Racha Island, also spelled Raya, is really two islands, Racha Yai and Racha Noi, lying around twenty kilometres south of Phuket across calm, open water. Racha Yai, the larger, is the one visitors use. Its bays have soft white sand, a few beach restaurants and water so clear that you can watch fish from the boat before you even put a mask on. Coral Island, known locally as Koh Hey, is much closer to the coast, only a short ride from Chalong Bay, and is a favourite for quick swims, banana boats and relaxed beach lounging. Together they make one of the most comfortable island days from Phuket. The reefs here are shallow and easy, which suits beginners and children, and the crossing is shorter than the trips to Phi Phi or the Similans. Snorkellers regularly see colourful reef fish and, with luck, turtles, while the sandy bottoms show off the colour of the water. Neither island is dramatic in the way of the limestone towers of Phang Nga Bay, and that is the point: this is a lazy day of swimming, snorkelling and sand, a good fit after a few early starts, or for anyone who wants an island without a marathon boat ride.
How it works
The tour we link is a full-day speedboat excursion with lunch included. Most departures involve a hotel pickup in the morning, a drive to the pier at Chalong or Rawai, and a boat ride to the islands, with the group returning to the pier in the late afternoon and then to the hotel. The usual plan is a stop at Coral Island for a swim or a snorkel, then a longer stay at Racha Yai, where lunch is served at a beach restaurant or on the boat depending on the day.
Snorkel gear is normally provided, and life jackets are available. Confirm your pickup time with the operator the evening before, and be in the lobby a few minutes early.
What to expect
The water is the star. On a calm day in the dry season the bays at Racha Yai are clear enough to see the sandy bottom several metres down, and the shallow reef close to shore is easy to reach even if you are a nervous swimmer. Expect company, because these islands are popular and the main beaches fill up by midday.
Coral Island has a livelier, more commercial feel, with water sports available for an extra charge, while Racha Yai feels quieter once you walk away from the pier. Bring cash for drinks, souvenirs and any optional activities, and remember that the marine park rules ask visitors not to touch coral or feed fish.
Making the most of it
The best time is the dry season from November to April, when seas are calm and visibility is at its best. Sea conditions can be choppy on windy days at any time of year, so sit towards the back of the boat and take seasickness tablets if you are prone. Wear reef-safe sunscreen, a rash vest and a hat, because there is little shade on the water.
Pack a towel, a dry bag and a change of clothes. If you want a more serious snorkelling or diving day, ask your hotel about the Similan Islands instead, but for families, couples and first-timers who want turquoise water with a minimum of fuss, Racha and Coral Islands are hard to beat.
What to expect
The experience
A guided speedboat day with lunch that visits Coral Island and Racha Yai for swimming, snorkelling and beach time.
Best time
November to April, the dry season, when the sea is calm and the water is at its clearest.
How long
About eight hours including the transfer to the pier at Chalong or Rawai and the boat ride out and back.
Tips
Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a rash vest, a dry bag and some cash for drinks and optional water sports.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Travellers who want clear water and a lazy beach day without the long boat ride to Phi Phi or the Similans.
- Families
- One of the gentlest island days from Phuket, with shallow bays, easy snorkelling and a shorter crossing.
- Couples
- Quiet corners of Racha Yai and a late-afternoon return make a relaxed day for two.
- Pair with
- An evening at Promthep Cape for sunset, since the boats return to the south of the island.
- Time needed
- A full day.
Good questions
Where are the Racha Islands?+
They lie about twenty kilometres south of Phuket in the Andaman Sea. Boats leave from the piers at Chalong or Rawai on the south of the island.
Is the Racha and Coral Islands trip good for children?+
Yes, the water is shallow and clear, the sand is soft and life jackets are provided. The crossing is shorter than to Phi Phi, though anyone prone to seasickness should take a tablet.
Is snorkel gear included on the tour?+
Snorkel gear is normally provided, along with lunch. Check the details on the day, and carry cash for drinks and any optional water sports.
When is the best time to visit Racha Island?+
November to April is the best time, with calm seas and the clearest water. The monsoon months can bring rougher crossings and reduced visibility.
How does it compare with a Phi Phi trip?+
It is calmer, cheaper and shorter on the water, but less dramatic. Phi Phi has the limestone cliffs and Maya Bay, while Racha and Coral have easier swimming and quieter beaches.
