10 Must Do Attractions Beyond Phuket

While Phuket brims with attractions, on the mainland adventure and superb scenery beckons from Khao Lak to Krabi. Go trekking in Khao Sok national park; ride an elephant in Phang Nga or explore the fantastic limestone scenery around Phang Nga Bay in a canoe.


1. Khao Lak: Rafting and Trekking
Get off the beaten track in mainland Phang nga province. Glide down unspoilt rivers on a bamboo raft, where every bend in the river hides a surprise. Tropical birds, lizards, exotic hanging fruit or bathing water buffaloes. Get an alternative perspective from the back of an elephant along hillside paths. A great day trip for all ages. One hour from Phuket.

2. Phi Phi Islands: Snorkeling
Stunningly beautiful with sheer cliffs soaring from calm, clear seas. Two islands - both enchanting. Phi Phi Don, the larger island, with idyllic tropical beaches and Phi Phi Ley, to the south, an excellent snorkelling destination with shallow coral gardens. A perfect getaway just 55 miles from Phuket.
Take a day trip or stay overnight.

3. Khao Sok National Park: Jungle Safari
Canoe silently down the river paddled by your experienced guide. Listen to the sounds of the forest, keeping an eye out for birds, monkeys and other forest creatures that you might just encounter around the corner... Hang on as amazing elephants lumber through the jungle with incredible dexterity. Take a jungle safari - just a two hour drive from Phuket.

4. Phang Nga Bay: Sea Kayaking
Discover the mysterious world of the "hongs" in Phang Nga Bay. Secluded inside towering karsts lies a unique world accessed only by sturdy inflatable sea canoes - a perfect eco-friendly way to experience these incredible natural wonders.
Located about one hour north of Phuket airport, sea canoe trips operate daily.

5. Coral Island: Snorkeling
With a reef only a few metres from the beach, Coral island is a great place for novice snorkellers. Underwater boulders hide coral gardens providing a home for parrotfish, needlefish, damselfish, surgeonfish and lots more... Spend the whole day on the beach. Located about 15 mins from Phuket's southern Rawai beach. Take a day trip which provides snorkeling gear and transport.

6. Similan Islands: World Class Diving
Looking for the ultimate diving destination? Rated among the top 10 dive sites in the world, the Similans offer big fish, drift diving, drop-offs and coral gardens. Take a liveaboard dive cruise for 4-5 days of stunning diving around these lovely islands. Fantastic visibility (up to 30m) You can even go snorkeling close to the island shores. (High season Nov-Apr. only)

7. Racha Islands: Game Fishing
Rise to the challenge. Dorado, Barracuda and Reef Sharks are among the big game fish that inhabit the waters around Racha Island. Whether you just want to enjoy a day on the water, or you 're a serious fishermen, you'll love the thrill of big game fishing. Join a day trip or charter a boat from Phuket. Chartering is surprisingly good value between a family group or friends.

8. Island Hopping by Private Speedboat
A private boat offers the flexibility to choose those perfect snorkeling places away from the crowds and, when the tides and water clarity are perfect. Boats are comfortable and fast, fitted with all safety equipment and have large covered areas. Speedboats mean every destination is just a short ride away. Ideal for a group of friends or families. Just relax and enjoy a day in paradise, while the crew take care of the rest .

9. Phang Nga Bay: Cruising by Junk
This traditional junk-rigged schooner cruises the tropical archipelago from Phuket to Phang Nga Bay, visiting James Bond Island, the picturesque Sea Gypsy village, and more. Lie back on the deck cushions with a gentle breeze blowing under the sun canopy and let our experienced crew take care of you. Why flock to this beautiful area with masses of tourists when you can miss the crowds entirely?
View photos of the Phang Nga Cruise

10. Krabi: Rock Climbing
Just a three hour drive from Phuket, Krabi is a delightful travel experience. Stunning scenery, aquamarine waters, dozens of pure white sand beaches. Why not try rock climbing? Railay beach has a couple of climbing schools that provide instruction and equipment on the limestone sheer walls. Stay on Railay beach or nearby Ao Nang.