Planning to visit Phuket (Karon or maybe Kata) in Low Season (July).

I know, the ocean might be out of question for swimming...

But what about boat trips to some islands?

I know Similans are "closed" during the Low Season.

But is there some other nice islands to visit even in the summer?

And what about the restaurants + shops in Karon/Kata in July?

Are they open during the Low Season? Or do many places close for the summer?

Most of the shops & restaurants stay open all year round. Only a few owners close for the low season.

Plenty of boat trips out of the east side of Phuket. Phi Phi is the most popular, James Bond island, other small island trips/snorkelling/lunch with fast speed boat. Might even be possible to go south to Raja Island if the sea not too rough..