James Bond Island in Ao Phang Nga National Park is one of the most popular day trips from Phuket.
James Bond Island is the nickname for Khao Phing Kan and the slender rock pillar beside it, Koh Tapu, in Ao Phang Nga National Park. The islands became world famous after appearing in the 1974 film The Man with the Golden Gun, and today they are among the most photographed sights in Thailand.
Updated October 2026 by the Phuket Dream Company team (TAT licensed).
This guide explains where James Bond Island is, how to visit from Phuket, what you will see and how to avoid the crowds.
Where is James Bond Island?
James Bond Island sits in the north-west of Phang Nga Bay, the sheltered bay between Phuket, Phang Nga and Krabi, a few kilometres off the Phang Nga mainland. It is part of Ao Phang Nga National Park, which protects the bay’s limestone karst islands, mangroves and sea caves. From Phuket, boats usually leave from piers on the island’s east coast, and the trip across the bay is part of the experience.
Khao Phing Kan and Koh Tapu
Khao Phing Kan means “hills leaning on each other” in Thai – it is two tall, forested limestone islands that appear to rest against one another, with small sandy beaches and caves between them. Koh Tapu, meaning “nail island”, is the narrow rock about 20 metres high that rises straight out of the water just off Khao Phing Kan. Locals still use these names, but most visitors simply call them James Bond Island.
A local legend says a fisherman kept catching a nail in his net instead of fish. Angry, he struck it with his sword, and one half flew up and landed upright in the sea – becoming Koh Tapu.
To protect the fragile limestone from erosion, boats are not allowed to land on or go close to Koh Tapu. You view and photograph it from the beach on Khao Phing Kan or from the water.
A little history
Before 1974 the islands were a quiet corner of the bay known only to local fishermen. After The Man with the Golden Gun used Khao Phing Kan as the villain Scaramanga’s hideout, tourists began to arrive, and the area became part of Ao Phang Nga National Park in 1981. Today a national park entry fee applies, and it is often included in the price of organised tours.
How to visit James Bond Island from Phuket
- Speedboat day trip: the fastest option, usually combining James Bond Island with Koh Panyee and sea-canoeing.
- Big boat or longtail tour: a slower, more relaxed day across the bay.
- Sea-canoe trips: guides paddle you into hongs (hidden lagoons) and caves inside the limestone islands.
- Private boat: go early or late to avoid peak crowds.
Most tours include hotel pickup in Phuket, lunch and a stop at Koh Panyee, a Muslim fishing village built on stilts over the water. Sea-canoeing through the caves depends on the tide, so routes can change on the day.
Best time to go
The national park is open all year. November to April brings the calmest water and the best light for photos. Phang Nga Bay is sheltered, so many tours still run from May to October, though there may be more rain. Early morning and late afternoon visits are much quieter than the middle of the day in high season.
Tips for your visit
- Bring a waterproof bag for your phone and camera – canoe trips can be wet.
- Wear sandals or water shoes; landings are often onto wet sand.
- Use sunscreen and a hat – there is little shade on the boats.
- Expect souvenir stalls and crowds at peak times; a private or early tour helps.
- Dress modestly when visiting Koh Panyee village.
- Take all rubbish with you to help protect the park.
Is it worth it?
The setting is spectacular. The boat ride through hundreds of limestone towers rising from green water is as memorable as the island itself, and the combination with sea caves and Koh Panyee makes it a full, varied day. It does get busy in high season, so if you prefer a quieter visit, ask about early departures or a private boat.
FAQ
Where is James Bond Island?
In Ao Phang Nga National Park in the north-west of Phang Nga Bay, between Phuket and the Phang Nga mainland.
What is the real name of James Bond Island?
Khao Phing Kan, with the rock pillar beside it called Koh Tapu.
Can you climb or land on Koh Tapu?
No. Boats are not allowed to approach Koh Tapu, to protect it from erosion. You view it from Khao Phing Kan or from the water.
How long does a James Bond Island tour take?
Most tours from Phuket are a full day including hotel transfers, though speedboat tours can be shorter.
Is there an entry fee?
Yes, a national park entry fee applies. It is often included in tour prices – check when you book.
Which movie was filmed at James Bond Island?
The 1974 James Bond film The Man with the Golden Gun.
Want to visit? Message the Phuket Dream Company team on WhatsApp (+66 95 038 5535) or ask Hannah, our chat assistant, and we will help you choose a Phang Nga Bay tour.