Rawai Pier Longtail Boat Trip: Best Island Hopping & Breakfast at Wilson’s Café

by wilsonscafe

in Things to Do Near Wilson’s

01Mar 2025

ToC

Ever wondered how to start your Phuket adventure the right way?

No queues. No rushed tours. Just the open sea, quiet islands, and the perfect breakfast to set you up for the day.

That’s exactly what you’ll get when you take a longtail boat trip from Rawai Pier to nearby islands and start your day with a big breakfast at Wilson’s Café.

Rise Early and Fuel Up at Wilson’s Café

Before stepping onto a traditional Thai longtail boat, let’s talk breakfast.

Wilson’s Café, nestled in the central of Rawai, is a morning gem.

Fluffy pancakes stacked high, drizzled with honey.
Strong Thai coffee that jolts you awake.
Fresh tropical fruit bowls bursting with mango, pineapple, and passionfruit.
Savoury avocado toast with poached eggs for that perfect bite.
Full English breakfast if you fancy a proper feast.

Sit back, sip your Phuket-grown coffee, and watch Rawai Pier come alive with the hum of the morning.

Now, let’s set sail.

How to Find a Longtail Boat at Rawai Pier

Forget online bookings.

Just stroll down Rawai Beach. You’ll see a line of colourful longtail boats bobbing gently, their owners waiting for passengers.

How to Get the Best Deal:

Go early – Aim for 8 AM before the crowds.
Haggle politely – Prices range from 1,800-2,200 THB for a round trip.
Ask for extras – Snorkelling gear? Extra islands? Some skippers will include these.
Confirm pickup – You don’t want to be stranded on a deserted island.

Once sorted, hop in. The Andaman Sea is calling.

Top Islands to Visit from Rawai Pier

Koh Lon – The Quiet Escape

Just 20 minutes from Rawai Beach, Koh Lon is serene, secluded, and slow-paced.

No crowds. Just soft sands, swaying palms, and the occasional fisherman paddling past.

Drop anchor. Wade ashore. Float in the shallows, toes in warm water.

Perfect for a peaceful morning before hopping to the next island.

Ko He – Snorkelling Paradise

Longtail Boat Trip Rawai Ko He — clear waters on Ko He

If snorkelling is your thing, Ko He is non-negotiable.

The water? Turquoise clarity. The marine life? Dazzling coral reefs. The vibe? Tranquil in the mornings, bustling by noon.

Have some Baht ready to rent a canoe, grab a snorkel, and dive in.

Koh Bon – Hidden Gem

Koh Bon gets less foot traffic but deserves more.

Crystal-clear waters – Ideal for a lazy swim.
Fine, powdery sand – Feels like silk underfoot.
Local seafood shack – Fresh-caught fish grilled on the spot.

Koh Kaew – Coral Island Magic

Also known as Coral Island, Koh Kaew is where you’ll find vibrant reefs, neon fish, and the occasional sea turtle.

Snorkelling is a must.

Bring a GoPro. You’ll want to capture this.

Exploring Beyond the Obvious

You’ve dipped your toes in the turquoise waters of Koh Lon. You’ve snorkelled through the reefs at Freedom Beach. But what if I told you there were more?

Koh Racha – The Postcard Paradise

A little further afield but worth every minute of the boat ride, Koh Racha is the island you imagine when you dream of Phuket’s crystal-clear waters.

Racha Yai – The larger island, known for its powdery white beaches and luxury beachfront resorts.
Racha Noi – The quieter sibling, perfect for diving and deep-sea fishing.
Snorkelling heaven – Schools of colourful fish, giant clams, and the occasional reef shark.
Best time to visit – Early morning when the sun is soft, and the crowds are elsewhere.

Koh Maiton – Fishes and Serenity

Not many know this, but Koh Maiton is a hidden jewel.

Private island – Visits are limited, so expect fewer crowds.
Dolphin sightings – If you’re lucky, you’ll see them play in the waves beside your boat.
Snorkelling spots – Clear waters, shallow coral reefs, and an abundance of marine life.
Perfect picnic spot – Pack a light meal from Wilson’s Café, and enjoy it on a quiet stretch of sand.

Ya Nui Beach – The Secret Stopover

On your way back to Rawai Pier, consider a stop at Ya Nui Beach.

A small but scenic cove tucked between Windmill Viewpoint and Promthep Cape.
Soft golden sand and gentle waves make it perfect for a quick swim.
Kayak rentals available – Paddle out and take in the Andaman’s beauty from a different angle.

Sunset Spots to End the Day

A day at sea deserves a perfect sunset.

Promthep Cape – The Iconic View

Phuket’s most famous sunset spot – With good reason.
Panoramic views of the Andaman Sea – A photographer’s dream.
Best time to arrive? 30 minutes before sunset to get a prime spot.

Windmill Viewpoint – Less Crowded, Equally Stunning

A hidden gem near Nai Harn Beach.
Fewer tourists, better angles for that golden-hour photo.
A small refreshment stand selling fresh coconut water and local snacks.

Cape Panwa – Tranquil and Romantic

Away from the crowds – Quiet, intimate, and dreamy.
Watch the fishing boats as they return home under the orange sky.
A perfect spot for a slow evening stroll.

Where to Grab a Bite After Island Hopping

Breakfast at Wilson’s Café was grand. But after a long day at sea, your stomach will protest.

Rawai Seafood Market – Fresh and Local

Pick your own seafood – The freshest lobsters, crabs, and prawns straight from the fishermen’s baskets.
Choose a restaurant nearby – They’ll cook it exactly how you like.
Try the grilled squid – Smoky, tender, and best paired with a spicy dipping sauce.

How to Make the Most of Your Island Hopping Trip

Pack Smart:

Sunscreen – The sun here is relentless.
Hat & sunglasses – Non-negotiable.
Dry bag – Keeps your phone and cash safe from sea splashes.
Snorkelling gear – Some boatmen provide it, but bringing your own is better.
Water & snacks – Not all islands have food stalls.

Time It Right:

Set sail early – Beat the heat and the crowds.
Plan to return by 2-3 PM – Avoid the choppy afternoon waves.
Check the tides – Essential if visiting islands like Koh Kaew.

Talk to Your Boat Captain:

Ask about hidden beaches – They know the quietest spots.
Inquire about local wildlife – Some areas are teeming with tropical fish.
Request a custom route – Many captains will tailor the trip for you.

And so, another day in Phuket unfolds.

Whether you spent it floating near Koh Racha, sharing breakfast at Wilson’s Café, or watching the sky turn pink over Promthep Cape, one thing remains true.

There’s no better way to take a longtail boat trip from Rawai Pier to nearby islands and start your day with a big breakfast at Wilson’s Café.

No crowds. No stress. Just the sea, the islands, and the perfect morning in Phuket.

PS.: check out this article for more longtail boat trip tips.