Fancy an easy day hanging out on a tropical island? Coral Island might be just the tonic. Banana Beach is a great destination and is found on the north-eastern tip of Koh Hey (Coral Island). Now it is a lot quieter with fewer tourists and pure relaxation on the white sandy beach that fringes the clear blue sea.
You can organize a transfer over via speedboat from Kan Eang @Pier in Chalong and chill out on the beach all day long with conveniences just a few meters away from your designated place in the sun. Straight from the beach, there is some nice coral and there is plenty of colourful reef fish to spot whilst snorkeling. The jungle is lush and for those who enjoy a walk is fine for a stroll to spot the local wildlife, including monitor lizards and hornbills.
Bamboo frames the restaurant and bar here, so there are no cement structures to blot the landscape. Food is great with lots of tasty Thai dishes and there is plenty of soft drinks and adult beverages to help you kick back and enjoy your day in paradise.
If spending time with family and friends, enjoying personalized attention of a boat crew, having your own personal chef to conjure up some tasty dishes at a time and place you choose sounds like heaven, then perhaps chartering a luxury classic yacht or sailboat for the day might be what you are looking for.
Take a cruise out to Phang Nga Bay with Andaman Cruises, where the topography is some of the most picturesque in the world. The amazingly scenic limestone islands are sure to impress as they soar skywards out of the sea, one of the most famous is Tapu Island, made famous by the James Bond movie, The Man with the Golden Gun. There are a few ways to enjoy the stunning views in Phang Nga Bay, either budget or splurge, we choose the latter, go on spoil yourself!
3) Visit photogenic viewpoint ‘Samet Nangshe’
4) Go to Khao Sok National Park
You may feel that the 3-hour drive is a bit much, but if you are an early riser, the drive is very pleasant. Enjoy tropical jungle scenery, beautiful landscapes, misty mountains, and a chorus provided by howling gibbons, chirping cicadas, and birdsong.
Khao Sok National Park is one of the best in Thailand with a vast ancient evergreen forest and rainforest to explore. You can certainly manage a 3-4 hour walk within the park on a day trip easily and cool down in the freshwater waterfalls. We think it is best to hire a guide so you can see everything you need to without distraction. If you’re lucky you might see wild elephants, spot long-tail macaques and banded-langurs, gaurs and gibbons. Sambar deer, sun bears, boars, deer and porcupines. Be sure to also pop in to see the elephants at Khao Sok Elephant Sanctuary, your support will be gratefully appreciated.