Best island-hopping destinations in the Andaman Sea near Phuket you’ll love

For diving enthusiasts, the Racha Islands are 15km south of Phuket. Made up of Racha Yai and Racha Noi (“big and “small”), these waters support rich marine life year-round. The key diving spots—Ao Lah, Siam Bay and Kon Kare Bay—have both shallow reefs for beginners and deeper sites for experienced divers. Looking for refined accommodation? You can find it at The Racha Resort on Racha Yai.

Read more: Su Va Na Phuket wins World's Best Underwater Restaurant Award

Often called the “Pearl of the Andaman”—bearing in mind there are pearls scattered across the world these days—the Phi Phi archipelago gained worldwide recognition through Leonardo DiCaprio’s film The Beach. The two main islands, Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Leh, each hold distinct appeal that can rival any other contenders.

Key sites include the vivid green waters of Pileh Lagoon, the sociable beaches of Phi Phi Don, and the quiet shores of Bamboo Island. The Viking Cave, a name of unknown provenance, but certainly not involving real vikings—more an erstwhile source of prized birds’ nests for Chinese tables—offers a glimpse of local history. Meanwhile, SAii Phi Phi Island Village Resort provides elegant accommodation in a beautiful natural setting.

Just a 20-minute journey from Phuket are the enticing Khai Islands—three small islets comprising Khai Nai, Khai Nok and Khai Nui. These waters prove ideal for kayaking, snorkelling and jet skiing.

Khai Nai stands out for its unusual residents—a colony of friendly cats has earned it the nickname “Cat Island” (possibly a marketing copy of Japan's famous "Cat Island,” Tashirojima concept, nobody is sure.) All the same, it’s particularly appealing to feline enthusiasts—even if less so for migratory birds and lizards.

The Similan Islands—named possibly from the Malay word for “nine” (by no means certain in scholarly circles)—form a protected marine reserve in Phang Nga Province. Divers flock to notable sites around Koh Payu and Koh Miang, which, whatever some travel brochures may say, are not Island Four and Island Seven in Malay, but definitely great island destinations.

Above water, distinctive features include Sail Rock and elevated viewpoints offering sweeping sea views. Sea turtles frequently glide through these waters, delighting swimmers and divers alike.

The Surin Islands in Phang Nga Province appeal particularly to environmentally conscious travellers. This national park houses thriving coral gardens and diverse marine species, offering excellent shallow and deep-water diving opportunities.

Significantly, the islands are home to the Moken people, a seafaring community whose traditional way of life remains closely tied to the ocean. Visiting their settlement offers genuine insight into a distinctive maritime culture. Many islands close seasonally to protect their ecosystems. Always check local schedules before planning your visit.

Each island in the Andaman offers its own distinct character, from world-class diving sites to quiet beaches, making it worth exploring several during your stay.

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