How Many Islands Are There In Phuket, Thailand?

One of the most interesting and beautiful parts of the world is Thailand. A lot of people who are curious about this country may have asked: how many islands are there in Phuket, Thailand? Naturally, this is a logical question to ask. Phuket is Thailand’s largest and most visited island. It has several other small islands around it as well, making it a part of an archipelago. So, the answer to the question is that there are forty-three islands and islets in the Phuket Province.

Geographical Features of Phuket

Phuket is located in the Andaman Sea on the south-west coast of the country. It is the southernmost province in Thailand and it shares a maritime border with the province of Krabi. It spans an area of 539 square kilometres (208 sq mi) and includes a coastline of 243 kilometers (151 mi). The island itself is large and broken up into many sections. The north is primarily rural and mountainous, filled with rubber plantations and tropical rainforests. Meanwhile, the central and the south consists of much flatter, more urbanized areas which are popular among tourists. The other forty-two islands in the province are all smaller, much less populated than Phuket Island. Most of them are touched by the nearby mainland or close to other islands and they are relatively uninhabited. Some are nothing more than a single large rock or boulder, while others are home to resorts and other tourist attractions. It is worth mentioning that there are also a few limestone mountains that people consider “islands”. These include Koh Kha Yai, Koh Thalu, Koh Dok Mai and Koh Khai, but these do not count among the fifty so-called islands in the province (with the forty-three mentioned above).

Notable Islands in Phuket

The most significant of the above islands are probably Racha Yai (or Raya Yai Island) and Racha Noi (or Raya Noi island). They are two islands that sit off the southern coast of Phuket Island, with Racha Yai being closer to shore. These two islands are both great scuba-diving spots and popular destinations for day trips by local boats. Other important islands within Phuket include Koh Saum (or Samae Island), which is considered one of the most beautiful fishing villages of the area, Koh Bon, which has picturesque white-sand beaches, and Koh Haa, which offers some amazing scenery with its five tiny islets situated inside a giant lagoon guarded by towering cliffs.

Other Places to Visit in Phuket

Although many people mostly focus on the beaches and other attractions in Phuket Island, there are a few other wonderful pearls to explore in the province which you should really try out before you leave.

Khao Sok National Park

The largest national park in Southern Thailand, this Khao Sok National Park is home to diverse vegetation, stunning limestone karsts, crystal rivers and lagoons, towering waterfalls, lush jungle and a fantastic variety of wildlife including hornbills and even wild tigers! You can spend some memorable days in the park, visiting amazing wats and botanical gardens, visiting elephant sanctuaries or even simply going for a swim in one of the many attractive lakes throughout the area.

Khao Lak

Khao Lak is part of the mainland but it’s just an hour ride from Phuket and it deserves to be included on any traveler’s itinerary. It has some fabulous coral reefs and white-sand beaches, as well as an inland rainforest and multiple picturesque lakes. It is an incredibly beautiful place with a much more relaxed atmosphere than on the main island – perfect for those who seek some peace and forget about their everyday troubles.

Phang Nga Bay

Last but not least is the awe-inspiring Phang Nga Bay, which is filled with dramatic karsts rising from its emerald waters. Visitors often explore its numerous caves by canoeing or kayaking and getting lost in its mangrove labyrinths is an experience all its own. A wide variety of birds flies around here, and during sunset you can witness some truly spectacular views over this stunning bay’s panorama! To sum up: there are forty-three islands located in the Phuket province, ranging from large islands to tiny isolated boulder rocks. While most people think of Phuket Island as the only place they need to visit while they are in Thailand, there are dozens of other places worth exploring in the province, such as Khao Sok National Park, Khao Lak or spectacular Phang Nga Bay.

An Insider’s Guide to Phuket, Thailand

If you’re planning a trip to Phuket, Thailand, you’re in for a treat. This tropical destination is famous for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and rich culture. However, there’s much more to this city than meets the eye.

Here’s an insider’s guide to the less-explored but equally mesmerizing parts of Phuket:

Local Attractions: Beyond the Tourist Spots

While there’s no denying the popularity of places like Patong Beach or the Big Buddha, there are some hidden gems in Phuket that are worth discovering. For example,

– Visit the Phuket Butterfly Garden, which is home to over 40 species of butterflies and other insects.
– Go for a walk on the old streets of Phuket Town, where you can find traditional Sino-Portuguese architecture and charming cafes and shops.
– Check out the Bang Pae waterfall, a serene place surrounded by lush greenery, perfect for a picnic or a dip.

Dining Spots: Where to Eat like a Local

Thai food is famous worldwide, and Phuket has its own share of culinary wonders to offer. From street food stalls to fancier restaurants, here are some must-visit places:

– Visit Pad Thai Shop, located in Phuket Town, and try their famous pad thai with shrimp or chicken.
– Grab a bite at the Bang Tao Night Market, where you can sample local dishes and enjoy live music and street performances.
– For a seafood feast, head to Rawai Beach and choose one of the many fisherman’s restaurants there, where you can pick your own catch.

Cultural Experiences: The Local Traditions

Phuket has a fascinating culture, with a blend of Thai, Chinese, and Malay traditions. Here are some ways to soak in the local culture:

– Visit the Jui Tui Shrine, a historic temple in Phuket Town, and witness the annual vegetarian festival.
– Attend a Siam Niramit show, where you can learn about Thai history and traditions through a stunning performance involving dance, music, and special effects.
– Check out the Phuket Thai Hua Museum, a beautifully restored heritage building that houses exhibits on Phuket’s Chinese heritage and history.

Local History: Stories from the Past

Phuket has a rich history, with influences from different cultures and kingdoms. Here are some interesting stories to dive into:

– The Thao Thep Krasattri and Thao Sri Sunthon Fair is an annual event that commemorates two heroic women who saved Phuket from a Burmese invasion in the nineteenth century.
– The Portugese settlement in Phuket was established in the sixteenth century, and the St. Francis Xavier Church in Phuket Town is a testament to their presence.
– The Phuket Tin Mining Museum is dedicated to the history of tin mining in the area, an industry that brought prosperity to the region in the past.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Unique Tips

For those who want to get off the tourist trail, Phuket has plenty of quirky and unusual experiences to offer. Try out the following:

– Go on a bike tour of local villages, where you can get a glimpse into the daily lives of the locals and learn about their traditions.
– Take a sunset kayak tour off the coast of Phuket, where you can see bioluminescent plankton light up the sea.
– Visit the Phuket Sino-Portuguese Masonic Lodge, a peculiar and mysterious building that is both a Masonic temple and a museum of Chinese culture.

Phuket is a city that rewards those who are curious and adventurous, so don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and explore the lesser-known parts of it. By doing so, you’ll be creating memories that will last a lifetime.