Highlights of Phang Nga

The southern Thai province of Phang Nga boasts beautiful beaches, idyllic islands, and breathtaking seascapes. Nestled between the popular tourist spots of Krabi and Phuket, Phang Nga offers a more local and laid-back atmosphere. For those seeking a beach or island escape with a unique character, Phang Nga is an excellent choice.

With diverse activities and destinations, Phang Nga caters to families and couples alike. Cruise the scenic Phang Nga Bay, relax on the tranquil islands of Ko Yao Noi and Ko Yao Yai, or explore the family-friendly shores of Khao Lak. For diving and snorkelling enthusiasts, the Similan and Surin Islands offer unforgettable underwater experiences.

Phang Nga Bay

Phang Nga Bay, with its dramatic limestone karsts and numerous islands, is one of Thailand’s most iconic landscapes. While many visitors join day tours from Krabi or Phuket, it’s simple to arrange a private longtail boat from the pier near Phang Nga Town. Known internationally from the 1970s James Bond film The Man with the Golden Gun, ‘James Bond Island’ (Ko Khao Ping Gan) and the towering Khao Tapu are among the bay’s most photographed landmarks.

Visitors often stop at the floating village of Ko Panyee, a Muslim fishing community where respectful behaviour is appreciated. Ko Panyee is famous for its floating football pitch and its welcoming atmosphere.

Visiting Phang Nga Bay

Phang Nga Town

Phang Nga Town, the provincial capital, is a relaxed spot ideal for a short stay. While not a common choice for foreign tourists, it’s a convenient place to break up a journey between Krabi and Phuket or to arrange an independent tour of Phang Nga Bay. It also offers easy access to Ko Yao Noi and Ko Yao Yai.

Ko Yao Noi and Ko Yao Yai

The serene twin islands of Ko Yao Noi and Ko Yao Yai are accessible by longtail or ferry from Phuket and Krabi, with an even more scenic route available from Tha Dan pier near Phang Nga Town. These islands, with their quieter beaches and laid-back ambiance, provide a peaceful retreat away from the busier Phuket and Krabi.

Khao Lak

Khao Lak, just north of Phuket, is a family-friendly beach destination known for its relaxed pace. A great option for families and couples, Khao Lak also serves as a gateway to nearby attractions like the Similan and Surin Islands and Khao Sok National Park.

Similan Islands

Part of the protected Mu Ko Surin National Park, the Similan Islands are ideal for snorkelers and divers. Ko Similan, the largest island, is around 40 miles from Khao Lak and offers pristine dive sites and abundant marine life, including moray eels, leopard sharks, and sea turtles.

Surin Islands

Also a national park, the Surin Islands are a haven for marine life and home to the Moken, an indigenous community often called ‘People of the Sea’. Ko Surin Tai is their primary settlement, and visitors can enjoy diving, snorkelling, and cultural insights in this remote part of the Andaman Sea.

Ko Phra Thong and Ko Ra

For an off-the-beaten-path experience, Ko Phra Thong’s unique savannah-like interior and small Moken community are worth exploring. Stay at Moken Eco Village to discover the nearby islands of Ko Pling and Ko Ra and consider a ride on a kabang, a traditional Moken boat, for a responsible tourism experience.

Takua Pa

Takua Pa, a small town en route to Khao Lak or Khao Sok, is known for its Sino-Portuguese architecture, reminiscent of Phuket’s Old Town. With Chinese heritage evident in its culture and a lively Vegetarian Festival, Takua Pa is a charming stop. On Sunday afternoons in the high season (November to April), the Old Town hosts a Walking Street market. Make a visit too to the nearby ‘Little Amazon’ which offers mangrove tours and the chance to spot an array of wildlife including monkeys, snakes, and exotic birds.

Ethical animal encounters

From November to February, sea turtles nest on Phang Nga’s quiet beaches. The Phang Nga Coastal Fisheries Research and Development Centre offers a chance to learn more and even release a turtle into the sea. Phang Nga Elephant Park, a small family-owned centre near Khao Lak, also provides ethical interactions with elephants.

Getting to Phang Nga

Phuket is the closest airport to Phang Nga, though Krabi is another option. Plans for an airport in Phang Nga are underway to ease congestion from Phuket and Krabi, with an opening date tentatively scheduled for 2025. By road, it takes just over an hour from Phuket Airport to Khao Lak, and about two hours by bus from Phuket or Krabi to Khao Lak.