Ko Panyi is a massive karst outcrop in the lee of which a prosperous Thai Muslim fishing village shelters from the South-West Monsoon. The unusual location of the stilted Muslim fishing village; together with the unexpected mosque and minaret; has provided the inhabitants of Ko Panyi with an unexpected and welcome additional source of income in the years since the advent of tourism. Although the island has become commercialised; the people are remarkably open and friendly.

Despite the rise of tourism; fishing remains an economic mainstay for the locals. There are also a few halal restaurants and small cafes on the island.

First inaugurated in 1981; Ao Phang Nga National Park covers an area of about 400 sq km and is comprised mainly of karst rocks and islands; towering cliffs and the clear waters of the Sea of Phuket. Although home to a wide variety of marine and coastal creatures; including the two-meter long water monitor; most people visit the park to marvel at and sail through and around the many looming karst towers.