Chalong Bay

Ao Chalong is Phuket's main boat anchorage and the island's largest bay and although good for boating, it is not good for swimming. Most people come here to charter boats or get on a boat trip to one of the nearby islands. There are also several diving operations here.

Another reason for visiting Ao Chalong is the beautiful Wat Chalong. This striking Buddhist temple features a large statue of Luang Pho Cham, the famous Thai abbot who helped the islanders rout the Chinese Coolie Rebellion in the 1800s.

Travel to Ao Chalong - Getting There

The best way to get to Chalong is by hire car or motorbike from elsewhere on the island, or by taxi if coming direct from the airport. Taxi fares are pretty steep and the journey takes around an hour. Phuket International Airport is the gateway to Phuket and is about 40 minutes from the capital, Phuket Town.