Explore the Iconic Ko Tapu - James Bond Island
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Ko Tapu, the iconic James Bond Island in Thailand, where stunning landscapes meet cinematic history.
A brief summary to Ko Tapu (James Bond Island)
- 7GF2+P87, Takua Thung District, Krasom Subdistrict, Phang Nga, 82130, TH
- Visit website
- Monday 8 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-5 pm
- Thursday 8 am-5 pm
- Friday 8 am-5 pm
- Saturday 8 am-5 pm
- Sunday 8 am-5 pm
Ko Tapu, commonly referred to as James Bond Island, is a mesmerizing gem nestled in Phang Nga Bay, Thailand. This iconic location gained worldwide fame after being featured in the 1974 film 'The Man with the Golden Gun.' The island is characterized by its towering limestone karsts that rise dramatically from the azure waters, creating a breathtaking backdrop for photography and exploration. Tourists flock here not only for its cinematic history but also for the serene beauty that surrounds it. The landscape is adorned with lush greenery and crystal-clear waters, inviting visitors to partake in various water activities such as kayaking and snorkeling. Additionally, the island is an excellent spot for those seeking tranquility away from the bustling tourist hotspots. While visiting Ko Tapu, travelers can indulge in guided boat tours that often include stops at nearby islands and opportunities to explore hidden caves and beaches. The best time to visit is during the dry season, from November to April, when the weather is pleasant, and the waters are calm. While the island is small, the experience it offers is monumental. Make sure to bring your camera to capture the stunning vistas, and consider visiting early in the morning to avoid the crowds. Local vendors offer delicious Thai snacks that can enhance your experience as you soak in the natural beauty. A visit to Ko Tapu is not just a trip; it's an adventure into the heart of Thailand's stunning landscapes and rich cinematic history.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the tranquility of the island.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning views and unique rock formations.
- Consider joining a guided tour for a more comprehensive experience of the surrounding area.
- Pack snacks and water, as options on the island are limited.
- Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the rocky terrain and keep an eye on the tides if swimming.
Getting There
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Car Rental
If you have rented a car in Koh Yao Noi, start your journey by driving towards the main pier, Koh Yao Noi Pier. From there, take a ferry to Phang Nga. The ferry ride takes about 30-45 minutes. Once you arrive at Phang Nga, follow the signs towards Takua Thung District. Continue driving for about 30 minutes until you reach the area where you can hire a long-tail boat to Ko Tapu (James Bond Island). The boat ride from the pier to the island takes approximately 30 minutes.
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Public Transportation
To reach Ko Tapu using public transportation, start from your accommodation in Koh Yao Noi and head to the Koh Yao Noi Pier. From the pier, take a ferry to Phang Nga which costs around 100-150 THB. Once you arrive at Phang Nga, you'll need to find a local minivan or tuk-tuk to take you to the long-tail boat pier. The minivan ride should cost about 50-100 THB and takes around 30 minutes. From the pier, you can hire a long-tail boat to Ko Tapu. The boat ride will cost approximately 1,500-3,000 THB depending on your negotiation skills and the duration of your stay at the island.
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Tour Package
Consider booking a tour package that includes transportation from Koh Yao Noi to Ko Tapu. Many local tour operators offer day trips which often include ferry transport, a long-tail boat ride, and a guided tour of the island. Prices for these packages typically range from 1,200 to 3,500 THB per person, depending on inclusions such as meals, snorkeling gear, and other activities.
Landmarks nearby to Ko Tapu (James Bond Island)
- Big Tree Koh Yah Noi
- หาดโต๊ะบวช Mankei Bay
- TreeHouse Villas Koh Yao Noi Luxury Beach Resort ทรีเฮ้าส์ เกาะยาวน้อย รีสอร์ท
- Paradise Koh Yao Resort พาราไดซ์ เกาะยาว รีสอร์ท
- Coconut Farm & Restaurant
- The Island Hideout
- Bann Anattaya
- Map of Ko Yao
- Things to do Koh Yao Noi
- Koh Yao Noi Handicrafts
- The Simple Kohyaonoi
- Thakow Waterfall
- Ko Yao Noi
- Tha Khao Beach
- Koh Yao Seaview Bungalow