The islands surrounding Phuket are straight out of a movie—many movies in fact! 007 made one island so famous that it is now called “James Bond Island” and the beach from “The Beach” is so famous that tours visit it every day. Here are a few reasons why you should schedule some island hopping to explore the Phuket Islands on your next trip to Thailand!

And if you already have a trip planned check out our list of the best travel must haves on Amazon to order before you fly out!

We booked an island hopping boat cruise through our hotel the Trisara Resort, which we loved by the way! And here are all the reasons why you should too!

1) Stunning views from the islands off Phuket

The views from a boat in the Andaman Sea are just incredible. The thousands of islands jetting straight up from the ocean is just something you won’t see anywhere else in the world. And the views around each corner are completely different, so enjoy the ride, not just the destination!

2) Phi Phi islands photo opportunities

Yes, the Phi Phi islands are in part so popular because they were made for Instagram. There are countless spots for the perfect shot. Whether you visit James Bond Island or the Phi Phi Islands (we recommend visiting both), you will be able to get some once in a lifetime shots.

3) All the amazing local people

Meeting the local people on these remote islands really enriches a trip. Remember that when you visit these popular tourist destinations, that real people call these places home, so be respectful towards them and their home.

4) Plenty of sunshine on the Phuket islands

Being out on the water all day, while exploring some of the most beautiful places in the world makes the trip around the world well worthwhile.

5) The Thailand island hopping memories

Taking a day or two away from the main island of Phuket to hop from one tiny island to another is something that you will never forget! So, make the time on your next holiday to Thailand to explore.

6) Millions of tropical fish off of the Phuket Islands

Snorkeling in the Phi Phi Islands is unreal. We’ve never seen clearer waters filled with so many beautiful tropical fish and coral anywhere in the world. It’s truly a snorkeling paradise.

7) The Turquoise waters surrounding Phuket and its islands

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When you arrive at Koh Phi Phi Don, be sure to make the climb up to its viewpoints.  There are two viewpoints to check out, but be prepared in the 100 degree tropical heat the hike it quite tough. There are stairs for most of it, but they are quite steep, so be sure to bring some water with you and take breaks in the shade when you feel you need them. But trust me the view of the waters below make the climb well worth it! And once again this beautiful part of the world offers some amazing photo ops!

For more tips for putting together the perfect getaway to Thailand be sure to read our blog posts on Phuket and Koh Samui.