Haad Kahung, Banana Beach, and the soft turquoise water that defines the island.

Koh Hey — known internationally as Coral Island and pronounced locally as koh hây (เกาะเฮ, soft “hây,” like a gentle “hey”) — is Phuket’s closest tropical escape. Just minutes from Chalong Pier, the island feels warm, bright, and uncomplicated: soft sand, clear water, coral gardens, and a mood that welcomes every traveler. Its two main beaches, Haad Kahung and Banana Beach, give Koh Hey two different personalities — one lively, one quietly beautiful.

“Koh Hey is the island that gives you a full day of sunshine without asking for anything in return.”

Haad Kahung — the long, lively heart of Koh Hey

Haad Kahung (หาดคะหง, pronounced hàat ká‑hŏng) is the main beach — wide, bright, and full of easy island energy. It’s the beach most visitors see first, stretching along the eastern side of the island with soft sand and calm turquoise water.

People love Haad Kahung for:

• its long, open shoreline perfect for walking
• shallow, gentle water that stays calm all day
• soft sand with plenty of natural shade
• cafés, beach chairs, and simple comforts
• a cheerful, friendly atmosphere

It’s the beach where you can spend hours barefoot, drifting between sea, shade, and sunshine.

“Haad Kahung feels like a warm, uncomplicated holiday wrapped in turquoise.”

Banana Beach — the softer, quieter side of Koh Hey

On the northern curve of the island sits Banana Beach, a softer, more natural stretch of sand with a calmer mood. The water here is clear and glowing, and the beach feels tucked away under tall trees.

Banana Beach is known for:

• a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere
• clear, shallow water perfect for floating
• soft sand with a natural, tropical feel
• gentle coral patches just offshore
• a breezy, peaceful mood

It’s the beach for people who want a slower, softer version of Koh Hey — the kind of place where you sit under a tree and forget about time.

The mood of Koh Hey

Koh Hey has a bright, cheerful energy — the kind of island where you can do everything or nothing at all.

Expect:

• calm turquoise water
• soft, easy beaches
• coral gardens close to shore
• a friendly, relaxed atmosphere
• simple island cafés and breezy shade

The island feels like a sunny day you can walk into.

The underwater world — coral, fish, and gentle snorkeling

Koh Hey is famous for easy snorkeling, especially for beginners or families. The coral gardens sit close to shore, and the water is usually calm and clear.

You’ll see:

• colorful reef fish
• soft coral patches
• bright sunlight filtering through shallow water

It’s not dramatic like the Similans or Koh Racha, but it’s perfect for a simple, happy day in the sea.

Why people love Koh Hey

• two beautiful beaches: Haad Kahung & Banana Beach
• close to Phuket
• easy, friendly, and relaxing
• perfect for beginners and families
• bright turquoise water
• coral gardens near the beach
• a full day of simple happiness

Koh Hey is the island for days when you want sunshine, soft water, and a gentle escape — the kind of day that feels like a small holiday inside a bigger one.