Ko Raya Yai is the main island in the Ko Raya group of islands; a stunning archipelago off of the south coast of Phuket. It is famed for its fabulous scuba diving.
The Similan Islands have the best diving in Thailand, yet they are a lot more difficult to get to, being a long way offshore. Ko Raya Yai, on the other hand, is just a 1- or 2-hour boat ride from Rawai or Chalong. The diving features clear waters over sloping coral reefs which are constantly visited by an amazing array of marine life.
In addition to the standard diving is a wreck dive at Ter Bay which goes down between 25m and 35m. And even if you’re not into diving and snorkeling, Ko Raya Yai has a couple of lovely white sandy beaches for sunbathing on. There is also a natty hilltop viewpoint on the south of the island, where views of the water and the rest of the island are fine.
More serious divers should head south for the smaller island of Ko Raya Noi.
Getting There & Away
You get here by charter boat from either Chalong or Rawai. Trip times range from 1 to 2 hours depending on the vessel and tour company (long tail boats are the slowest). Phuket Town]] is the main town on Phuket; a 40-minute taxi journey from Phuket International Airport.
Things to Do
Ko Raya Yai Attractions
- Ko Raya Yai diving
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This is the main reason people come here, for the fabulous coral reefs and amazing underwater life.
- Hiking
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Visit the viewpoint on the south of the island.
- Ko Raya Noi diving
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Even more intense than ko raya yai, this smaller island features deeper dives, stronger currents and rugged scenery.