Koh Bon
A Tiny Island Paradise Facing Rawai Beach
When you live in Phuket, spending a day on Koh Bon almost feels like going on a small vacation. The journey begins at Rawai Beach, where you can hire a traditional long-tail boat either from the pier or directly from the beach. After a short ride across the bay, the boat reaches this tiny tropical island that somehow feels far removed from the bustle of Phuket.
Although Koh Bon lies only a few minutes from the mainland, its peaceful atmosphere and clear waters give the impression of being much farther away. Palm trees lean over small sandy coves, the jungle covers most of the island, and the sound of long-tail engines quickly fades once the boats depart. For many visitors, Koh Bon is simply a place to relax for a few hours, swim in the warm waters of the Andaman Sea, and enjoy a quiet escape from the busy beaches of Phuket.
Most people who visit Koh Bon only see the small beach near the island’s restaurant, which faces Rawai to the north. However, more adventurous visitors can cross the island on foot through the jungle to reach a second, longer beach on the southeast side. This lesser-known beach has a slightly mysterious atmosphere, with a line of old, partially abandoned bungalows hidden in the trees behind the sand, remnants of a resort project that was never completed.
Restaurant Beach
The main arrival point on Koh Bon is a small sandy bay often referred to as Restaurant Beach. This is where long-tail boats drop off visitors and where most people spend their time on the island.
A simple seaside restaurant sits just a few steps from the sand, serving Thai dishes, fresh seafood, and cold drinks. Tables are set under the shade of large trees, making it a pleasant place to enjoy lunch while looking out across the water toward Rawai. The relaxed atmosphere, with fishing boats occasionally passing in the distance, gives the place a distinctly local character.
The beach itself is small but attractive, with clear water that is usually calm and suitable for swimming. Snorkeling is possible along the rocky edges of the bay, where small fish can often be seen around the coral and rocks. Because most visitors stay near the restaurant, this part of the island can feel lively during lunchtime but tends to become quiet again later in the afternoon.
Second Beach
On the opposite side of the island lies Koh Bon’s second beach, a longer and wilder stretch of sand facing the open sea to the southeast. Reaching it requires a short but adventurous walk across the island through dense tropical vegetation.
The path is not officially marked, but it is generally easy to follow if you start from the restaurant area and head inland. The walk takes around 15 to 20 minutes and passes through jungle filled with tall trees, vines, and the occasional sound of birds or insects.
When you finally emerge from the forest, the view of the beach is quite surprising. The bay is larger and more open than the restaurant beach, and the atmosphere is much quieter since only a few visitors make the effort to reach it.
One of the most intriguing aspects of this beach is the presence of several partially abandoned bungalows and buildings hidden among the trees behind the sand. These structures appear to be the remains of a small resort development that was never completed or later abandoned. Today they add a slightly mysterious atmosphere to the area, contrasting with the otherwise pristine natural surroundings.
Despite these unusual ruins, the beach itself is beautiful and peaceful, making it a great spot for those who enjoy exploring places that feel a little off the beaten path.
How to Go / Best Time to Visit
Reaching Koh Bon is simple and part of the adventure. Long-tail boats depart regularly from Rawai Beach, either from the small pier or directly from the shoreline. The crossing usually takes 10 to 15 minutes, depending on sea conditions.
Boats can be hired privately, allowing visitors to decide when they want to return. Many boatmen are happy to wait on the island or arrange a pickup time later in the afternoon. However, tide schedules play an important role in determining whether the crossing is possible, so it is essential to be punctual.
The best time to visit Koh Bon is during Phuket’s dry season from November to April, when the sea is generally calm and the water clear.
The island can still be visited during the rainy season, but waves and wind may occasionally make the boat ride less comfortable.
For a quieter experience, it is best to arrive early in the morning.
Summary
Although it lies just a short boat ride from Phuket, Koh Bon feels like a small tropical escape. Its simple restaurant beach, clear water, and relaxed atmosphere make it a perfect destination for a half-day or day trip from Rawai Beach.
For those willing to explore a little further, the island’s hidden second beach adds a sense of adventure and discovery. With its jungle paths, quiet shoreline, and curious abandoned structures, Koh Bon offers a glimpse of a more secluded side of Phuket’s coastal scenery.
Whether you come for a swim, a seafood lunch by the sea, or simply to enjoy the peaceful island atmosphere, a visit to Koh Bon is a charming and memorable way to experience the Andaman Sea just beyond Phuket’s southern coast.
Last visit & photos: Koh Bon — 25 November 2018
Koh Bon Photo Gallery
Passionate about photography since the mid-2000s, I’ve spent years capturing the beauty of Phuket and southern Thailand — from beaches and islands to festivals and daily life. My work reflects a lasting love for the region and its ever-changing light.
