Koh Tapu — the island from The Man with the Golden Gun — is small, crowded and photographed from one angle. The bay around it is the reason to go, not the rock itself.

What the day looks like

You are collected from your hotel and driven north to the boat station, then spend the day on a longtail through the bay: limestone karsts, mangrove channels, a floating Muslim village for lunch, and a stop at the famous rock.

The crowd problem

Koh Tapu receives hundreds of visitors at the same time each morning. The photograph you have seen is taken from a narrow beach that is often shoulder to shoulder. Go early, or accept it.

Is ฿1,250 fair?

For a full day including transfer, boat and lunch, yes. A private longtail for the same route costs several times more, and a speedboat version trades comfort for speed.

Check James Bond Island dates →฿1,250 per person

Questions people ask

Can you swim there?

Not at Koh Tapu itself; swimming stops are elsewhere in the bay.

Is it suitable for children?

Yes, but the longtail has no shade in places and the day is long.

What if it rains?

Trips usually run. Longtails are open boats — bring a poncho.