon where there is an intersection of asphalted roads, and take the one leading west toward the sea. This road leads also to Nai Thon Bay and makes a very pleasant drive. Along the way are some small bays with good swimming and no development.

Layan Beach
This beach is at the northern end of Bang Tao beach where the beach meets a river and a lagoon. The area is home to many birds and other wildlife who enjoy the peacefulness of the lagoon. The many small tracks which cover the hillside of the beach are well known by climbers and bird watchers. You can reach the beach by walking pass the Laguna Phuket Resort or by following the highway and turning in to Nai Thon beach at the road sign. Layan Beach Resort & Spa Village is the only resort on this beach.

Nai Harn Beach
A popular swimming beach and yacht anchorage during the dry season. The beach is fine, but big waves strike it during the wet season, making swimming dangerous. Regular bus service to and from Phuket town during daytime. Nai Han is just north of Phrom Thep Cape. Cafes and bars on the beach serve excellent food for reasonable prices.

Ao Sehn Beach
This remote bay is Northwest of Nai Harn Beach and a little secret of Phuket because it is not easy to reach. The beach is small, clean and features many rocks. it is a perfect place for a picnic. To get there you must pass the gates of the Le Royal Meridien Yacht Club, drive through the parking deck on the left side and follow the way through the Hotel Complex until you reach a small road which goes for app. 1 km Northwest.

Surin Beach
Evergreen trees rim this small, curving bay beneath the foothills north of Kamala. Surin is home to Phuket's first golf course, a nine-hole course laid out more than sixty years ago during the reign of King Rama VII. It is now largely in disuse except as a park. The steep incline of the beach, turbulent water, and big waves make Surin a dangerous place to swim during the rainy season. The beach is mostly frequented by Thais and the locals on weekends and on the southern end you can find some small snack and souvenir shops. Beach chairs and umbrellas can be rented there. Surin is most famous for its breathtaking sunsets. Located at the end of Sri
Sunthon Rd., the road running west from the Two Heroines Monument, 24 km. from Phuket Town. Accommodations and restaurants are nearby.

Kamala Beach
Kamala is named after the Muslim fishing village north of Patong. Tourist development on the beach much of which is covered by a Muslim graveyard and a police outpost has been slow in coming. Buffalo herds still come down to the beach to cool off in the afternoon. The beach is beautiful and about 2 km. in length. There are accommodations ranging from guesthouse to international class, and a number of small Thai restaurants specializing in seafood for the tourist. Kamala is the perfect place to get away from it all and has little to offer in the way of entertainment - for that go across the mountains to Patong. There are no palm trees so shadow is only provided by some beach umbrellas you can rent. The FantaSea Phuket Themepark is located here which offers daily evening shows. Regular bus service to and from Phuket Town during daytime; tuk-tuk service available to Patong, 5 km. away on the new road.

Sing Cape
The name means Lion's Point in English. The beach is in a small, 100 meter long curving bay with rocky headlands at the foot of forest-fringed cliffs and is among Phuket's most beautiful spots. The beach is good for swimming and quiet. In the high season you might find some small food stalls and bars for refreshment. Located about 1 km. south of the entrance to Surin Beach. Look for signs indicating the path down to the beach.

Patong Beach
This is Phuket's central tourist and night time entertainment district. Over the years, Patong has turned from a fishing village into one of the island's two cities. The famous bay and 4 km. beach is know as a center of entertainment with restaurants catering to every nationality. Live music can be found in most pubs and bars. Accommodations range from budget to five-star. Shopping opportunities appear to be endless. All kind of watersports are on offer here and the beach is good for swimming so you should be careful in monsoon season. In addition, there are many tour companies waiting to help visitors plan their vacations.

Kalim Beach
This beach is really a continuation north of Patong beach, from which it is separated by some rocks. It is not yet developed and thus affords some privacy. The beach itself is a mixture of sand and small rocks. At the back of the beach are accommodations. The waters contain extensive coral reefs which you can reach by foot at low tide (you must wear shoes as some of the rocks are very sharp) The northern part is battled by monsoon winds and from June to September you might have some big waves suitable for surfing.

Freedom Beach
This beach can only be reached by a 10 minute trip with a longtail boat around the southern corner of Patong. It is one of the most beautiful beaches with fine white sand. It is a private beach, but as long as you not arrive in a jet ski access is granted by the owner. There is a coral reef which invites for snorkeling and a restaurant with some beach chairs. To get there rent a longtail boat at Patong.

Karon Beach
The second largest of Phuket's principal tourist beaches. Large resort complexes line the road back of the beach, but the beach itself, 3 km long and broad, has no development. The sand is very white, and squeaks audibly when walked on. The southern point has a fine coral reef stretching toward Kata and Poo Island. Restaurants, bars, tour companies and other non-hotel businesses are at the north end, near the traffic circle, and at the south, on the little road connecting the back road with the beach road. The narrow road between Kata and Karon has a number of small businesses as well as the Dino Park Mini Golf facility. Karon is the most up-scale of Phuket's beaches. Regular daytime bus service to and from Phuket Town. In the monsoon season it can be dangerous for swimming because of the currents so watch out for the red flags which are put up when it is to dangerous.

Kata Beach
The smallest of Phuket's three main tourist beaches, Kata is different in appearance and style from Karon or Patong. The beach itself is broad and curving, and structures bordering it are low–rise. The waters are perfect for swimming, and at the north end is a coral reef with many varied corals and fishes which stretches out toward Poo Island., about 1/2 km off shore. Facilities for every price range include hotels, bungalows, tour companies, restaurants, bars and clubs. There is regular bus service to and from Phuket Town during daytime.

Kata Noi Beach
South of Kata is Kata Noi, a smaller beach with only a few hotels and little other development. The beach is superb. Many fish inhabit the rocks and corals along the beachless shoreline stretching south. To get there take the narrow beach road up over the hill from Kata.

Pansea Beach
This is a small exclusive bay encircled by rocks which houses only two resorts: The luxurious Amanpuri and The Chedi. The resorts are blocking the entrance to the beach but you can reach it by walking through The Chedi as all beaches in Thailand are public.

Nakalay Beach
Nakalay is app. 5 minutes from Patong and occupied by only one resort which covers the whole bay - The Thavorn Beach Bungalow. It is suitable for people who like it quiet but still want to be near the entertainment area of Patong.

Relax Bay
This wonderful little bay is part of the Le Meridien Phuket Beach Resort and not freely accessible. It is located between Patong and Karon beach.

Nui Beach
This little remote beach can be reached by a small path. Follow the sign on the left side on the beach road from Nai Harn to Kata. You can drive only the first hundred meters through a coconut plantation then you have to walk for another 2 km through dense forest and a hilly area. It is a small adventure to reach the beach but well worth it as there are few people due to its remote location. Its a nice place for swimming. There is no accommodation or else at this beach.

Chalong Bay
This quiet bay is used as anchorage by many yachts and tour boats because it is protected from strong winds. Many trips to the nearby islands starting here so it is crowded between sunrise and 9am, when the boats leave, and between 4pm - 5pm when they return. In the evening the beach restaurants are a favorite place for tourists coming back from watching the sunset at Promthep Cape.

Yanoi Beach
This little beach is one of the best kept secrets on Phuket which offers beautiful rock formations and good snorkeling at the reef in front of the beach. To get there follow the road from Promthep Cape to the west. Between Promthep and the wind energy plant watch out for a small restaurant with a small parking lot. A few meters behind the restaurant you can see the beach.

Island in phuket

Coral Island or Hey Island

This island of 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. Coral Island is part of a marine preserve, but accommodations, restaurants, various water sports and diving are all available. Boats leave from Rawai and Chalong. Package tours are also available.

Lon Island
This large, mountainous island is only 20 minutes by regular passenger boat from Chalong Bay, in the south of Phuket. The mainly Muslim inhabitants engage in fishing, rubber and coconut planting. There is a long stretch of beach on the northeast coast. Boats to Ko Lon leave daily in the early morning from Chalong Pier.

Mai Ton Island
This tiny island of 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. For details contact (076) 214954-7.

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. For details call Phuket Paradise, (076) 214917.


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. Accommodation- 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. Package tours are provided by Richy Island Tour, Tel. 238163, and other tour agencies.

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 eastern shore.

Nakha Island
This small, quiet island with fine sandy beaches lies just off Phuket's northeast shore. Waters are suitable for swimming. One item of interest at Ko Nakha Noi not found in many other places is its pearl farm. Boats can be hired from Ao Po Pier, off Pa Khlok Rd., for travel to Ko Nakha Noi, and package trips are available at tour agencies, generally including lunch and a visit to the pearl farm.

Phi Phi Island
Phi Phi Islands are located about 48 Km southeast from Phuket, 42 km south from Krabi Town and 40 km from Ao Nang Beach and can be reached by boat In between 1 1/2 to 3 hours depending on the type of boat you take. Boats leave from Phuket, Ao Nang and the Chao Far Pier in Krabi Town everyday. The characteristics of the islands are steep, lightly vegetated cliffs rising vertically from the seabed and hidden bays concealing petite, pristine beaches and calm clear waters.

Koh Yao Noi
Koh Yao Noi, is one of the largest islands surrounding Phuket and can be reached in one hour by boat from Phuket. The island is situated within a very short distance to the well-known destinations of Koh Bileh islands, Krabi, Phang Nga (James Bond islands). The tourism has not been developed on a large scale on the island, Thai life style remained unchanged and peace and privacy abound. South of Koh Yao Noi it has its twin island, Koh Yao Yai, which is even bigger and wilder and offers wonderful spots for trekking.


Similian Island
Similian Islands (Koh Similian) is a group of islands located approximately 100 kilometers north-west of Phuket. There are a total of nine granite islands covered with tropical jungle and surrounded by chalk white beaches and crystal clear blue water, that offers some of the best diving in Thailand and the world. There is a big variation in the underwater environment to be found here that are not offered on any other places around the world.

Koh Bon Island
Koh Bon is located north of Similian Islands and offers world-class diving. The dive site is on the southwestern point and consists of a 33 meter wall facing the small cove, and a step-down ridge that carries on to depths of over 45 meters. Koh Bon is one of the better places to see manta rays, especially towards the end of the season when there is more plankton in the water. In that area you also have the islands Koh Tachai, the Surin Islands, and Richelieu Rock

Phuket : General Information

Phuket is Thailand ’s largest island, approximately the size of Singapore. Phuket nestles in balmy Andaman Sea waters on Thailand’s Indian Ocean coastline 862 kilometers south of Bangkok. Phuket is blessed with magnificent coves and bays, powdery, palm-fringed white beaches, sparkling island-dotted seas, sincerely hospitable people, superb accommodations and seafood, delightful turn-of-the-century Sino-Portuguese architecture; numerous sporting and leisure opportunities; a lush tropical landscape – all of which combine to create a delightful ambience for truly memorable holidays.

The most famous beaches

• Patong
• Kata,
• Karon,
• Kamala
• Nai Harn Beach

Phuket and its islands are ideal for sailing, diving & snorkeling, golfing and all kinds of sports & entertainment you can wish for; you even can take a trip with a submarine to discover the colorful marine live.There is plenty of accommodation available ranging from standard bungalow resorts to 5 star hotels.

Transfers

• By Car :

Take Route 4 from Bangkok to the south. Along the way pass the provinces of Nakhon Pathom, Ratchaburi, Phetchaburi, Prachuap-Khirikan, and at Chumphon go right to Ranong. From Ranong, go south through Kraburi and Kapoe Districts to Phang-nga Province. In Phang-nga the road passes through Kuraburi, Takuapa, and Thai Muang Districts before reaching the town of Kok Kloy. Then, cross the Thao Thep Kasattri or Sarasin Bridge to Phuket Island. The distance is 867 kilometers.

• By Sea :

The Deep Sea Port (Port of Phuket) at Puket is visited by both cargo and cruise ship from Thailand and from abroad. Contact your travel agent for information about the many different ships that stop at Phuket.

• By Bus :

If you come to Phuket overland, the bus connection is the only means of travel, since there is no existing railway connection to the island. The only land connection to the island is a 1200 meters long causeway, used by cars and busses.The bus ride from Bangkok takes 14 hours or more for the nearly 900 kilometers, leaving there from the Southern Bus Terminal. The fare is around THB 700 to 800. There are also regular mini-bus trips from Singapore and Penang which are reasonably priced.Both air-conditioned and non air–conditioned buses leave the Southern Bus Terminal in Bangkok daily. Southern Bus Terminal Tel. (02) 4347192, 4345557-8, Phuket Central Company Tel. (02) 4355019, Phuket Travel Tel. (02) 4355018, Phuket Bus Terminal Tel. (076) 211480. Timetable

• By Air :

Thai Airways International operates flights to Phuket Airport daily. The travel time is 1 hour 20 minutes. TimetableBangkok Airways operates flights from Samui to Phuket daily. The travel time is 50 minutes. TimetableOrient Thai Airlines(One-Two-Go) operates flights from Bangkok to Phuket daily.The travel time is 1 hour 20 minutes. TimetableAir Asia operates flights from Bangkok to Phuket daily. TimetableRegulations for carry-on baggage