Explore paradise islands, world-class diving, cultural temples, and unforgettable adventures - discover the best tours and day trips from Phuket in 2025
Phuket serves as the gateway to some of Thailand's most spectacular destinations. From the legendary Phi Phi Islands (Maya Bay featured in "The Beach") to James Bond Island in Phang Nga Bay, the world-renowned Similan Islands diving paradise, and cultural landmarks like Big Buddha and Wat Chalong - there's an adventure for every traveler and budget.
Tours range from budget-friendly group excursions (฿1,200-2,500) to premium private speedboat charters (฿15,000-35,000). Peak season (November-April) offers best weather with calm seas perfect for island hopping. Low season (May-October) sees discounted tours but rougher seas and occasional cancellations.
Essential Tour Information 2025:
The most popular day trip from Phuket. Visit Maya Bay (The Beach movie), snorkel at Pileh Lagoon, see Viking Cave, and explore Phi Phi Don village. Tours range from budget ferries to premium speedboats.
Various operators
Classic budget option on large ferry (200+ people). Visits Maya Bay, Pileh Lagoon, Viking Cave, and Phi Phi Don village. Crowded but affordable.
Phuket Tour Company, Sea Star
Most popular option. Speedboat with 20-30 people gets you there 2x faster than ferry. More time on islands, earlier arrival before crowds.
Custom charters
Private speedboat for your group only. Flexible itinerary, skip crowds, depart when you want. Can visit additional spots. 6-10 person capacity.
Specialized operators
Afternoon departure to catch sunset at Maya Bay, followed by bioluminescent plankton swimming (seasonal). Magical experience with fewer crowds.
Explore the dramatic limestone karsts of Phang Nga Bay, including James Bond Island (The Man with the Golden Gun), sea caves, and traditional Muslim fishing village on stilts.
Traditional Thai longtail boat explores limestone caves, James Bond Island, and Koh Panyee Muslim village on stilts. Most budget-friendly and authentic.
Comfortable large boat with 40-50 people. More stable than longtail, includes buffet lunch, and covers all major Phang Nga Bay highlights.
Small group speedboat (15-20 people) with early departure to beat crowds. Includes extra stops and premium lunch at floating restaurant.
World-class diving and snorkeling at one of the world's top 10 dive sites. Crystal-clear waters, giant granite boulders, pristine white beaches. Open Nov-May only. 90km from Phuket.
Snorkeling Focus
Full day snorkeling trip to Similan Islands Marine Park. Visit 3-4 islands including famous Sailing Rock. Crystal-clear water, pristine beaches, incredible marine life.
2-3 Dive Trip
Certified diver trip with 2-3 dives at world-class dive sites. See manta rays (Feb-Apr), whale sharks (rare), turtles, and diverse marine life. Equipment included.
Closest island to Phuket (15 min). Beautiful coral reefs, water sports, beach relaxation. Perfect for families and half-day trips.
Pristine islands 40 minutes south. Excellent snorkeling, beautiful beaches, fewer crowds than Phi Phi. Crystal-clear water perfect for snorkeling.
Three small islands near Phuket. Shallow clear water, fish feeding, easy snorkeling. Great for kids and beginners. Morning or afternoon options.
Upscale private island experience. Limited daily visitors, pristine beach, dolphin spotting opportunity, premium service. More exclusive than typical tours.
Visit 4 islands in one day: Koh Yao, Koh Rang Yai, Koh Nok, and Koh Mai Ton. Comprehensive island hopping with variety. Good value.
Secluded beach on Phuket's west coast accessible only by boat. Beautiful setting, clear water, peaceful atmosphere. Hidden gem.
Half-day tour covering Big Buddha (45m tall marble Buddha with panoramic views), Wat Chalong (largest and most important temple), and Phuket Old Town Sino-Portuguese architecture.
Guided 3-4 hour walking tour through historic Sino-Portuguese architecture, local markets, street art, and traditional coffee shops. Learn Phuket's history and culture.
Afternoon tour timing arrival at Big Buddha for sunset. Watch the sun set over Chalong Bay with panoramic views. Includes Wat Chalong visit and viewpoint stops.
Comprehensive full-day Phuket sightseeing: Big Buddha, temples, Old Town, viewpoints, cashew factory, and local lunch. See all major Phuket landmarks in one day.
High season (Nov-Apr): Book tours 2-5 days ahead, especially Phi Phi and Similan trips which fill up. Low season: Can book 1-2 days ahead but many tours canceled due to weather. Check weather forecast.
Nov-Apr: Calm seas, perfect weather, crowded. May-Oct: Rough seas, possible cancellations, 30-40% cheaper, fewer crowds. Similan Islands closed May 16-Nov 14. Always check weather before booking.
Hotel tour desks: Convenient but 20-30% markup. Street tour shops: Competitive prices, compare 3-4 shops. Online (Klook, GetYourGuide): Often best prices, reviews available. Never pay full price - negotiate 10-15% off.
Speedboat tours can be rough, especially low season. Take motion sickness pills 30-60 minutes before departure. Sit at front of boat (less bouncing). Eat light breakfast. Bring plastic bags just in case.
Essentials: Sunscreen (reef-safe), hat, sunglasses, waterproof phone case, extra cash (฿1,000-2,000), towel (some tours provide). Similan trips: Seasickness pills essential - 2-hour each way speedboat ride.
NOT included in tour prices. Similan Islands: ฿600 Thai / ฿1,000 foreigner. Phi Phi: ฿400. Phang Nga Bay: ฿300. Always carry extra cash for these mandatory fees paid at islands.