Many short-term visitors are content spending their two weeks exploring some of what Phuket has to offer. On the other hand, long-time expats inevitably wander further afield to see what the surrounding region has to offer – and there’s plenty. Within a few hours’ drive from Phuket one will find islands, mountains, jungles, and towns to keep you busy exploring for years. 

Koh Yao Noi/Yai

Khao Yao Noi/Yai, located in the middle of Phang Nga Bay, are an island pair that offer an easily accessible, tranquil escape from bustling Phuket. Koh Yao Noi is smaller but has more development with several resorts and other accommodation as well as a selection of restaurants. The larger Koh Yao Yai has a small selection of places to stay and eat but is as chill as it gets. You’ll find great fresh seafood (these are fishing villages), panoramic views of Phang Nga Bay, and empty beaches to have all to yourself. Getting there is easy with speedboats and car ferries from Rassada Pier in Phuket Town departing frequently.

Khao Sok National Park

Ratchaprapha Dam at Khao Sok National Park. Image by tawatchai07 on Freepik

A two-hour-long drive north of Phuket through winding mountain roads leads you to Khao Sok National Park and Lake Cheow Lan. These protected areas are a must-visit for anyone with the slightest appreciation for the natural world. Khao Sok consists of hundreds of square kilometers of wild jungle which is said to be older and more diverse than the Amazon. There are still wild elephants, Asiatic black bears, gibbons, and tigers roaming the forests here as well as the largest blooming flower in the world. Lake Cheow Lan is a manmade reservoir which has floating bungalows for visitors to sleep right on the water. 

Similan and Surin Islands

Tropical beach at view point of Similan Islands. Image by diana.grytsku on Freepik

This string of islands, located northwest of Phuket, is a diver’s paradise and are renowned for their exceptional underwater biodiversity and pristine beaches. This archipelago is blessed with some of the best diving spots in Thailand. In general, the Surin Islands are great for diving as the underwater sites are deeper while the Surin Islands have incredible shallow reefs ideal for snorkeling. Corals of all shapes, sizes, and colors of the rainbow and diverse marine life, including whale sharks, manta rays, and massive schools of glittering reef fish species make for an unforgettable experience. 

Khao Lak

If you’re planning a trip to the Surin Islands, then you might as well spend a couple of days in Khao Lak as it is on the way to the Thap Lamu Pier where you catch the boat to the islands. Khao Lak, about 65km north of Phuket, is a serene coastal area known for its long stretches of unspoiled beaches and lush national parks. Khao Lak-Lam Ru National Park offers mountain trails through the jungle, cool waterfalls, and plenty of birds and wildlife. You can also do some surfing at Memories Beach and visit the Sunova surfboard factory. You’ll find quite a few resorts, hotels, and camping options in and around Khao Lak.