Sea journeys are one of the greatest pleasures of a holiday in Thailand. Among the wide variety of excursions available, the islands near Phuket are especially popular thanks to their picturesque landscapes, white sandy beaches, and crystal-clear waters. Even if you only have one free day, you can still visit beautiful bays, coral reefs, and truly tropical islands that look like they belong on a postcard.
The choice of destination depends on your goals, some travelers seek peace and quiet with relaxed beach time, while others prefer active programs with snorkeling, diving, and boat trips. If you plan your route in advance, it’s easy to find an option that suits a family trip, a romantic getaway, or a journey with a group of friends.
Nearest Islands: Coral, Racha, and Lon for a Quick Getaway
For travelers who want to go on a one-day excursion, the islands located about 20–30 km from the coast of Phuket are an excellent choice. They can be reached in just 30–60 minutes by speedboat, so these trips are not tiring even for children and are perfect for short getaways.
If you’re wondering which islands to visit near Phuket, it’s best to start with these destinations, as they combine convenient logistics with truly beautiful locations.
These destinations offer beautiful beaches, cozy bays, and a variety of leisure options:
- Coral Island (Koh Hae), one of the closest islands to Phuket, known for its calm sea and comfortable beaches. It’s an excellent choice for families: there are hardly ever waves, plenty of photo spots, good infrastructure, and the option to go even on a later departure. />
- Racha Yai Island and Racha Noi Island, popular destinations for diving and snorkeling. The waters around these islands offer excellent visibility, and the underwater scenery impresses with coral reefs and rich marine life. Here you can encounter tropical fish, moray eels, rays, and enjoy a truly beautiful underwater world. />
- Ko Lon (Lon Island), a small, secluded island with quiet beaches and picturesque bays. It’s a perfect place for leisurely walks along the shore, relaxing away from crowds, and photo sessions surrounded by tropical nature.
These islands are perfect for those who want to enjoy the beauty of Thailand’s coastline and spend a full day at sea without wasting too much time on travel. Such trips are comfortable even for families with children, as the transfer takes minimal time and requires no complicated preparation.
Many excursions include convenient transfers, lunch, and swimming stops, making the journey easy and stress-free.
One-Day Tours to Distant Archipelagos: What to Choose
If you’re ready to dedicate a full day to a longer sea journey, it’s worth considering archipelagos located about 50–100 km from Phuket. These excursions usually take the entire day, but in return, they offer the chance to see breathtakingly beautiful islands, unique natural landscapes, and iconic locations that are considered the calling card of Thailand.
Popular Destinations for One-Day Tours
- Similan Islands, one of the most beautiful places in the Andaman Sea. Tours usually include a hike up to the famous Sail Rock viewpoint, snorkeling stops, and relaxation on white sandy beaches. The Similans are especially popular among diving enthusiasts, underwater photography lovers, and those seeking vibrant marine landscapes.
- James Bond Island (Ko Tapu), an iconic location in Phang Nga Bay. The tour often includes a longtail boat ride, canoeing among limestone cliffs, lunch in a floating sea gypsy village, and time to enjoy the peaceful natural surroundings.
- Phi Phi Islands, one of the most popular sea excursion destinations. During the trip, you can visit Maya Bay, Pileh Lagoon, Monkey Beach, Viking Cave, and enjoy snorkeling in crystal-clear waters. It’s the perfect choice for those who want to see Thailand’s legendary landscapes in just one day.
- Krabi Islands, a great option for lovers of scenic panoramas and diverse locations. Programs often include Naka Yai Beach with water activities, Hong Island with its picturesque lagoon, the white sands of Lao Lading, and a stop at a sandbank that’s especially beautiful at sunset.
These tours allow you to combine vivid experiences with relaxing beach time while enjoying stunning seascapes and the natural beauty of the archipelagos. In just one day, you can visit several islands, swim in turquoise waters, take spectacular photos, and feel the atmosphere of a true tropical adventure.
Many programs also include additional stops, scenic boat cruises, and opportunities for snorkeling or diving, making your trip even more exciting and memorable.
Practical Tips for One-Day Sea Trips
To ensure your one-day trip to the islands near Phuket is comfortable and safe, it’s important to plan the details in advance. Even a short excursion becomes much more enjoyable when you choose the right departure time, prepare essential items, and consider the specifics of the marine climate. A little preparation will help you avoid unnecessary expenses and make your trip as relaxing as possible.
When planning your itinerary, keep these recommendations in mind:
- Departure time: It’s best to set out early in the morning to visit several locations and avoid large crowds of tourists.
- Water gear: Bring a snorkeling mask, sunscreen, and life jackets for children if needed.
- Food and drinks: Many islands have cafés, but it’s still wise to bring water and light snacks, especially when traveling with children.
- Photography: Bright sunlight and clear water create perfect photo conditions, so a waterproof case for your phone or camera will be useful.
The islands around Phuket offer countless opportunities for one-day adventures. Whether you prefer relaxing on a quiet beach, exploring underwater life, enjoying boat trips, or capturing stunning panoramic views, there’s something for everyone.
For maximum comfort and safety, choose excursions with the Treasure Island team. We’ll help you select the right route, arrange convenient transfers, and show you the most picturesque locations so your trip becomes a highlight of your vacation. With us, your holiday will be vibrant, comfortable, and truly unforgettable.
