Coral vs Racha vs Maiton – Which Phuket Island Is Right for You?

Not sure which island to visit in Phuket?

If you’re choosing between Coral, Racha, and Maiton — this guide breaks down the differences so you can pick the perfect island for your day trip.

1. Coral Island – Easy, Fun, and Close to Phuket

Travel time: 15–20 mins by boat
Vibe: Laid-back, lively, beach bars & chairs
Best for: Families, couples, casual swimming, banana boats
Extras: Water sports, massages, cocktails on the sand
Tour type: Great for half-day trips or shared group tours
Water clarity: Decent, depending on season

Perfect if you want:
A fun, social beach day close to the mainland

2. Racha Island – Clear Water & Snorkelling Heaven

Travel time: 30–45 mins by boat
Vibe: Quiet, beautiful, natural
Best for: Snorkelling, photography, clearer water
Extras: Less commercial, very clean beaches
Tour type: Ideal for full-day private trips
Water clarity: Excellent in dry season

Perfect if you want:
A peaceful day with stunning water for snorkelling

3. Maiton Island – Exclusive & Often Dolphin-Spotted

Travel time: 30 mins by boat
Vibe: More exclusive, fewer tourists
Best for: Private experiences, luxury vibes
Extras: Sometimes dolphins swim near the boat
Tour type: Best seen with a private catamaran
Water clarity: Great visibility

Perfect if you want:
A quieter, upscale island visit with something special

Castaway Club Tip:

Not sure which island suits your group?
Message us and we’ll match you with the right one based on your group size, budget, and the weather.

How to Book:

We offer all three islands via:

Private catamaran
Jet Ski Safari
Shared tours

Just message us on WhatsApp and we’ll plan your perfect day out.

1. Baan Rim Lay in Rawai

The first recommendation is also the most affordable! Which is probably also why you will find here mostly locals dining out. Tucked away in Rawai but nevertheless with great views and even better seafood. A good dinner for two including with drinks will cost you anything between 500 and 800.

2. Kan Eang at Chalong Pier

Kan Eang is the go-to restaurantif you just returned from your half day or full day trip. It is located directly at the Chalong Pier, offers a beautiful charming ambience and a very extensive food menu! It is slightly pricer than Baan Rim Lay in Rawai but every baht extra is absolut worth it.

3. The Cove at Panwa

Beachside dining in Phuket – If you prefer something quiter and more intimate, then the Cove at Panwa is the perfect place to go. Not only does it serve delicious food for really good prices but it also allows a romantic stroll along the beach after the dinner! We love the relaxed athmosphere that this place brings with it!

4. La Gritta in Patong

An equally romantic restaurant with more than just the ocean sights. This restaurant is located at the south end of Patong and inside the luxirous five star Amari Phuket Hotel. It overlooks the bay of Patong and while the core of the menu is typical Italien and encompass everything from Antipaste, to Pasta and Pizza, you got plenty of good seafood courses as well!

5. Carpe Diem at Bang Tao

The last one in our list has also just recently opened! The ambience of Carpe Diem speaks for itself! The food and service was first class and so is the view! The menue is heavily influenced influenced by the Mediterranean kitchen. Our personal highlight was the Bouillabaisse Seafood Stew served with fresh bread as well as the Lobster Linguine.