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Racha Islands, also known as Raya Islands is a tiny island situated 12 km south of Phuket in the Andaman Sea and is a 45-minute ride in the speedboat. Patok beach located on a long U-shaped bay with powdery white sand is the main beach. Ko Racha Yai and Ko Racha Noi are the two islands amongst which the former is the main island. The only three resorts on this island are the luxurious Racha Phuket Resort, Baan Raya Resort and the modest Bungalow Raya Resort.
The Raya islands are a favourite spot for diving and snorkelling, because of the beautiful turquoise waters and the abundant marine life along this bay. After landing on the u-shaped Ao Tawan Tok bay, people often frequent the luxury resort - The Racha and enjoy strolling walks and quiet relaxing vacation on this island.
The quality of marine life and coral reef forest makes it one of the best diving spots in the whole of the Andaman Sea. It is cheaper to buy a diving package at the actual dive centre on Racha Island itself than purchasing a dive package beforehand.
Due to its stronger currents and deeper dive spots, Racha Noi is undoubtedly more challenging of a dive spot than Racha Yai, but both are amazing if you love diving.
Raya Islands are best suited for snorkelling at any time of the year. Mostly you will need to travel a small distance to a crystal clear location in the speedboat before putting on your gear and explore the vast marine life and coral reefs. One can begin snorkelling from the bay itself, like the Batok Bay and the Raya bay where the water is shallow.
It is a new activity which is a mix of both snorkelling and diving and can be fantastic to try. Children aged eight and above can participate and is done only in shallow waters.
Love to explore the waters and find some hidden caves? Then Kayaking is a must-try, and if the tides are in your favour, you will be enthralled by the experience.
The less explored and less developed Ko Racha Noi island is best for fishing.
One can rent long tail boats to travel between the two islands. That will be fun if you like just to enjoy the peacefulness of sailing.
Ask a question from the travellers who have experience.