Khai Island Phuket: Complete Island Escape, Snorkelling & Travel Guide

Khai Islands, known as the Khai Islands, are a triad of minor, unoccupied islands located on the eastern coast of Phuket in the Andaman Sea. Shallow, calm waters, white sandy beaches, and snorkelling spots that are not only easy to reach but also cater to beginners and children alike, thanks to the visibility of tropical fish and coral reefs, are the main attractions of these islands. The islands are often part of boat tours or private speedboat trips from Phuket. Most rides take only about 15–30 minutes, depending on the departure point and sea conditions.

Among the three, Khai Nok Island is the one everyone knows, as the beach vibes and relaxed atmosphere are always around there. Khai Nai is also in the list of amazing islands for the family with shallow waters and snorkelers, and then there is the smallest island, Khai Nui, where the corals can be explored underwater, just a short walk from the beach, which is a favourite spot for participating in coral underwater exploration. As the islands are tiny, no big commercial shops or resorts are present, thus offering a natural and peaceful beach experience that keeps its charm as a day-trip escape from the already busy areas around the Phuket resorts.

Fun Fact: The Khai Islands, remarkably small but extremely popular, are often listed in the same breath as the islands of Phi Phi or Coral Island when it comes to boat trips without exception because of their sheer water clarity and lively marine habitats—ideal for short snorkel stops and photo opportunities. 

Seasonal Tip: Visiting Khai islands is best during the dry season in Phuket (November–April), when the sea is the calmest, and the water visibility is the best for snorkelling. The islands are quite small, but their location on the eastern coast does help to keep them somewhat swimmable even during the monsoon months (May–October), though weather conditions might still affect the boat schedules.

1. White Sandy Beaches & Shallow Waters: The beaches at Khai Islands flaunt the very finest white sand and very gently sloping shorelines; therefore, it will always be summer for families, picnics, and beach, an amazing, wonderful, tropical place for sunbathing. 

2. Crystal-Clear Turquoise Sea: The island waters are the clearest among these, so that the presence of swimmers and snorkelers is not at all difficult to perceive. Besides, the calm and shallow water even gives a novice swimmer a very safe and worry-free dip. 

3. Easy Snorkelling with Abundant Marine Life: Only a few meters away from the shore, particularly close to Khai Nui Island, the snorkelers will spot the corals as well as the tropical fish schools playing in the water near the beach. 

4. Speedboat Access from Phuket: The greatest advantage of the Khai Islands is perhaps the quick 15-30 minute ride by speedboat from Phuket, turning it into a half-day trip that can be taken in conjunction with a schedule of island hopping. 

5. Family-Friendly Adventure: Khai Islands, with their shallow water, soft waves, and unimpeded access to beaches, are like paradise for families with kids and for all age groups. On most tours, snorkelling gear is inclued and conditions are suitable for beginners. 

6. Scenic Views & Photography Spots: The islands are a photographer's paradise for tropical pictures, considering sandy beaches like a frame for the skyline, snorkelers in corals and brightly colored fish, and every angle has an Instagram-ready background.

From Phuket Town or East Coast Beaches:

• The most common way to reach Khai Island is by speedboat or long-tail boat from Yacht Haven Marina, Ao Por Pier, or similar departure points along Phuket’s east coast.
• The journey takes approximately 15–30 minutes, depending on the island visited, making it one of the quickest island escapes from Phuket.

By Tour Packages:

• Many visitors join half-day or full-day boat tours that include transfers from popular Phuket areas like Patong, Karon, Kata, and Old Town. These tours typically offer hotel pickup, snorkelling gear, safety equipment, and refreshments, alongside visits to two or three Khai Islands.

Independent Charter:

• Alternatively, you can charter a private boat or long-tail craft from Rawai Beach or Chalong Pier for a customised island tour, though prices vary depending on vessel size and season.

Dry Season (November–April)

• Ideal time for visiting Khai Island Phuket.
• Seas are calm, visibility is high, and snorkelling conditions are excellent.
• Expect clear blue skies and warm, inviting water.

Shoulder Months (May & October)

• Water remains swimmable and tours still operate.
• Early mornings are often the best for snorkelling before winds pick up.

Monsoon Season (June–September)

• Wave activity may increase; some tours could adjust due to rough seas.
• The eastern side of Phuket tends to be less affected, but always check weather conditions before departing.

1. Swim in Shallow, Crystal-Clear Waters: The gentle, shallow water makes swimming here safe and enjoyable for kids and inexperienced swimmers.

2. Snorkel Among Tropical Fish: Just off the sandy shores of Khai Nui and Khai Nok, snorkellers can see colourful fish and marine life without venturing far.

3. Relax on White Sand Beaches: Spend hours lounging in the sun, reading a book, or enjoying a picnic right on the soft beach.

4. Take a Speedboat Ride: The boat journey itself — with open ocean views and cool sea breeze — is half the adventure.

5. Combine Multiple Islands in One Trip: Many tours visit all three islands: Khai Nok, Khai Nai, and Khai Nui, each offering slightly different vibes and views.

6. Capture Amazing Photography: The scenery — white beaches, blue water, and island landscapes — offers endless picture opportunities.

• Entry Fee: There’s no formal entry fee for Khai Island beaches themselves — you only pay for boat transportation or tours.
• Boat Tour Prices:
  • Half-day speedboat tours usually start around ฿800–฿2,500 per person, depending on inclusions (snorkelling gear, hotel transfer, guide). 
• Tours often include life jackets, snorkelling masks, bottled water, and seasonal fruits for a safe and comfortable trip.

08:00–08:45 AM — Hotel pickup / Arrival at pier
09:00–10:30 AM — Speedboat to Khai Nok & beach relaxation
10:30–12:00 PM — Snorkelling near Khai Nui
12:00–01:00 PM — Lunch (packed lunch or on boat, depending on tour)
01:00–02:30 PM — Swim and sunbathe at Khai Nai
02:30–03:00 PM — Relax and take photos
03:00–04:00 PM — Return to Phuket pier

This itinerary allows for a balanced island day with sun, sea, and marine adventure in a single trip.

• Phuket Elephant Sanctuary: This is a well-managed sanctuary where guests can see the elephants that have been rescued living in a natural setting— this is the place for both animal lovers and cultural experiences. 
• Aquaria Phuket: It is the biggest aquarium in Thailand, which is also a marine life display from the nearby region and a turtle sanctuary — perfect for children and their parents to visit together. 
• Phi Phi Islands: A lot of the tours that allow hopping from one island to another include stops at the famous beaches and the snorkelling spots at Phi Phi and the Khai Islands as well, thereby making the day visit to these areas even more scenic. 
• Coral Island (Koh Hae): It is one of the most visited islands in the area as a day-trip from Phuket, offering great opportunities for snorkelling and beaches, usually as part of the combo tours including the Khai Islands. 
• Ao Pôr & Yacht Haven: Besides the departure points, there are also outlets like cafés, local markets, and waterfront restaurants where one can relax before or after their island trip—these are the good places mentioned.

1. Swim in calm shallow water near the shore.
2. Snorkel around Khai Nui and Khai Nok for colourful coral views.
3. Relax on the soft white sand beaches.
4. Enjoy a speedboat ride with panoramic sea views.
5. Combine visits to all three islands for a complete island experience.

Khai Island, Phuket, is a perfect blend of convenience and tropical beauty, offering clear waters, soft white sand, and easy snorkelling just minutes from the mainland. Whether you’re short on time or seeking a relaxed island escape, this trio delivers a memorable Phuket experience. You can explore Khai Island effortlessly with curated Phuket tour packages from Pickyourtrail, designed for comfort and seamless travel planning.