Khao Phing Kan is a cluster of limestone karst islands inside Ao Phang Nga National Park in southern Thailand; its Thai name means 'hills leaning against each other.' It became world-famous as a filming location for the 1974 James Bond movie 'The Man with the Golden Gun,' earning the nickname 'James Bond Island,' and its signature sight is Ko Tapu ('Nail Island'), a roughly 20 m-tall limestone spire rising from the sea just offshore. Lying about 6 km from the mainland, it is reachable only by boat tour.
Ko Tapu: the roughly 20 m limestone spire jutting out of emerald water is the island's iconic photo spot.
James Bond film location: featured as the villain's hideout in the 1974 film 'The Man with the Golden Gun,' making it a global attraction.
Phang Nga Bay karst scenery: dramatic vertical limestone cliffs and countless islets spread out in a panorama.
Sea cave and canoe/kayak tours: nearby mangroves and limestone caves are usually explored by small boat or canoe as part of the trip.
Koh Panyee floating village: many tours stop at this nearby Muslim floating village for lunch and souvenir shopping.
Good to know
SafetyThe iconic Ko Tapu spire is at risk of collapse from wave erosion, so since 1998 boats are barred from approaching too closely and landing on it is prohibited. View it from the designated distance as directed.
SeasonNovember to April is the dry season with calm seas and the best time to visit. During the May-October monsoon the bay can be rough and tours may be cancelled, so check the weather and sailing status before booking.
CautionAt piers such as Ao Por, unlicensed touts pitch 'same tour, cheaper, leave now' on boats that lack insurance and certification, leaving no recourse if something goes wrong. Use a licensed operator and avoid paying cash up front on the day.
CautionReviews report that souvenir stalls on the island are overpriced and vendors can be pushy. Costume/prop photo rentals (about 200-500 baht) are entirely optional, so decline firmly if you are not interested.
MannersWhen stopping at Muslim floating villages like Koh Panyee, avoid revealing clothing and be respectful in residents' living and prayer areas, asking before taking photos.
RulesInside the national park, collecting coral, shells or rocks and littering are prohibited. Pregnant travelers and those with heart or health conditions should note that long boat and canoe activities may be strenuous.
Practical info
Access is only via day boat tours departing from Phuket, Krabi, Khao Lak or Phang Nga; from Phuket it is roughly 45-60 minutes by car to the pier, then 45-90 minutes by boat. The national park entry fee is around 300 baht per foreign adult and 150 baht per child (about 60 baht for Thai nationals), collected in cash at the pier; confirm current fees and rules before you go. Arriving early in the morning during peak season helps you avoid the queue and crowds at the Ko Tapu photo spot.
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