Ao Phang Nga National Park in Thailand is famous for its picturesque limestone cliffs rising above emerald-green waters. But its most iconic island is Khao Tapu, better known as James Bond Island. It became the bay`s signature landmark thanks to the legendary film about the British super-spy.
Khao Tapu (meaning "Nail Island") is a freestanding rock about 20 meters high, resembling a giant stone nail jutting out of the water. Its unique shape was formed by erosion. Khao Tapu is a protected natural site, and boats are not allowed to approach it too closely.
Nearby lies a larger island—Khao Phing Kan—often referred to as "James Bond Island" in a broader sense, as it was the main filming location for the movie. Khao Phing Kan consists of two connected cliffs with a small beach in between. The island is covered in lush vegetation, and its steep slopes plunge straight into the water, creating a breathtaking landscape.
The Movie "The Man with the Golden Gun"
In 1974, the ninth James Bond film, The Man with the Golden Gun, starring Roger Moore, was released. Khao Tapu and Khao Phing Kan served as the hideout of the villain, Francisco Scaramanga (played by Christopher Lee).
In the movie, Khao Tapu is shown as the secret entrance to Scaramanga`s hidden base. The beach between the cliffs of Khao Phing Kan is where the iconic duel between Bond and the villain takes place. Thanks to the film, the island gained worldwide fame, and now thousands of tourists visit to see the legendary scenery in person.
Tours in Phang Nga Bay:
James Bond Island is included in most Phang Nga Bay tours, which usually depart from Phuket, Krabi, or Khao Lak. Tour Options:
• Group Speedboat Tour - includes visits to James Bond Island, sea caves (Hong Island), the floating village of Koh Panyee, and Monkey Cave Temple. Duration is in a range 8 hours.
• Private Longtail Boat Tour - а slower but more authentic experience—ideal for those who prefer a personalized route and want to explore at a relaxed pace.
Some tours offer swimming or snorkeling, but due to the high concentration of mangrove trees, the water in Phang Nga Bay is not very clear and clean, so swimming may not be the best experience.
James Bond Island is a unique destination where nature and cinema have created an unforgettable symbol of Thailand. Its towering cliffs and adventurous atmosphere make it a must-visit for any traveler.
