Phuket: Khai Nok, Khai Nai, and Khai Nui Island Day Trip

If you’re looking to escape the hustle of Phuket and spend a few hours soaking up sunshine on some of Thailand’s loveliest tiny islands, this tour offers a pretty good deal. For around $27 per person, you get to visit Khai Nok, Khai Nai, and Khai Nui, with options for either a morning or afternoon cruise that lasts about 4 to 5 hours. Expect crystal-clear waters for snorkeling, white sandy beaches, and a chance to feed the friendly local cats that hang out on Khai Nai.

What we love about this trip is the ease of the boat cruise—it’s relaxed and scenic—and the chance to snorkel in calm waters with good visibility. The guides seem genuinely attentive, and the inclusions of snacks and seasonal fruit make the whole experience feel like a bit of a Thai beach picnic. On the flip side, a potential drawback is that the islands can get quite crowded, especially during peak season, and the short duration might leave some wishing for more time to explore or relax.

This experience works best for travelers who want a quick, affordable escape to some beautiful islands, especially if you’re short on time or traveling with family or friends. If your idea of a perfect day involves snorkelling, feeding cats, and relaxing on a quiet beach, this tour could be just right.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At just $27, this trip offers good value, especially considering the included snorkeling gear and snacks.
• Beautiful Islands: The Khai Islands are picturesque, with white sands and clear waters ideal for swimming and snorkelling.
• Guided Experience: Friendly, knowledgeable guides help make the trip smooth and enjoyable.
• Snorkeling and Swimming: Plenty of time to explore underwater life, with calm waters suitable even for less experienced snorkellers.
• Crowded but Scenic: Expect tourist crowds on some islands, but the views and photo opportunities still shine.
• Flexible Schedules: Choose between a morning or afternoon program, fitting well into most travel plans.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

How the Tour Starts

The journey begins with a pick-up from your Phuket hotel, if you opt for that convenience. We liked how the tour company emphasizes punctuality—drivers typically arrive within the scheduled window (7:00-8:30 am for morning, 11:30-12:45 pm for afternoon)—so you’re not left waiting around. Once at the meeting point at AA Marina, there’s a quick welcome, a safety briefing, and then you’re aboard a modern speedboat.

The boat ride itself is short and lively, giving you a chance to enjoy the wind and sea views, with Phuket’s shoreline fading behind you. The scenery along the way is a reminder of how much coast Thailand has to offer, with lush islands and rocky outcrops.

Visiting Khai Nok Island

First stop is Khai Nok, a small island with a lovely white beach and transparent waters. Here, you’ll have around 40 minutes to relax, swim or snorkel. The reviews suggest this is a highlight, with many praising the crystal-clear water and the opportunity to see colorful marine life. The shallow waters and gentle currents make it suitable for all ages, which is great for families. One reviewer even said, “The snorkeling was unmatched,” emphasizing the quality of the underwater experience.

Khai Nui and Snorkelling

Next, the boat heads to Khai Nui, where swimmers can enjoy more snorkeling and swimming among coral formations. The calmness of these waters, combined with snorkel gear, means you’ll get decent visibility to spot fish and maybe even some small reef creatures. The 40-minute swim on Khai Nui gets rave reviews for being fun and relaxing, although weather conditions can impact underwater visibility.

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Feeding the Cats on Khai Nai

A truly charming part of this trip is the visit to Khai Nai, where a small group of local cats roam freely on the beach. You’re encouraged to feed and interact with them, which many travelers find surprisingly delightful. It’s a rare chance to connect with the more authentic, less commercial side of island tourism, and some reviews mention it as a “great experience.” Just be mindful to bring some snacks or treats if you want to participate.

Final Relaxation and Return

After the island visits, you’ll cruise back to Phuket, with a refreshing onboard snack—think seasonal fruits and drinks like water or cola. The return trip offers scenic views and an opportunity to reflect on the day’s highlights. Once back at AA Marina, transportation to your hotel is arranged if you booked that option.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Pickup and Transfer

The tour starts with a hotel pickup from select locations, which helps you skip the hassle of finding the meeting point. Expect the pickup to occur early in the morning or around midday depending on your choice. The journey to AA Marina is quick, usually around 30 minutes, giving you time to get familiar with your fellow travelers.

At AA Marina

Upon arrival, there’s a 15-minute welcome refreshment break, followed by a safety briefing—essential for peace of mind before heading out on the water. The staff are generally friendly and attentive, making everyone feel prepared.

The Boat Cruise

The 15-minute cruise to Khai Nok is a lively and scenic part of the trip. The boat is well-maintained, and the ride offers sweeping views of the Andaman Sea. This is when you’ll start feeling the sense of adventure and anticipation for the islands.

Island Stops

• Khai Nok (40 min): Sunbathing, swimming, and snorkelling. The water clarity here makes it a favorite among guests, with many noting how beautiful and quiet it is.
• Khai Nui (40 min): More snorkelling and swimming. Although some reviews mention crowd levels, most appreciate the chance to explore the underwater scene in calm waters.
• Khai Nai (40 min): Feeding the cats and relaxing on the beach. This stop is often highlighted as a quirky and authentic experience, making it a memorable part of the day.

Return and Drop-off

After the final island visit, the boat cruises back to AA Marina, where you’ll be transferred to your hotel. The total trip duration is approximately 4 to 5 hours, making it a manageable half-day excursion.

Reviews and Authentic Perspectives

Many travelers praise the friendly guides who often speak multiple languages, making the trip accessible and enjoyable. One reviewer shared, “Our guide was great and spoke several languages,” highlighting the importance of good communication.

Snorkeling gets high marks, with comments like “the snorkeling was unmatched,” and “we had enough time to explore underwater.” People also loved feeding the cats, with one saying, “feeding the cats and fish was such a great experience.” The scenic views on the boat and relaxing beach time are consistently appreciated, although some note crowds and shorter durations at each stop.

On the downside, a few mention waiting times—sometimes over an hour for pickup or to depart from the marina—and crowded beaches, especially during peak season. Weather can influence the experience too; if seas are choppy, snorkeling might be less enjoyable, or some stops could be canceled.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Bring swimwear and towels for comfort in and out of the water.
• Sunscreen and sunglasses are essential for sun protection.
• Arrive 10 minutes early for pickup or check-in at AA Marina.
• If you want a good spot on the beach, consider bringing small snacks or water—though the tour provides some.
• Be prepared for crowds on the islands—a popular spot for day-trippers, especially in high season.
• Remember that the tour is not suitable for pregnant women, people with heart problems, or mobility issues due to the nature of the boat trip and island stops.

Final Thoughts

This Khai Islands day trip offers a straightforward, budget-friendly way to experience some of the most charming small islands near Phuket. The combination of snorkeling, beach relaxation, and feeding cats creates a well-rounded, relaxed day out. The friendly guides and scenic boat ride add value, especially for those new to Thailand or on a tight schedule.

While it’s not a luxury adventure, the tour provides good value for money and the chance to enjoy beautiful, quiet spots that are perfect for unwinding. It’s ideal for families, solo travelers, or small groups who want a taste of island life without spending a fortune or committing to a longer cruise.

If you’re after authentic, scenic, and affordable island experiences, this trip could be your perfect afternoon or morning escape from Phuket’s more crowded beaches. Just keep your expectations in check—this is a quick taste, not a prolonged getaway—and you’ll leave with plenty of great photo memories and maybe a new furry friend or two.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 4 to 5 hours, including transfers, boat rides, and island stops.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, if you select the option, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from select locations in Phuket.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, towel, sunglasses, sunscreen, comfortable clothes, and beachwear. Snacks or water are optional, as the tour provides some drinks and fruits onboard.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included, so you don’t need to rent or bring your own.

Can I feed the cats on Khai Nai?
Absolutely, many travelers find this part charming. It’s a key highlight for some, so consider bringing some treats if you want to participate.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most likely, yes—especially since the waters are calm and shallow. However, the tour is not recommended for pregnant women, the elderly over 70, or those with serious medical conditions.

To sum it up, this tour hits the mark if you’re seeking an affordable, scenic, and relaxing day on some of Phuket’s smaller islands. With friendly guides, good snorkeling, and unique moments like feeding cats, it’s a solid choice for travelers looking for a short but sweet island getaway without breaking the bank.

You can check availability for your dates here: