Day trips from Phuket by car

Khao Lak — about 1.5 hours

North over the Sarasin Bridge on route 402 and then route 4. Long, quiet beaches, much emptier than Phuket, a few waterfalls just off the main road, and a good stop on the way to Khao Sok. It works well as a day trip or a one-night stay.

Phang Nga Bay from the land — about 1.5 hours

The Samet Nangshe viewpoint looks over the limestone islands of Phang Nga Bay and is best at sunrise, when the mist sits on the water. The last stretch is a steep side road; drive it in daylight. On the way back, the town of Phang Nga and the temples in the caves are worth an hour.

Khao Sok — about 3 hours

Rainforest, the Cheow Lan lake and floating bungalows. It is a long day there and back, so most people stay a night. The road through the hills is winding; take it slowly and plan to arrive before dark.

Krabi and Ao Nang — about 3 hours

East through Phang Nga to Krabi, Ao Nang and the boats to Railay. Doable in a day but more comfortable with a night there. Krabi has its own airport, so some visitors drive over and fly home from there — tell us and we will quote the one-way collection.

Ferries and islands

Koh Yao Noi and Koh Yao Yai are reached from Bang Rong Pier in Phuket by boat; there is also a car ferry to Koh Yao from the mainland side. Koh Lanta has car ferries from Krabi province. Tell us before you take the car on any ferry, so we can confirm that the insurance covers the crossing.

Before you go

• Fill the tank before the bridge; stations are fewer on the mainland roads between towns.
• Leave early. Midday heat and afternoon rain in the wet season are the two things that spoil a long drive.
• Carry the licence, IDP and the rental papers — there are police checkpoints on route 4.
• Keep your phone charged for navigation; mobile coverage on the main roads is good.