
Phang Nga Bay is located in Phuket, Thailand, 75 kilometers northeast of Phuket. It is known as the "Little Guilin" of Thailand.
It is mainly famous for its islands and rugged rocks.It is picturesque and very similar to the Guilin landscape in China .
The symbol of Phang Nga Bay is the mushroom-shaped island of Taopu Island, located opposite Phekon Island.
The movie "The Man with the Golden Gun" starring Roger was filmed here.
Tropical monsoon climate, suitable for all seasons
long time
free
All day
Phang Nga Bay is renowned for its striking limestone karsts and caves, formed millions of years ago. The bay is part of Ao Phang Nga National Park and is a major tourist destination in Thailand, famous for its biodiversity and dramatic scenery. It gained international fame as the filming location for the James Bond movie "The Man with the Golden Gun."
Phang Nga Bay is located in southern Thailand, about 40 kilometers north of Phuket. The easiest way to get there is by taking a boat from Phuket or Ao Nang. You can also drive to the park and take a boat from the shore.
Phang Nga Bay is accessible year-round. The best time to visit is during the dry season, from November to April, when the weather is more favorable for outdoor activities. It is best to visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
Entry to Ao Phang Nga National Park costs around 300 THB for foreigners. Tickets can be purchased at the park entrance or through tour companies offering boat excursions to the bay.
For individual visits, tickets can usually be purchased on-site. However, booking a boat tour or excursion in advance is recommended, especially during the peak season (December to February), to ensure availability.
A day trip is sufficient to explore the main highlights of Phang Nga Bay, including James Bond Island, cave kayaking, and surrounding beaches. If you plan to explore more remote islands or take part in extended activities, consider spending two days.
Guided boat tours are available and often include an English-speaking guide. Many tours offer additional services like kayaking and island hopping. Audio guides are generally not available, but the tour guides provide rich historical and cultural context in English, Thai, and sometimes other languages like German or French.
Start with a boat trip to James Bond Island, followed by kayaking through the caves of Ao Phang Nga National Park. Afterward, explore the floating village of Koh Panyee and relax at nearby beaches or islands.
Phang Nga Bay is a daytime attraction, and there are no night visits or light shows. However, you can take evening boat tours to enjoy the sunset over the bay, which is a spectacular experience.
The bay can get crowded, especially during the high season from November to April. To avoid the crowds, visit on weekdays early in the morning or later in the afternoon. Avoid holidays and weekends when local tourists are more likely to visit.
The bay is accessible for all, though some areas may be difficult for those with mobility impairments, particularly when walking through caves or on uneven terrain. The boat tours and activities like kayaking are generally suitable for children and elderly visitors in good health.
Cash is generally needed for entry fees, boat tours, and small purchases. Credit cards are accepted at larger establishments or tour agencies, but it’s recommended to carry cash for convenience.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available at most restaurants in the region, and halal food can be found in the larger towns like Phuket or Krabi, though it may be limited on smaller islands.
Souvenir shops in Phang Nga Bay and around Koh Panyee offer traditional Thai crafts, local jewelry, and handcrafted goods. Typical souvenirs include coconut shell products, local textiles, and miniatures of the islands.