Shallow turquoise water with small fish at Koh Khai beach

Koh Khai – A Tiny Snorkelling Paradise

Koh Khai is a group of three small islands (Khai Nok, Khai Nai, Khai Nui) located about 15 kilometres east of Phuket. They are not part of Phang Nga Bay’s limestone karst landscape – they are low sandy islands. However, many speedboat tours combine a stop at Koh Khai with James Bond Island because it is on the way back to Phuket. The water is very shallow and clear, and you can stand on the sand surrounded by hundreds of small fish. Perfect for children and inexperienced snorkellers.

🐠 Thai phrase: “Khai” (ไข่) means “egg”. The islands are egg‑shaped. Locals say “Khai nam sai” (ไข่น้ำใส) – “egg with clear water”.

What to Expect

The main beach on Koh Khai Nok is lined with deckchairs, umbrellas, and snack stalls. It is very touristy. You can rent a mask and fins, but the snorkelling is best 20‑30 metres from the beach, where there are small coral patches. The fish are tame – they will eat bread from your hand (though feeding is discouraged). The water depth is waist‑chest deep, so no strong swimming skills are needed. There are toilets (20 THB) and changing rooms. No overnight stays – it is a day‑use only island.

How to Get There

Koh Khai is only accessible by tour. Most speedboat tours from Phuket include a 1‑hour stop at Koh Khai as a final activity before returning. The boat ride from Phuket takes about 30 minutes. Longtail boats do not usually go there because the crossing can be choppy. The national park fee for Koh Khai is included in the tour (same ticket as Phang Nga Bay).

Tips

Bring reef‑safe sunscreen – the water is shallow and the coral is close.
Wear water shoes – the sand can be hot and there are sea urchins in rocky areas.
Avoid the island between 11 AM and 2 PM – it is very crowded.
Do not step on the coral – it is fragile.

🪸 Local wisdom: “Plai nam, hai kao” (ปลายน้ำ ให้เก๊า) – “At the water’s edge, give space.” Do not crowd the fish. Let them come to you.

Final Word

Koh Khai is not a wild, untouched island. It is a convenient stop for families and beginner snorkellers. If you want pristine nature, go to Hong Island instead. But if you have children who are nervous in deep water, Koh Khai is a safe and fun introduction to snorkelling.

— VisitJamesBondIsland.com