Phuket to 4 Islands Krabi: Day Trip Guide
What Is the 4 Islands Tour?
The 4 Islands tour is one of Krabi's most popular boat trips. It visits four destinations in the Krabi coast area:
- Koh Tup (Tup Island): Known for the sandbar that connects it to Chicken Island at low tide. You can walk between the islands on the exposed sand.
- Koh Mor (Mor Island): Connected to Tup Island by the same sandbar system.
- Chicken Island (Koh Kai): Named for a rock formation that resembles a chicken's head. Good snorkeling on the reef side.
- Phra Nang Cave Beach: A stunning beach on the Railay peninsula, accessible only by boat. Features a cave shrine (Princess Cave) and dramatic limestone cliffs. Some of the most beautiful scenery in Thailand.
Can You Do It from Phuket?
Yes, but it requires extra travel. The 4 Islands are in Krabi, so you need to get from Phuket to a Krabi departure point first.
Option 1: Organized Day Trip from Phuket
Some Phuket-based tour operators offer a 4 Islands day trip that includes:
- Hotel pickup in Phuket (early morning, around 6:00 to 7:00 AM)
- Road transfer to Krabi (about 2 to 2.5 hours)
- Longtail boat or speedboat to the 4 islands
- Road transfer back to Phuket
- Return to your hotel by 6:00 to 7:00 PM
Price: 2,000 to 4,000 THB per person including all transport, lunch, and guide.
Option 2: Self-Arranged
Take an early morning minivan or taxi from Phuket to Ao Nang in Krabi (2.5 hours), join a local 4 Islands tour from Ao Nang (800 to 1,500 THB), and return to Phuket in the afternoon. More flexible but requires more planning.
Option 3: Private Speedboat
A private speedboat from Phuket can reach the Krabi 4 Islands area in about 1 to 1.5 hours by sea, bypassing the road transfer entirely. This is the premium option that combines your Phuket-to-Krabi transfer with the island visit.
What to Expect
The Sandbar
The most iconic sight is the sandbar connecting Tup Island to Chicken Island. It is fully exposed at low tide, creating a walkway through the sea. Check tide tables for your visit date. Low tide in the late morning or early afternoon is ideal.
Phra Nang Beach
This is the highlight for many visitors. The beach is framed by towering limestone cliffs, and the water is clear and calm. The Princess Cave (Tham Phra Nang) at the base of the cliff is a shrine decorated with offerings.
Snorkeling
Snorkeling is available at Chicken Island and around the reef areas. Visibility varies but is generally good in dry season (November to April).
Is It Worth It from Phuket?
The 4 Islands tour is excellent, but the 2 to 2.5 hour road transfer each way makes it a long day from Phuket. Consider it if:
- You have already done Phi Phi and James Bond Island
- You want to see a different part of southern Thailand
- You are also planning to visit Railay Beach
If you are spending time in Krabi during your trip, save the 4 Islands for then. If Phuket is your only base, it is doable but tiring.
Browse our available tours or contact us to arrange a 4 Islands trip.
