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A Guide to Exploring the Best of Phang Nga Bay

A Guide to Exploring the Best of Phang Nga Bay

If you are looking for a unique place to visit in Thailand with abundant unspoiled natural beauty and wonder, check out Phang Nga Bay! If planning a trip to Phuket, learn why this stunning area is worth a day’s side trip.

Phang Nga Bay is a famous snorkeling and scuba diving site where visitors can explore a variety of colorful limestone cliffs, caves, and arches.

This inlet at the Malay Peninsula offers lovely views of the Andaman Sea that visitors can enjoy through boat tours, picnics, and more.

If you’re planning to get the flavor of what Phang Nga Bay offers, here are some attractions and activities you can enjoy. Read more to learn about this magnificent spot, which you can explore in a single day!

What is Phang Nga Bay?

What is Phang Nga Bay
Image source: iStock

Phang Nga Bay is located in the northern Malacca Strait, between the southern Thai mainland provinces of Phang Nga and Krabi, and the island of Phuket. 

Its 249 square mile territory is protected in great part by the Ao Phang Nga National Park in the province of Phang Nga.

The natural splendour of Phang Nga Bay is remarkable. Phang Nga Bay is one of the most stunning destinations in Thailand, including sheer limestone karsts, emerald waters, and a profusion of tropical islands.

What is the best time to visit Phang Nga Bay?

What is the best time to visit Phang Nga Bay
Image source: iStock

The best time to visit Phang Nga Bay is from mid-October until mid-April where the weather is clear and sunny. In general, there is minimal rain, and the months of December and January are the coolest and least humid. 

So, prepare for crowds because this is when most tourists visit.

The Best Things to Do in Pha Nga Bay

The Best Things to Do in Pha Nga Bay
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Phang Nga is a beautiful place to visit, but you should also make sure you get out there and have some fun while you are there! There are many different tours available from longtail boats to private charters which will provide unique views of this Bay. 

The best way to check out Phang Nga Bay is from the water! There are plenty of tour options available depending on how much time you have and how much money you want.

You’ll get to see loads of interesting sites including caves, islands and lagoons, so if you love being on boats this is an experience not to be missed!

1.  Explore Phang Nga Bay by riding a longtail boat.

If you’re looking for the best way to check out Phang Nga Bay, then we recommend booking a trip on a longtail boat. 

Explore Phang Nga Bay by riding a longtail boat.
Image source: iStock

This is an excellent option because it allows you to see all of Phang Nga Bay without having to spend too much time or money. 

You can book tours online or at a travel agency and some companies offer free pickup and drop off services as well as discounts for children, seniors and students.

You’ll get to see loads of interesting sites including caves, islands and lagoons so if you love being on boats this is an experience not worth missing!

2. Find out more about Phang Nga Bay through van tours.

Find out more about Phang Nga Bay through van tours.
Image source: iStock

Another stress-free method to travel around Phang is to hire a van with an experienced local driver. 

The journey often includes stops at the magnificent Samet Nangshee viewpoint, the Reclining Buddha Cave, and the Lampi waterfall before dropping you off at the pier from where you may travel to James Bond Island and Koh Panyee, the magnificent village perched on stilts. 

The schedule is flexible, and the driver typically is familiar with the region.

Van is an exciting and sometimes stressful way to travel. Whether you’re traveling with friends or family, or solo, van trips can be a fun way to see the sights in your destination city.

Moreover, van tours offer plenty of opportunities for adventure, but they also come with the risk of getting lost in unfamiliar territory.

3. Relax at your private cruise while exploring Phang Nang Bay.

Relax at your private cruise while exploring Phang Nang Bay.
Image source: Willy Thuan

Phang Nga Bay is an incredibly beautiful and unique area of Thailand. It’s home to the world-famous Phang Nga Bay National Park, but it’s also a popular destination for tourists due to its mild climate and excellent snorkeling.

If you’re looking to explore this area on your own, consider taking a private cruise through Phang Nga Bay. You’ll be able to get up close and personal with the wildlife that calls this region home and see some stunning views while you’re at it!

These cruises are only available during the low season (from November through May). But if you’re looking for something a little different than what regular cruises offer, this is definitely something worth considering!

4. Enjoy the beauty of Phang Nga Bay by kayaking.

Enjoy the beauty of Phang Nga Bay by kayaking.
Image source: iStock

Phang Nga Bay is a beautiful place to kayak, and it’s not hard to see why.

The scenery is striking: the limestone cliffs, the crystal-clear waters, and the tropical forest all create an unforgettable experience. The beaches are just as dramatic: white sand and clear blue water are found in abundance.

Whether you’re an avid kayaker or just looking for an easy way to enjoy Phang Nga Bay, a kayaking trip is a great way to spend time in this beautiful part of Thailand.

Moreover, you’ll want to make sure you have the right gear. You might want to consider renting your equipment from one of the many local outfitters in town, or you could always just bring it along on your trip!

What to See in Phang Nga Bay

What to See in Phang Nga Bay
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Phang Nga is the perfect place to get away from the hustle and bustle of Bangkok. It’s the home of some of Thailand’s most beautiful islands, and it’s where you can find some of the country’s best beaches and dive sites.

There are so many islands to choose from—it’s hard to decide which ones are your favorites!

Phang Nga is a beautiful, beachy destination in southern Thailand. It’s known for its crystal clear waters and stunning scenery—but what exactly should you see?

1. James Bond Island

James Bond Island
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Phang Nga is known for its beautiful beaches, but James Bond Island is one of the most unique and interesting places in the area.

Lagoons and coral reefs surround the island, making it an ideal spot for swimming, snorkelling, and scuba diving. The island’s lush vegetation also makes it a popular destination for bird-watching.

The island has several features that make it an ideal location for adventure tourism. One of these features is its unique landscape: it has a large coral reef with many caves and tunnels that are perfect for exploring. 

2. The Cave of the Reclining Buddha

The Cave of the Reclining Buddha
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Phang Nga is a perfect place to visit if you’re looking for a relaxing getaway. 

The Cave of the Reclining Buddha is one of the most popular attractions in Phang Nga, and it’s easy to see why—the cave has a beautiful setting and offers visitors a chance to explore the beautiful limestone formations that make up the surrounding area.

The cave is known for its beautiful rock formations, and it was used for Buddhist worship during the time of King Rama V.

3. Koh Panyi

Koh Panyi
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Koh Panyi is a small island located in Phang Nga province, Thailand. The island has several resorts, but it’s best known for its beautiful beaches.

It’s also one of the most popular destinations for tourists who want to explore the area’s beaches, traditional villages and beautiful landscapes.

This fishing community, which stretches out from a small island’s sheer limestone cliff, is almost entirely constructed on stilts above the water.

Although the mosque is situated on the island’s shore, residences, a school, and even a floating football field can all be reached via a tangle of wooden paths dotted with market and gift shops and souvenir stores.

4. Laem Haad Beach

Laem Haad Beach
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Laem Haad Beach is located on the southern tip of Phang Nga, which is one of the most popular destinations in Thailand.

It’s a great place for families to relax and enjoy the beach, as well as for travellers who want to take in all the sights and sounds of Phang Nga.

 It offers all the amenities you need for an incredible day at the beach: sunbathing, swimming, and snorkelling, but what makes Laem Haad Beach so special is its unique surroundings.

Laem Haad Beach is a small island surrounded by waters that are home to a variety of marine life—including coral reefs and sea turtles—that are unmatched by any other beach in Thailand. 

This natural beauty combined with its close proximity to mainland Thailand make Laem Haad Beach one of the most popular destinations for travellers in Phang Nga.

If you’re looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, then Laem Haad Beach is perfect for you!

5. Koh Hong

Koh Hong
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Koh Hong Island is a must-see on Phang Nga’s list of islands to visit.

It’s known for its crystal clear waters, white sand beaches, and lush jungle.

There are many things to do on Koh Hong Island. You can swim in the ocean or go snorkeling during low tide. You can also hike through the jungle or go on a boat ride around the island.

6. Koh Panak

Koh Panak
Image source: Willy Thuan

Koh Panak Island is a beautiful, secluded island in Phang Nga. It’s also one of the most popular tourist destinations in Thailand.

It is popular with tourists because of its beautiful beaches, white sand and clear water. The island is surrounded by coral reefs and has a large limestone rock formation in the heart of the island. This makes for some great snorkeling opportunities for visitors.

The island is also known for its secluded beaches where you can enjoy your time alone or with friends and family.

7. Koh Yao Yai

Koh Yao Yai
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Koh Yao Yai is a small island in Phang Nga province, Thailand. The island is known for its beautiful beaches and laid-back atmosphere.

The island has a lot of things to offer tourists, including snorkeling, diving, and scuba diving. The best part? There are no crowds! You can enjoy your time on the beach without being bothered by other people.

8. Koh Nok

Koh Nok
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Cruise ships can stop at Koh Nok for a quick break or perhaps lunch on the island’s little beach. 

Visitors who are courageous enough can ascend the limestone cliff through the trees, although even using the provided rope, it is rather difficult. If you’re lucky, you could even catch a glimpse of one or two enormous monitors quietly strolling along the shore.

What to Do in Phang Nga Bay

What to Do in Phang Nga Bay
Image source: iStock

If you’ve never been to Phang Nga, you’re in for a treat. This little town is full of amazing things to see and do that are worth your time. 

Here are some of our favorite experiences:

1. Enjoy one of the many pristine beaches.

Enjoy one of the many pristine beaches.
Image source: iStock

If you’re looking for a place to relax and unwind, Phang Nga is the perfect destination. With its many pristine beaches and clear waters, it’s no wonder that this island has become one of Thailand’s top tourist destinations. 

2.  Kayak in Phang Nga Bay.

Kayak in Phang Nga Bay.
Image source: iStock

Phang Nga Bay is a protected marine national park, so you can’t just kayak in the water. But if you’re looking for an authentic experience, there are plenty of options available.

You can rent a kayak from one of the many vendors at the pier or go on your own and take a tour with someone who knows what they’re doing. 

If you prefer to go solo, there are many places in Phang Nga Bay where people have been known to go out alone and have had success navigating around various obstacles such as rocks and coral reefs.

3. Go for snorkeling and diving.

Go for snorkeling and diving.
Image source: iStock

Phang Nga Bay is a paradise for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. There are many reefs that you can explore where you can see fish, manta rays and many other sea creatures. 

The bay also has beautiful coral formations and a number of islands with their own unique characteristics.

4. Hike in Khao Sok National Park.

Khao Sok National Park is a beautiful place to visit, with picturesque scenery and wildlife. The park is home to many different species of animals, including monkeys, hornbills and gibbons. 

There are also many beautiful waterfalls in this national park that will add more charm to your trip!

5. Enjoy the island view of Phang Nga.

Enjoy the island view of Phang Nga.
Image source: iStock

The island of Phang Nga is a great place to explore, both for the beauty of its beaches and its rich cultural heritage.

The island is home to many Buddhist temples, and it’s one of the most famous places in Thailand for elephant trekking.

If you’re looking for an escape from the city, consider visiting Phang Nga. It’ll be worth your while!

Where to Eat in Phang Nga

Where to Eat in Phang Nga
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Phang Nga is a beautiful place to visit, but it’s also a great place to eat. There are so many options for eating out in Phang Nga that it can be hard to choose where to eat, but these unique restaurants will make your decision easier.

There are many different types of cuisine available in Phang Nga—from Western food to Thai cuisine. Whatever kind of food you’re craving, there’s an option for you.

Here, we’ve listed the top 10 eateries in Phang Nga; have a peek and discover what tempts your taste buds!

EateryLocationContact InformationOperating HoursOverviewWebsite
Be Friend Restaurant BangsakBang Muang, Takua Pa District, Phang-nga 82220, Thailand+66 81 732 0234Open Daily- 11:00 AM- 9:00 PM-Thai and seafood restauranthttps://be-friend-restaurant.business.site/
Triple N RestaurantKhaolak Lam Kaen, Thai Muang Phang-nga 82210, Thailand+66 98 729 9969
+66 84 844 2018
Open Daily- 10:30 AM- 10:00 AMThai restaurantN/A
Lanna Restaurant And MassageLam Kaen, อำเ Phang-nga 82210, Thailand+66 90 158 0934Open Daily- 9:00 AM- 10:00 PM-Offers great massage services
-Thai cuisine
N/A
Ruen Maihom Restaurant61/17 moo 3. Kukkak, Takuapa Phangnga Thailand, Khao Lak, Phang Nga 82190 Thailand+66 86 277 7995Open Daily- 12:00 PM- 9:00 PM-Asian, Thai, and Vegetarian Friendlyhttps://www.facebook.com/people/Ruen-Mai-Hom-Restaurant/100068230112051/
Tha Sai Seafood
Bo Saen, Thap Put District, Phang-nga 82180, Thailand+66 81 979 8725Open Daily- 11:00 AM- 9:00 PM-Indian and Thai Cuisine
-Offers Vegan
https://www.facebook.com/goldenparadiserestaurant/
Taj Mahal67/237 Moo 5, Soi Thai Yai, Chong Fah Beach Road, Khuekkhak, Takua Pa District, Phang-nga 82190, Thailand+66 86 593 5542Open Daily- 11:00 AM-11:30 PM-Halal and Indian restauranthttps://www.facebook.com/people/TAJ-MAHAL-Khaolak/100054567573997/
Yim Yim Restaurant11 27 Moo 3 Petchkasem Rd, Bang Muang, Takua Pa District, Phang-nga 82190, Thailand+66 76 593 058Open Daily- 9:00 AM- 9:00 PM-Seafood, Asian, Thai cuisineN/A
Nok Bounty Beach RestaurantKhuekkhak, Takua Pa District, Phang-nga 82190, Thailand+66 94 453 5204Open Daily- 9:00 AM-9:00 PM-Thai Restauranthttps://m.facebook.com/people/Bai-Toey-Restaurant/100070008944212/
Ruanthai KitchenLam Kaen, Thai Mueang District, Phang-nga 82210, Thailand+66 92 873 9884Open Daily- 5:00 PM-12:00 AM-Seafood
– Bar
-Thai Restaurant
-International Food
-Imported Steak
https://www.facebook.com/ruanthaikitchen.khaolak
The Snapper6 26/9, Khuekkhak, Takua Pa District, Phang-nga 82220, Thailand+66 81 836 0661Open Daily- 5:00 PM-1:00 AM-Thai restaurant
-Cafe
-European restaurant
-Live music bar
https://thesnapper.net/

Where to Stay in Phang Nga

Where to Stay in Phang Nga
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Phang Nga is an island paradise that’s perfect for anyone looking for an adventure. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach or explore caves and temples, Phang Nga has something for everyone.

We’ve compiled a list of some of our favorite hotels near Phang Nga Bay for your next staycation.

HotelLocationContact InformationOverviewWebsite
Cape Kudu HotelTambon Ko Yao Noi, Chang Wat, Phang Nga, Thailand+66 76 592 600-Has view of Phang Nga Bay
-Offers various activities
https://www.capekuduhotel.com/
Six Senses56 Ko Yao Noi, Ko Yao District, Phang-nga 82160, Thailand+66 76 418 500-Has view of Phang Nga Bay
-Offers various activities and facilities
https://www.sixsenses.com/en/resorts/yao-noi
Tree House Villas Koh Yao24/21 Ko Yao Noi, Ko Yao District, 82160, Thailand+66 76 584 460-Luxury resort
-Lofted Tree House
-Has view of Phang Nga Bay
https://www.treehouse-villas.com/
Paradise Koh Yao24, Ko Yao District, Phang-nga 82160, Thailand+66 76 584 450-A scenic speedboat ride away from Phuket or Krabi
-Boutique resort and spa
-Has view of Phang Nga Bay
https://www.paradise-kohyao.com/en/
Koyao Island Resort24/2 Moo 5, Tambon Koh Yao, Ko Yao Noi, Ko Yao District, Phang-nga 82160, Thailand+66 65 640 0064-Has  own 220 meter white sandy beach
-Infinity swimming pool
-Just over 45 minutes from Phuket
-Spectacular views over the James Bond Archipelago
https://koyao.com/
Koyao Bay Pavilions46/7 Moo 5, Phang Nga, Koh Yao Noi, Koh Yao 82160, Thailand+66 76 597 441-Faces directly the unique and spectacular panorama of Koh Hong Islands 
-Offers various activities and amenities
https://www.koyaobay.com/
Coastal Escape5 Phahon Yothin 54/1 Alley, Lane 4, Koh Yao Noi, Koh Yao, Phang Nga 82160, Thailand+66 81 270 6988-5-star villa resorts
-Close to Phuket and Krabi
-Beachfront
-Has private ocean Bar and private in-house Spa
https://coastalescape.com/
Tabeak Viewpoint BungalowsKo Yao Noi, Ko Yao District, Phang-nga 82160, Thailand+66 76 597 325-Situated on the picturesque island of  Koh Yao Noi
-All bungalows have private balconies overlooking the majestic limestone pillars of Krabi and Phang Nga Bay
-Beachfront
http://www.kohyaotabeak.com/
Esmeralda View Resort63 7 Ko Yao Yai, Ko Yao District, Phang-nga 82160, Thailand+66 81 867 2883-Family Hotel in Ko Yao Yai
-Has view of Phang Nga Bay
https://esmeralda-view-resort.business.site/
ANI – ThailandKOH Yao Noi, Ko Yao District, Phang-nga, Thailand+1 718-887-8178-Private and luxury resort
-Has view of Phang Nga Bay
-Offers various watersport activities and facilities
https://aniprivateresorts.com/ani-thailand/

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