The coast around Ngapali is scattered with small islands and fishing villages that make excellent half-day excursions by long-tail boat. Local boatmen can be hired directly from the beach — trips typically include a visit to a working fishing village, snorkelling at one or more of the offshore islands, and time on a quiet sandbar. The islands closest to Ngapali are uninhabited and ringed by shallow coral gardens.
A typical trip takes three to four hours and covers three or four stops. The boats are open and the sun is strong — bring shade and water. The best time to go is early morning, when the sea is calm and the light is good. Prices are negotiable and best agreed the evening before.