Island guide
Ko Racha Yai
Ko Racha Yai, also called Raya Yai, is the main Racha island south of Phuket, combining sandy bays, diving trips and overnight accommodation.
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Nearby destinations
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Ko Racha Noi
Ko Racha Noi is the southern Racha island off Phuket, principally known as a boat-access diving destination for experienced divers. · 13 km away
Ko Hae (Coral Island)
Ko Hae, commonly called Coral Island, is a beach and snorkelling destination south of Phuket, reached by boat from the southern coast. · 15 km away
Ko Lon
Ko Lon is a community island off southern Phuket, reached by boat from Rawai and known for fishing, farming and local cultural activities. · 21 km away
Ko Mai Thon
Ko Mai Thon is a privately managed island southeast of Phuket, known for its beach and reefs; confirm landing permission before booking a trip. · 22 km away
About Ko Racha Yai
Ko Racha Yai is the northern and more developed of Phuket's two principal Racha islands. Its sandy beaches and clear-water bays support swimming, snorkelling and diving visits, and accommodation allows a longer stay than a passing boat excursion. It lies in Rawai Subdistrict, Mueang Phuket District.
Racha Yai and Racha Noi are separate destinations. The Tourism Authority of Thailand distinguishes Yai's visitor facilities and beach stays from Noi's more demanding dive focus. When booking, check which island and bay the boat actually visits, the time ashore and whether your accommodation transfer is included.
The journey is by sea from southern Phuket, so departure piers, landing arrangements and return services need to be confirmed with the selected provider. Beaches and dive sites have different conditions; follow local swimming guidance and a qualified instructor's advice rather than assuming that clear water means no current. Leave flexibility for weather changes and keep all contact with coral and marine wildlife to a minimum.
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- Last reviewed
- 22 October 2026
- Content owner
- Thailand Navigator Editorial Team
- Page type
- Island guide
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