Between the boat traffic, the murky waters, and the tan sand, Chalong Bay is not a top Phuket beach destination—although you may well travel through here en route to clearer waters and white beaches offshore. Boat tours to the Racha islands (Ko Racha Yai and Ko Racha Noi, also known as the Raya Islands) and Coral Island (also written Koh Hae, Ko He, or Koh Hay) generally leave from here, as do many other island-hopping tours.
Chalong Bay sits in southeastern Phuket, about a 6-mile (10-kilometer) drive south of Phuket Old Town. Blue songthaew minibuses run between Ao Chalong Pier and Phuket Town Central Market on Ranong Road during the day. Ferries from other islands generally stop at other Phuket ports.
Phuket has a mellow tropical climate and the rainy season is not too intense. Sailors can enjoy Chalong Bay year-round, with northeast winds between November and April and southwest winds from May to October.
The warm waters of the Andaman Sea make Phuket the perfect base for island-hopping adventures. Phang Nga Bay is known for sculptural, rugged karst islands and sea caves, perfect for exploring by kayak. The Phi Phi Islands are famed for white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and a buzzing party scene. Closer to Phuket, the Racha Islands are a great choice for divers and snorkelers.