Coral Island, locally known as Koh Hey, is a breathtaking getaway located just a few kilometers off the southern coast of Phuket. This small slice of paradise is famous for its two main beaches, Long Beach and Banana Beach, both featuring powdery white sand and vibrant turquoise waters. Surrounded by shallow coral reefs teeming with colorful tropical fish, the island lives up to its name as a premier destination for marine life enthusiasts. Unlike the busier mainland beaches, Coral Island offers a concentrated tropical experience where the jungle meets the sea. It is an ideal escape for those who want a classic island-hopping adventure without spending hours on a boat, providing a picturesque backdrop for both high-energy water sports and serene relaxation under the swaying palm trees.
Phuket - Thailand
Adventures
Day Trips
Phuket - Thailand
Day Trips
Guided Tours
Phuket - Thailand
Day Trips
Guided Tours
Phuket - Thailand
Adventures
Day Trips
As of 2026, Coral Island remains one of the most accessible and well-equipped islands near Phuket. The island features two distinct areas: the bustling Long Beach, which serves as the main hub for day-trippers, and the more tranquil Banana Beach, known for its eco-friendly facilities and upscale feel. Basic amenities include public restrooms, changing rooms, and beachfront restaurants serving a variety of Thai and international dishes. Most visitors arrive on organized tours that include a buffet lunch, but independent travelers can also find plenty of casual dining options on the sand. You can rent sun loungers for approximately 100 to 200 Baht, and a wide range of activities like parasailing, banana boating, and sea walking are readily available at designated stations across both beaches.
Safety and environmental preservation are key when visiting this delicate ecosystem. To protect the vibrant marine life, visitors are strongly encouraged to use reef-safe sunscreen and are strictly prohibited from stepping on or touching the coral reefs. If you are traveling with children, the shallow waters make it very safe for splashing, but always keep an eye out for the designated swimming zones to avoid boat traffic. While the island is tourist-friendly, it can become quite crowded during the midday peak, so choosing a tour that visits Banana Beach can offer a more exclusive experience. It is also a good idea to bring some cash for small purchases or tips, as credit card machines can be unreliable due to the remote island location. Lastly, don't forget to bring a waterproof bag to keep your phone and valuables safe during boat transfers.
Reaching Coral Island from Phuket is incredibly fast and convenient. The most popular departure point is Chalong Pier, where speedboats take only 15 to 20 minutes to reach the island's shores. For a more traditional and budget-friendly experience, you can hire a longtail boat from Rawai Beach; this journey takes about 30 to 45 minutes and offers a more scenic, open-air perspective of the coastline. Prices for a private longtail boat typically range from 1,200 to 2,000 Baht depending on your bargaining skills and the time of day. Most holidaymakers choose the simplicity of an organized day tour, which usually includes air-conditioned hotel transfers from Patong, Kata, or Karon, making the entire journey seamless from your doorstep to the white sandy beach.
The best time to experience Coral Island is during Phuket’s dry season, which runs from November to April. During these months, the sea is exceptionally calm and the water visibility is at its peak, providing perfect conditions for snorkeling and diving. To enjoy the island before the main influx of tour boats, try to arrive by 9:00 AM. If you prefer a more peaceful atmosphere, late afternoon visits starting around 3:00 PM allow you to enjoy the beach as the crowds begin to head back to the mainland. While the island is open year-round, the monsoon season from May to October can bring larger waves and occasional rain, which might lead to boat cancellations. However, because Coral Island is so close to the mainland, it often remains accessible even when further islands like the Similans are closed for the season.