Ko Raya Noi, also Ko Racha Noi, is part of the Raya Archipelago off the south coast of Phuket and is especially known for its experienced scuba diving, which ranks as the best in the region.
Ko Raya Noi and Ko Raya Yai are the main islands of the archipelago and can be found around 20kms and 30kms off the south coast respectively. They both offer excellent diving, yet the coral reef build up on Ko Raya Noi is significantly more advanced, the depths greater, and the current stronger.
Ko Raya Noi’s waters are a beautiful emerald green and although the diving and fishing are excellent, swimming is not recommended, or at least not for the faint-hearted. The massive granite boulders are the main highlight along with the abundance of tropical fish and the odd shark and manta ray.
Nearby Ko Racha Yai, on the other hand, has even more high profile scuba diving with its sloping rocky reefs and huge coral forests. There is also a wreck at Ter Bay at about 30m depth, while the brilliant white sand beaches are perfect for sunbathing on.
Getting There & Away
Charter boats leave for Ko Raya Noi from Chalong Bay or Rawai Beach and the travel time is around 2 or 3 hours. If you get on a tour, the trip time will invariably be shorter due to faster boats. Phuket International Airport is the gateway to Phuket and transfer time by taxi to the main town, Phuket Town, is around 40 minutes. Chalong and Rawai are 20 minutes and 30 minutes south of Phuket Town respectively.
Things to Do
Ko Raya Noi Attractions
- Scuba diving
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Diving and snorkeling is the main attraction on the raya islands, and ko raya noi has some of the best in the region.
- Ko Racha Yai
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Nearby to the north, this island is the largest in the chain and has exquisite diving and much in the way of tourist activities.