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Panak Island | A guide to this cave exploration hotspot in Phang Nga Bay

Panak Island lies just west of James Bond Island in Phang Nga Bay and is celebrated for its dramatic limestone cliffs, tidal sea caves, and secret lagoons. Unlike many other islands in the area, you won’t actually set foot on Panak, as exploration here is done exclusively by canoe, paddled by experienced local guides through narrow tunnels and into hidden hongs (lagoons).

Things to know before visiting Panak Island

  • Panak Island is included in select James Bond Island tours that highlight cave canoeing and bioluminescent experiences. 
  • Tour prices vary depending on the vessel and experience. Big boat tours start from ฿1,665, while bioluminescent speedboat and canoe tours range from ฿3,390 to ฿3,735. These premium options often include dinner, sunset views, and unique paddling opportunities after dark.
  • Canoeing at Panak Island is tide and cave-dependent. You’ll paddle through sea caves and mangrove tunnels, with access determined by water levels and cave conditions on the day.
  • This activity may not be suitable for travelers with limited mobility. You’ll need to transfer from the main boat into small inflatable canoes, often while at sea. Canoe rides typically last 20–30 minutes, depending on the cave route and tide.

Your Panak Island tour types explained

Canoe (escort boat)SpeedboatBig boat

Is Panak Island included?

Why go for it?

Starting price

Recommended tours

By Canoe: James Bond Island & Hong Island Bioluminescent Tour from PhuketJames Bond Island, Hong Island & Phang Nga Bay Bioluminescent Canoeing Tour by SpeedboatJames Bond Island, Hong Island & Phang Nga Bay Canoeing Tour by Big Boat James Bond Island & Phang Nga Bay Twilight Sea Canoe & Bioluminescent Tour by Big Boat

What to see & do at Panak Island

Canoe into Diamond Cave

One of the most popular cave systems here, Diamond Cave sparkles with mineral crystals and opens into a hidden lagoon.

Explore Bat Cave by day

Paddle silently into Bat Cave, named for the colonies that live inside. You'll hear them chirping as you glide beneath their roosts.

Drift into mangrove lagoons

Some canoe routes end in lush mangrove forests—calm, green, and full of life. These tranquil spots feel completely untouched.

Know before you go

Address: Krasom, Ko Yao District, Phang Nga 82160, Thailand | Find on Maps

  • Panak Island (Ko Pa Nak) is located in Phang Nga Bay, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and tidal caves. It's usually the first stop on full-day tours from Phuket, Krabi, or Phang Nga.
  • Most travelers visit as part of a guided full-day tour from Phuket/Krabi/Phang Nga, typically by a canoe, combined with stops like James Bond Island, Hong Island, and Koh Panyee.
  • However, it is also possible to visit independently. You can hire a longtail boat or rent a speedboat from local piers near Ao Phang Nga National Park.
  • National Park fees apply separately—THB 400 per adult & THB 200 per child—and must be paid in cash upon arrival if it’s not included in your tour.
  • Time of day: Panak Island is best visited in the morning, when tide levels are ideal for canoeing into caves and lagoons. Most tours stop here before 11am.
  • Time of week: Visit on a weekday to avoid crowds, especially during Thailand’s peak travel season (Dec–Feb). Weekend trips can get busy.
  • Time of year: November to April offers calm seas and optimal visibility for cave exploration. In the rainy season (May–October), some caves may be inaccessible due to water levels.
  • You’ll need to transfer from the main boat into the canoe, which may be difficult for guests with mobility issues.
  • Swimming or walking inside caves is not permitted to preserve natural limestone structures and minimize disturbance to wildlife.
  • Tours may skip Panak if tides are too high or low—final decisions are made by experienced crew for guest safety.
  • Wear light, quick-dry clothes and sandals or water shoes. You’ll get splashed while transferring in and out of canoes.
  • A dry bag or waterproof phone pouch is highly recommended to protect your valuables during the cave paddle.
  • Bring sunglasses, a hat, and reef-safe sunscreen for the open boat ride. Inside the caves, it’s shady and cool.
  • Avoid large bags or extra gear as space on canoes is tight, and anything not waterproof should stay on the main boat.

Frequently asked questions about Panak Island

Where is Panak Island located?

Panak Island is in Phang Nga Bay, between Phuket and mainland Phang Nga. It’s part of Ao Phang Nga National Park and only accessible by boat as part of a group tour.

What is Panak Island famous for?

The island is known for its hidden caves, lagoons, and tidal channels that are only accessible by inflatable canoe. Highlights include the Bat Cave and Mangrove Cave, both rich in natural rock formations.

Can I swim at Panak Island?

Swimming usually isn’t allowed here. The focus is on canoeing through caves and exploring lagoons, not beach time. Other islands on your tour may include swimming stops.

Is Panak Island suitable for children or seniors?

Yes, as long as they can get in and out of the canoe safely. Tours usually advise against participation for those with mobility issues, heart conditions, or recent surgeries.

Is Panak Island tide-dependent?

Yes. Access to the caves and lagoons depends on tide levels. If tides are too high or too low, canoeing at Panak may be skipped for safety reasons.

Are National Park fees included in the ticket?

Sometimes. Many tours include the fee in the ticket price, but a few don’t. Always check your tour details.

What should I bring with me?

Quick-dry clothing, water shoes, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a dry bag or waterproof phone pouch. Avoid bringing large or non-waterproof bags.

What other islands are included with Panak Island tours?

Most tours that include Panak also visit James Bond Island, Hong Island, and sometimes Koh Panyee. Itineraries vary based on boat type and tour length.

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