Raya Island Phuket Travel Guide: Beaches, Snorkelling, Tours & Tips

Raya Island — or Racha Island, as it sometimes goes — is located approximately 12 to 20 km south of Phuket and is known mostly for the idyllic beaches, the clarity of the water, and the magnificent spots for snorkelling and diving. The larger of the two islands that mainly compose Racha, Koh Racha Yai, is decorated by the beauty of the turquoise sea, the soft sands, and the gentle slopes that facilitate swimming and water activities for visitors of all ages. A very short boat ride from Phuket brings you into the lap of this peaceful nature-oriented setting, where the slow life has already taken over, and people are less than a stone's throw from nature's finest.

Even though the island is treated as a day trip from Phuket so often, it is in addition to the handful of luxury resorts and deluxe stays that travellers wanting to prolong their visit and ask to enjoy the ocean views while waking up are. The smaller adjacent island, Koh Racha Noi (Raya Noi), to a great extent, is still unoccupied and is linked with such deep waters, rugged landscapes, and skilled snorkelers and divers only, as opposed to amateurs.

Fun Fact: The beaches and reefs of Raya Islands have a remarkable variety of marine life, among which are tropical fish, variously colored corals, and – in the deeper parts surrounding Racha Noi – the occasional spotting of octopus, rays, and even reef sharks for skilled divers.

Seasonal Tip: The dry season (December to May) is the most favourable period to visit, as it offers smooth seas, great visibility for snorkelling and diving, and comfortable weather. The monsoon season (June to October) may see the seas becoming rougher; however, some tours might still be running intermittently with shorter, sheltered-water activities.

• Patok Beach (Ao Pa Tok): One of the island's most captivating beaches, the place is all covered with fine white sands and shallow areas, allowing swimming and lounging. 
• Snorkelling & Diving: The bright and clear waters, along with the colourful corals, are what make Raya one of the best snorkelling spots in Phuket — it is suitable for both the less experienced and the professional water adventurers. 
• Siam Bay & Kon Kae Bay: Other picturesque bays surrounding the island that are rich in marine life and have tranquil waters for the divers to get acquainted with. 
• Koh Racha Noi: A smaller neighbour island that is more secluded — it is famous for deep-sea fishing and has tough but beautiful nature. 
• Day Trips & Island Hopping: Some trips combine Raya Island with Coral Island, Maiton Island, or watching dolphins as the most popular ones. 
• Beach Walks & Views: Take a tour of the model sandy yards and the places where you can see the ocean, which is blue like the sky, from the top.

1. Swim & Relax on Patok Beach: Patok Beach, or Ao Pa Tok, as it is sometimes called, is one of the main attractions of Raya Island. The long and wide stretches of soft white sand and very pleasing and gentle water make the beach the perfect place for total relaxation, of course, swimming and sunbathing as well. 

2. Snorkel Around Coral Reefs: The snorkelling around Raya Island is famous for its marine life, which includes colourful fish and coral formations, and even small turtles can sometimes be seen by snorkellers. 

3. Dive with Marine Life: Scuba diving on the island of Raya and around the Racha Islands is considered the best in Phuket and is particularly suitable for coral enthusiasts and divers who want to see the rarest species. 

4. Kayak Through Bays: Then rent a kayak and move around to find secluded and beautiful spots, and you can take your time doing this while relishing the peaceful water routes and coastal views. 

5. Take a Speedboat Day Trip: You can take a speedboat day trip from Phuket (Chalong Bay or Rawai) to visit Raya Island in under an hour, including the cost of the snorkelling gear, lunch, and the group activities too. 

6. Walk Scenic Island Trails: The small and green territory of Raya Island is perfect for beach walks and the coastal steps between the bays and the viewing platforms. 

7. Enjoy Lunch by the Sea: Most of the day trips to the beach include a buffet of Thai or international food — an ideal way to recharge between swimming and other water sports activities. 

8. Explore Koh Racha Noi: Koh Racha Noi, just a few minutes by boat from Raya Yai, provides a more isolated experience, being much preferred by good swimmers or deep-sea fishing lovers.

Location: South of Phuket Island, Andaman Sea
 Best for: Snorkelling, diving, swimming, beach relaxation, marine life spotting
 Suggested Duration: Day trip (half-day options also available) or overnight stay
 Atmosphere: Quiet, scenic, nature-focused

Nearby Attractions & Day Trips:

• Coral Island: A Nearby island known for water sports and shallow-reef snorkelling. 
• Maiton Island: A Smaller island often included in island tours — known for hidden beaches and possible dolphin sightings.
• Phuket Beaches: Return to Patok Bay, Nai Harn, or Kata for more beach fun.
• Phang Nga Bay & James Bond Island: Dramatic karst scenery and boat tours beyond the Raya area.
• Wat Chalong & Big Buddha: Cultural and spiritual experiences on mainland Phuket.

Day-Trip Tip: Many travellers combine Raya Island with a Coral Island visit for a full day of varied beach and snorkelling experiences.

Entry Fee: No general entry fee to visit Raya Island itself — access is usually through a paid boat tour or private boat charter from Phuket.
 Tour Options:

• Full-Day Speedboat Tours: Include round-trip transfers, snorkelling gear, lunch, and guided stops.
• Half-Day Trips: Shorter excursion options focusing on snorkelling and beach time.
• Private Boat Charters: Personalised day trips with flexible timing and route.
   Cost Note: Prices vary based on services included — group sizes, lunch, gear, and transfers.

Pro Tip: Book in advance during the peak season to secure preferred departure times and inclusions.

Typical Tour Timings:

• Morning departure (around 9:00 AM) — return by 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM
• Some tours include lunch and multiple water stops.

Best Time to Visit:

• November–May: Calm waters, clear visibility, and great conditions for snorkelling and diving.
• June–October: Fewer crowds; however, seas can be rougher — check weather and sea safety before booking. 

Best Time of Day: Early morning departures offer cooler conditions and more tranquil seas.

From Phuket: Most travellers join guided boat tours that include pickup from Phuket hotels and transfer to departure points like Chalong Bay Pier or Rawai Beach, where speedboats depart directly to Raya Island. 

By Speedboat

• Around 30–45 minutes from Chalong Bay
• Around 45–60 minutes from Rawai Beach or other southern piers

By Private Longtail Boat: Slower but more scenic option — usually around 1.5–2 hours depending on sea conditions. 

Travel Tip: Many resorts and tour operators in Phuket can arrange transfers and tours with pickup services included.

• Beachfront Restaurants: Some resorts and beach eateries serve fresh local seafood and Thai meals.
• Lunch on Tours: Most full-day excursions include a lunch buffet or picnic by the beach.

• Resort Boutiques: Small shops in the resort areas sell beachwear, souvenirs, and essentials.
• Local Stalls: Limited on the island — best to bring essentials or purchase before departure.

08:00 – 09:00 AM — Hotel pickup in Phuket & transfer to departure pier
 09:00 – 09:45 AM — Speedboat ride to Raya Island
 09:45 – 11:30 AM — Relax on Patok Beach, swim, snorkel coral reefs
 11:30 – 01:00 PM — Snorkelling at Siam Bay or Kon Kae Bay
 01:00 – 02:00 PM — Beachfront lunch & relaxation
 02:00 – 03:30 PM — Optional dive, kayak, or scenic walk
 03:30 – 04:30 PM — Return boat to Phuket
 Evening — Dinner back in Phuket or onward beach relaxation

• Bring reef-safe sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for sun protection.
• Wear quick-dry clothes and water shoes for ease during water activities.
• Secure your belongings — on small islands, there are limited lockers or secure stations.
• If prone to seasickness, take motion-sickness relief before boarding a speedboat.
• Double-check tour inclusions like snorkel gear, lunch, and hotel pickup.
• Plan for an early arrival for better water clarity and quieter beaches.

1. Swim and sunbathe at Patok Beach
2. Snorkel colourful reefs and tropical fish schools
3. Dive around deeper coral areas (with a guide)
4. Kayak in sheltered bays and quiet coves
5. Enjoy a beachside lunch with scenic sea views

Raya Island Phuket, is a stunning hidden gem in the Andaman Sea, perfect for travellers seeking white-sand beaches, clear turquoise waters, and vibrant marine life. Ideal for swimming, snorkelling, diving, and kayaking, the island is just a short speedboat ride from Phuket. Suitable for day trips or overnight stays, Raya Island is loved by couples, families, and nature lovers looking for a peaceful yet adventurous island escape in 2026.

To have a hassle-free travel experience in 2026, book customised Phuket tour packages from Pickyourtrail and add Raya Island to your tropical getaway.