Phang Nga Bay

Phang Nga Bay is a marine bay in southern Thailand where roughly 42 islands of limestone rise straight up from the Andaman Sea. The water between them is shallow and ranges from green to turquoise, with caves and lagoons hidden among the rock formations.

King Rama III gave the bay its name in 1824 following a Siamese military victory over Burmese forces in the region. The name comes from the Malay word pangan and reflects the area's importance to the kingdom at that time.

Local fishing communities have shaped daily life here for generations, working with boats and nets in ways passed down through families. You can see how they move through the waters and use the islands as part of their routine.

The best way to explore the bay is on boat tours departing from Phuket, which usually take several hours. Start early in the morning to enjoy calmer water and bring sun protection, as there is little shade on the boats.

The bay holds extensive seagrass meadows and mangrove forests that shelter rare animals like dugongs and threatened bird species. These habitats draw nature lovers who want to quietly observe the hidden wildlife without disturbing it.