Day Trips from Phuket: What's Worth It and What Depends on the Weather
Phuket is a great base, and not only for beaches
Most people come to Phuket for the sea, yet some of the best experiences happen on the days you leave the beach. The tricky part is choosing, because everything on offer looks perfect in the photos.
For an easy day without a boat, Phuket Old Town and the Big Buddha are two stops you can combine without leaving the island. The Old Town suits morning or evening, while the Big Buddha is mainly a viewpoint stop. If you are looking for a base, our guide to Phuket areas explains where to stay, and here are a few options in Phuket.
Real data ยท Agoda
Real data ยท Agoda
Real data ยท AgodaPhang Nga Bay and the big islands
Phang Nga Bay, including the James Bond Island area, is one of the classic tours: dramatic limestone cliffs, kayaks and caves. It is very popular, so choose early hours or an operator you trust.
Phi Phi is a long and slightly tiring day, but well known and in demand. You could also consider Krabi for other islands and beaches. Our Koh Phi Phi guide has details, and there is also the destination page for Koh Phi Phi.
Either way, ask what is included: lunch, snorkeling gear, park entry fees and transport from your hotel.
Similan: a seasonal destination with question marks
The Similan Islands are known for diving and snorkeling, but access is seasonal. They are usually reachable mainly in the winter months and not during the rainy season, so do not count on them without checking first.
Before paying a deposit, check with the operator which dates are running, what the tour includes and what the policy is if the trip is cancelled due to rough seas.
Speedboat or big boat: and what about seasickness
A speedboat is fast and gives you more time at the destination, but it is loud, bumpy and harder on sensitive stomachs. A big boat is slower and steadier, and usually suits children and anyone prone to nausea.
If you tend to feel uneasy at sea, sit in the middle of the boat, watch the horizon, avoid going out on a totally empty or overly full stomach, and ask a pharmacist or doctor about suitable options.
The sea in rainy season: check before you book
During the rainy months the Andaman Sea can be rough, and tours get cancelled or shortened. That does not mean you cannot travel, only that it pays to stay flexible and not lock in every day ahead of time.
Check the sea forecast the day before, ask about cancellation policies and keep a spare day. Details are in our rainy season guide, and you will find the options for crossing between islands in our ferries and speedboats guide.
Summary: what to do now
Pick one big boat day, one easy day on the island itself, and one free day. That way the trip does not turn into a queue of one cruise after another.
Do not book everything in advance, and check the weather and sea before every outing.
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