Updated November 5, 2025
Paradise is the only befitting word to describe the scenery at Phang Nga Bay. A short boat ride from the east coast of Phuket, the area has 400 square kilometers of clear, calm emerald-green seawaters, exotic and unique limestone karsts and caverns, unspoiled natural flora, fauna, and wildlife, all waiting to be explored.
Every attraction site is a marvelous natural wonder that no man had a hand in creating. It is all by the power of Mother Nature. If you are looking for your next exotic getaway to discover worlds that seem not on this earth and become one with nature, then Phang Nga Bay should be at the top of your list.
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Four Major Attractions at Phang Nga Bay
It is worth noting that, while Phang Nga Bay is reachable from Phuket, the bay itself is shared between the provinces of Phuket, Phang Nga, and Krabi. The majority of the attractions in the area, in fact, are within Ao Phang Nga National Park, within the territory of Phang Nga province. Thus, visitors to the marine park area of the bay are subject to regulations governing other national parks, including entrance fees.
Once you’re in the bay, however, you can use the time to explore the waters in your own way, as the Phang Nga Bay area is known as an excellent site for swimming, snorkeling, and especially kayaking. Some islands also have beaches and wildlife trails for bird watching.
James Bond Island
This island is arguably the most famous landmark in Phang Nga Bay. Though originally known as Koh Tapu, the island got its current name after its starring role in the James Bond movie The Man With The Golden Gun.
What makes James Bond Island a natural wonder is its rocky pinnacle and bizarre shape. The island is larger towards the top, thinner towards the bottom and appears to vertically jut out of the emerald-green sea waters. It is a magnificent site that will keep you wondering how it doesn’t fall over.
Just next to the island is the spectacular Koh Ping Ghan Rock. The very high leaning rock has some small caves inside that are great for an exploration adventure. But most importantly, its beach offers a great view of James Bond island.
The Hongs of Phang Nga
A kayaking trip through the hongs of Phang Nga brings life to the statement, “There are worlds yet to be discovered.” The word hong means “room” in Thai, and these room-like structures are actually collapsed caves found in the interior of a few islands. These spectacular caves open up to the sky and are filled with jungle-rich flora and fauna.
Experience a unique ecosystem at the heart of the caves filled with unique vegetation, fish, birds, a variety of marine life, and monkeys. The quiet, serene sea waters, surrounded by towering limestone walls as you explore cave after cave, island after island, will transport you to an entirely different world.
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The Limestone Cliffs
The limestone cliffs in the Phang Nga Bay area are phenomenal works of nature. The bay features at least 40 uniquely shaped limestone island cliffs that will leave you speechless. By day, these cliffs are a colorful scenery of varicolored streaks, thanks to the mineral oxides from various sources that are part of their composition.
The cliffs were once part of an ancient coral reef that covered most of Southeast Asia during the time when the earth’s oceans were hundreds of feet higher than they are today. Millions of years passed and cliffs remained standing, towering like magnificent rock giants.
A perfect way to experience the limestone cliffs is by a private yacht charter. The waters in the bay are calm all year round because the bay is protected from both the northeast and southwest monsoon seasons. Therefore, you can take your time to marvel at the monumental beauty of the place anchored in different spots.
The Samet Nangshe Viewpoint
While Samet Nangshe is a few more miles inland, the viewopint is the one location where you can witness the entire breadth of Phang Nga Bay and all its natural wonders. Located on a hilltop about 30 minutes drive from Phuket, this viewpoint provides a 180-degree panorama facing the east view of the Bay. This hilltop is the perfect place to stand and be awed by the force, strength, and beauty of nature.
You can take in the entire 1.6 km of mangroves, the spectacular limestone karsts, the beautiful sea waters, and the unique chain of islands of the Phang Nga Bay. If you make it to the hilltop between 5:30 and 6:00 in the morning, you may be lucky to witness the most magnificent sunrise. At night, as the viewpoint is far away from light pollution, it is also possible to spot the Milky Way.
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Experience The Unique Sights of Phang Nga Bay
Words are not always enough to cover the magnificent sights of Phang Nga Bay, all of which are waiting to be discovered on your trip to Phuket. Thus, booking a day trip to Phang Nga Bay is highly recommended to explore these sights in person. From kayak tours of the bay’s magnificent waters to a picturesque climb up Samet Nangshe Viewpoint in Phang Nga’s mainland, there’s much more to discover within this wonderful place.
If you are interested in exploring Phang Nga Bay, the best way to do so is to book a day trip in advance with the Guest Experience Services team at your villa. Advance booking will ensure that you can secure your desired options for yacht charters, guided kayak tours, and inland transportation through Phang Nga. They can even arrange to book other activities within the province itself.
Discover the beauty of Phang Nga Bay for yourself during your Phuket trip, and you too will be rewarded with breathtaking scenery beyond your own imagination.
Discover more amazing sights in and around Phuket with our Phuket Travel Guide.
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