Escape the Crowds: 6 Early Bird Island Trips from Phuket for the 2026 Season
- Better Call Nika
- 3 days ago
- 5 min read
While the destinations may be similar to standard tours, the atmosphere of an Early Bird Trip is entirely different. While most are still asleep, a small group wakes early to enjoy the morning silence—away from the crowds and city traffic—gathering at the pier to depart before the world wakes up. Only a few boat companies offer these exclusive early departures, making them ideal for those who prefer peace and quiet. This article introduces the best Early Bird Trips for the 2026 season.
Phi Phi Island is a world-class destination that travelers from across the globe dream of visiting. Those with limited time can join a day trip, while those with more flexibility may choose to stay overnight on the island.
To truly embrace the ocean and its crystal-clear waters, the Early Bird Trip is the perfect choice for snorkeling and sightseeing. The journey begins with a hotel pick-up at approximately 5:00 am. You will depart from Royal Phuket Marina, one of Phuket’s top five premium piers. Upon arrival at the pier, you can enjoy tea, coffee, and snacks before heading out.
The highlight of this trip is standing on the shores of Maya Bay with very few people around—a truly amazing and peaceful moment to embrace. The tour concludes at approximately 15.00 pm.
Before international fame, Koh Tapu was known mainly by local fishermen and nearby island communities. The area of Phang Nga Bay itself is very old in geological terms, formed millions of years ago by natural erosion of limestone mountains, creating caves, lagoons, and steep cliffs.
James Bond Film Connection
The island became world-famous in 1974 after it appeared in the James Bond movie“The Man with the Golden Gun”, starring Roger Moore.
In the film, the island was used as the hideout of the villain Francisco Scaramanga. After the movie’s release, tourists from around the world began visiting the island, and it became known internationally as James Bond Island.
The journey begins with a hotel pick-up at approximately 5:00 am. You will depart from Royal Phuket Marina, one of Phuket’s top five premium piers. Upon arrival at the pier, you can enjoy tea, coffee, and snacks before heading out.
Krabi Province is one of the most popular destinations for tourists who would like to visit national parks, such as Thale Waek, also known as the Separated Sea. Thale Waek is a natural phenomenon where a sandbank appears during low tide, connecting three islands:
· Koh Tup
· Koh Mor
· Koh Gai
Another destination you should not miss when visiting national parks in Krabi is Koh Hong. Koh Hong is part of Than Bok Khorani National Park and is famous for its emerald lagoon, soft white sand, and dramatic limestone cliffs. “Hong” means room in Thai, named after the hidden lagoon surrounded by cliffs like a natural room.This trip operates every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday by speedboat.
One of Thailand’s most famous marine national parks.The Similan Islands are a group of 11 islandslocated in the Andaman Sea, about 70 km from Phang Nga.
They are part of Mu Ko Similan National Parkand are world-famous for their crystal-clear water, white sandy beaches, and rich marine life.
Highlights of the Similan Islands
Snorkeling & diving paradise – colorful coral reefs, tropical fish, turtles, manta rays
Extremely clear water – visibility can reach 20–30 meters
Iconic Sail Rock (Koh Similan No.8) – panoramic viewpoint
Unspoiled nature – protected ecosystem and limited visitors
Powder-soft white sand beaches
Open season: mid-October to mid-May ,Closed season: mid-May to mid-October (for ecosystem recovery) Early Bird trips are best for calm seas and fewer crowds.
A true paradise for snorkeling lovers,the Surin Islands are located in the Andaman Sea, near the Thai–Myanmar border, and are part of Mu Ko Surin National Park. They are famous for their pristine nature, shallow coral reefs, and crystal-clear water, making them one of the best snorkeling destinations in Thailand.
Highlights of the Surin Islands
Outstanding snorkeling – colorful corals and abundant marine life just offshore
Very clear, shallow water – perfect for beginners and families
White sandy beaches – natural and untouched
Moken (Sea Gypsy) village – learn about the traditional lifestyle of local people
Peaceful & less crowded – more natural than many popular islands
Best time to visit is same Similan island national park,open season: mid-October to mid-May . Closed season: mid-May to mid-October (nature recovery period).Early Bird trips offer the best experience with calm seas and fewer visitors.
Two stunning islands with very different charms, Koh Mook is a local, laid-back island best known for the famous Emerald Cave (Morakot Cave). The island still keeps a traditional village lifestyle,
making it feel authentic and less commercial. Nearby Koh Mook, Koh Kradan is often ranked as one of the most beautiful islands in Thailand, famous for its powder-white sand and extremely clear turquoise water. It’s peaceful, romantic, and picture-perfect.
The early-bird trip to Koh Mook and Koh Kradan operates only on Wednesdays by speedboat, departing from Phuket Royal Marina, Phuket.
Koh Rok is part of the Mu Koh Lanta National Park in Krabi. It is famous for its powdery, pure white sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Known as one of the best snorkeling destinations in Thailand, the island offers shallow waters that are easy to swim and explore. Visitors can discover vibrant coral reefs and a variety of tropical fish in a peaceful, clean, and perfectly preserved natural environment.
Located not far from Koh Rok is Koh Haa, which means 'Five Islands' in Thai. This is a group of small limestone islands nestled between Koh Lanta and Koh Phi Phi. It features a stunning emerald lagoon surrounded by dramatic cliffs and is famous for its world-class snorkeling and scuba diving.
Explorers will love the underwater caves, swim-throughs, and vibrant coral walls.
Because it is less crowded and highly scenic, it is a true hidden gem. The Early Bird Trip to Koh Haa operates every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday, departing from Royal Phuket Marina in Phuket.
Early Bird trips offer a more exclusive, peaceful, and high-quality experience compared to standard tours. By departing very early in the morning—typically much earlier than traditional trips—you get to experience nature at its best. This style of travel is especially popular for island hopping, sightseeing, and nature excursions.
✅ Pros (Advantages)
Fewer tourists → more peaceful and relaxing
Better photos → soft morning light, no crowds in the background
Clearer water & better visibility (great for snorkeling/diving)
Cooler weather → more comfortable than midday heat
More time at each spot because places are not crowded
❌ Cons (Disadvantages)
Very early wake-up → not suitable for late sleepers
Higher price than regular trips (sometimes)
Limited breakfast options early in the morning
Not ideal for families with small children
Shorter night rest if you travel the day before
Departure Time: Usually between 05.00-07.00 am The primary goal is to avoid the crowds, enjoy the serenity of quiet locations, and have a superior experience while snorkeling, visiting national parks, or watching the sunrise. However, like any travel option, Early Bird trips have both pros and cons that you should consider before booking.
Writer : Better Call Nika