Banana Beach sits on the eastern shore of Koh Hey, a twenty-minute speedboat ride south of Chalong Pier. The beach opens at 09:00 and closes at 18:00 daily, with no entrance fee charged at the sand. Tour groups begin arriving around midday, so the morning hours offer the clearest water and the quietest stretch of shore.
Quick answer
Banana Beach Koh Hey Island Phuket Thailand is open 09:00–18:00 every day of the week, with free entry to the beach itself. Activities such as snorkeling gear rental, parasailing, and banana boat rides are sold separately through tour operators and beach vendors. Arrive between 09:00 and 11:00 to secure a beachfront spot before the midday surge of group tours.
The crescent of white sand that defines banana beach koh hey island phuket thailand measures just 250 meters from point to point, making it one of the smaller named beaches on Coral Island. Despite its compact size, the shore handles several hundred visitors daily during high season, most arriving on chartered speedboats that pull directly onto the sand. The beach earned its name not from its shape but from the yellow-hulled banana boats that have operated from its northern end since the early 2000s. Koh Hey lies three kilometers off Phuket's southeastern coast, positioned between Chalong Bay and the open Andaman Sea. The island has no permanent civilian population and no overnight accommodation. All visitor facilities—changing rooms, freshwater showers, beachside restaurants—are operated under concession agreements that renew annually. Electricity comes from diesel generators that run from dawn until the last boat departs. The eastern shore, where Banana Beach sits, remains sheltered from the southwest monsoon, which allows year-round access even when western beaches on Phuket close due to surf. Most visitors book a combined tour that includes boat transport, a set lunch, and a snorkeling stop at the coral shelf 50 meters offshore. Independent travelers can arrange longtail service from Chalong Pier or Rawai Beach, though departure times depend on tide and weather. The beach has no pier; boats anchor in shallow water and passengers wade the final meters to shore. Coral fragments and sea urchin shells are common underfoot at the waterline, so water shoes are standard issue for anyone arriving outside the sand-groomed tourist zone. The shallow bay in front of banana beach koh hey island phuket thailand drops to just three meters at its deepest point within the swim zone. Visibility ranges from six to twelve meters depending on recent rain and boat traffic. The coral here is recovering slowly from anchor damage and Crown-of-Thorns starfish outbreaks recorded in 2019 and 2022. Snorkeling remains the primary draw, with schools of sergeant major fish, parrotfish, and occasional blacktip reef sharks visible near the edges of the bay. Beach vendors rent masks, fins, and snorkels for 100–150 baht per set, with no deposit required.
“The eastern shore remains sheltered from the southwest monsoon, which allows year-round access even when western beaches on Phuket close due to surf.”
Banana Beach Koh Hey operates daily to accommodate visitors arriving from Phuket. The facilities remain open throughout the week to provide access to the beach and island amenities.
Banana Beach Koh Hey does not charge an entrance fee to access the beach itself. Visitors typically access beach amenities and activities through tour packages or by booking specific services separately.
Verdict: While beach access is 0 THB, travelers typically pay for boat transport and activity packages to utilize facilities and equipment.
Banana Beach is located on the north side of Koh Hey, commonly known as Coral Island, off the southern coast of Phuket. Access to the island requires a short boat journey from the mainland.
Travel to Chalong Pier in Phuket
Speedboat transfer from Chalong Pier to Koh Hey
Arrive at Chalong Pier between 09:00–11:00 to secure transport and reach the beach before the peak arrival of large tour groups.
Banana Beach on Koh Hey features distinct zones designed to accommodate coastal activities and island relaxation. The layout organizes the shoreline into areas for water-based recreation and shaded resting spots.
The primary sandy area extends along the northern coastline of the island. It serves as the central point for beach access and entry to the water.
Walk to the far western end for fewer crowds.
This zone is designated for motorized and non-motorized equipment operations. Visitors utilize this area for snorkeling gear check-out and kayak launching.
Visit before the peak arrival window for equipment availability.
A collection of shaded areas and seating arrangements sits back from the high-tide line. These zones provide a vantage point for observing the bay and maritime traffic.
Sit in the rear rows to see the entire bay.
Located just off the shoreline, this zone features shallow coral formations accessible from the beach. Markers indicate the safe swimming perimeter for snorkelers.
Look for the buoy markers to find the best coral.
Banana Beach Koh Hey features an on-site restaurant designed to serve day-trippers and guests directly on the beachfront. For those seeking alternatives, local dining options remain limited to the island's primary tourism facilities.
restaurant
Located directly on the beachfront, this venue serves buffet-style meals and à la carte dishes throughout the day.
café
Situated adjacent to the main beach area, this bar offers a selection of refreshing beverages and light refreshments.
picnic
Visitors are welcome to bring their own refreshments to enjoy in designated public beach areas outside of the private facility.
Everything you need to know about banana beach koh hey island phuket thailand
There is no entrance fee for banana beach koh hey island phuket thailand. Visitors can access the beach for 0 THB, though various activities and beach facilities are accessible through independent tour packages.
The beach is open daily from 09:00 to 18:00, including weekends. These consistent hours allow guests to plan their day trip to Koh Hey with flexibility.
It is highly recommended to arrive between 09:00 and 11:00 to enjoy the sands before the peak arrival of large tour groups. Visiting during this window ensures a more peaceful start to your experience at banana beach koh hey island phuket thailand.
The location is situated at 44/1 Moo 5, Viset Road, Rawai, Muang, Phuket 83130, Thailand. This spot serves as the primary coastal hub for visitors exploring the island.
Travelers typically reach the island via speedboat or long-tail boat services departing from southern Phuket piers. Once you arrive, the beach provides a convenient base for water sports and relaxation on Koh Hey.
Yes, the calm waters and amenities make it a popular choice for families. Parents often appreciate the facilities available, ensuring a comfortable environment for children during the visit to banana beach koh hey island phuket thailand.
Visitors should pack sun protection, swimwear, and a camera to capture the clear tropical waters. Bringing a towel and extra cash for rental equipment or water activities is also suggested for your time on the island.