Everyone knows this place as "James Bond Island," or as it's known in Thai, "Koh Tapu." The name comes from its unique and massive stone pillar that stands prominently in the sea at Phang Nga Bay, near Khao Phing Kan. From a distance, it resembles a giant nail driven deep into the water. Koh Tapu has become one of the most famous tourist attractions in Phang Nga province, even featuring in a Hollywood film shot on this island in 1974—the James Bond movie "The Man with the Golden Gun." This is how it earned the nickname James Bond Island, which tourists around the world are now familiar with. Visiting Koh Tapu is often included in a boat tour of Phang Nga National Park, starting from Surakul Pier, typically taking about half a day. The tour begins by cruising through the scenic Phang Nga Bay, passing various mountains and islands such as Koh Maju, Koh Panyee, Koh Hong, and Khao Phing Kan, before reaching Koh Tapu. However, it’s important to note that visitors are strictly prohibited from approaching Koh Tapu up close. This restriction is due to the erosion of the submerged parts of the rock over time, which has caused significant wear, making it much smaller than the upper section—hence, there is a risk of it collapsing at any moment. Tour packages for day trips can be purchased from piers in Phang Nga province and Phuket, or you can hire a motorboat from various piers in Phang Nga, such as Tha Dan Pier in Muang Phang Nga district or Surakul Pier in Takua Thung district, among others.