Koh Racha Yai has two beaches, both at the north end closest to Phuket, both with exquisite tropical beauty. The deep, west-facing bay is a perfect boat anchorage during the high season, making this a favourite day-trip destination for boats of all kinds. The water is always delightfully clear and perfect for swimming, snorkelling and diving – to be expected on an island this far out in the Andaman Sea.
The northern beach has an off-shore reef, and is shallow, allowing only longtail and speed boats to reach the sand on high tide. But this, too, is a tropical delight, and the shallow water makes it a great beach for children. Temporary beach restaurants set up here through the high season selling basic Thai dishes, some seafood and cold drinks.
The postcard-perfect beauty of these beaches attracts significant numbers of people during the calm high season months. The 17 kilometre ocean crossing from Phuket is quite easy for all kinds of craft, longtails included.
A day-trip here with a rented boat offers great swimming, snorkelling and a chance for a relaxing picnic amidst tropical beach perfection – but don't expect to have either beach to yourself. The main bay and beach is home to an exquisite, high-end resort, The Racha, while the other beach has two 3-star beachfront accommodations.