5 Hidden Islands Phuket: Day Trips You’ve Never Heard Of
Most travelers visiting Phuket rush to Phi Phi, James Bond Island, or Coral Island. But what if you could escape the crowds and experience island life the way locals do?
Here’s a list of hidden islands Phuket gems — places most tourists never hear about, but are perfect for day trips if you’re craving nature, peace, and hidden beauty.
These are the day trips that go beyond the brochure.
🏝️ 1. Koh Bon (Bon Island) – 10 Minutes from Rawai, 10x More Chill
Why go: A local favorite that’s so close to Phuket, you can see it from Rawai Beach — but it still feels like a getaway. Clear waters, quiet sands, and great food.
How to get there: Longtail boat from Rawai Beach (300–400 THB return)
What to do:
- Grab lunch at Bon Island Restaurant (run by a long-time expat)
- Snorkel just offshore
- Nap under shady trees — zero jetskis, no crowds
Local tip: It’s best before noon on weekends — Rawai locals love it too.
🌴 2. Koh Rang Yai – Private Beach Vibes Just 20 Minutes Away
Why go: Just east of Phuket, this island offers white sand beaches, calm water for kayaking, and a picture-perfect palm-lined shore.
How to get there: Boat from Ao Po Pier or Laem Hin Pier (20 mins)
What to do:
- Swim, kayak, and chill — it feels like a mini-resort
- Drink fresh coconuts at the beach bar
- Watch locals collecting shells at low tide
Local tip: There’s a small zipline and some cute rabbits running around near the restaurant — fun for families!
3. Koh Maiton – The Secret Luxury Snorkeling Spot
Why go: Privately owned and often missed, this island has some of the clearest waters near Phuket, with healthy coral and abundant marine life.
How to get there: Join a day tour (limited operators have access due to private ownership)
What to do:
- Snorkeling off the boat
- Relax on a clean, quiet beach
- Possible dolphin sightings on the way there (!)
Local tip: Some tours market Maiton as “private island tours” — book through licensed eco-operators for best access.
🏖️ 4. Koh Kaeo Yai – A Spiritual Island Few Know About
Why go: Known for its giant Buddha statue facing out to sea, this peaceful, spiritual island offers a totally different vibe from beach-party destinations.
How to get there: Longtail from Rawai Beach (15–20 minutes)
What to do:
- Visit the Big Buddha statue
- Meditate in total silence
- See the footprint of the Buddha on the cliffs
Local tip: Dress modestly — this is a sacred spot. No bikinis on the temple grounds.
🌊 5. Koh Yao Yai – For the “Almost-Krabi” Feel
Why go: Often overshadowed by its sister island Koh Yao Noi, Yao Yai is more raw and less developed. Think empty beaches, local fishermen, and rice paddies.
How to get there: Speedboat from Bang Rong Pier (30 mins)
What to do:
- Rent a motorbike and explore at your own pace
- Visit Ao Sai and Loh Pared Beaches — stunning and empty
- Grab seafood at local seaside shacks
Local tip: Stay overnight if you can — you’ll have the beaches almost entirely to yourself after 5 PM.
⛵ Bonus: How to Visit These Islands Like a Local
- 🚤 Private Longtail Boat Hire from Rawai or Chalong (best flexibility)
- ⛴️ Join a small eco-tour group — avoid large speedboat tours with 40+ people
- 📱 Use GrabBoat (via Grab app) now in trial mode for select piers
- 🎒 Pack your own snacks, sunblock, and towel — facilities can be basic
✅ Final Thoughts: Skip the Crowds, Find the Real Phuket
If you’ve already done Phi Phi or you’re just not into mega-tourism, these underrated islands near Phuket are exactly what you’re looking for. They’re raw, peaceful, and full of character — a true contrast to the high-speed tours and Insta-hotspots.
Island-hopping is still one of the best things to do in Phuket — but sometimes, the less you’ve heard of the island, the better the experience.
