Naka Island
Exploring Naka Island: Travel Guide and Highlights
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Naka Island Information
Naka islands are part of most day trips to Phang Nga Bay, usually, you will make a stop there on your way back from the Phang Nga Bay trip but you won’t have the time to explore the islands as the stop can be very short. But you can hire a boat from Ao Por Pier in Pa Khlok in Phuket so you can explore these islands properly at your own pace. Speedboats are also available for rent from Ao Po Pier, so basically in order to reach the islands, you have to pass by Phuket first if you weren’t already there. Phuket has its own international airport and also a train station so getting to Phuket from anywhere in Thailand can be very easy and has so many options. You can fly from Bangkok, Krabi, or from so many countries all around the world. After flying to Phuket you can take a taxi from the airport or a shared minivan to Bang Rong Pier to hop on a ferry to Koh Yao Yai then switch ferries to reach Ao Po Pier and catch another one to Koh Naka Yai in 20 minutes. How to Reach Naka Island: Travel Options and Tips
Piers
Naka Island Pier
Naka Islands: Beaches and Pearl Farming
About Naka Island
Located just off the northeast coast of Phuket, the Naka Islands are actually two islands: Koh Naka Yai and Koh Naka Noi. Naka Yai is bigger than Naka Noi and its beaches are wide and surrounded by tall coconut trees. Naka Noi on the other hand is a site for cultivation of rare South Sea Pearls and any tour to the islands will include visiting the pearl farm.
The Naka Islands offer a quieter alternative to Phuket's busier beaches, with clear waters ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxation. The archipelago sits just a short journey from the mainland, making it an accessible day trip or overnight destination for visitors exploring Phuket and the Andaman region.
Getting to Naka Island
Ferry and transport options
Several transport options connect Phuket to the Naka Islands. Most travellers depart from ports on Phuket's coast, with ferries and speedboats operating regular services throughout the day. Journey times vary depending on your departure point and the vessel type, so checking availability for your preferred travel date is essential.
We offer several routes routes to and from the Naka Islands, operated by our transport partners and other reliable providers. Whether you're looking for a ferry, speedboat, or organized tour transport, you can search availability and compare options to find the service that suits your schedule and budget.
Departure points from Phuket
Most ferries and tour boats depart from established ports on Phuket's eastern and northern coasts. These departure points are accessible by taxi, tuk-tuk, or hotel transfer from Phuket Town and the island's main resort areas. Check your booking confirmation for exact departure locations and arrival times.
What to see and do on Naka Island
Beaches and water activities
The beaches of Koh Naka Yai are the main draw for visitors. The wide sandy shores and coconut tree-lined coastline create an idyllic setting for swimming, sunbathing, and beach walks. The calm, clear waters make the islands popular for snorkeling and scuba diving, with opportunities to explore nearby coral reefs and marine life.
Pearl farming on Naka Noi
Koh Naka Noi is known for the cultivation of rare South Sea Pearls. Most tours to the islands will include visiting the pearl farm, where you can learn about pearl cultivation techniques, see the farming process firsthand, and purchase authentic pearls directly. This unique experience sets the Naka Islands apart from other Phuket day-trip destinations and offers insight into a centuries-old craft.
Related destinations
If you're exploring Phuket's islands, consider also visiting nearby destinations such as Phi Phi Islands or other Andaman attractions. Many visitors combine multiple island trips into a longer itinerary, and flexible booking options make it easy to plan multi-destination journeys.
Practical travel information
Best time to visit
The dry season from November to April offers the best weather for island visits, with calm seas and clear skies ideal for ferries and water activities. The monsoon season brings rougher conditions, and some services may operate on reduced schedules. Always check current weather and ferry schedules before booking, especially during shoulder seasons.
What to bring
Pack sunscreen, swimwear, water shoes, and a hat for sun protection. Bring a light bag with essentials if you're taking a day trip, or luggage for overnight stays. Cash is useful for local purchases, though many island facilities accept card payments. Fresh water and snacks are available on the islands, but bringing extra supplies ensures comfort throughout your visit.
Accommodation and facilities
Koh Naka Yai has beachfront resorts and guesthouses catering to different budgets, from simple bungalows to mid-range comfort. Dining options include beach restaurants and local eateries serving Thai and international cuisine. Basic facilities like shops and healthcare are available, though serious medical needs require returning to Phuket.
Book your journey to Naka Island
Tickets to the Naka Islands start from our online fares, depending on vessel type and travel date. Browse available departures, compare operators, and book your ferry or tour transport directly through our site. We list all current schedules and pricing to help you plan your island getaway with confidence.
Search availability now to find the best connections from Phuket to the Naka Islands and secure your booking for your chosen travel date.
Naka Island’s Highlights
Go kayaking
Visit the Pearl Farm
Thai Boxing
Relaxing on the beach
Frequently asked questions
Where is the pier that my ferry departing from?
Phuket Ferry :
We understand that pier details are important to our customers. That’s why we’ve made the information as clear as possible. Your departing pier address is clearly shown on your e-ticket, which we sent to your email. Additionally, go to our Pier Information page for the most comprehensive local pier information you can find anywhere. Finally, if you still need more information, contact our Customer Service Agents; we are happy to help.
Ferry Samui :
FWe understand that pier details are important to our customers. That’s why we’ve made the information as clear as possible. Your departing pier address is clearly shown on your e-ticket, which we sent to your email. Additionally, go to our Pier Information page for the most comprehensive local pier information you can find anywhere. Finally, if you still need more information, contact our Customer Service Agents, we are happy to help.
Bali Ferry :
We understand that pier details are important to our customers. That’s why we’ve made the information as clear as possible. Your departing pier address is clearly shown on your e-ticket, which we sent to your email. Additionally, go to our Departure Point Information page for the most comprehensive information you can find anywhere. Finally, if you still need more information, contact our Customer Service Agents, we are happy to help.
What are the tourist seasons ?
Phuket Ferry :
Phuket really just has two seasons, which are known as "high season" and "low season" (or "green season"). During the low season months (May- September), boat numbers are reduced. During the high season (October - April), boats to the surrounding islands are increased so you will have some more options.
Ferry Samui :
There are three distinct weather seasons on the tropical island of Koh Samui: the dry season (December until February), the hot season (March until August) and the rainy season (September until November).
Bali Ferry :
Bali actually has a variety of tourist periods, notably around the Balinese New Year, 15 December - 15 January, and 1 June - 30 September. During these high traffic periods, boats to the surrounding islands are increased so you will have some more options. The quieter periods are between 16 January - 30 April and 1 October - 14 December historically.
Will bad weather affect my travels?
Ferries are large and can usually operate in the rain, except in extremely bad weather. During storms or strong winds, the journey may take a little longer than usual.
Speedboats are more likely to be canceled than ferries. If a trip is canceled due to bad weather, you can choose to receive a refund or reschedule. Please note that refunds for bad weather are only issued if the ferry operator cancels the trip.
On rough days, we recommend bringing motion sickness medication and taking it about 20 minutes before boarding if you are prone to seasickness. Boat staff may also provide Dramamine upon request, but you will need to remain indoors during rough conditions. On sunny and calm days, the sun deck is open for passengers to enjoy the weather.
What's the boarding process on the day of my trip?
At the pier named on your ticket, look for the staff of the ferry operator listed on your ticket as well. Please present your e-ticket (QR code) from your phone or other device—they’ll provide you with a sticker and/or boarding pass and direct you to your boat. Most piers have staff available to help load your luggage. In Koh Samui, staff are usually stationed at booths near the boarding area; at other locations, they’re typically near the boats, wearing their company uniforms.
When will I receive my ticket confirmation?
After completing your online booking, your reservation will remain in “Pending” status until it is processed. Once confirmed, we will send your e-ticket via email. The process is usually very quick.
On the day of travel, please present your e-ticket to the ferry staff at the relevant booking counter. If you do not receive your confirmation within 24 hours, contact us immediately.
What are the baggage allowances?
Your ferry e-ticket includes ferry transport, baggage fees, and handling. The free baggage allowance per person is 20–25 kg, depending on the operator. If your baggage exceeds this limit, you can pay the extra fee directly to the ferry operator in cash.
To check the baggage allowance for your specific trip, please refer to the trip details for your selected route.
