James Bond Island is a famous landmark in Phang Nga Bay, northeast of Phuket, Thailand. It became popular after it featured in the 1974 James Bond movie 'The Man with the Golden Gun' as the hideout for Bond's antagonist. Its original name is Khao Phing Kan with a nearby islet called Ko Tapu.
Visitors can reach James Bond Island by taking a boat tour from Phuket or Krabi. The tours often include sightseeing in Phang Nga Bay, visiting nearby islands and sometimes kayaking. Some tours also offer a visit to the Muslim fishing village on the nearby island of Ko Panyee.
The best time to visit James Bond Island is from November to April when the weather is dry and the seas are more calm, making it ideal for boat tours and sightseeing.
Yes, there is an entrance fee for visiting James Bond Island as it is a part of the Ao Phang Nga National Park. Fees are included in most tour packages, so check with your tour provider.
Tourists can enjoy photographing the stunning scenery, exploring the caves and grottos on the island, canoeing around the island, and buying souvenirs from local vendors. However, as the island is small and can be quite crowded, activities on the island itself are limited.
There are no accommodation facilities on James Bond Island itself as it is a part of a national park meant for day-trip visits. However, tourists typically stay in accommodations in Phuket, Krabi, or even in the floating village of Ko Panyee.
There are no restaurants on James Bond Island, but some boat tours offer lunch as a part of their package. Alternatively, visitors can dine at the floating village of Ko Panyee, where there are several seafood restaurants.
The trip to James Bond Island from Phuket can vary depending on the mode of transportation. It usually takes around 1-2 hours by speedboat or longer by traditional long-tail boat as part of a day tour.
James Bond Island is a family-friendly destination, and children can enjoy the boat trips and the unique sights. However, parents should supervise their children at all times due to the rocky terrain and during boat transfers.
Swimming is not the main activity on James Bond Island given its rocky nature and the lack of a proper beach, but many boat tours include stops at other islands where swimming and snorkeling are possible.