How to get to Phang Nga Bay

Phang Nga Bay, a coastal province on the Andaman Sea, is renowned for its stunning limestone rock islets and scenic beauty. Home to Phang Nga National Park and the famous James Bond Island, it’s a must-visit destination for travellers seeking natural wonders and adventure.

By Air

 

• Flying to Phuket or Krabi

The most convenient way to reach Phang Nga Bay is by flying into Phuket International Airport or Krabi Airport. Both airports offer numerous domestic and international flights, making them easily accessible from major cities worldwide.

From Phuket International Airport:
After arriving in Phuket, you can take a taxi, private car, or shuttle service to one of the many piers that offer boat tours to Phang Nga Bay. The journey from the airport to the pier takes about an hour.

From Krabi Airport:
Similarly, you can take a taxi or shuttle to the pier from Krabi Airport. The drive typically takes around 90 minutes.

By Road

 

• Travelling by Taxi

Taxis and private car hire services are widely available in Phuket and Krabi. However, it’s essential to be aware of potential price hikes due to local “associations” controlling fares. To avoid overpaying, insist on using the meter, negotiate no stops, and choose licensed travel agencies with certifications.

• Driving by Car

Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace. Here’s how to get to Phang Nga Bay by car:

From Bangkok:
The drive from Bangkok to Phang Nga is approximately 788 kilometres and takes around 12 hours. The most direct route is via Highway No. 4, which passes through Chumphon, Prachuap Khiri Khan, and Ranong provinces before reaching Phang Nga.

From Phuket:
The journey from Phuket to Phang Nga Bay is much shorter, around 87 kilometres, taking about 1.5 hours. Follow Highway No. 402 across the Sarasin Bridge, then continue to Ban Khok Kloi and turn right towards Amphoe Takua Thung.

By Bus

 

• From Bangkok

For those travelling from Bangkok, several bus options are available from the Southern Bus Terminal:

VIP Bus:
Offers a comfortable ride with amenities such as air conditioning and reclining seats.

Standard 1 and 2 Buses:
These are more economical but have fewer amenities.

The bus journey from Bangkok to Phang Nga takes approximately 12 hours. Upon arrival at Phang Nga bus station, you can hire a local taxi or tuk-tuk to reach your accommodation or pier.

By Train

 

• To Surat Thani

While Phang Nga does not have a train station, you can take a train from Bangkok to Surat Thani, a nearby province. From Surat Thani, Phang Nga is a two-hour bus ride away. This option lets you enjoy a scenic train journey and a shorter bus trip.

By Boat

 

• Boat Tours

Boat tours are a popular way to explore Phang Nga Bay. They offer close-up views of its stunning landscapes and access to its many islands. You can book boat tours from Phuket, Krabi, and Phang Nga piers. These tours often include stops at James Bond Island, Koh Panyee, and other scenic spots, along with activities such as kayaking and snorkelling.

From Phuket:
Several tour operators offer day trips from Phuket to Phang Nga Bay. These tours usually start early to make the most of the day.

From Krabi:
Similar tours are available from Krabi, allowing one to explore the bay’s beauty.

Local Transportation

Once in Phang Nga, local transportation options include public passenger pickup vehicles, known as songthaews, and motorbike rentals. These modes of transport allow you to explore the region conveniently and affordably. Non-air-conditioned buses are available for inter-district travel, and long-tailed boats can be hired for island-hopping adventures.

James Bond Island, an iconic landmark in Phang Nga Bay, is best accessed by boat. Whether you choose a boat tour, kayak, or longtail boat, here’s how to get there:

From Phuket:
Book a Phang Nga Bay boat tour that includes James Bond Island. Ferries and speedboats depart from various points in Phuket.

From Phang Nga Town:
Head to Ao Phang Nga National Park Visitor Centre, where you can arrange boat tours to James Bond Island.

To reach the Ao Phang Nga National Park Visitor Centre from Phuket or Phang Nga, follow Highway No. 402 across Sarasin Bridge, then Route 4 (Phet Kasem Rd). At the traffic lights, turn right onto 4144 and follow it to the dead end, where the park offices and tourist information centre are located.

 

Related Articles

• Exploring Phang Nga Bay
• Islands in Phang Nga Bay
• Phuket International Airport Guide
• Phang Nga Natural Attractions
• James Bond Island in Ao Phang Nga National Park