Koh Bon Island, just 2 kilometers from Phuket's Rawai Pier, offers quick island escapes in 10-15 minutes by boat. This dramatic granite island features pristine beaches, excellent snorkeling at the southwestern cove, and rare Great Hornbill sightings. Perfect for half-day or full-day charters with activities including kayaking, wildlife spotting, and beachside dining.
For travelers based in southern Phuket, Koh Bon (Bon Island) represents the most efficient maritime escape in the region. Located only 2 kilometers offshore from Rawai Pier, the island is accessible in approximately 10–15 minutes by long-tail boat or less than 5 minutes by high-performance motor yacht. This proximity makes it a tactical choice for short-duration charters, allowing guests to transition from the mainland to a pristine island environment with zero travel fatigue. Despite its closeness to Phuket’s main artery, the island’s northern and western coasts remain remarkably sheltered, providing a quiet, "off-the-grid" atmosphere.
Koh Bon is defined by its dramatic granite rock formations and dense tropical vegetation. Unlike the flat sandbar islands of the east, Koh Bon features significant elevation, creating a varied coastline with hidden coves and rocky outcrops. The island serves as a natural barrier, protecting the Rawai coastline from the southwest monsoon swells.
The Main Beach: Located on the northern side, this is a stretch of fine white sand that serves as the primary landing point. It is home to a single, high-end eco-restaurant that manages the island’s facilities.
The Southwestern Cove: A secluded, rocky inlet that is accessible only by boat. It offers the best snorkeling on the island, with healthy hard coral colonies and a high concentration of parrotfish and wrasse.
Hornbill Habitat: Koh Bon is one of the few locations near Phuket where the Great Hornbill can be observed in its natural habitat, particularly during the early morning and late afternoon hours.
Due to its unique geography, Koh Bon provides a diverse range of activities that can be compressed into a half-day or extended into a full-day itinerary.
Activity | Primary Location | Best Time | Professional Note |
Snorkeling | Southwest Cove | Mid-tide | Visibility is highest during the incoming tide. |
Kayaking | Island Perimeter | Early Morning | The total circumnavigation takes ~45 minutes. |
Wildlife Spotting | Jungle Edge | Sunset | Look for Hornbills in the tall Banyan trees. |
Beach Dining | North Beach | Lunch | Advance booking is required for groups over 6. |
Navigating to Koh Bon requires attention to specific seasonal and tidal conditions to ensure a seamless experience.
