Racha Island (Raya Island)

The Basics

Around 20 miles (40 kilometers) south of Phuket, Racha Island is quintessential Thailand—white sand, turquoise ocean, and softly swaying palm trees. Koh Racha Yai has a small number of resorts and bungalows, and is becoming a popular place to stay for visitors to Phuket, while Koh Racha Noi is uninhabited. Both islands offer excellent diving offshore, and you can snorkel right from the beach on Racha Yai. Many travelers choose to visit the islands as part of an organized snorkeling, diving, or catamaran tour from Phuket.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Racha Island is ideal for snorkelers, divers, and those looking for a quiet island escape from Phuket.

• Most tours leave Phuket in the morning to spend the day around both Racha Yai island and Racha Noi island.

• Snorkelers and divers can expect to see colorful corals and many types of tropical fish.

• If snorkeling or diving is not your thing, catamaran trips are also available.

• Many tours include lunch, refreshments, and water sports gear.

How to Get There

Racha Island, located south of Phuket in the Andaman Sea, is accessible only by boat. Speedboats travel from Ao Chalong and Rawai on Phuket, or you can book a snorkeling, diving, or catamaran tour to access the islands.

When to Get There

High season in Phuket runs from November to March, when the weather is warm and sunny. April and May can be very hot, and tropical rainstorms are possible from June to November. Some resorts and tour operators close up shop or run only limited services in the rainy season.

See Phuket’s Big Buddha

For a photo opportunity extraordinaire, take a trip to see Phuket’s Big Buddha, a 150-foot-high (45-meter) statue sitting atop the Nakkerd Hills, close to Kata. The statue was constructed in 2004 and is made of concrete overlaid with glittering white jade marble. From the base of the Buddha you can enjoy panoramic views over the whole island.

What is special about Racha Island (Raya Island)?

Racha Island (Raya Island) looks like a postcard of a beach paradise come to life. Located about 7.5 miles (12 kilometers) south of Phuket in the Andaman Sea, the island has white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and excellent opportunities for diving and snorkeling.

When is the best time to visit Racha Island (Raya Island)?

The best times to visit Racha Island (Raya Island) are the driest times, typically from November to February. Keep in mind that it’s often cheaper to visit during the rainy season, or shoulder seasons. You will still have warm weather and beautiful scenery, just lots of extra precipitation.

How can I get to Racha Island (Raya Island)?

Many visitors travel to Racha Island (Raya Island) by boat from Phuket. From the Phuket airport, head south by car for about an hour to either Rawai or Ao Chalong Pier. Then, you can board a boat to Racha Island.

Is Racha Island (Raya Island) safe for kids?

Yes, Racha Island is safe for kids. The water is clear and calm, and the sand is soft and inviting. There are several resorts with attached restaurants. Be sure to bring plenty of sunscreen for the whole family, as the sun can get strong at certain parts of the day.

What can you see when snorkeling at Racha Island (Raya Island)?

When snorkeling or diving the warm waters at Racha Island (Raya Island), look for turtles, schools of barracuda, and all sorts of other marine life. The island’s shallow reefs sit atop a white sandy ocean floor, so it’s easier to spot colorful fish in their surroundings.

What kinds of tours go to Racha Island (Raya Island)?

Private and group tours go to Racha Island (Raya Island) mostly to snorkel and dive, although some tour operators offer fishing and trolling trips. Speedboat and catamaran tours are available, and some tours include lunch, drinks at sunset, or other luxuries.