James Bond Island in Thailand

The rock where it all began…

Bond, James Bond … What does the legendary “Bondiana” have to do with an island in Thailand? Hmm, the most direct connection – it was here that the final scene of one of the series was filmed. The camera lens often flashes the rock Ko Tapu, today better known as “James Bond Rock”. The ledge is a symbol of the national park of Phang Nga province and one of the main attractions of Thailand .

Ko Tapu, like many other significant places in Thailand, is a kind of magnet in the sphere of Thai tourism. Every year the rock attracts thousands of travelers who dream of seeing this miracle of nature with their own eyes and taking pictures against its background. Many come here from Phuket and other islands, however, approaching the cliff and especially climbing it is prohibited – the object is strictly guarded. 

Ko Tapu is washed by the Andaman Sea on all sides, this landscape looks fantastic. Tourists can enjoy the unique atmosphere of this place. In addition, the island is surrounded by miniature beaches and a natural cave, which can be visited during the trip. 

Ko Tapu and Khao Ping Khan

Ko Tapu with Khao Ping Kan are two rocks in Thailand, in the province of Phang Nga. They became famous thanks to the James Bond film “The Man with the Golden Gun”. The natural sculptures were used as a location for filming the final part. Could the director, who decided to shoot a film near an island that was little known at the time, have imagined that after watching his work, Ko Tapu would become a center of attraction for tourists from all over the world? 

Who Tapu

The island is a vertical rock formation that juts out of the water and is shaped like a nail or a pillar. It is rumored that if you look closely at the rock, you can see the figure of James Bond in it. The height of the cliff is about 20 m. It served as a backdrop for the final scene of the film “The Man with the Golden Gun”, when James Bond, played by actor Roger Moore, fought the enemy. 

It is not recommended to approach , explore or touch James Bond Rock underwater. Environmental protection and preservation of marine life are important priorities on the island . It is recommended to follow the rules and guidance of local guides to avoid damaging the environment and preserve it for future generations.

Khao Ping Kan

Khao Ping Kan is a modest-sized island, but with its own peculiarities. The name adds interest and color to this place. Millions of travelers consider visiting the island an honor and an opportunity to sail in the footsteps of cinematography. 

Khao Ping Kan is a rocky sculpture with two wooded hills connected by a beach. During high tide, the sandy area is partially submerged. The famous places shown in the film are easy to find here, as the area of ​​the island is very small and it is quite difficult to miss something. 

On the island you can constantly see boats with tourists who take pictures and enjoy the boat trip. Of course – it is simply impossible not to capture such beauty, your hand just reaches out to press the shutter button of the camera. An excursion to the island usually includes both a walk near Ko Tapu and Khao Ping Kan, and a whole program. 

Panak Island  and its caves

Panak Island is located in the western part of Phang Nga Bay, Phang Nga Province. It is part of the Ao Phang Nga National Marine Park and is popular for its magnificent beaches, limestone cliffs, mangrove forests, beautiful scenery and secluded bays. The island is also often visited by those sailing to the James Bond Islands.

1. There are many caves to visit on Panak Island. One of the most famous is the Ice Cream Cave . It got its name from the stalactite inside, which looks like an ice cream cone. You can get into the cave by canoe and only at low tide – with high tide the cavity is filled to the top with water. Inside the cave there are sometimes areas with water left after the tides. The depth in such places is small, the water level barely reaches the knees. The main “highlight” of the Ice Cream Cave is a rock well surrounded by high sheer walls. Unique mangrove trees with bizarrely located roots also grow here.
2. Another interesting cave on Panak Island is Bat . It got its name from the large clusters of bats that live inside. In the evening, they scurry back and forth in search of food. The cave is also known for its large halls and ceilings, “decorated” with stalactites and stalagmites. Sometimes they look like various animals: elephants, giraffes, etc.

Hong Island  – Canoeing

After visiting Panak Island and James Bond Island , you can explore Hong Island. The area is explored by canoe, including exciting routes through water caves and lagoons. 

During the ride, you will see stunning natural formations, including high cliffs. Some caves have such low ceilings that you will have to bend over or even crawl on a canoe to pass this obstacle. Other caves have hidden passages leading inside the island , where you will see beautiful lagoons and Thai natural wonders.

During the trip, you will not only see the island’s incredible nature , but also learn more about the local ecosystem. Guides will tell you interesting facts about plants, animals and geological features of Hong Island. 

  Koh Panyi Island – the village of “sea gypsies “

Koh Panyi, also known as the “village of sea gypsies”, is located in Phang Nga Bay (near Panak Island, Phang Nga Province). The village is home to people who have lived on the island for generations, but in the past, these people led a nomadic life in search of fish. That is why they were called sea gypsies.

The island’s population is Muslim, so a mosque was built on a small piece of land next to the village. Men traditionally fish and collect seafood, women run the household and raise children. The former nomads live in unique houses that stand on wooden piles and are connected by bridges. The village has small tourist restaurants, shops, a medical center, and a school.

A visit to Koh Panyee village offers a unique opportunity to learn about the life and culture of these people. Tourists can: 

• communicate with local residents; 
• learn about the traditions and customs of the local population;
• stroll through a colorful market with handmade souvenirs, pearl products and seafood delicacies.

Koh Panyee is surrounded by beautiful natural scenery, including lush green hills and the malachite waters of Phang Nga Bay. Like Phuket or any other island, there are incredible beauty spots that are convenient to explore while canoeing or kayaking. Tourists often explore the surrounding islands and caves in search of something interesting or just enjoy the tranquility and beauty of the surrounding nature.

Koh Panyee Village is another stop for tourists who want to learn more about the life of sea gypsies and see the island’s lush vegetation with their own eyes. We recommend visiting this place to anyone interested in the culture and nature of Thailand . 

Naka Yai Island   – Swimming, Relaxation and Water Activities

Koh Naka Yai Island is another wonderful place available to tourists. 

1. The first and most popular entertainment on Koh Naka Yai is swimming and relaxing on the beaches. Vacationers enjoy the beautiful scenery and sea breeze, lying under the hot Thai sun. The water here is very warm, suitable for swimming with children and swimming. There are special areas on the beaches where you can rent sun loungers. 
2. There are not many entertainment options on the island . The water is often opaque and muddy, so it will be difficult to see fish or other sea creatures in it. The main activities are walking along the shore, admiring nature, being alone with yourself or with your family.
3. If you wish, you can rent a canoe on the island and explore the coast of the island, surrounded by incredibly beautiful landscapes. While riding, you can take a lot of interesting photos against the backdrop of nature and sea water, and also visit nearby bays.

The place is more suitable for people who love peace, solitude and outdoor recreation.  

James Bond Island (Koh Tapu) on the map of Thailand

Ko Tapu Island is a rock that juts out vertically from the water. It is translated in different ways: “rod”, “nail”, “crab eye”. The cliff is under strict protection, so tourists are prohibited from approaching it. Measures have been taken to prevent erosion of the rock, to preserve its original shape and condition. 

There is another island near Ko Tapu – Khao Ping Kan. It is slightly larger in size and consists of a pair of rocks connected by an isthmus. There are 2 beaches and 2 caves here. Landing on Khao Ping Kan is allowed, it is from here that travelers take pictures of the famous “nail” and themselves against its background.

There is also a slanted rock on James Bond Island in Thailand . Rumor has it that the royal family once visited it, although in reality only the princess visited it in 1989. The rock inscriptions in the form of signatures of members of the royal family are a gift to the national park. The signatures are in turn: first the king, then the queen, the son, the king’s sister and three daughters. The inscription at the top reads: “Long life and health to the king.” And next to the rock, on a white marble tablet, there is a beautiful poem about the island.

The traditional religion of the Thais is Buddhism, but the islanders also support animism – the belief in the spirituality of nature. They believe that spirits live everywhere in the nature around them: seas, forests, lands, etc. Thais often ask them for some kind of help: healing the sick, favor to fate, fulfillment of desires, etc. It is believed that requests voiced near the rock will definitely be heard by the spirits, and the person will certainly get what he wants. 

On the isthmus between the beaches there is a market where you can buy handmade souvenirs and other goods. The prices here are “tourist”, but the memories that these trinkets bring back are truly priceless. 

James Bond Island  Tour  from  Phuket : Where to Buy, Prices

The most popular excursion to James Bond Island is a visit to its famous rock. The natural sculpture has a unique shape and is a symbol of the island. You can take photos near this cliff and enjoy stunning views of Phang Nga Bay.

You can get to James Bond Island as part of an excursion, arriving at the destination by boat. Of course – Ko Tapu is surrounded by water, so you can only see it from the shore or sailing past on a boat. If you wish, you can go and explore the surroundings of the island . You will see other rocks and green islands, mysterious caves and enigmatic lagoons. If you are lucky, you will come across rare birds and monkeys on the way. 

Guides on excursions are usually well acquainted with local iconic places and can tell a lot of interesting things about the nature and history of James Bond Island . Instructors will also ensure a safe canoe trip and provide the necessary equipment. By the way, boat trips are prohibited for women at any stage of pregnancy. If a woman hid the fact that she is pregnant when purchasing a tour, responsibility for her health and the health of her future baby in the event of an unforeseen situation lies with her. 

Canoeing excursions are suitable for all ages and fitness levels. They are a unique opportunity to “immerse yourself” in nature and enjoy the calm, meditative experience of canoeing. 

Canoeing excursions to James Bond Island are available all year round. Imagine how nice it would be to have, for example, a New Year’s holiday, flying away from the snowy city to a warm island.

How much does a trip to Koh Tapu cost?

The cost of a trip to James Bond Island in 2024 is, on average, 1,500 baht. However, the price depends on the excursion program, the choice of boat. Children under 4 years old participate in excursions for free . Check the relevance of prices before the trip with your tour operator or on the website.

What do you need to purchase a tour?

To purchase a tour to James Bond Island, you will need to complete several steps.

1. Look for travel companies/agencies offering excursions to James Bond Island or walks along Phang Nga Bay. To do this, use search engines or specialized travel sites.
2. Check out the tours on offer and choose the one that best suits your preferences. Pay attention to the duration of the tour, the attractions included in the program, and the conditions of participation.
3. Contact the chosen travel company or agency to find out details about booking and payment. As a rule, they provide information about the available date, time of the excursion, cost and payment methods.
4. Book your excursion by providing the necessary details and paying the tour price. You may need to fill out a booking form or send an email with your details and personal preferences.
5. Receive a booking confirmation from the travel company/agency. Make sure you have all the necessary documents and instructions for the excursion.
6. Be sure to bring your booking voucher with you .  

Please note that the process of purchasing an excursion may differ depending on the selected travel company/agency.

It is also not recommended to buy excursions from hands to avoid overpaying. Unfortunately, some Russian residents living on the island of Phuket use the services of private guides, hoping for Russian-speaking accompaniment. Although this is convenient, such an excursion does not offer a full program, and the guides often have little to say about the islands, and their stories are unprofessional and banal.

How to get to James Bond Island

James Bond Island is part of Phang Nga Province. The most convenient way to reach it is to take a tour from Phuket or Krabi.

1. From Phuket . Many travel agencies offer day trips to James Bond Island from Phuket . They usually include transfer from your hotel to the pier, boat or catamaran ride to the island, sightseeing, and lunch. Tours usually take the whole day. The distance from Phuket to Koh Tapu is approximately 25 km.
2. From Krabi . If you are in Krabi, you can also find excursions to James Bond Island . The procedure and route are usually similar to those offered from Phuket . The distance from Krabi to James Bond Island is about 40 km. 

Tour prices may vary depending on the provider, type of transport and included services. It is recommended to book a tour in advance with a reliable tour operator to find out the current prices and get detailed information about the trip.

How does a tour from  Phuket usually go ?

One of the options for an excursion to James Bond Island from Phuket . 

1. Passengers gather at the pier early in the morning to board a boat and set off on a journey.
2. One of the stops is near the picturesque island of Panak. Tourists can take a closer look at the island and take memorable photos. From the outside, Panak looks like an inaccessible rock covered with vegetation, and inside it there are many lagoons and caves. During the stop, depending on the excursion program, one of the caves is visited. Also, based on the excursion plan, a stop for canoeing is possible. By the way, if earlier only the staff was engaged in rowing, today, if desired, the participants of the trip themselves can row.
3. When passing through the caves, in some places the ceiling becomes quite low. It seems that you are about to hit your head on it. In another place, light pours out of the ceiling through a crack, you can even see the sky. After visiting the caves, the path continues north. 
4. Travelers will not go hungry. Either on the island or right before leaving the ship, you will be offered to try Thai seafood – lunch depends on the program, where it will be and what they will give there. . Lunch is already paid for (included in the tour price), so feel free to have a snack.
5. Return from the excursion occurs at about 17:00. In other words, the trip to James Bond Island takes a whole day. Yes, you will not visit ancient temples, you will not walk around the island to your heart’s content, but you will enjoy a walk along the sea, Thai nature and its extraordinary creations.

The trip is ideal for those who want to get acquainted with the Andaman Sea, examine in detail the beautiful landscapes of Thai nature and absorb the unique atmosphere of Asian life. 

How can I get to Koh Tapu?

There are several transportation options for visiting James Bond Island in Thailand. 

1. Speedboat or boat of your choice. The most popular way to get to the island is to sail on a speedboat. Usually, travel agencies offer full programs that include such a trip. The list of services also includes a stop on James Bond Island , a visit to other attractions (caves located near the island), and the opportunity to swim. Excursions can be one-day or two-day.
2. Yacht/speedboat rental . This option is suitable for individual excursions. You will be able to explore the surrounding islands and caves at your own pace and enjoy the beauty of nature. 
3. Helicopter . If you want to have an unforgettable experience and see the island from above, you can book a helicopter tour. This is, of course, the most expensive option, but the stunning views and impressions are worth it.

FAQ

We answer the most interesting questions regarding a trip to Koh Tapu.

1. What is the climate like on James Bond Island ? James Bond Island has a tropical climate, like Phuket . It has high temperatures and high humidity throughout the year. The average air temperature is 25-30ºC. The wet season on Koh Tapu lasts from May to October, during which time thunderstorms and rains often occur. The dry season begins in November and lasts until April. During this period, the weather is consistently sunny and dry, the air warms up to 35ºC. 
2. What to take with you on a trip to the island ? When going on a tour of Thailand, take with you sunscreen and glasses, a hat, light clothing and comfortable shoes, swimwear, towels, personal hygiene products, mosquito repellents, medications, a phone, a camera, cash. If you are traveling with small children, do not forget to take clothes, medications, personal hygiene products and for them. 
3. What language do they speak on the island ? The official language in Thailand is Thai. However, Thais speak English with foreigners. If you want a Russian-speaking guide to accompany you on an excursion, inform your tour operator about it. Sometimes travel agencies are accommodating and, if possible, can find a guide who understands Russian. 
4. What money is better to have with you – cash or a bank card? For a trip to James Bond Island and Thailand, it is advisable to have cash with you. Moreover, the cash should be in the local currency – baht. This will make it easier for you to pay for purchases and services. For immediate expenses, you can leave a certain amount in cash, the rest of the funds are best kept on the card. 
5. What is prohibited on Koh Tapu? On James Bond Island it is prohibited to: harm the environment, kill birds and animals, smoke in unauthorized places, throw garbage, fish without permission, swim in restricted areas (there may be a strong current), conflict with local residents and insult them, engage in commercial activities without permission from the authorities, store and distribute drugs, etc.
6. Where on the island is smoking prohibited? Smoking is prohibited inside public buildings, including restaurants, bars, hotels and shops. Smoking is also prohibited on public beaches and in parks. Some hotels and restaurants may provide special smoking areas. 
7. How do you know where swimming is allowed and where it is prohibited ? Pay attention to the warning signs and indicators installed on the beaches. If there are none, ask the guide. 
8. What substances and items are prohibited on the island ? Here, as on Phuket or another island, it is strictly forbidden to store and distribute narcotic substances, including ecstasy, marijuana. Also, without special permission, it is forbidden to keep and distribute cold arms and ammunition, chemical and explosive substances, pyrotechnics, certain medications, counterfeit goods. 

Conclusion

Well, what — are you still thinking about going to James Bond Island or not, or are you already packing your bags? We highly recommend visiting this legendary place with fantastic landscapes and the world-famous Ko Tapu rock. You definitely won’t be bored here, you won’t be able to fall asleep from the beauty you’ll see, and canoeing through picturesque places will finally convince you that you’ve made the right choice. Go ahead, for adventure!