Relax and Snorkel on Koh Racha Yai and on Banana Beach, Koh Hey Island

Travelers seeking a break from the crowds of Phuket will find this private tour to Koh Racha Yai and Banana Beach on Koh Hey Island a refreshing escape. It offers a balanced mix of water activities, delicious local cuisine, and plenty of time to unwind on pristine beaches. With round-trip hotel transfers, snorkeling gear, and a buffet lunch included, it promises a hassle-free day that’s both fun and relaxing.

What we really love about this experience is the way it combines beautiful natural scenery with the flexibility to choose your preferred activities. Whether paddling in clear kayaks, sunbathing on a beach chair, or snorkeling in the gorgeous waters, there’s a good chance you’ll find your perfect beach vibe. One possible consideration is that popular spots like Banana Beach can get quite crowded, especially during peak season, so managing expectations is wise.

This tour suits travelers who want a laid-back, all-in-one day trip that feels personalized, thanks to its small group size and private transport. It’s ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers who want a taste of island life without the hassle of planning multiple activities themselves.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Comfort: Lunch, drinks, snacks, and equipment are included, making it easy to relax without extra costs.
• Flexible Water Activities: Kayaking, snorkeling, swimming, and beach lounging are all available, with optional premium upgrades like parasailing or banana rides.
• Small Group Experience: With a maximum of 15 travelers, this tour offers a more intimate and personalized atmosphere.
• Convenient Transfers: Round-trip hotel pickups eliminate the hassle of arranging transport.
• Beautiful Locations: Koh Racha Yai and Banana Beach are celebrated for their crystal-clear waters and soft sands.
• Natural Variability: Water clarity and crowds can vary, but guides do their best to maximize enjoyment.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

This tour kicks off at 10:00am with a comfortable, air-conditioned pickup from your hotel—an easy way to start the day without any stress. Once aboard, the journey is primarily by speedboat, which ensures quick access to the islands and maximizes your time in the water. The boat ride itself is often highlighted as smooth and enjoyable, with reviews mentioning friendly staff who go out of their way to help.

First Stop: Banana Beach

The first destination is Banana Beach on Koh Hey Island, a spot famed for its unspoiled beauty and lively atmosphere. Once ashore, you’ll find towels and beach bags provided, along with plenty of space on loungers or beach chairs—perfect for soaking up the sun or reading a good book. Several reviewers note that the staff on both the boat and the island are very kind and eager to help, creating a welcoming environment.

At Banana Beach, the highlight is the buffet lunch at Hornbill Restaurant, served under a traditional palm leaf hut with stunning views. The cuisine is described as a typical local buffet with international options, satisfying a variety of tastes. One reviewer praised the lunch as “excellent,” noting it as a real highlight of their day.

While relaxing, you can also try a range of sea activities. The provided clear kayaks get plenty of compliments, with travelers commenting on how fun it is to paddle over the transparent waters. Snorkeling from the boat was also a favorite among many, with some reviewers remarking that the underwater visibility was surprisingly good, though it can vary based on tides and weather.

For the more adventurous, premium options like parasailing, banana boat rides, and the banana swing are available, but only with the upgraded packages. One reviewer shared that their guide upgraded them to the banana swing due to choppy waters, which turned out to be a fantastic alternative.

Afternoon: Leisure and More Water Fun

After enjoying the buffet, guests generally spend several hours relaxing or engaging in water activities. Many mention lounging on beach chairs, swinging on a giant swing, or simply swimming in the calm, inviting waters. The reviews emphasize that no matter your activity preference, there’s ample time to indulge.

The guides are praised for their attentiveness—helping with gear, sharing tips, and making sure everyone is comfortable. One reviewer appreciated how the guide, Alex, provided a very personal experience, almost feeling like a private tour due to her friendly and attentive approach.

Second Stop: Koh Racha Yai

While the main focus remains on Banana Beach, the tour also includes a visit to Koh Racha Yai, a well-known snorkeling spot. Its water clarity varies, but many find it worthwhile for the chance to see vibrant marine life. Travelers have pointed out that the snorkeling on the beach can sometimes be better than from the boat, depending on conditions.

Practical Details and What to Expect

This tour lasts approximately 7.5 hours, with most of the day dedicated to water-based fun and relaxation. As a small group (max 15 travelers), you’ll find the atmosphere friendly and personalized, allowing for easy interaction with guides and fellow travelers.

Costing about $53.48 per person, this experience offers excellent value considering what’s included: transport, snorkeling gear, kayaks, beach chairs, lunch, snacks, drinks, and insurance. Although the price doesn’t cover premium activities like parasailing or banana rides, these are available if you upgrade, adding a dash of adventure for thrill-seekers.

The itinerary is flexible enough to allow plenty of time at each stop, so you won’t feel rushed. The morning departs promptly, and the return is equally smooth, with hotel drop-offs to conclude your day.

Transportation

The use of air-conditioned vehicles for pickup and drop-off ensures comfort, especially after a day in the sun. The boat transportation is described as smooth, making the journey between islands enjoyable and stress-free.

Activities & Equipment

All snorkeling equipment and kayaks are provided, with reviews emphasizing how easy they are to use even for beginners. The availability of beach chairs and umbrellas enhances comfort, and reviewers highlight the helpfulness of staff in setting up gear and offering advice.

Food & Drinks

Lunch at Hornbill Restaurant is a major highlight, with many reviewers praising the quality and variety of the buffet. Beverages and snacks are served throughout the day, keeping everyone refreshed. Some mention that the lunch is a perfect way to fuel the afternoon of lounging or water activities.

Water Conditions & Crowds

Water clarity can vary, which some reviewers attribute to tides and weather. While Banana Beach is popular and can get crowded, the small group size and the option to upgrade activities help mitigate the chaos. Expect lively but manageable crowds, especially during peak times.

Authentic Traveler Insights

Reviewers consistently mention the friendly guides, especially Alex, who made the experience more personal and enjoyable. Many praised how well-organized the trip was, reducing stress and allowing guests to focus on fun.

On the snorkeling front, some found that the underwater visibility was better than expected, making it worthwhile even for seasoned snorkelers. Others appreciated the flexibility of trying different activities, with one guest noting they were upgraded to the banana swing because of choppy waters—highlighting the tour’s adaptability.

The overall vibe is one of easygoing fun, with travelers loving the mix of activities and time to relax. The staff’s genuine kindness and helpfulness come through in reviews, making it clear that a lot of effort goes into guest satisfaction.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for those wanting a balanced day of adventure and relaxation without the hassle of organizing multiple activities. Families with kids will appreciate the safe, shallow waters and plentiful activities, while couples and solo travelers will enjoy the intimate group size and personalized attention.

If you’re after delicious food, stunning scenery, and a variety of water-based fun, this tour hits the spot. Just keep in mind that water conditions can change, and at popular spots, there can be crowds—so manage your expectations accordingly.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers excellent value for a full day of tropical fun. With a carefully curated itinerary, friendly guides, and inclusive amenities, it suits travelers looking for a hassle-free way to enjoy Koh Racha Yai and Banana Beach. Whether you’re snorkeling in transparent waters, paddling in kayaks, or just lounging in the sun, you’ll find plenty to love about this experience.

While it’s not a secluded or ultra-private escape, the small group size and well-organized logistics create a comfortable environment for all. If you want a day that combines natural beauty, tasty food, and a variety of activities, this trip provides a balanced and memorable outing.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, round-trip transfers from your hotel are included, making it convenient and saving you the hassle of organizing transport.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers all fees and taxes, snorkeling equipment, kayaking, beach chairs, lunch at Hornbill Restaurant, beverages, snacks, travel accident insurance, and boat transportation.

Can I participate if I don’t want to snorkel or kayak?
Absolutely. The tour offers plenty of time to relax on the beach, swim, or simply enjoy the scenery. Activities like parasailing or banana rides are optional and available with upgrades.

How crowded does Banana Beach get?
Banana Beach is a popular spot, so it can get busy, especially during peak season. However, the small group size and flexible schedule help keep the experience comfortable.

What if the water clarity isn’t great?
Water clarity can vary depending on tides and weather, but many reviews mention snorkeling being worthwhile. Guides do their best to choose the best spots on the day.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. Towels and beach bags are provided, but you might want to bring your own for extra comfort.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a carefree day on Thailand’s stunning islands, blending fun activities with relaxation and delicious food. It’s a fantastic way to experience some of the best beaches without the crowds and chaos often associated with popular tourist spots.