Off Phuket's southern coast are a number of small islands whose pristine shores lure scuba-divers and beach bums away from the mainland. Most of these isolated islands are undeveloped, but the notable exceptions are Coral Island and Raya Island (also known as Racha Island) which have accommodation options and restaurants.
Both islands have safe swimming, reefs teeming with aquatic life, and a sense of 'getting away from it all' that's harder and harder to come by in Phuket proper. Coral Island is privately owned by the Coral Island Resort -- the only place to stay on the island. Raya Island is larger and, while still largely undeveloped, is home to three established resorts and some nameless bungalow operations open only during the high season.
Coral Island and Raya Island ThailandCoral Island
Only a 15 minute speed boat trip from Chalong pier, Coral Island is the more commercial of the two islands. During the day, it plays host to a steady stream of day-tripppers who come to enjoy the island's long white sandy beach and excellent year-round swimming. The snorkelling is pretty good and you don't have to go out very far before you start to see colourful reef fish, making this an excellent beach for kids to learn how to snorkel.
Coral Island and Raya Island ThailandOther beach activities like diving, banana boat rides, and para-sailing are available (for an extra fee, of course). A host of souvenir shops, restaurants, and services operate along the beach. If you're aching for an oil massage, in need of a cold drink, or forgot your swimmers, all can be purchased on the island.
Raya Island
Raya Island is a prime destination for yachties, who stay at the resorts, and divers, who typically book up all the island's cheaper rooms. Between the yachts, diving boats, and speedboats with snorkelling day-trippers, Raya's beautiful bays can get quite congested during the high season. Thankfully, this doesn't really detract from the natural beauty of the place. It's always possible to find a secluded spot and bask in the feeling of being miles away from everything -- which you really are.
Ko Raya's beaches and bays are connected by dirt roads in a state of perpetual bumpiness due to run-off during the rainy season. It is possible to rent a 100cc motorbike, but you're better off walking. A common sight is a cart loaded with divers and their gear being towed to the beach by a tractor or ATV.
Coral Island and Raya Island ThailandActivities on the island include snorkelling, mountain biking, and nature hikes. The resorts offer lots of organised activities like fishing trips and horse-back riding, but these will put a big dent in your wallet. Be prepared to exercise your credit card, or simply come with a mellow attitude, a good book and relax.
A small, predominantly Muslim, population of farmers and fishermen live on Raya Island, and there's even a small mosque. None of the island's restaurants serve pork and, in case you were planning to, visitors are asked not to bring any with them.
All of the resorts on Raya Island have an adjoining restaurant or two, plus there's the Phad Thai restaurant opposite Raya Father. Be aware that meals don't come cheap -- expect to pay at least double what you would at a similar place on Phuket proper. Convenience stores on the main beach near the Racha sell toiletries and snacks like cookies and chips but, again, prices are steep. If you're planning to stay a while, consider stocking up on snacks at the 7-eleven near the Chalong Pier before getting on the boat.
Coral Island and Raya Island Thailand
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