tourist attraction phuket

16 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do on Phuket Island

Written by Karen Hastings & Casey Hynes Updated Dec 25, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Phuket is Thailand's largest island, and arguably the most famous. Blue waters, sandy beaches , spicy Thai cuisine, and excellent snorkeling and diving are all part of the appeal. Arriving from all over the world, travelers flock to Phuket for relaxation and adventure, and the island rates as one of the most popular destinations in Thailand .

Phuket has an exceptional climate, with warm, sunny days year-round. Monsoon season is usually mid-May through October, but it might only rain once or twice a day during this period. Phuket is also easy to access; it's a short one-hour flight from all the big-city attractions of Bangkok .

Discover our picks for the top attractions and things to do on Phuket.

1. Catch Some Rays at Patong Beach

2. walk the golden sands of kata beach, 3. swim at karon beach, 4. green elephant sanctuary park, 5. discover the past at phuket town, 6. experience island boat tours, 7. go diving & snorkeling, 8. visit phuket big buddha, 9. visit the authentic rawai village and nai harn beach, 10. hike up to karon viewpoint (three beaches hill), 11. wat chalong, 12. gibbon rehabilitation center & bang pae waterfall, 13. spend a couple of hours at the phuket 3d museum, 14. enjoy nature at sirinat national park, 15. wat phra thong at thalang, 16. shop for food and souvenirs at phuket's markets, where to stay on phuket island for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to phuket, phuket, thailand - climate chart.

Phuket's longest beach was also once its most beautiful, until development and tourism turned it into a bustling hub of activity rather than a retreat from the world. Still, Patong is great for people-watching, and part of the fun of Thailand is that (in addition to being a land of smiles) it is one of contrasts.

You may not be able to find a quiet spot on Patong to read and contemplate life, but you'll find plenty of water sports to keep you entertained. You can try everything here, from flyboarding, jet skiing, and parasailing to stand up paddleboarding and banana boat rides.

Many shops and resorts are strung along the beach road, and one of the island's best hotels, the luxury Amari Phuket , perches on a headland overlooking the sea.

Patong also offers some of the best nightlife on Phuket. After dark, head to Bangla Walking Street (formerly Bangla Road) if you want to be in the heart of the action.

Fringed with casuarinas and palms, Kata Beach is a lovely, curving bay hugged by lush hillsides at either end. Although it's still touristy, it's more peaceful than Patong Beach with fewer hawkers. A tiny islet sits just offshore, and the beach itself is broad, with soft, white sand and decent snorkeling spots at either end.

If you're hungry, you can grab a papaya shake or a snack at one of the beachfront stalls, and larger restaurants are within walking distance.

At the southern end of the beach sits The Boathouse Phuket , a luxury boutique hotel that is one of the only resorts fronting the sand. If you want an even quieter slice of shoreline, head south to adjacent Kata Noi Beach .

Less developed than the popular Patong Beach, about 15 minutes away, Karon Beach is a 3.5-kilometer-long strand of squeaky, golden sand and sapphire sea that attracts many couples and families.

When the weather is calm, it's a beautiful spot for a swim, but when the winds whip up, big waves pound the wide-open shoreline here, so take care if you are swimming during these times.

Restaurants and resorts are spread out opposite the beach along the busy road, but a few four-star resorts offer direct beach access, including adults-only Beyond Resort Karon and the luxury bungalows of the nearby Marina Phuket Resort at the southern end of the beach. At its northern end, Centara Grand Beach Resort Phuket overlooks the shoreline with its own water park.

Calling all animal lovers! At Green Elephant Sanctuary Park , you can sign up for that bucket list elephant experience and feel good knowing that it was provided by an ethical company.

Green Elephant Sanctuary Park nestles in the middle of the jungle near Surin Beach, providing a natural setting and a safe home for all its pachyderm residents, some of whom may have previously been abused.

Elephant lovers can connect with these gentle giants by helping out with tasks in their everyday life — bathing them, petting them, brushing them, and feeding them — all under the watchful eyes of experienced elephant trainers.

You can also watch them playing in the lake and take a dip right beside them. What could be cuter than a baby elephant splashing about in the water?

The half-day tours are offered in the morning and afternoon. They include hotel pickup, elephant feeding, an educational presentation, elephant washing, and a generous Thai buffet. Park rangers also capture photos of your interactions with the elephants for you to take home as a souvenir. And it's all included in the package.

Note that to ensure the elephants' well-being, riding the animals is strictly taboo.

Address: No.4, Soi Cherngtalay 1, Choeng Thale, Thalang District, Phuket 83110, Thailand

Phuket Town lies on the southeastern coast of the island on a picturesque bay. This island city bustles with activity thanks to its many hotels, restaurants, spas, and other tourist attractions that have sprung up in the decades since Patong Beach was opened for development in 1980.

The architecture reflects the influence of Chinese immigrants and a Portuguese aesthetic, and provides an interesting contrast to the more traditional Thai styles seen elsewhere. Make sure you stroll through the streets of Old Phuket Town , with its well-preserved shophouses, Sino-Portuguese mansions, temples, and shrines.

Other things to do in town include visiting Phuket 3D Museum , an interactive 3D art gallery, and paying your respects at the Jui Tui Shrine , a colorful Chinese temple.

You may be tempted to lounge on the beach for your entire stay (and really, who would blame you?). But if you're willing to exert just a little effort during your tropical getaway, sign up for an island tour to discover the stunning seascape surrounding Phuket.

Particular mention must be made of Maphrao, Nakha Yai, and Nakha Noi (on the east coast, with pearl culture at the latter) as well as Koh Kaeo, Racha Noi, and Racha Yai (off the southern tip), and finally little Koh Poo on the west coast off Hat Kata.

Organized tours are the best way to make sure you see all the highlights. The nine-hour, guided Phang Nga Bay Day Trip from Phuket includes a visit to the distinctive "James Bond Rocks," and the eight-hour Phuket to Phi Phi Islands Tour takes you to Koh Phi Phi and the famous Maya Bay beach from the Leonardo DiCaprio movie The Beach . An expert guide, transportation, food, and refreshments are all included.

The waters around Phuket Island offer some of the best diving and snorkeling in Thailand, with typically excellent conditions. Visibility is good, and the water temperature ranges from 26 to 30 degrees Celsius. Apart from colorful corals and tropical fish, you can see seahorses, sea turtles, manta rays, and even whale sharks.

Many travelers come to Thailand to complete their scuba diving certification because the courses tend to be more affordable here than in other countries. Some dive operators will take you to Koh Phi Phi, one of the world's most beautiful islands , and other picturesque locations.

Once you've earned your certification, consider checking out Similan Islands National Park . Comprised of eleven uninhabited islands, this area is famous for its superb diving. Note, though, that the Similan Islands are closed from mid-May through mid-October to help protect and preserve its fragile marine ecosystem.

Sitting serenely above the island at the top of Nakkerd hills between Kata and Chalong, the Phuket Big Buddha is one of the island's most distinctive landmarks. Spectacular 360-degree views greet you at the summit, where this 45-meter-high monument presides. Faced with white jade marble, the statue was constructed in 2004.

It's a peaceful spot to take time out from your day. Prayer flags flutter in the breeze, and you'll hear the tinkling of small bells. You can take a taxi or tuk-tuk up the windy six-kilometer road to the hilltop, but you have to climb a steep flight of stairs to the monument.

If this is your first time on Phuket Island, a tour like the Amazing Phuket Island Guided Tour & Big Buddha could be a great option. This five-hour tour takes you to some of the best spots in Phuket, including busy Patong Beach; the Karon Viewpoint for stunning postcard views over the Andaman Sea; and Phuket's largest temple, Wat Chalong. The last stop on the tour is the Big Buddha, where you'll have 45 minutes to enjoy the views and explore the surroundings.

If possible, pick a clear day for the best views; mornings are generally less crowded. And be sure to dress respectfully, which generally entails covering your shoulders and legs. Otherwise, you could be asked to purchase a scarf or sarong.

To experience a more authentic side of Phuket, venture out to this small village on the island's east coast. Here, you can glimpse the lifestyle of the Moken, a tribe of "sea gypsies." They have roots in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and have remained staunchly committed to their own beliefs and customs.

Some Moken live by the sea, and others choose a semi-nomadic life on land. The men of the village work mostly as fishermen and sometimes also as guides for sea trips.

Rawai itself has a small fishing harbor and a sliver of beach covered with coconut palms, swamp oaks, and fishing boats ( Nai Harn Beach is one of the best in the area.) You can rent boats here to sail to offshore islands.

The village is also known for its seafood markets, where you can buy the catch of the day, and one of the local restaurants will prepare it cooked to order.

Just south of Kata Noi Beach, this aptly named vantage point gives you a lovely view of three of Phuket's most beautiful beaches: Kata Noi, Kata Yai, and Karon Beach.

Look north from the viewpoint over one of the island's most iconic views, with a little bit of everything that makes this island so picturesque: emerald hillsides, blue seas, and white surf. This is one of the island's most photographed vistas.

You can reach the viewpoint by traveling along the branch road in front of Kata Noi Beach in a southwesterly direction toward the southern tip of the island.

Wat Chalong is the largest, most popular, and arguably the most beautiful of all Phuket's 29 temples. It is dedicated to two highly respected monks, Luang Pho Chaem and Luang Pho Chuang, and you can see life-size wax models of them and other figures in the exhibition home.

The Grand Pagoda protects a fragment of Lord Buddha's bone and features murals depicting images from the Buddha's life story.

As you wander through the complex, notice the many golden buddhas in various poses, and make sure you dress respectfully; visitors are not allowed to wear shoes inside the temple, and women must cover their shoulders and knees.

Address: Chaofa Road ( West ), Chalong, Phuket

Located within the Khao Pra Theaw Non-Hunting Area, the Gibbon Rehabilitation Center is a great place to learn more about these intelligent creatures and support important work at the same time. The center's mission is to rescue, rehabilitate, and return gibbons to their natural environment.

Many of these animals were poached from their mothers as babies and sold as pets or used in the tourist trade. Visitor contact with animals suitable for release is limited, so they don't become habituated to humans; however, you'll have a chance to meet some of the animals that live full-time at the sanctuary and hear stories about their miraculous rescues.

The center does not charge an entrance fee, but you need to pay to enter the park. You can support the center's important work by making a donation or sponsoring a gibbon. Another way to help their efforts is to refuse requests to pose for pictures with wild animals that are held captive so that their owners can make money from tourists.

After visiting the center, trek through the lush tropical forest to the Bang Pae waterfall for a refreshing dip in the pools.

Address: Bang Pae Waterfall, Pa Khlock, Talang, Phuket

If you're looking for indoor places to visit during a particularly hot day, the Phuket 3D Museum is a great option. You'll even be able to add a few zany vacation photos to share with your friends and family back home.

This interactive 3D art gallery allows you to look as though you are part of more than 95 trompe-l'œil-style paintings created by clever Korean artists. Teeter on a tightrope, touch ET, climb a wall with Spiderman, or step into a famous masterpiece. This is the perfect rainy day hangout for the whole family.

Address: 130/1 PhangNga Road, Taladyai, Muang, Phuket

Formerly called Nai Yang National Park, Sirinat National Park reveals a quieter side of this touristy isle. The 90-square-kilometer coastal park sits on the island's northwest coast and is largely made up of marine areas, including four relatively unspoiled beaches.

Two of these, Hat Nai Yang and Hat Mai Khao, are the only two beaches in Phuket where leatherback turtles come ashore at night to lay their eggs. The best time to see them is from November to February, when locals patrol the beaches and help protect their eggs.

Wat Phra Thong is steeped in local lore. It houses a half statue of Buddha that was broken during a Burmese invasion.

Legend has it that a boy was minding a water buffalo, which he tethered to a piece of metal protruding from the ground using a hemp rope. Suddenly, the boy died, but he later appeared to his father in a dream and told him about the piece of metal. The father began to dig and came upon a statue of Buddha cast in pure gold. The Buddha could not, however, be completely excavated and so a temple was built on the site in 1785.

When the Burmese conquered Thalang, a second attempt was made to dig up the statue, but it broke in two. One half disappeared, and the other still stands in the temple today.

Besides the half Buddha statue, things to see here include the rich carvings on the gables and windows of the temple buildings and a little museum displaying historical artifacts.

Markets are a must-visit when you're in Phuket. You can tantalize your tastebuds with some sizzling street food, listen to live music, pick up some souvenirs, and practice your bargaining skills all in one visit.

A good place to start your market adventure is at the Sunday Walking Street Market . This is one of Phuket Island's biggest attractions, set in the heart of the historical part of town. As the name suggests, this is a Sunday-only market, which runs from 4 to 9pm. It's vibrant, full of lights, busy, and loud — a perfect way to end the week surrounded by beautiful old buildings, stalls selling arts and crafts, and tons of lip-smacking good food. Make sure you wander down the side streets, too. More treasures await off the main strip.

Located on Sai Kor Road, the well-designed indoor Banzaan Fresh Market is a good place to discover exotic fruits, pick up some fresh vegetables and seafood, or try a glass of refreshing coconut water or sugarcane juice. Don't forget to check out the stalls selling gifts and accessories on your way to the big food court upstairs.

If you're after more typical Thai souvenirs, curios, or some cheap T-shirts, the Phuket Weekend Night Market is the place to be. Located just outside Phuket Town, the market is also a good place to find second-hand goods, grab some odds and ends, and try some unique foods. Are deep-fried insects or fishcakes calling your name? This is the place to pick some up.

If you're visiting Phuket Island for the first time and want to stay in the heart of the action, popular Patong Beach is a great location, near the buzz of Bangla Road, with its shops, restaurants, and lively entertainment venues. If you prefer a more peaceful location but with easy access to all the attractions, the beaches north of Patong are the best place to stay. Here are some highly rated hotels in these locations:

Luxury Hotels:

• About 43 minutes' drive north of Patong Beach, the serene Trisara Phuket is the ultimate Thai tropical escape, with temple-style villas fronting an idyllic, palm-studded stretch of beach.
• A little closer to Patong Beach (20 minutes by car), and only a three-minute walk to beautiful Surin Beach, The Chava Resort is great for families. Its spacious apartments come with fully equipped kitchens and private plunge pools.
• A more affordable luxury option is the sprawling Amari Phuket , on a lush hillside near Patong Beach, with well-appointed villas and gorgeous ocean views.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• Stunning Andaman sea views and a beachside location make the Best Western Premier Bangtao Beach Resort & Spa an excellent value for the money. Well-appointed rooms, two swimming pools, and a kids' club offer plenty of options for all visitors.
• If you like the amenities of a big resort, the beachfront Outrigger Laguna Phuket Beach Resort , a 30-minute drive north of Patong Beach, includes access to day spas, an 18-hole golf course, and signing privileges at more than 30 restaurants in the surrounding Laguna Destination Resort.
• Closer to the busy tourist strip, the contemporary BYD Lofts Boutique Hotel and Serviced Apartments , with a rooftop pool, has suites for longer stays and lies within walking distance of Patong Beach and Bangla Road.

Budget Hotels:

• Steps away from Bangla Road, near Patong Beach, Summer Breeze Inn Hotel is a home away from home.
• Tatum Mansion with large, clean rooms, is another popular budget option, only a two-minute stroll from Patong Beach.
• With a rooftop pool, Patong Princess Hotel offers great value. Its spacious air-conditioned rooms lie about a five-minute walk from Patong Beach.

One of the most popular things to do while visiting Phuket is explore some of the beautiful surrounding islands on an organized tour.

• Phang Nga Bay : See some of the stunning limestone karsts rising from the jade-green sea on this small-group, guided Phang Nga Bay and Beyond tour. Along the way, you'll stop at "James Bond Island," paddle through tranquil lagoons on a canoe, explore limestone caves, and have time to relax and swim at a peaceful beach. A Thai lunch near Koh Yao Yai Pier is included.

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62 BEST THINGS to DO in Phuket in 2024 – with photos!

• Best of Phuket , Tours , What to Do?
• Last updated 22 April 2024 25 April 2024

What to do in Phuket?

What are the best things to do in Phuket is one of the most important questions people ask us when planning a trip. We explored the island for 30 years to bring you the best of Phuket, sorted in what we saw and what people liked the most among the incredibly vast range of attractions, activities and tours, from fabulous beaches and natural wonders to glittering temples and human-made attractions.

Phang Nga Bay is an absolute must-do, with jaw-dropping limestone cliffs and flooded caves. Phi Phi islands are everyone’s second favourite thing to do in Phuket, even though they can be a little crowded. The 45-meter-high Big Buddha of Phuket is also on everyone’s list, and this attraction is not difficult to reach. Walking with the elephants to help them escape a life of hard labour is the next big thing in Phuket and is growing fast in popularity.

4 Important things to know when planning tours in Phuket

• We recommend planning just a few tours and daytrips before travelling, then once here you can adjust your plan according to your mood or the weather. However, if you plan to visit Phuket during the peak season (end of December and January) you should try to book the tours that relate to islands, cruises and Phang Nga Bay (especially the famous John Gray SeaCanoe )
• You can book those day trips once here; they are usually cheaper and can be booked directly from your hotel, in the street or one of the many travel agencies. We added information on each attraction.
• Tours always include transportation from and to your hotel, so that is not a worry!
• Some tours may look more expensive than others, but those usually offer a better experience: less crowded, better service and overall: a better experience.

With so much to choose from, it may be challenging to fit all the things to do in Phuket into one holiday. So to make your travel planning a lot easier, we listed here a long list of must-do in Phuket sorted by popularity. Some are on the island, and some are around the island but easily accessible in one day.

1. Explore the Beaches of Phuket

This seems to be so obvious thing to do in Phuket since this is the main reason why most travellers travel such long distances, but did you know that we counted more than 46 beaches? You probably know the famous ones, mostly located on the southwest coast: Patong, Kata, Karon, Kamala and Nai Harn. They are famous because they are truly beautiful, but they can also be too busy if you come to find peace and isolation. Don’t limit yourself to one beach and explore Phuket: drive around and discover the north and east coast beaches as some are superb and still peaceful: Nai Yang, Naithon, and Mai Khao Beaches. Read more about Phuket beaches .

Island Hopping with Faraway Yachting

Embark on an awe-inspiring sailing journey to the majestic islands of Thailand with the number one, award-winning Phuket yacht charter operator, whose primary mission and focus is on the guest experience. Escape the crowds to the most remote and hidden islands of Thailand and make this the holiday of your lifetime – what are you waiting for?

2. Explore Phang Nga Bay

The incredible scenery of Phang Nga has always been at the top of our list of places to visit. There are many ways to explore it. You can take a lazy sunset cruise on a Chinese Junk or explore Phang Nga by canoe through caves and enclosed lagoons. If you can afford it, a full day on a customised private cruise around Phang Nga is the most relaxing and enjoyable experience. Day trips to Phang Nga usually include a stop at the famous James Bond Island and Koh Panyi, the village built entirely on stilts. Similar to the famous Halong Bay in Vietnam, these landscapes will leave unforgettable memories. Read more about Phang Nga Bay

How to get there : Phang Nga can be booked even one day before, once in Phuket, at your hotel or street booth. However, everyone agrees that the best way to do it is with John Gray Seacanoe , which should be booked in advance online, especially during the high season (December to May) When to get there : Thanks to its sheltered geography, Phang Nga is accessible and beautiful all year round, even during the rainy season. The sea is never rough, so you won’t have to worry about seasickness.

Dinner in the Sky in Phuket

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3. Climb to Big Buddha of Phuket

Number 3 on our list of best things to do in Phuket has always been the Big Buddha, an iconic 45-meter tall white marble statue sitting at the top of Nakkerd hill in the south of the island. The construction of this statue, entirely from donations, started in 2002. You can contribute too by sponsoring one small white marble tile and signing your name on it. It’s a great thing to do; your name will be there forever. Remember that Big Buddha is more than just a landmark; it is a religious place. You should respect it by dressing appropriately: if you wear shorts or skirts above the knee , you will need to wear a sarong provided by security at the entrance. It would be best if you also tried to keep your voice down, which unfortunately is not very well understood by tourists.

The road to get up there is steep but well-paved, and the panoramic view from the top is worth the climb. To the north, you can see the whole of Chalong Bay to Phang Nga; in the south, you will see Kata Beach. On the way down, stop at one of the many little panoramic bars to get a bird’s view of Karon Beach. Read more about Phuket Big Buddha

How to get there : you can easily reach the Big Buddha with your motorbike or car. Tuk-tuks will happily take you there and wait for you. Keep in mind that most tours include a visit to the Big Buddha. When to get there : all year round Price : Entrance is free but donations are appreciated

4. Take a Trip to Phi Phi Islands

Phi Phi is a beautiful archipelago made of fantastic beaches and immense cliffs over two bays you can admire from a famous viewpoint. Phi Phi is also renowned among young crowds for those legendary beach parties lasting all night long, reminding a bit of the Full Moon Parties on Koh Phangan. But this fame comes with a price, and Phi Phi may have become too popular. The crowds, greed and developments have severely affected the island, so don’t imagine yourself walking alone on the deserted Maya Beach like they do in the movie The Beach, unless you book a hotel in the north of the island. Read more about Phi Phi Islands

How to get there : Book it in advance if you plan to stay overnight. You can book a ferry or speedboat once in Phuket if you only want to go for the day, but day trips usually allow you such a short time on Phi Phi you won’t have much time for exploration. The price starts as cheap as 375 baht for a ferry ticket + hotel transfer.

When to go there : Phi Phi island is open all year round, but of course, it’s more beautiful with a blue sky during the high season (December to May). During the low season, the ride can be bumpy, so take some pills if you are prone to seasickness.

5. Maya Bay

We can’t talk about Phi Phi Islands without talking about Maya Bay. We listed it separately because it can be a day trip on its own. Maya Bay has reopened after being closed for a while but access is restricted. Read more about Maya Bay

Popular Ways to Discover Phi Phi Island

6. party on bangla road.

Bangla Road might not be to everyone’s taste, but judging by the enormous crowd walking up and down Patong walking street every night, Bangla is on many people’s must-see list. Unlike what most people believe, Soi Bangla is not a Sin City for Single Men. It’s a colourful and vibrant street full of life, restaurants, shops, bars and dancing girls. If you want to know more, enter these famous Go-Go bars and see what a go-go bar is. You will often see couples tourists having a drink; Patong is a lot more easygoing than Bangkok or Pattaya. Read more about Bangla Road

When to go there : Bangla is lively all year round. Nothing happens during the day, and the street closes to traffic around 7 pm. However, the party atmosphere only kicks in after 9 or 10 pm.

7. Explore Phuket Old Town

It’s hard to resist those old Sino-Portuguese streets with beautiful shophouses and magnificent mansions. Phuket’s old town is perfect for a half-day, with many small cafes, bakeries, and eateries along the way. You can reach there by tuk-tuk or even with the local blue bus that stops at the city market, then walk to Thalang Road, the most popular of the old streets of Phuket Town. Visit the local markets near the bus station and explore the little streets here and there to discover some incredible abandoned mansions. Don’t miss the Phuket Walking Street on Sunday, a chance to try a lot of local food you cannot find easily! Read more about Phuket Old Town

How to get there : Tuk-Tuk or Grab taxis are the standard options. Then the cheapest way apart from driving there yourself is to ride the local blue bus .

8. Visit Chalong Temple

Chalong Temple (locally called Wat Chalong), built at the beginning of the 19th century, is the largest and the most visited Buddhist temple in Phuket. The most iconic building on the temple grounds is a 60-meter-tall stupa sheltering a fragment of bone from Buddha. Inside the building, beautiful paintings and illustrations on the walls and ceilings narrate the life of Lord Buddha, and each floor is full of donated golden statues. You can also climb stairs to reach a terrace and enjoy a panoramic view. Just like in any temple in Thailand, remember to dress appropriately: no shorts or skirts above the knee , and no sleeveless shirts. Remember to remove shoes and caps when entering the temple buildings. Read more about Wat Chalong

How to get there : easy to reach by car or motorbike. Most tours will include Wat Chalong, usually combined with a visit to the Big Buddha. When to get there : the temple is open from 7 am to 5 pm, but you can walk around the property anytime. Price : free entrance, but donations are appreciated

9. Explore the many Night Markets!

Phuket has a lot of night markets, but on any day of the week, the line between a night market and a night bazaar is relatively thin. Some markets only open during the weekend, and some during the weekdays. The Sunday Walking Street Market on the old Thalang Road of Phuket Town is the most creative. Read more about Phuket Night Markets

10. Relax or Party in a Beach Club

There is a growing list of superb beach clubs all around Phuket. Most are open all day for customers to enjoy food and drinks on comfortable sofas or beach beds, and some turn into party clubs at night. As you may expect, the prices are often on the high side in the most popular clubs such as Catch Beach Club or Carpe Diem on Bang Tao Beach, and Cafe Del Mar on Kamala Beach, but our list includes a lot of little hidden beach clubs at fair prices. Read more about Beach Clubs

11. Spa and Massages

Thailand is a massage and well-being destination famous around the world. Almost every hotel has a spa, and massages are available everywhere, even on the beach! The prices start around 300 baht for a simple Thai massage to extravagant half-day packages in luxury resorts. Everyone should try, especially to recover from jet lag, help with a sunburn, make use of a rainy day or treat themselves to a relaxing experience. Keep in mind that a spa is one of the most popular things to do in Phuket when it rains, so book with your spa or hotel in the morning to beat the queue!

12. James Bond Island

James Bond Island is one of those bucket list items many people want to tick off their list of Things to Do in Phuket. There are many positive and negative opinions about James Bond Island, and most are justified. Before that old 1974 James Bond movie The Man With The Golden Gun with Roger Moore and Christopher Lee (remember Count Dracula? or Saruman in Lord of the Rings?), no one talked about this island. The movie wasn’t even good (45% on Rotten Tomatoes). Read more about James Bond Island

How to get there : Check with your hotel or a local agent. This tour can usually be booked the day before. When to get there : all year round

13. Koh Panyi

Koh Panyi is a surprisingly small fishermen’s village built entirely on stilts in the middle of Phang Nga Bay . What used to be a remote place is now more of a tourist attraction, but it is still a real village with a sizeable Muslim community, a mosque and a school. You can explore the narrow ‘streets’ and see the water through the crevices of the floor, do some local shopping and enjoy a tasty seafood lunch. Take a longtail boat early to reach there before tourists arrive, and you get a completely different feel for the place. Continue to James Bond Island if you feel like seeing the shooting set of this old movie, The Man with the Golden Gun. Read more about Koh Panyi

How to get there : almost every tour agent offers this tour with James Bond Island. You could also drive to one of the many Phang Nga piers and ride a longtail boat.

When to get there : There are no waves all year round, as Phang Nga is a bay.

14. Enjoy Sunset Drinks and Dinner

When weather permits, Phuket sunsets can be pretty impressive, especially during the low season, because clouds reflect the red hues in remarkable ways. You will be able to enjoy sunsets from most of the beaches on the West Coast, but the best way is to share the moment with a cold drink in hand! Here is a list of sunset spots we love in Phuket.

15. Plane Spotting on Mai Khao Beach

Plane Spotting has become a viral phenomenon since the day it became forbidden. The more it’s forbidden, the more people go there, and this once-deserted beach has become a permanent Instagram playground. And why not? Seeing these enormous flying machines approaching from far away and getting closer to you in a roar is jaw-dropping. As they are about to land, they fly so low above the turquoise water; that you could almost touch their wheels! Read more about plane spotting in Phuket

How to get there : most people use their cars or bikes to get to Maikhao beach. It seems that some local agencies offer a ride there. Read how to go there by yourself.

When to go there : Please remember that planes land over the beach only during the high season (November to May) when the wind blows east to west! During the low season, planes will land from the other side, over the main road. This is just an indication; that wind can change according to the weather.

Can you go? : Technically, it is not allowed to be under the plane’s path, but no one seems to care.

16. Andamanda Phuket Water Park

Andamanda Phuket is an immense new water park near Phuket Town, passed Kathu when coming from Patong Beach. This massive park covers a staggering 100,000 sq.m. and 25 attractions, including many impressive waterslides, a 10,000 sq.m. swimming area with artificial waves and the longest lazy river in southeast Asia.

Location : Kathu Open : 10 am – 7 pm Phone : 076 646 777 Prices: Adults : 1,500 baht for adults, Kids : 1,000 Baht

17. Go on an Instagram Photo Spree!

The island is an Instagrammer’s paradise! Between the many natural wonders, the beaches and islands, the beautiful Sino-Portuguese architecture of Old Phuket Town and the Instagram-dedicated photo playgrounds, Instagrammers will find endless opportunities to shine. Several spots are on this list already, but we keep adding new ones on the dedicated page!

18. Try Real Local Food!

Trying local Thai food in Phuket is a must-do for any traveller visiting the island. Phuket is known for its delicious and authentic Thai cuisine, with a variety of dishes that are unique to the region and south Thailand. Trying local Thai food is also a chance to experience the local food culture by visiting night markets, street food vendors and local restaurants, but you need to know where to find these small restaurants!

19. See and feed the Elephants

At Elephant Jungle Sanctuary Phuket, visitors are offered an opportunity to interact with elephants enjoyably. Unlike the old and controversial practice of elephant trekking, no one rides the animals here. Instead, guests can feed, play with, and bathe adult and baby elephants in a way that is unlike any other experience. The visitors also have the chance to prepare food for the animals and then join them in muddy waters for playtime.

Location : Kathu Address : 2/12 Kathu, Kathu District, Phuket 83120 Visits : Morning 6:30 am – 12.30 pm, Afternoon 11.30 am – 5.30 pm Phone : 094 663 6592 Prices : Adults: 5,500 baht – Children 7-10: 3,500 baht

20. Dinner in the Sky

Dinner in the Sky takes eating to new heights—literally. Suspended by a crane, guests sit at a table high above Karon Beach, taking in the beautiful views while enjoying a delicious dinner. The experience blends thrill and luxury, with guests safely secured into their seats. Chefs cook excellent dishes directly in front of your eyes, delivering an unforgettable gastronomic experience. Whether it’s a romantic date or an adventurous adventure, Dinner in the Sky promises an unforgettable dining experience above the clouds.

21. Carnival Magic

Carnival Magic is a brand new 40-acre nighttime Thai carnival theme park, known as the Magical Kingdom of Lights. It features numerous record-breaking attractions that cannot be found anywhere else in the world. Situated on Kamala Beach, Carnival Magic stands as an iconic destination that no visitor to Phuket should miss.

Location: Kamala Beach Address: 999 Kamala, Kathu District, Phuket 83150 Open: Carnival Magic is open every Monday, Wednesday & Saturday . Hours: 5.30 pm – 11.30 pm Website: www.carnivalmagic.fun Tel: + 66 76 385 555

22. Snorkel in Koh Racha

Koh Racha Yai is a tiny island with amazingly clear blue water, easy to access as it is only a dozen kilometres from Phuket. It is very popular for day trips, snorkelling and scuba diving. The island is so small it can only accommodate a few resorts.

23. The Upside-Down House

The Upside Down House, also known as Baan Teelanka, is a fun place for kids and adults on any day, rain or shine! This unusual photo playground built on three floors is on the outskirts of Phuket town. Read more

Location : near Phuket Town Address : 51/11 Chalermprakiet Ratchakan Thi 9 Road, Phuket 83000 Open : 10 am – 6 pm Phone : 076 376 245 Price : 350 Baht, (Kids 4 to 11: 190 Baht)

24. Karon Viewpoint

Next on our list of best things to do in Phuket is the famous Karon Viewpoint, where you can enjoy a panoramic view of three magnificent bays. The closest is Kata Noi Beach , further is the beautiful bay of Kata with its small iconic island, and the far is Karon Beach . The place is well-known and frequently busy, but people don’t stay long. Apart from taking a couple of photos and maybe buying some drinks, snacks and ice creams, there is not much to do up there. You will often see a Thai guy on his motorbike with a big eagle offering to take a photo with the bird for a small fee. Remember that wildlife is protected, and you should not encourage this practice, no matter how cool the picture looks on your Instagram. Read more

Price : free

25. Watch a sunset at Prompthep Cape

Promthep Cape is not as grand as you might expect, but it still attracts busloads of tourists every evening at sunset. The elevated location at the very south of the island offers beautiful views of the bay and the few nearby islands. You can enjoy local shopping and even an excellent Thai dinner at the ‘ Promthep Restaurant ‘. Read more about Promthep Cape

How to get there : usually, people ride their cars or motorbikes.

When to go there : sunsets are much more impressive during the low season (June to November), but some days might be cloudy. Need to know when to arrive to see the sunset? Check the time on Google !

26. Cooking Classes

Cooking classes are an increasingly popular activity in Phuket because Thai food is so famous and good, and TV and social media feature it so frequently. There are many cooking schools all around the island and for all budgets. Several are in hotels around Phuket, usually more expensive than privately run schools. Some cooking classes include visiting a local market, which is a fun experience. Read more about Cooking Classes

27. Samet Nangshe Viewpoint

Samet Nangshe is quite a recent discovery, and the view from up there is jaw-dropping. As it is just outside Phuket island, it takes some driving to reach it, but the beauty of this natural wonder is well worth the effort! It used to be quite a challenge to climb the hill to one of the viewpoints, but a pickup truck takes you up there for a small fee. Read more about Samet Nangshee

28. Be Amazed by the Similan Islands

Similan Island is the most impressive set of Islands accessible from Phuket, blessed with incredible white sand and clear blue waters. But these are only open from November to May and are a bit far, 100 km northwest of Phuket in the Andaman Sea. If you get a chance, you should go. If you are not confident, go to Phi Phi Island, but it’s crowded. More accessible and closer is Racha Island, or nearby is also Coral Island. Read more about the Similan Islands

How to get there : You can book this tour from your hotel or a local agent once in Phuket. A van will usually pick you up from your hotel and drive you to Tap Lamu Pier outside the island. From there, you will ride a speed boat. When to get there : Similans are only open between October to May. Price : starts around 2,350 baht. Just remember that cheap tickets may mean overcrowded boats.

29. Blue Tree Water Park

Blue Tree is a vast water park, and the lagoon is enormous, but it has fewer slides and features than Andamanda or Splash Jungle. It seems more dedicated to water and land activities with Slip’ N’ Fly, a zip line above the water, water fighting, a stand-up paddle, and even a trapeze school and a skate park.

Location : Cherngtalay Open : 10 am – 6 pm Phone : 076 602 435 Adults : 950 baht for adult, Kids : 350 Baht

30. Yona Floating Beach Club

Yona is a floating beach club taking the Phuket Beach Club scene to a new level. The boat is 1,200 sqm on three floors with a central 22-metre-long swimming pool surrounded by trendy loungers and palm trees. At the back of the pool are the DJ station and a bar with a vast choice of fun cocktails to enjoy the party. The floating beach club anchors in the bay of Patong during the high season.

31. Koh Khai Islands

Koh Khai is a group of famous tiny islands just 15 15-minute speedboat ride from Phuket’s east coast. There are three islands: Koh Khai Nai, Koh Khai Nui and Koh Khai Nok, but their names get a little confusing, especially once you know that ‘Koh’ means ‘Island’ in Thai.

32. Bamboo Rafting in Phang Nga

Bamboo rafting in Phang Nga is a fun and relaxing experience, a chance to discover an activity that has always been popular in Chiang and Chiang Rai. Glide gently in the green tropical jungle.

Komol’s Corner Bamboo Rafting Location : Phang Nga Address : 17/18 Moo. 1 Tumbon. Lamkaen, Petchakaseam Rd, Thaimuang Ban Khao Lak, Phangnga 82210 Phone : 095 410 1988 Facebook : click here

33. Visit Phuket Aquaria

Phuket now has two aquariums: the original Phuket Aquarium in Cape Panwa, on the southeast coast, and the newly built Aquaria in Phuket Town. Cape Panwa Aquarium is a marine biological centre that often rescues dolphins, dugongs and turtles. Aquaria, the latest and largest aquarium in Phuket, is a tourist attraction built under the immense Central Floresta Shopping Mall, and it even includes a restaurant. Read more about Aquaria

Location : Phuket Town Address : B1 floor, Central Floresta, 199, Vichitsongkram Rd, Wichit, Muang, Phuket 83000 Open : 1.30 am – 7 pm, daily Phone : 076 629 800 Price : Adults 712 baht, children 392 baht (3-11 years old).

34. Watch the Simon Cabaret Show

Simon Cabaret on Patong Beach is a performance with a Las Vegas atmosphere but with a twist. The stage is magnificent, and the sets and costumes are glittering and colourful, but what people come to see are the stunning ladyboys! Perfect bodies with cute faces, most of them would fool you! Read more about Simon Cabaret Show

How to get there : Check with your hotel or a local agent. It can usually be booked late, even on the same day. Price : 1,000 baht for a VIP seat and 800 for a regular chair. Location : Patong Beach Address: 8 Sirirat Rd, Tambon Patong, Amphoe Kathu, Chang Wat Phuket 83150 Open : 6 pm – 10.30 pm Phone : 076 342 011

35. Siam Niramit

Siam Niramit Phuket is a surprising show narrating 700 years of Thailand’s history. The stage is immense, and the choreography involving more than a hundred people is spotless. The narration is simple and clear enough for everyone to understand each scene. The superb sound system immerses you in a fantastic world based on centuries of Thai myths and legends. It is seriously impressive.

36. Phuket Fantasea

Phuket Fantasea is a dazzling cultural theme park in Thailand, blending magic, elephants, and vibrant performances. It’s a mix of traditional Thai folklore and modern technology with dazzling shows, games, and an elephant village, offering a fun experience of Thailand’s rich culture and entertainment.

37. Scare yourself at Flying Hanuman

There are 3 or 4 Ziplines around the island, and we tried Flying Hanuman in the forest near Patong Beach. Zipline is a great way to do something fun and exciting with friends and family. You can do something active, fun and unforgettable in the dense forest in Kathu. It’s enormous, impressive and safe; anyone can do it, even a four-year-old kid! Read more about ziplining in Phuket

How to get there : Book directly with them or check with a local travel agent Price : starts at 2,300 baht (16 platforms) and 3,250 baht (28 platforms).

38. Dino Park Mini Golf

Phuket Dino Park is an iconic mini golf with a fun prehistoric theme in Kata Beach. Play around the dinosaurs and inside a volcano. It’s fun and quite easy, and the central location makes it an easy thing to do after dinner if you stay in Kata or Karon Beach.

Location : Kata Beach Address : Patak Soi 7, Karon, Muang, Phuket 83100 , Near Marina Phuket Resort Open : 12 pm – 11 pm Phone : 076 330 625 Price : 490 baht for adults, 390 baht for children

39. Black Rock Viewpoint

Black Rock is not as hard to reach as Samet Nangshee, listed higher on this page, but it still requires a bit of climbing. It’s not too difficult to find as the path is not well defined, as you can see on our page. The spectacular view from up there offers a superb bird’s view of Nai Harn Beach and the islands. Read more about Black Rock Viewpoint

40. Monkey Hill

Monkey Hill in Phuket town used to be a popular attraction and would rank higher in the past, but the proliferation of monkeys and tourists started to affect the behaviour of the animals. The monkeys rely on humans to feed and sometimes get impatient and grab what they can. The big boss can also be territorial and may try to intimidate you. If you decide to go, put your small belongings in a bag and keep an eye on the monkey’s behaviour.

41. Visit Fresh Markets

Visiting any of the fresh markets in Phuket is a chance to see amazing tropical fruit displays, and even experience some you may never have seen or heard about. Beyond this, if you are into cooking, this is also a chance to find the immense array of herbs and spices that make Thai food so delicious! There is a fresh market in almost every town and beach resort and visitors are always warmly welcome. Banzaan Fresh Market is the most impressive, located in Patong Beach, just behind the famous Jungceylon Shopping Center.

42. Chalong Bay Rum Distillery

Did you know that Phuket produced its own rum, made of pure sugar cane juice instead of molasses? You can visit the factory, do some rum tasting and even take a cocktail class in their beautiful setting in the Chalong area. It’s a lot of fun (and great if it rains!) Read more about Chalong Bay Distillery

Location : Chalong, near Phuket Zoo Address : 14/2 Moo 2, Palai, Soi 2, Chalong, Amphur Muang, Phuket 83130 Open : 11 am – 11 pm Phone : 093 575 1119 Price : Visit: 450 baht, Cocktail Class: 1,700 baht

43. The Selfie Experience

The Selfie Experience is a fun photo playground near Phuket Town with more than 40 backgrounds to play with! This is a fun way for families, friends and selfie lovers to spend a fun day away from an occasional rainy day.

Location : Phuket Town (Bypass road) Hours : 10 am – 9 pm Price : 400 baht Phone : +66 98 895 4796

44. Adventure Mini Golf

Adventure Mini Golf is an 18-hole miniature classic championship golf course surrounded by palm and bamboo trees and a large restaurant on Bangtao Beach.

Location : Bangtao Beach Address : 72/44 Moo 3, Bangtao Beach Road, Soi 2 Cherngtalay, Talang Phuket, Phuket 83110 Hours : 11 am – 11 pm Phone : 076 314 345 Facebook : click here

45. Get your Dream Dress or Suit Done!

Having a dress or suit custom-made in Phuket with local tailors offers a fantastic opportunity during your holiday. Not only will you receive a one-of-a-kind garment that fits you perfectly, but you’ll also experience the long tradition of craftsmanship. Phuket’s tailors are known for their skilful work, attention to detail, and use of high-quality fabrics and unbeatable prices. Moreover, the process is typically efficient, allowing you to have your custom outfit ready before your vacation ends. This is a chance to get a suit or a dress done for those special events once back home.

46. Get an Amazing Tattoo

Getting a tattoo done while on holiday in Phuket is an opportunity to consider if you have been wanting to do this but have always been worried about the quality of the artwork, and the price! Phuket boasts a vibrant tattoo scene with talented artists who can bring your vision to life for a reasonable cost. Whether you dream of traditional Thai designs or modern styles, skilled tattooists can create stunning and meaningful artwork on your skin. With a range of reputable studios offering top-notch hygiene standards, you can trust the process.

47. Have Dinner on Rang Hill

Rang Hill is a beautiful viewpoint above Phuket town, with city lights and a good view daily and at night. Enjoy the view from the panoramic platform and stay for lunch or dinner at the beautiful Tunk Ka Cafe. If you drive down the other side of the mountain, stop for a photo at the golden sitting Buddha of Wat Kao Rang. Read more about Rang Hill

How to get there : You will need your transportation or ride a tuk-tuk (or grab).

48. Volunteer at Soi Dog

Dog lovers who spend long enough on the island can dedicate a day or two to doing a good deed. Visit the surprisingly large and well-organised Soi Dog on Maikhao Beach, and you will make some dogs happy by walking them around and interacting with them; they love it! And for those who worry, all the animals are in good shape, and you will not have to see anything scary!

Location : Mai Khao Beach Address : Moo 4 167/9 Mai Khao 10, Mai Khao, Thalang District, Phuket 83110 Hours : 9 am – 11:30 am, 1 pm – 3:30 pm (closed on Saturday and Sunday) Phone : 076 681 029

49. Tiger Kingdom Phuket

The Tiger Phuket Kingdom is a captivating wildlife sanctuary in Phuket, Thailand, offering visitors an opportunity to interact with various tiger species. The facility combines conservation and tourism, housing well-cared-for tigers in naturalistic enclosures. Guests can observe, learn about, and even have limited supervised contact with the tigers. While it aims to educate and raise awareness about these magnificent creatures, concerns have been raised about the ethics of such interactions and the impact on tiger welfare.

50. Watch a Muay Thai Fight at the Stadium

There are two Muay Thai stadiums in Patong Beach where travellers can pay to get a seat to watch a fight. The easiest to reach is Bangla Walking Stadium which is now located behind the famous Jungceylon Shopping Mall, and Patong Boxing Stadium Sainamyen which is on a back street. The fights consist of several confrontations, usually starting with the youngest and least experienced fighters, keeping the most experience for the end. The last fights can be quite impressive. Read more about Thai Boxing Stadiums

51. Learn About Phuket in a Museum

There is a surprising amount of museums here, and while they might not be jaw-dropping, they offer an interesting view of how Phuket island became what it is today, starting with the arrival of the first Chinese immigrants who brought wealth with tin mining long ago.

52. Discover the little-known island of Maiton

There are a lot of islands near Phuket, but because Maiton was a very exclusive private island for a long time, it has remained a little mysterious. Even though Maiton is only 15 minutes from Phuket by speedboat, not many people visit it. To add to this surreal atmosphere, 60 of the once luxurious 70 villas are now just standing wrecks. It’s a very peaceful and beautiful island, great to relax, snorkel and take photos, and there are no loud watersports here.

▷ SPORTS & ACTIVITIES

Beyond landmarks and islands, there are a lot of fun things to do in Phuket for active travellers, from easy-going spas and cooking classes to water activities like surfing and scuba diving, all the way to intense training in Muay Thai camps.

53. Snorkeling

Snorkelling is an easy and fun activity anyone can enjoy, young or old. During the high season, the water is crystal clear, and the island has many great bays where you can easily admire tropical sea life and enjoy beach time.

ATV in Phuket is a wild ride through nature! You get to zoom on rugged trails, feeling the adrenaline rush as you explore jungles, hills, and muddy paths. It’s like a thrilling adventure on wheels, letting you experience the island’s beauty in an exciting and fast-paced way.

55. Learn to Surf

Surfing in Phuket is mostly possible during the rainy season, from May/June until October. The waves are not big, so it is the perfect opportunity to start and practice safely. There are a few surf schools in Kata Beach and Bang Tao Beach.

56. Scuba Diving

Scuba diving has always been a big attraction in Phuket, and the dive sites in the Andaman Sea made it to the top 10 best dive sites in the world, especially Richelieu Rock. Diving is easy and affordable, and many advanced courses are available. There are many dive clubs for all nationalities, languages, specialities and budgets.

Popular Ways to Discover Scuba Diving Experience

57. wakeboarding.

Wakeboarding is a popular activity at Phuket Wake Park in Kathu, around an O-shaped lake equipped with a 700 m long cable running counterclockwise at 30 km/h for a fun cable ski experience. Wakeboard is much easier to enjoy than one would imagine! You will be surprised how fast you can succeed and how much pleasure you will get for each little step done.

Address : 86/3 Moo 6 Vichitsongkram Road, Kathu, Phuket, 83120 Hours : 7 am – 9 pm Phone : 089 873 0187 – 076 510 151 Prices: Adults : 1 hr: 750 baht, 2 hr: 950 baht, 4 hr: 1,400 baht – Kids : 1 hr: 450 baht, 2 hr: 450 baht, 4 hr: 700 baht All Day : 1,600 baht (Kids 800 baht)

58. Take a Muay Thai Training in a Camp

Muay Thai is another way to make the best of your holiday to experience the legendary Muay Thai martial art. There is a surprisingly large number of Muay Thai camps around the island, offering full training and even accommodation for those who want to maximize their experience. Read more about Muay Thai Camps

Popular Ways to Discover Thai Boxing Experience

59. kitesurfing.

Kitesurfing is an exhilarating water sport that is getting popular in Phuket. It’s a mix of surfing, wakeboarding, and flying kites. Phuket is a good spot for kitesurfing because it has amazing beaches, warm water, and a holiday vibe all year round, but the low season is the best time to learn and improve your kitesurfing skills.

60. Join a Yoga Session

Many yoga classes are available around the island, some in beautiful tropical surroundings and at reasonable prices. Yoga is also a perfect activity for one of those occasional rainy days.

61. Race a Go Kart

Go Kart Phuket is a fun, fast and exciting way to compete with friends while on holiday in Phuket. Several Go-Kart tracks are available on the island, two near Patong, just passed the hill and close to Kathu. Patong Go-Kart Speedway is easy to spot and has been a long-time favourite.

62. Play Golf in Phuket

You are spoilt for choice if you intend to play golf in Phuket, with seven golf courses on the island and several more just across the border in Phang Nga province. Most of the golf courses in Phuket are in the northern half of the island.

Fast Facts about Phuket Attractions

Other top 10s you might want to look at.

FAQs about Phuket Attractions

Q. what are the most popular things to do on the island of phuket.

a. The most popular things to do on the island of Phuket include: Phuket Big Buddha Wat Chalong Temple Old Phuket Town Karon Viewpoint Promthep Cape

Q. What are the most popular things to do around Phuket?

a. Among the best things to do around Phuket are: Phang Nga Bay James Bon Island Koh Panyi

Q. What are the best islands to explore near Phuket?

a. There are many incredible islands to visit near Phuket: Phi Phi Island Similan Islands Maiton Island Coral Island Koh Khai Noi Koh Racha

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The 21 best things to do in Phuket

From diving with manta rays to nights out on the town, here is how to make the most of your time in this island utopia

Thailand ’s largest island has been a popular tourist destination for decades, but what exactly are the best things to do in Phuket ? Well, we’re sure glad you asked.

Now we’ve got a solid excuse to reel off about not just the history and culture of Phuket but also its incredible natural sights and unbeatable restaurant scene. Phuket sparkles in the day and comes alive at night , a 24/7 destination with endless entertainment and some of the best resorts in an area of the world where great resorts are ten a penny. Let’s delve into the best things to do in Phuket. 

RECOMMENDED: 🛏  Where to stay in Phuket 🪩 The ultimate  guide to Phuket nightlife

An email you’ll actually love

Best things to do in Phuket

1.  Green Elephant Sanctuary Park

What is it? The best and most ethical way to see elephants up close in Phuket. No trick shows, no tourist rides – just elephants being elephants in a lovingly cared-for environment.

Why go? Elephants can be seen working and performing all over Phuket, but unless you head deep into the jungle you won’t find any as happy as those who are lucky enough to call this place home. Beyond the gentle giants themselves, the real attraction here is the chance for you to get hands-on with feeding, cleaning and even swimming with these majestic creatures.

2.  Phuket Old Town

What is it? The picturesque historical quarter of Phuket Town where you’ll find beautiful old buildings, museums, boutique shops and a thriving night market.

Why go? A million miles away from the tourist packed beaches and night time hedonism on offer elsewhere in Phuket, this antiquated area of town is steeped in heritage and small enough to explore on foot. There’s a strong old colonial Chinese and Portuguese influence here, especially along the particularly charming Soi Rommannee, where brightly coloured old buildings house boutique shops, guesthouses and cafes.

3.  Mom Tri’s Kitchen

What is it? Probably the most romantic place to dine in Phuket, this award-winning restaurant – attached to the resplendent Villa Royale boutique hotel – has some of the best food, wine and views on the island.

Why go? If you’re looking for an elegant, classy restaurant with incredible views and food and drink to match, Mom Tri’s Kitchen is for you. Located on the headland between Kata Noi and Kata Yai beaches, book a table on the terrace, pick a bottle from the 700-strong wine list and soak up the atmosphere at one of Phuket’s best restaurants.

4.  Bangtao Beach

What is it? An eight-kilometre-long stretch of soft white sand lapped by crystal clear water that’s home to some of Phuket’s best-regarded restaurants and resorts.

Why go? There are dozens of beautiful beaches on Phuket (Freedom, Kata and Karon all deserve mention) but Bangtao Beach is the pick for many in the know. Home to the upscale bars, beach clubs and resorts of Laguna Complex, where there’s a relaxed yet refined vibe that’s perfect for sunbathing and slow strolls in the sand.

5.  Simon Cabaret

What is it?  One of the best ‘ladyboy’ cabaret shows on Phuket with spectacular shows three times a night.

Why go? Simon Cabaret is renowned as one of the very best of its kind in the country, with extravagant sets and high-tech production backing faultlessly choreographed and opulently dressed performers. The recently opened Aphrodite Cabaret just outside Phuket Town is also well worth a look.

6.  Chalong Bay Rum Distillery

What is it? A small eco-minded distillery producing award-winning rum, offering tours and tastings.

Why go? Thailand might be best known for its ferocious whiskies, but the young French couple behind this place are proving it can produce rum that’s up there with the very best. Sustainably produced using purely hand-harvested, local sugarcane, the rum tastes great; and the spacious, airy bar is the perfect place to sample a mojito, capriosa, or both.

7.  Wat Chalong

What is it? The most important and largest Buddhist temple on Phuket with a grand pagoda housing a splinter of bone from Lord Buddha himself.

Why go? The beautiful buildings and grounds are the perfect place to take a break from the beach. Always bristling with local worshippers and curious tourists, it can get really crowded here so try to come as early in the day as you can if you want time and space to take it all in - or get that perfect photo for the ‘gram. Remember: this is a sacred site, so make sure you cover up.

8.  Big Buddha

What is it?  The clue's in the name with this one. Phuket's 45-meter marble Buddha statue is one of the biggest draws for Thailand.

Why go?  You can't go to Phuket and miss the big Buddha. Quite literally, as it can be seen from just about anywhere in the south of the island. But take the time to climb up the hill in Karon and you'll be treated not only to an impressive close-up of the religious icon, but also stunning views of the mountains and Andaman sea. While you're up there, make a pitstop in the cafe and pop into the gift shop.

9.  Island hopping in Phang Nga Bay

What is it? The chance to jump aboard a speed boat and take a day trip (or two) out to explore some of the hundreds of tiny paradise islands surrounding Phuket.

Why go? There are dozens of tour operators offering all sorts of different day trips out from Phuket. If you’ve only got one day, head out on a Phan Nga Bay/James Bond Island trip, which takes you to the jaw-dropping limestone cliffs made famous by 007 plus a few other small islands for quality snorkelling and beach time.

10.  Diving

What is it? The submerged reefs of East Asia are among the prettiest in the world and teeming with life. There's no better way to see them than a close-up dive.

Why go?  Even if you've never dived before in your life, you'll have a blast exploring the Andaman ocean. Phuket has numerous diving instructors on-hand at hotels, hostels and beach resorts ready to take groups and private tours out. We'd recommend Hin Daeng and Koh Dok Man to dive at and if snorkelling’s more your thing, head to Nai Harn beach.

11.  Bang Pae Waterfall, Khao Phra Thaeo National Park

What is it? A small, but beautiful and tranquil waterfall surrounded by dense tropical jungle in Khao Phra Thaeo National Park on Phuket’s sparsely populated eastern side.

Why go? Bang Pae might not be Niagara Falls, but it is Phuket’s largest waterfall and attracts plenty of locals and tourists alike throughout the year. It’s best visited in wet season, when the rock pools are full enough to take a dip in and the lush jungle is at its verdant best. There’s a couple of decent local restaurants nearby for when you get hungry, but make sure you bring decent shoes and plenty of mosquito spray. Entry to the park costs 200 baht.

12.  Naka Weekend Market

What is it? An enormous weekend market in Phuket Town selling all sorts of wares, with a large outside area packed with street food hawkers serving speciality dishes and Thai favourites.

Why go? The biggest and best place to chow down on delicious, authentic Thai food without breaking the bank. You can get everything from spicy stir fries and freshly grilled fish to pancakes, fruit salads and spring rolls here. Most stalls do just one dish, but do it very well. If you’re feeling brave, try the deep fried locusts. They taste like popcorn. Really.

13.  Monkey Hill

What is it? Forget the tourist packed, more famous Monkey Beach and take a walk from Phuket Town up Toh Sae Hill for a close encounter with our furry cousins.

Why go? If you’re keen to ensure your holiday features some monkey-spotting, this is the best place to go. Head up the hill and you’ll soon meet monkeys looking for food. Bring some nuts or fruit along and you’ll make plenty of friends. But remember, these aren’t tame monkeys so don’t get too intimate. And if it’s raining, don’t bother – monkeys hate rain as much as we do.

14.  Floating restaurants at Laem Hin Pier

What is it? A cluster of floating restaurants that can only be reached by a short boat journey from the mainland, serving up some of the finest seafood on the island.

Why go? It’s one of the most unforgettable and unique dining experiences you can have on Phuket. Jump aboard one of the free long tail taxi boats (five minutes) that run from Laem Pier and head out to the floating restaurants near Koh Maphrow. Fill your face with the freshest oysters, crab, prawns and fish – all cooked to traditional Thai methods – and then catch a boat back beneath the stars. There are a few restaurants here; Bang Mud and The Black Crab are two definitely worth your attention.

Photograph: Courtesy Willy Thuan/ Phuket101

15.  Promthep Cape

What is it? The most southerly point of Phuket, where you can breathe in the most awe-inspiring, sublime views on the island.

Why go? You can’t really visit Phuket and not make your way up the viewpoint on Promethep Cape for at least one sunset. It can get incredibly busy, but the views more than make up for the constant stream of camera clicking tourists that arrive in the adjacent car park every evening. If crowds aren’t your thing, wait for night to fall and grab a table at the nearby Promthep Cape restaurant for a serene sundowner meal.

16.  Bangla Road

What is it? A notorious and raucous (but great fun) 400-meter strip of all kinds of night time entertainment that’s the beating heart of Phuket nightlife.

Why go? If you want a big night out in Phuket, this is the place to come. Running from the beach to the centre of Patong, take a walk up Bangla Road after dark and you’ll pass everything from beer bars and live music spots (Red Hot, Rock City) to enormous nightclubs (Illuzion, Tiger Disco) and, of course, plenty of go-go bars (Soi Freedom, Soi Sea Dragon). You probably won’t have a civilised night out here; but come with the right attitude and you’ll definitely have a great time.

17.  Mor Mu Dong Restaurant

What is it? An authentic, rustic restaurant nestled in the mangroves where locals and tipped-off tourists dine on incredible seafood in bamboo huts.

Why go? Mor Mu Dong in Phuket Town isn’t the easiest place to find, but is well worth the effort. Despite its location well off the beaten path (head past Phuket Zoo and keep going down the track), the quality of the food and the peaceful setting means this place is always. Don’t miss the stuffed curried mackerel.

18.  Muay Thai at Patong Boxing Stadium

What is it? A buzzing Thai boxing stadium where the fights are very real and the seats are packed with locals cheering their favourite fighters to victory.

Why go? You'll see plenty of billboards advertising Muay Thai fights all over Phuket, but most are nothing more than tourist-pleasing staged spectacles. This is the place to go for the real deal. The fights are violent and the atmosphere can get pretty wild – but that’s exactly what makes it all so exciting.

19.  Chillva Night Market

What is it? Constructed from colourfully painted upcycled shipping containers and aimed at young, fashionable locals, this bohemian little market is among Phuket’s best.

Why go? While you shouldn’t miss the island’s famed Night Market and Walking Street in Phuket Town, or the foodie paradise of Malin Plaza down in Patong, if you’re looking for a local experience, make sure you spend a couple hours browsing, eating and people watching here.

20.  Siam Supper Club

What is it? A seriously chic bar and dining destination, renowned for its refined yet relaxed old-school atmosphere, sublime cocktails and fantastic food.

Why go? Stepping out of the tropical heat and inside Siam Supper Club is like being transported to another world. Dim lighting, a long bar and wooden walls covered in black and white photographs of Hollywood’s golden era all combine to give this place an atmosphere that’s unique on Phuket. The menu is mostly Western and the wine list among the best on the island.

21.  One Chun Restaurant

What is it? One of the island’s best Thai restaurants with food, service and prices that have made it a real local’s favourite.

Why go? There’s no shortage of dining options on Phuket, but you come to Thailand for Thai food so pass on the pizza, ribs and burgers for at least one night and make your way here for a taste of authentic southern Thai food. The seafood is exceptional; don’t miss the stir-fried crab with lime sauce or deep fried tuna.

Looking for places to stay?

Where to stay in Phuket

With dozens of paradise beaches boasting super soft sand, calm blue waters and their own selection of hotels and attractions, you can be sure that no matter how big your budget, there’s an area of this beautiful island that’s right for you.

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Visit Phuket: Top 23 Things To Do And Must See Attractions

Things to do in phuket: the 23 best places to visit (all highlights).

You want to visit Phuket during your stay in Thailand ? You’re looking for the best things to do in Phuket?

You’re at the right place!

This southern island, located in the Andaman Sea, is the largest island of the country. Phuket is clearly the perfect destination to enjoy beautiful beaches, party and go enjoy day trips to the beautiful surrounding islands like Koh Phi Phi or James Bond Island.

In order to help you plan your stay, I have prepared this guide of the 23 best things to do in Phuket , with all points of interest and must-see attractions.

In addition to this list of things to do and activities, I will also give you itineraries to visit Phuket in 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 days (or even 1 week!) as well as my selection of the best accommodations depending on your budget.

So, what are the best things to do in Phuket? Where to stay?

2. Old Town / Phuket Town

3. wat chalong, 4. the big buddha, 5. phuket beaches, 6. trip to koh phi phi, 7. trip to james bond island / phang nga bay, 8. trip to the similan islands, 9. visit the elephants, 10. sports activities in phuket, 11. the best view points in phuket, 12. attend a cabaret show, 13. take a thai cooking class, 14. watch a muay thai boxing fight, 15. phuket night markets, 16. monkey hill, 17. bang pae waterfall, 18. coral island, 19. racha island, 20. the vegetarian festival, 21. places to go in the evenings in phuket, 22. koh yao noi, 23. koh lanta, visit phuket with your family, how many days do you need to visit phuket, visit phuket in 1 day, visit phuket in 2 days, visit phuket in 3 days, visit phuket in 4 or 5 days or even a week, where to stay in phuket, places to eat in phuket, how to get around phuket, go to phuket: flight prices, tourist map of phuket, you’re traveling to thailand these articles will help you, visit phuket: all must see attractions.

Patong is the main tourist area of Phuket.

Many travellers choose to stay here while travelling to Thailand.

As you may imagine, since this is the main tourist spot, it has many hotels (from youth hostels to the superb 5-star hotel complexs), bars, restaurants, shops and places to go out and party .

In the evening, Bangla Road is undoubtedly the liveliest street on the island with live music and ladyboy shows.

During the day, you can also enjoy the large beach of Patong (2 km long, the longest on the island) and the many water activities on offer: towed buoy rides, banana ride, parasailing. What a thrilling experience!

If you like the hustle and bustle and the crowd doesn’t bother you, Patong is a must for a stay in Phuket.

Phuket Town is the island’s main city and the capital.

The old town is really pleasant to walk around for a few hours . You can observe the colourful Sino-Portuguese style buildings, which are perfectly renovated and maintained.

Here you won’t find any dense crowds or electric cables everywhere, the place has retained all its former charm. If you have ever visited Bangkok during your tour in Thailand, it’s a big change!

The historic centre has most of the places to discover.

What are the things to see in Phuket Town:

• Thalang Road, the most popular street, with its local craft shops and cafés
• Thai Hua Museum on the history of Phuket
• The “Blue Elephant Mansion” famous for its traditional Thai cooking classes
• The shrine of serene light, a Chinese temple
• The Jui Jui sanctuary, also Chinese style but more recent
• The Clock Tower (not to be confused with Chiang Rai )
• The Phuket Museum is located in the Old Standard Chartered Bank building
• Phang Nga Road and its street art
• Bang Niew Shrine
• The philaletic museum in the old post office

If you have not rented a car or a scooter, you can easily reach Phuket Town by bus from any part of the island.

You can also choose to book an organised tour with pick-up at your hotel in Phuket. The trip includes a guided tour of the old town , a visit to the Chalong temple, the statue of the Great Buddha and ends at the Karon view-point.

This is one of the best trips to see many of the must-see sights of Phuket easily!

You can book it by clicking the green button below:

Wat Chalong is one of the most visited tourist sites in Phuket.

Built in the 19th century , it is the largest Buddhist temple on the island.

It includes several buildings but the most impressive remains the chedi, 60 metres tall , which is supposed to house a a splinter of Buddha’s bone. The interior is decorated with very beautiful frescoes representing the life of Buddha.

You must go up to the terrace on the top floor to enjoy the view of the island.

You’re going to Phuket?

You probably know it: the hardest part of planning your trip is to find an hotel offering a good value for money!

The closer you get to your travel dates, the harder it will be to get a good deal. Lots of people will be visiting Phuket on the same dates as you , so you can be sure that the best deals are booked extremely quickly!

Hopefully, there is a pretty simple solution to this problem: do like me and book your hotel as early as possible!

So, my best advice is to take 5 minutes (now) to have a look at the list of travelers’ favorite hotels in Phuket.

And if you see a good offer, book it!

Most hotels offer free cancellation, so it’s quick, easy, and you will avoid the the inconvenience of finding nothing but mediocre rooms at exorbitant prices.

To check the current best deals for your hotel in Phuket, simply click on the green button below 😎:

Once you’ve booked your hotel, it will be time to continue reading this guide and find out more about the best things to do in Phuket!

Another well-known temple to see absolutely in Phuket: the Big Buddha.

This 25m tall white marble statue on top of a hill can be seen for miles around. It quickly became one of the most popular tourist attractions in Phuket!

Apart from the statue, which I must admit is quite impressive, you can get a beautiful 360° view of the island and the beaches.

As I was saying, most people who travel to Phuket come here mainly to enjoy its beaches.

So what are the most beautiful beaches in Phuket?

• Freedom Beach, with its white sands and turquoise waters. Only accessible by boat from Patong beach or by walking (but sometimes the path is closed).
• Kata Beach, a vast stretch of sand, as popular as Patong, with restaurants and cafes everywhere
• Karon beach, the second largest beach on the island
• Nai Harn Beach is located in a sheltered bay, surrounded by greenery
• Laem Singh Beach, a beautiful strip of fine sand bordered by palm trees
• Ya Nui beach renowned for snorkelling activities
• Kamala beach, ideal for families
• Surin beach, north of Kamala
• The Bangtao beach, in the most upscale part of the island, bordered by luxury hotels
• Banana Beach , still not crowded as much

It is impossible to visit Phuket and not explire the most famous island of Thailand, Koh Phi Phi!

The island is located between Phuket and Koh Lanta and is ideal fpr a day trip from Phuket.

The island is famous for being home to the Maya Bay beach, which was discovered by the whole world in the movie “The Beach” with Leonardo di Caprio. Since then, any good itinerary in Thailand must include a visit to Koh Phi Phi.

Unfortunately, the having nearly 5,000 visitors per day and hundreds of boats had severely damaged corals and the ecosystem. The beach was closed a few years before being reopened.

It may be closed occasionally a few months a year, but in this case you can see Maya Bay from the boat.

Every day, trips leave from Phuket and you can explore several islands in 1 day including Koh Phi Phi, Bamboo Island, Khai Island and Maiton Island.  There are also stops at Monkey Beach, Pi Leh Cove and Viking Cave.

Everything is included in the price (between 3,200 and 3,500 Bahts, or around €100): pick-up at the hotel, transport to the port, boat cruise, lunch, mask and snorkel for snorkelling, and as many soft drinks as you want.

Another advantage of this trip: a morning departure to visit later than other boats.

Simply click on the button below to book your boat trip to Koh Phi Phi from Phuket:

If you don’t feel like getting up too early, you can also book the same trip but with a later departure. Reservations can be made by clicking here!

Finally, for a luxury cruise to Koh Phi Phi , you must take the catamaran trip. The boat is very comfortable and you will have paddle boats and kayaks . There is even a long-tailed boat ride (the traditional Thai boats) to access a beautiful lagoon.

Book your luxury catamaran trip in Koh Phi Phi by clicking on the button:

An important note regarding trips and activities in Phuket and Thailand in general: some agencies are extremely lax in terms of safety standards and respect for the environment. Incidentally, accidents happen quite regularly!

In order for you to do enjoy your trip safely, it is best to book the options I propose in this article in advance. It’s not more expensive, and you can rest assured that you are doing your trip or activity with a reputed agency.

If you’ve been around the island’s beaches and you don’t know what to do in Phuket, you must take a boat trip to Phang Nga Bay.

It is considered one of the most beautiful bays in the world thanks to its numerous islands and karst rocks. And I have to admit, the bay is very photogenic!

In this case too, a famous movie helped expose Phang Nga to the world , a James Bond movie specifically: “The Man with the Golden Gun” .  So much so that Koh Tapu Island is now known as James Bond Island.

Every day, boats leave from Phuket and take you to Phang Nga Bay. On the schedule, there is a trip to James Bond Island and also to the island of Koh Panyee, built like a large floating market with souvenir shops.

At several places in the bay, particularly around the islands of Ko Phanak, Ko Hong and Ko Raya Ring, you can go kayaking to explore the caves and cross the rocky formations.

The one-day boat fare (about 4,000/ 4,500 Bahts) in Phang Nga Bay always includes: pick-up from your hotel, transport to the port, cruise, lunch, snorkelling equipment, guided kayaking tour.

The trip that I have selected offers a departure that is early enough to enjoy the place before the other boats arrive, which is really great.

To book your trip to James Bond Island from Phuket with a reputed agency, click on the button below:

If it’s a little too early for you, you can also book the standard trip with a departure at 9.30am (click here).

And if you want to indulge yourself, you can take choose a luxury cruise on a magnificent boat equipped with deckchairs and a bar. This trip includes lunch and dinner buffet, which you can enjoy while admiring a beautiful sunset over the islands. 

All drinks are included , as well as a kayak trip. You will even have stand-up paddle boards and buoys at your disposal.

You can book this luxury boat trip to James Bond Island by clicking this button:

Another boat trip that you must take if you are in Phuket is the one to the Similan Islands archipelago.

The Similan Islands are a paradise for diving or snorkelling enthusiasts and are regularly ranked among the most beautiful spots in the world. Accessible to beginners and experienced divers alike!

From Phuket, the easiest way to get to the Similan Islands is to book a day trip.

The schedule includes a stop on the famous Donald Duck Bay beach, a climb to the Sail Rock viewpoint, two snorkelling and diving breaks, a picnic in Honeymoon Bay and a last stop for swimming before returning.

Everything will be taken care of for you, from your hotel in the morning until the evening and return. Everything is included in the price (about 3800 Bahts)!

To book your trip to the Similan Islands from Phuket with a good agency , just click on the button below:

Why not continue your holiday in Phuket with some time in an elephant sanctuary.

Present all over Thailand, they gather elephants that have been abused or abandoned to treat them. They are increasingly becoming ethical by no longer offering elephant rides and are trying to recreate their natural living conditions as much as possible .

On this half-day trip (you can choose to leave in the morning or in the afternoon), you will have the chance to feed the elephants and wash them. It’s a great idea for family activities in Phuket!

The schedule is always organised as follows: pick-up at your hotel, transport, about 3 hours with elephants , lunch and return. Everything is included in the price of around 3000 Bahts.

You must book this elephant visit in Phuket in advance as the number of visitors is limited every day.

Just click the button below:

Are you tired of sunbathing on the beach? Do you want to have a little adventure and some thrills?

No problem, there are several sports activities in Phuket:

• Tubing: river descent on a buoy
• Quad biking:  You must take this quad bike ride to enjoy a great jungle tour (click here!).
• From ziplines to the Flying Hanuman: if you want to spend a day in the trees at the most famous tree stand in Phuket, you can book your tickets by clicking here!
• And a wide variety of water activities: buoy rides, parasailing, paddle boating, etc.

What’s cool is that you are able to combine multiple activities in the same day. For an outing including quad bike s, zip lines and rafting, you can book this trip by clicking on the button below:

There are several viewpoints in Phuket to admire the splendid panoramas or have a romantic moment at sunset:

• The view from Karon , overlooking the 3 beaches of Kata Noi, Kata and Karon
• Khao Rang Hill Viewpoint and its panorama of the city of Phuket. You should also see the lights of Phuket Town at night. While going there, you can visit Wat Kao Rang and its great golden seated Buddha.
• Cape Promthep, to the south of the island, the favourite spot for tourists to admire the sunset
• Windmill Point, located close to the cape, the view is worth the detour.

This Phuket tourist guide continues with a very typical Thai concept: attending a ladyboy show.

Ladyboys are very beautiful “ladies” , very well-made up and dressed, and who are actually men!

The most famous ladyboy show in Phuket is held every evening at the Simon Cabaret.

There are other shows in Phuket but this is really the best: the staging is careful and the costumes are flamboyant. A bit kitschy, but its all to prepare the setting! At the end, you can even have a souvenir photo taken with the stars of the show.

To spend an evening at the Simon Cabaret Show in Phuket, you can book your tickets here.

For a more family-friendly version, you must attend the Siam Niramit show featuring more than a hundred actors and dancers. It traces the history of Thailand through several different paintings and decorations. The costumes are really beautiful and the show is well done.

Tickets can be booked in advance by clicking below:

You can take advantage of your holiday in Phuket by taking a cooking class! This is one of the best things to do in Thailand because the food is so good that you will want to recreate the dishes at home.

The class, which lasts about 4 hours , always starts with a visit to a local market to buy all the ingredients .

Once back in the kitchen, you will learn how to cook Pad Thai, curry panang, tom yam kung or sticky mango rice before the tasting.

The dishes offered vary according to the day of the week , so do not hesitate to choose the menu that suits you best.

To book your cooking class in Phuket, click here:

During your stay in Phuket, you must spend an evening to attend a Muay Thai boxing fight.

It is the national sport of Thailand and all the cities have a stadium where the fighting takes place several times a week.

In Phuket, it’s at the Bangla Boxing Stadium in Patong. For almost 4 hours, you can watch a succession of fights (children, women, men) in a charged atmosphere , punctuated by musicians who mark the hits.

On the other hand, Muay Thai is considered one of the most violent sports in which almost all strikes are allowed, so it’s not for the faint-hearted.

You have to buy your ticket early to get a seat, the Thai people love it and the stadium is often full.

To buy souvenirs and try Thai street food, you cannot go wrong with a visit to a Thai night market.

Phuket has several Night Markets:

• The Sunday Street Market on Thalang Road, Phuket Town
• Chillva Night Market Phuket, Thursdays to Sundays on Yaowarat Road
• Naka Market, next to Naka temple, on Saturday and Sunday
• Malin Plaza, every day south of Patong Beach
• Buntai Market, between Patong and Phuket Town
• Karon temple market, Tuesdays and Fridays

During your walk in Phuket Town, you can also visit Monkey Hill.

As the name suggests, this hill is inhabited by entire colonies of monkeys. The monkeys are used to people, and there are dozens of them on the road waiting for one thing, to be fed! And Thai people have a good business sense, there are banana and groundnut sellers all over the place.

Remember to put all your food and things inside your bag, as they love trying to steal from you. And don’t think they are pets. Even though they are used to humans, they are still wild animals and can be aggressive.

If you are trying to monkey around by taunting them with food, don’t be surprised at how quickly they react by trying to scratch or bite you. Follow basic principles of caution and all will be well!

At the top of the hill , accessible only by foot or scooter, you can admire a panoramic view of Phuket from here.

The Bang Pae waterfall is one of the most popular places in Phuket among the local population.

It is a little neglected by tourists because it is located to the north-east of the island, in the least touristy part. To get there, you will have to rent a scooter or a car.

At 18m tall, it is the largest waterfall in Phuket. It takes about 10 minutes on foot along a river to get there. When we visited there, the place was filled with Thai people who came to spend a some time with their family and swim.

Bang Pae is part of the Khao Phra Thaeo National Park, so you will have to pay 200 Bahts per person to enter it.

The waterfall itself is not exceptional , people go there mainly to visit the gibbon rehabilitation centre (Gibbon Rehabilitation Project). Run by volunteers, it hosts gibbons that were once abused or adopted by families who got rid of them when they grew too big.

The goal is to try re-settle them into their environment gradually . You can support the project by sponsoring a gibbon.

I’m telling you about Coral Island to dissuade you from going there!

The island is less than 30 minutes away by boat from Phuket and is filled with tourists. Every day, boats line up in front of the beach and the people flood out.

And all these people are just splashing around in one place. Add to this the incessant drone of water activities and boat engines, and you will get to see the negative side of some places in Thailand.

Not to mention that the beach is not very clean and the facilities (sunshades, deckchairs) are not on their last legs!

So there are a lot of better things to do in Phuket!

If you want to go there and form your own opinion, allow 1,500 Bahts for the return boat trip with lunch included.

As with Coral Island, there is Racha Island, 30 minutes away from Phuket speed boat .

The island is renowned for its seabed , ideal for snorkelling, but unfortunately, diving with dozens of people means seeing more legs and orange vests in the water than fish!

And the island is unfortunately included in all the tours organised for Chinese tourists, you will see hordes of them landing from 10:30 am.

In short, there are other ways to find a more peaceful experience on beaches in Phuket. I thought I should warn you!

If you want to form your own opinion, you can book this combined trip to visit Coral Island and Racha Island. It includes a luxury catamaran, lunch and music played by a DJ.

You can find all the information by clicking here!

When visiting Phuket, you can also discover some special customs.

And the vegetarian festival is at the top of the list!

It is held every year during the ninth lunar month for 9 days and as its name indicates, it involves of not eating meat during that time. Nothing too original so far.

But things get a little tricky during the processions, where some participants begin to mutilate themselves and pierce their cheeks with various objects, ranging from a single needle to several swords. Very impressive to see.

What are the party spots in Phuket?

As I said in the section dedicated to Patong, Bangla Road is the place to go out in Phuket. There is something for all styles and tastes: gogo-bars, lounge bars, live music… And if you’re looking for a night club where you can dance all night long, head for the Illuzion , Phuket’s trendiest nightclub.

To attend a traditional dance show or one with actors and dancers , you can go to the Simon Cabaret Show or the Siam Niramit.

However, you must avoid the Phuket Fantasea show where elephants take part and where you can take pictures with baby tigers before the show.

I haven’t been there, but we all know how animals are treated at these kinds of attractions. Not to mention the 4,000-seater dining room where you can dine before for an exorbitant price. And it’s notorious for not being that good, far from the quality of Thai food.

The best things to do around Phuket?

After touring the attractions I discussed in the best things to see, you must continue your stay in Thailand by exploring one or more islands around Phuket.

The islands of Koh Yao Noi and Koh Lanta are easily accessible from Phuket but deserve a minimum of 2-3 days and not just a day trip.

As for Krabi , although it is not an island, the region is a good base for visiting the surrounding islands.

Koh Yao Noi is just a 30-minute boat ride from Phuket. And it is much quieter!

Forget the crowded beaches and the noise, Koh Yao Noi is a really soothing island. It is the ideal island for relaxing holidays and enjoying nice beaches.

From Koh Yao Noi you can also book boat trips to explore the islands of Ko Pak Bia, Ko Lao Lading, Ko Hong or James Bond Island. You will have the opportunity to catch up if you haven’t had time to see it from Phuket.

This is clearly my favourite island to visit near Phuket!

All information to visit Koh Yao Noi can be found in our article: The best things to do in Koh Yao Noi?

Another well-known island that you must visit around Phuket: Koh Lanta.

To reach there, it takes about 4 hours by boat , usually with a change at Koh Phi Phi. If you didn’t visit Koh Phi Phi, it is rather nice because the boat makes a stop to see Maya Bay beach.

On Koh Lanta, you can enjoy beautiful sandy beaches, which are also less touristy than those in Phuket.

You must also visit the 4 islands of Koh Chueak, Koh Waen, Koh Muk and Koh Ngai . Snorkelling stops are planned at various places and there are lots of fish to watch.

Click here to book:

All the things to do in Koh Lanta are mentioned in our article: Koh Lanta: the definitive guide.

From Phuket, Krabi is located on the other side of the Andaman Sea.

The Krabi area is known for its huge karst peaks and its small and pretty islands like Turtle Island or Chicken Island. You can discover them via boat trips . Click here to book.

20 km from the city, you can visit the Ao Nang beach , which is just 10 minutes away from a heavenly spot in Thailand and the region: Railay .

Bordered by large karst cliffs , the place is truly magnificent. The cliffs are also paradise for climbers, with nearly 700 routes.

To make sure you don’t miss the most beautiful places in Krabi, read our article: What are the best things to see and do in Krabi?

The best things to do in Phuket with children?

To organise your family trip to Phuket, here is a list of all things to do:

• Enjoy the beaches , and you will be spoilt for choice in Phuket
• Spend a day with elephants
• Attend a show with traditional dances and songs
• Take a tour of the night markets to browse souvenirs
• Feed monkeys at Monkey Hill (be careful)
• Picnic at the Bang Pae waterfall and seeing gibbons
• Visit the TrickEye Museum and take your picture in ultra realistic 3D settings. Entrance tickets here!
• Play mini golf at Dino Park
• Go to Aquaria Phuket aquarium
• Spend the day at the Andamanda water park, Thailand’s largest water park, which opened in 2022.

To visit Phuket and its nearby spots , you must plan at least 3 days.

You can of course spend a week or more enjoying the beaches and make several day –trips in boats to visit the islands.

If you have a day to visit Phuket , you can spend the day in Patong , the island’s main tourist area:

• Enjoy the beach
• Walk along Bangla Road
• Do some shopping at the night market
• Watch a show at Simon Cabaret or a Muay Thaï Boxing Fight 

If you have 2 days in Phuket, you can continue from the schedule for the first day and add:

• A walk through the streets of Phuket Town
• Climb to Monkey Hill to see the monkeys
• Go to the Khao Rang Hill view-point
• End the day at the beach

In 3 days in Phuket, you can continue from the schedule for the first two days and then you have 4 options:

1. Discover the South of the island:

• Visit Wat Chalong
• Go to see the Big Buddha
• Admire the view at Karon View Point
• Stop at Nai Harn Beach
• Visit Windmill Viewpoint and Yanui Beach
• Watch the sunset at Promthep Cape

2. One morning in an elephant sanctuary + 1 afternoon zip-lining

3. Bang Pae waterfall in the Khao Phra Thaeo National Park or a cooking class + afternoon on one of the western beaches: Surin, Bangtao, Laem Sing or Kamala

4. A day trip with a choice of:

• Koh Phi Phi
• James Bond Island and Phang Nga Bay
• Similan Islands

Are you vacationing in Phuket for 4 or 5 days or even a week?

Great, you have time to do all the things I recommend in this guide!

Continue with my circuits for days 1 and 2. For the other days, everything is given for day 3 , you can do everything without having to choose!

And if you’re tired of Phuket then head for another island in the Andaman Sea: Koh Yao Noi or Koh Lanta are waiting for you 😊

If you want to be in the middle of the action, I have prepared a selection of accommodation on the Patong side:

• Lub D Phuket Patong: Youth Hostel 5 minutes from Patong Beach and 10 minutes from Bangla Road. Modern and very clean dormitory bed from €12. Strong points: huge swimming pool, common areas with even a boxing ring, design, cleanliness. This is the best hostel in Phuket!
• Mazi Design Hotel by Kalima: Located 5 minutes from the night market and 10 minutes from Bangla Road. Spacious designer double room from €35 per night, breakfast at €7. Strong points: swimming pool, location, comfort of the rooms. It’s my favorite for its excellent value for money in Patong.
• Holiday Inn Express Phuket Patong Beach Central: Located opposite the beach. Modern and warm double room with balcony from €72, breakfast included. Strong points: outdoor facilities, swimming pool, welcoming atmosphere and the friendliness of the staff.
• Phuket Marriott Resort Spa, Merlin Beach: 5-star hotel complex located 2 miles from Patong, right on Tri-Trang beach. Warm and comfortable double room with private balcony or terrace from €110, breakfast at €19. Strong points: sea-side location, private beach, quiet, playground for children, setting. This is my recommendation for a luxury stay in Phuket!

If you prefer to stay in Phuket Town, here is my selection of hotels:

• Baan Baan hostel: Hostel located in Phuket Old Town. Dormitory bed from €8, breakfast included. Strong points: helpful staff, cleanliness, location, calm atmosphere. The best youth hostel to stay in Phuket Town!
• Ritsurin Boutique Hotel: Located 600 metres from Thalang Street. Clean and well-equipped double room from €28. Strong points: location, cleanliness, friendly staff.
• The Malika Hotel: Located 1.8 km from the old town. Double room with very comfortable bedding and balcony from €38, breakfast at €6. Strong points: swimming pool, quiet atmosphere, friendly staff, ideal location to take the boat to Koh Phi Phi. It’s my favorite for its excellent value for money in Phuket Town!
• Casa Blanca Boutique Hotel: Located in the old town. Double room decorated with great taste from €50 per night, breakfast at €7. Strong points: excellent location, friendly staff, right next to the night market.
• Novotel Phuket Phokeethra: Located 1 mile away from the old town. Super spacious double room, modern design from €85, breakfast at €15. Strong points: setting, comfort, ideal to visit the old town, close to the boat to the islands of Koh Phi Phi and Koh Lanta. This is my recommendation for an upscale stay in Phuket Town!

To have a meal in Phuket and everywhere in Thailand, you can’t do better than a night market and its numerous food stalls. Everyone can eat whatever they want and this avoids arguments about the choice of the restaurants (it happens to all of us!)! 😆

Alternatively, you’ll find plenty of restaurants all over Phuket, whether near the beaches or on Bangla Road. However, as the area is very touristy, the prices are often higher than elsewhere in Thailand and the quality is not always there. It is always better to go a bit further away from the busiest streets.

If you want a “real” restaurant with a little more class and a nice view, then I recommend the Mum Tri’s Kitchen. It is located in the bay of Kata. The meals are good and well presented but you will have to pay around €18 per person, which is very expensive for Thailand.

To discover authentic Thai cuisine, your best option is a food tour by a local guide.

The visit I have selected will give you the opportunity to taste fifteen dishes including: a Burmese curry, samosas , naans , exotic fruits, shrimps cooked in banana leaves, noodles, pork kebabs…

Needless to say, it is better to go there on an empty stomach! The dishes are really good and the fact that there is a an upper limit of 8 people is great.

You can book it here:

To get around and visit Phuket, you have several options:

• Scooter: the ideal way to be independent and stop where you want. But you still need to be capable of driving and be really careful. Most of the hotels or guesthouse in Phuket offer one for rent. Don’t forget to wear your helmet.
• Car: you can rent a car to get around Phuket. You should compare prices on Rentalcars.com.  
• Bus / Song Thaew: convenient to travel to/from Phuket Town and to beaches. However, it takes long enough to go from one beach to another because most of the times you will travel through the city and have to change buses. Buses generally stop around 5:00 or 6:00pm.
• Tuk-tuks: a small special feature of Phuket, the price of a tuk-tuk trip is not really negotiable, the latter having agreed on the prices! And of course it’s very expensive, and even more so at the end of the day when the buses don’t run anymore.
• Taxi: the same as for tuk-tuks, it is impossible to negotiate and no driver will want to set the metre on (apart from those at the airport, if you are lucky). You will therefore have to pay 700 Bahts for less than 30 minutes!
• Private taxi: to combat the taxi mafia, you can book a private car or a minibus with a driver. They will drive you everywhere and wait for you every time. You must book online by clicking here to get an assured price.
• Organised trips: at least, there won’t be any nasty surprises since you book and pay online. You can click here to see the different trips offered.

How to get to Phuket

To reach Phuket, you have several option.

Phuket has an international airport, so you can land there directly or arrive on a national flight from Bangkok, Chiang Mai or Chiang Rai.

Flights are therefore the quickest way to get to Phuket.

The airport is located to the north of the island.

Do not hesitate to compare the flight prices to Phuket using our comparator in the next section.

To avoid getting ripped off by a taxi or the stress of taking the bus , once you arrive at Phuket airport, you can book your transport back to your accommodation in advance. The driver will wait for you with a name-sign. You can also choose your vehicle (4 to 8 seats).

All information about booking a transfer from Phuket Airport is available by clicking here:

You can also go to Phuket by bus , from Bangkok for example.

The journey takes at least 12 hours and the fares start from 640 Bahts.

From Bangkok, the other option is to take the train to Surat Thani (8 hours ) + 1 bus to Phuket (add 5 hours).

From Krabi, Koh Lanta and Koh Phi Phi , you can go by boat to Phuket.

You can choose between speed boats (faster but more expensive and – less comfortable) or ferries . You will disembarked at the Rassada port , 3 km from Phuket Town.

For a ferry transfer from Koh Phi Phi to Phuket , you can book by clicking here.

For a trip in a speedboat to Koh Lanta or Koh Phi Phi, you can click directly by booking here!

Since flight prices for Phuket vary greatly, it is a good idea to compare them as soon as possible. To do this, you can use our flight comparison tool, in partnership with Skyscanner.  You can rest assured that you will get the best rates.

To help you visualise the town a little better, I made you a tourist map of Phuket listing the places to visit that I talk about in this top 23 things to do in Phuket and nearby. You can display the map legend by clicking the button at the top left with a small arrow.

So what have you planned to in Phuket?

Thailand travel Guides

• Buy the Lonely Planet Thailand guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk
• Buy the DK Eyewitness Thailand guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk

Discover all my articles about Thailand : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Thailand are listed there.

The 25 Best Things to Do in Thailand

• Itinerary: One week in Thailand – Perfect to visit Bangkok, Ayutthaya and Chiang Mai!
• Itinerary: 6,7 or 8 days in Thailand – 2 itineraries to the southern islands, starting from Phuket or Krabi
• Itinerary: 10 days in Thailand – The perfect itinerary to discover the best of Thailand!
• Itinerary: 2 weeks in Thailand – Discover Bangkok, Ayutthaya, Sukhothai , + Best Southern islands!
• Itinerary: 15 days in Thailand – The best itinerary to visit the most beautiful Southern islands
• Itinerary: 3 weeks in Thailand – Discover the best of Thailand in 20-21 days
• Itinerary: 1 month in Thailand – The most complete itinerary to visit Thailand!
• Road trip in Thailand: The best itineraries for 7, 10, 15, 21 and 30 days
• Ayutthaya: The definitive guide to visit the archaeological park
• Bangkok: The 30 best places to visit
• Chiang Mai: The 20 best things to do
• Chiang Rai: The 17 must-see attractions
• Koh Lanta: The 15 most beautiful places to see on the island
• Koh Yao Noi: All the things to do on this paradise island!
• Krabi: Top 17 best places to visit
• Phuket: The 23 best things to do
• Sukhothai: How to visit the historical park?
• 3 days in Bangkok – The best itinerary to visit the Thai capital in 72h!
• 3 Days in Chiang Mai – The perfect itinerary to visit the Chiang Mai in 72h!

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Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

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Discussion 2 comments.

We are traveling to Scotland and will be there during Easter. Is there a recommendation of where to go to avoid crowds and get accomdations. We will probably start in Edinburgh and travel West for 2 weeks. Thanks

Hello Judy,

I haven’t visited this part of Scotland (apart from Edinburgh) so unfortunately I can’t help you with your itinerary. But most people visit the Highlands, Isle of Skye, Edinburgh, Loch Lomond and Glasgow so the East of Scotland is bound to be less crowded.

Enjoy your trip to Scotland!

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The 23 Best Things to Do in Phuket

• Last Updated: January 20, 2024

Ready to explore this beautiful, fun city in southern Thailand? With our complete guide to the best things to do in Phuket (created after 5 visits here) we’ll show you exactly what to do, where to stay and how to make the most of your time here.

If anyone says “paradise” doesn’t exist, they haven’t been to the islands of Thailand.

Postcard-worthy beaches rest underneath limestone cliffs and the shining Southeast Asian sun.

Rich Thai culture complements the beauty of nature, with elaborate temples, crowded street markets and friendly locals inhabiting the land.

For the best introduction to the stunning scenery and warm culture of Thailand, visit Phuket, the country’s largest island.

At roughly 576 square kilometres, the list of things to do in Phuket is quite long.

For those who want to relax and soak in the sun, you can spend quality time with Phuket’s many beaches and dine out at the island’s best restaurants.

For those who want to experience authentic Thai culture, you can tour the Buddhist temples, take a cooking class or visit a local boxing match.

For those who want to have a little adventure and explore nature, you can go island hopping, swimming in waterfalls or hiking to a scenic lookout point.

READ MORE: Plan your perfect 3 days in Phuket with our itinerary!

There are so many things to see in Phuket that cater to any sort of traveller.

Phuket’s attractions can suit budget, mid-range, and luxury travel styles, and Phuket also makes a great starting point for venturing out to Thailand’s other islands.

Cheap ferries and boat tours connect Phuket with the other islands in the Andaman Sea. So you can easily base yourself in Phuket and take day trips to the other surrounding islands like James Bond Island in Phang Nga Bay or Koh Phi Phi.

Or, you could conveniently fit Phuket into an island-hopping extravaganza.

Either way, Phuket is definitely a must-see island of Thailand.

Table of Contents

1) Visit Wat Chalong

2) hike to the karon viewpoint, 3) explore phuket old town, 4) experience the phuket weekend night market, 5) parasail over patong beach, 6) admire the big buddha, 7) learn to make cocktails at chalong bay rum distillery, 8) soak in the views from khao khad viewpoint, 9) beach-hop down phuket’s west coast, 10) stroll through chillva market, 11) venture to the bang pae waterfall in khao phra thaeo national park, 12) take a tour of the surrounding islands, 13) challenge the mind at the phuket trickeye museum, 14) take a thai cooking class, 15) visit the karon temple and market, 16) go diving, 17) watch a muay thai boxing match, 18) visit khao rang viewpoint, 19) experience bangla road, 20) surf the waves, 21) visit the jui tui shrine, 22) attend a simon cabaret show, 23) watch the sunset from promthep cape, old phuket town, nai yang/mai khao, budget hostels in phuket: lub d phuket patong hostel and luna airport hostel, best mid-range accommodation in phuket: blu monkey boutique, best luxury hotel in phuket: sri panwa hotel, hire a car or motorbike, take public transport, budget: sabaijai cafe, mid-range: mor mu dong restaurant, luxury: mom tri’s kitchen, the best things to do in phuket.

Whether you are looking for a relaxing holiday, a deep cultural experience, or an active adventure, Phuket deserves a place on every travellers’ Thailand bucket list.

So here are the 23 top things to do in Phuket, including religious sights, outdoorsy adventures, markets, cultural activities, and viewpoints.

Phuket has 29 Buddhist temples, but Wat Chalong is the biggest and most popular.

The entire temple complex is very large, with landscaped gardens, golden statues, and stunning architecture.

Wat Chalong has a strict set of rules about dress code and respectful behaviour, as does every temple in Thailand.

You must remove your shoes before entering a temple, and wear clothes that cover your shoulders and knees.

Also known as the Kata Viewpoint, this hilltop lookout sits just south of Kata Noi Beach .

It offers spectacular views of the turquoise Andaman Sea and the surrounding beaches and towns of Phuket.

The third name for this lookout is the “Three Beaches Viewpoint” because you can see the nearby Kata Noi Beach, Kata Beach, and Karon Beach from the top.

If you want a bit of exercise, you can hike to the viewpoint from the Karon neighbourhood.

Most of the walk is just along the main road, and it takes usually 45 minutes to an hour depending on where you start.

Just ask the staff at your accommodation for directions.

READ MORE: Check out our guide to the best places to visit in Thailand !

In the southeast corner of the island lies Phuket Old Town, a scenic neighbourhood revealing remnants of the island’s colonial past.

Phuket used to have a thriving tin mining industry, so Sino-Portuguese, Chinese and Malay immigrants flocked here and became rich off of the popular metal.

Nowadays, the colourful architecture and elaborate mansions of the wealthy foreigners still stand, so travellers can catch a glimpse of the different cultures that planted their roots here.

Phuket Old Town has lots of Buddhist and Chinese temples, museums, boutique shops, cafes, and even an old red-light district.

The two main streets of Old Phuket Town where most of the attractions lie are Soi Rommanee and Thalang Road .

On the topic of street markets, this is Phuket’s largest night market.

Locally known as the “ Naka Market ,” The Phuket Weekend Night Market is massive, with an indoor section selling mainly clothes and souvenirs, and an outdoor, open-air section selling everything else.

You can find everything from second-hand shoes, to CDs and movies, to fresh fruit and stands selling corn on the cob and deep-fried insects.

Strolling around this market is truly an adventure, and you’ll probably see some crazy things.

Try to visit the market as early as possible because the crowds can get insane.

Also try and walk there if you can because there aren’t many places to park, especially later in the evening when it gets busy.

• Location : 7 Wirat Hong Yok Road, Phuket Town, Muang, Phuket 83000
• Hours : 4 pm to 10 pm, every day

READ MORE: Don’t miss out on all the great activities to check out in Ao Nang!

Patong Beach is one of the busiest and most touristy beaches on the island.

Though it isn’t the most peaceful beach, it is still beautiful and there are tons of tour companies offering fun activities like parasailing.

This water sport seems a little scary at first, but it is super fun for those who want an adrenaline rush.

You are basically strapped to a seat that hangs down from a parachute, which is tied to a motorboat by a rope.

As the boat accelerates, the wind catches the parachute, lifts you up and you glide through the air behind the boat.

Parasailing is an exciting way to experience Patong Beach.

Just make sure you ask for the prices at lots of different tour operators before booking so you can compare the costs.

Visiting the Big Buddha is definitely one of the top things to do in Phuket.

Made of white Burmese marble and standing at a whopping 45 meters tall, the Big Buddha is a magnificent landmark of the island.

Construction of the Big Buddha began in 2004, so it is a relatively new structure and is very well-maintained.

Sitting high on top of Nakkerd Hill , this spot offers lovely panoramic views of the island as well.

Try to visit the Big Buddha as early as possible to avoid the tour buses that stop here during tours of the island.

The road leading up to the Big Buddha starts at Chalong Circle and is a winding uphill drive, but there are plenty of signs to guide the way.

READ MORE: Skip the crowds and visit the nearby area of Trang instead !

Tasting and learning about local alcohol is a great insight into any culture.

Visit the Chalong Bay Rum Distillery , one of the best Phuket attractions, to taste rum made from organic Thai sugarcane and learn about the rum-making process.

Between 2 pm and 6 pm, you can take a 30 minute guided tour of the distillery to learn about the art of making rum, and you’ll get to try a classic Chalong Bay Mojito.

To become even more of a rum expert, you can take a 2-hour cocktail workshop.

Held every day at 4 pm, the workshop includes a tour of the distillery, lessons on making 3 different cocktails, and tapas. Try to book this workshop in advance in case it sells out!

You can also just visit the distillery during their daily hours of operation and look around and eat at the restaurant if you don’t have time for a tour or a workshop.

READ MORE: Plan your trip to Thailand with our comprehensive Thailand Travel Guide !

For an uncrowded viewpoint over the city, head to the top of a high and remote hill on the island’s southeast peninsula.

Here lies Khao Khad Viewpoint, also known as the Panwa Viewpoint because it’s located in Phuket’s Cape Panwa region.

This lookout provides gorgeous views over the turquoise waters and rugged outlines of Phuket’s southern coast.

You can see Phuket Town when you look north, and in the other directions, you can see various beaches and islands mingling with the ocean.

The lookout structure has two levels and you have to climb 200 steps to get there.

But there usually aren’t many tourists here, as it is less popular than Phuket’s other viewpoints.

Of all the things to see in Phuket, the beaches are probably the best.

The sight and sound of turquoise waves rolling over the soft golden sand never gets old, so be sure to pack plenty of beach days into your travels around Phuket.

There are so many beaches on the island it seems impossible to visit them all, so here is a list of some of the best ones.

The most beautiful beaches are on the west side of the island, so this list will start in the north and list beaches heading south down the coast.

Mai Khao Beach is located just north of Phuket Airport and is the island’s longest beach (11km long).

Nai Yang Beach is inside Sirinath National Park, so there isn’t much development to detract from the natural beauty and serenity of the area.

Bang Tao Beach has refreshing, clear blue waters and is pretty large at 8km long.

Surin Beach is lined with fancy hotels and ritzy bars and restaurants, so it has an exclusive, almost luxurious atmosphere.

Freedom Beach is quite small at only 300m long, but it offers great snorkelling and jaw-dropping scenery.

Kata Noi Beach is the smaller, less crowded neighbour of Kata Beach. Both are incredibly beautiful with plenty of restaurants, hotels, and amenities nearby.

Karon Beach is one of the island’s more popular beaches, but it is quite spacious so it never feels too crowded.

Nai Harn Beach has only recently become known to tourists. With a more relaxing local vibe and rugged coastal scenery, Nai Harn Beach is a quiet and less touristy option.

Rawai Beach is actually on the southern coast of Phuket. It is one of the oldest beaches on the island and you can watch the local fishermen at work.

Of all Phuket’s markets, Chillva Market is one of the newest.

It attracts a younger, local crowd with its trendy shops and quirky, bohemian atmosphere.

Old shipping containers house lots of the shops and colourful decorations and tea lights bring a vibrant energy to the market.

Chillva Market is also quite small compared to the other night markets in Phuket, so it feels more intimate and relaxed.

You can find interesting clothes, accessories, and shoes here as well as delicious local Thai food and live music.

• Location : 141/2 Yaowarat Road, Phuket Town
• Hours : Shops in shipping containers are open every day except Sunday from 5 pm to 10 pm. The full market is Thursday to Saturday from 5 pm to 11 pm.

This is one of the best things to do in Phuket for nature lovers.

Spend a day venturing into the lush forest near the eastern coast of the island and find the Bang Pae Waterfall .

Located in the Khao Phra Thaeo National Park, this is the biggest waterfall in Phuket, standing at 18 meters tall.

The rainy season (May through October) is the best time to visit the waterfall due to the increase in rainfall.

During the dry season (November through April), the rock pools may not be deep enough to swim but you can still take cool photos and soak in the serenity at Khao Phra Thaeo National Park.

Phuket’s second-highest waterfall, Ton Sai Waterfall, resides near the Bang Pae Waterfall in the same national park, so you could even see both in one day.

Spending a day hopping from island to island is definitely one of the best things to do in Phuket, Thailand.

Thailand has over a thousand islands, and it would be very difficult to see them all but a half-day island-hopping tour by boat can help you at least catch a glimpse of the pristine beauty of the Thai islands.

Phuket makes a perfect starting point for an island tour because there are so many tour companies offering different packages for different prices that suit any traveller.

Most island tours stop at a few different islands and finish in the early afternoon, so just pick which islands you want to see and find a tour that hits those spots.

One of the most popular places to visit on an island tour is Phang Nga Bay, also known as James Bond Island. Here you can see towering limestone rock formations were made famous by a James Bond movie.

It’s also home to Koh Yao Noi, which is one of our favourite Thai islands. Read all about it here .

Similan Island is another beautiful spot that is perfect for snorkelling on a day trip when you visit Phuket.

Racha Island and Coral Island also have favourable snorkelling conditions and are great spots for diving, parasailing, and island hopping.

The Phi Phi Islands are also a hotspot in the area. You can also take a full-day boat tour to the Phi Phi Islands, which are arguably one of the most picturesque island chains in the Andaman Sea.

This interactive museum in Phuket Town is entertaining for people of all ages.

Full of detailed and realistic 3D paintings and scenes, visit Phuket Trickeye Museum to pose in certain places and look like you are part of the painting.

You have to remove your shoes to keep all the paintings clean, as you will be climbing all over them.

Bring a camera and have a blast taking hilarious photos with these beautifully crafted scenes at the Phuket Trickeye Museum.

If you’re even a little bit passionate about food, a Thai cooking class is definitely one of the best things to do in Phuket Island.

Book a cooking class and learn how to cook all the irresistible and world-famous Thai dishes such as pad thai, curry, spring rolls, Thai iced tea, and desserts like mango and sticky rice or coconut fried bananas.

A Thai cooking class is an amazing insight into the Thai culture and its famous culinary secrets, and you’ll get to taste all the delicious Thai food you make.

There are lots of tourism companies in Phuket that offer tours to different cooking schools around the island.

But it’s always best to book in advance. Check out a half-day cooking class that includes a local market tour in Phuket Old Town.

Wat Karon is another magnificent temple in Phuket, and it is home to a bustling market every Tuesday and Friday.

So after checking out the temple, you can wander around and shop for local products while snacking on street food.

This market sells mainly clothes and accessories, including scarves, sunglasses, and handbags.

You can also find health products made from locally sourced ingredients, such as coconut oil, aloe vera and handmade soaps.

If you are a certified scuba diver , there are some incredible underwater sites around Phuket that you can visit as a day trip.

Book a day tour with any of the tourism companies on the island and go scuba diving in the Andaman Sea.

Most scuba diving trips leave from Chalong, so you’ll need to make your way to that part of the island first.

The best time for diving in Phuket is from November through April, during the dry season as the water visibility is the best.

But you can still go diving during the rainy season, May through October, as the water is still quite clear despite the frequent thunderstorms.

The water is pretty warm year-round and there are lots of aquatic wildlife including manta rays, seahorses, reef sharks, colourful fish, and fascinating coral reefs.

Some popular diving sites that may be included in a day trip include Shark Point and Anemone Reef.

King Cruiser is a shipwreck from 1997 that is cool to explore as well, and the nearby Racha Islands and Koh Phi Phi Islands also offer amazing diving.

One of the most exciting things to see in Phuket is a Muay Thai Boxing match.

This combat sport is fast-paced and a favorite among locals.

Muay Thai boxing athletes are very impressive, with their lightning speed agility and skilful precision.

Patong Boxing Stadium is the local boxing stadium where you can watch a match or even take a Muay Thai training class.

Only take the training class if you’re reasonably fit, as it is a challenging day of fitness and learning hard self-defence moves.

A single Muay Thai session at Patong Boxing Stadium costs 500 Baht.

Otherwise, you can just attend a match and watch the professionals excel at their craft.

You may have noticed that Phuket island has lots of viewpoints.

The island is so mountainous and scenic that one lookout point is simply not enough.

The Khao Rang Viewpoint, also called Rang Hill Viewpoint, is located pretty far inland but faces southeast so you can get an amazing view over Phuket Town and the distant sea.

There is a spacious viewing platform for taking photos, an open-air pagoda, and a few nice cafes and restaurants.

The landscaped gardens and thick jungle atop the hill make a cozy habitat for monkeys, so don’t be surprised to see some while exploring the viewpoint.

Bangla Road, locally known as Soi Bangla and alternatively known as Patong Walking Street, is a 400-meter strip of excitement.

Located in the heart of Phuket’s Patong area , this bustling street is right next to Patong Beach and surrounded by restaurants, cafes, bars, and nightclubs.

Waking down this street is like an explosion of colour, with neon lights and colourful shopfronts crowding your line of vision.

Your senses may feel like they’re on a roller coaster, with the pumping music of clubs mixing with the aromas of street food and the visual chaos.

Bangla Road is pedestrian-only, so you don’t need to worry about vehicle traffic while exploring.

From the live music and street performers to the beer gardens and cocktail bars to the street vendors and restaurants, Bangla Road has everything you need for a fun night out in Phuket.

READ MORE: Plan your visit with plenty of fun things to do in Bangkok !

Thailand is not one of the world’s most popular surfing destinations, but travellers can still catch a few fun waves along the Thai coast.

Phuket has lots of good surfing beaches, all of them on the island’s west coast which picks up more swell.

The rainy season (May through October) is the best time to surf as the currents can be a bit strong during the high season (November through April).

Surfers of every level can find suitable waves in Phuket, including first-timers who want to take lessons.

The best beaches for beginners are Patong Beach, Kata Beach, and Bang Tao Beach , all of which have surf schools and board rentals available.

Intermediate surfers should head to Nai Harn Beach, Kata Noi Beach, Kamala Beach, or Laem Singh Beach .

These beaches pick up a bit more swell and have faster waves that suit more experienced surfers.

Advanced surfers looking for a challenge can surf the reef breaks at Kalim Beach and Nai Yang Beach .

Beginner surfers are not recommended to surf reef breaks as the conditions are a bit more dangerous.

Stick to the sandy beach breaks and you’ll have an easy, enjoyable time on the water.

Over 90% of the Thai population practices Buddhism , though there are religious minorities of Hinduism and some Chinese religions scattered throughout the country.

Phuket has quite a few Chinese immigrants and their Chinese religions are commemorated in various temples and shrines around the island.

One of the most popular and highly respected Chinese religious monuments is the Jui Tui Shrine.

Built in 1911, the Jui Tui Shrine complex has lots of different buildings and courtyards, most adorned with bright colours and images or statues of Chinese gods.

Phuket’s annual vegetarian festival is held here every October.

For a fun night of music and entertainment, head to the Simon Cabaret .

Established in 1991, Simon Cabaret has become one of the most popular entertainment venues in all of Thailand.

The Ladyboy shows are the most famous, where the local ladyboys put on a spectacular performance with elaborate costumes, impressive singing and dancing, captivating sets and a lively atmosphere.

The one-hour shows are even appropriate for families, and you can take photos with the fabulous performers afterwards.

The Promthep Cape viewpoint on the southern tip of Phuket Island offers some of the best views for sunset.

Though it can get pretty crowded, it is worth coming up to Promthep Cape in the evening to watch the sunset over the ocean.

There is also a Lighthouse Museum , a mini-market selling food and snacks and a few restaurants.

Check the sunset time before you come to Promthep Cape, as the exact times change often and the sunsets are usually very quick.

But catching the view of the warm sun melting over the gorgeous ocean is one of the most magical things to see in Phuket, so definitely make a trip up here at least once during your stay.

Phuket Travel Guide

Now you know the best things to do in Phuket, here are some tips on where to stay, how to get around and what to eat on this beautiful island.

Where to Stay in Phuket

A few of Phuket’s major neighbourhoods have already been mentioned in this post.

Because Phuket’s attractions are all spread out, there isn’t one “best” place to stay on the island.

Every neighbourhood has its cool attractions, and you’ll need to venture out a bit to see everything the island has to offer.

Here is a brief overview of the four most popular tourist neighbourhoods to stay in.

They each have a different atmosphere, so you can decide which type of place suits you best.

READ MORE: Check out our dedicated post on where to stay in Phuket !

Location: Central, west coast of Phuket island Atmosphere: Touristy, crowded and busy, fun nightlife, bustling night markets, Patong Beach nearby

Location: Just south of Patong on the west coast of Phuket island Atmosphere: Relaxing and full of gorgeous beaches like Karon Beach, a bit quieter than Patong but still quite developed and touristy

Location: Southeast area of Phuket, inland Atmosphere : Cultural centre full of museums and religious sites, a bit far from the beach but close to lots of markets, shops and viewpoints

Location : North, west coast of the Phuket island Atmosphere : Natural beauty, pristine and uncrowded sandy beaches, national parks, close to the airport

Accommodation in Phuket

Phuket is quite touristy, so there are many accommodation options that suit every budget.

There are cheap backpacker hostels, cozy bed and breakfasts, and luxurious resorts.

Thailand is overall, a very affordable country so you’ll have no trouble finding somewhere comfortable to stay that is affordable and convenient.

Because Phuket has so many hostels, here are two of the best ones that have very different vibes.

Lub D Patong Hostel is without a doubt, one of Phuket’s best and most popular hostels.

The atmosphere is very social, with a super outgoing staff and lots of young backpackers so stay here if you are traveling alone and want to meet new people.

It’s only a 3 minute walk to Patong Beach from here, and there are over 1,600 positive traveler reviews on Hostelworld. There is no better place to stay on a budget when you visit Phuket!

Luna Airport Hostel is an alternative backpacker hostel for those who want a quieter atmosphere.

It is located a short 15-minute walk from the airport, so you can save money on public transportation when flying in or out of Phuket.

As it is so close to the airport in the north of the island, it is a bit far from touristy areas like Phuket Town, Karon, and Patong.

But up here you’ll get a calmer, more local vibe and you’ll be very close to the pristine northern beaches of Phuket like Nai Yang and Mai Khao Beach.

So Luna Airport Hostel is a great option if you want to stay near the airport and you want some relaxing beach days.

A dorm costs only 550 Baht per night and the rooms are super clean and cozy. There is also a kitchen and free tea and cookies available.

Blu Monkey Boutique is located in Phuket Town, so it is very close to lots of the best Phuket attractions.

This small hotel only has 9 rooms, so it is very quiet and almost feels like a home.

The cozy atmosphere and classy blue and white decor make guests feel comfortable, but still well taken care of.

You get all the usual amenities of a hotel in Thailand, such as free drinking water, free wifi and parking, luggage storage and a laundry service.

There are deluxe rooms and suites available, with prices ranging from about 1,000 to 1,500 Baht.

The Sri Panwa Luxury Hotel is perfect for those who really want to feel like they’re on a tropical vacation.

This 5-star hotel offers airport transfers and free breakfast for guests, and the staff is known for being extremely friendly and accommodating.

You can also find swimming pools, a fitness center with a boxing ring, and a spa at the hotel.

Sri Panwa Hotel is set on its own little peninsula, so every room has a fantastic view of either the ocean or the landscaped gardens.

You can rent penthouses, single rooms for couples, or even entire villas with multiple rooms for the whole family.

The cheapest room goes for about 12,000 Baht.

How to Get Around Phuket

Phuket is a large island, so you will have to dedicate a bit of time and money to travel around the island to all the best attractions.

If you’re looking to book a private transfer from the airport, this is the best option you can book online.

If you plan on spending a week or more in Phuket, hire a car or a motorbike.

That way you can abide by your own schedule and go wherever you want around the island.

Make sure you have a valid driver’s license and travel insurance before renting any sort of vehicle, just to make sure you are covered if any accidents happen.

Road traffic in Thailand can get crazy, especially with all the motorbikes zooming around.

Just do your research and make sure you feel fully comfortable with your vehicle hire, whether it is a motorbike or a car (4WD isn’t necessary for car rental, most of the roads are easily accessible).

If you’re only on the island for a few days and don’t want to go through the hassle of hiring a car or bike, Phuket has plenty of public transport options.

Tuk-tuks are cheap and convenient for travelling short distances.

They are three-wheeled, open-air taxis that zip through traffic and are quite affordable depending on how far you are travelling.

Make sure you clarify the destination and the cost of the ride first, to avoid getting ripped off.

You can find regular metered taxis as well, with similar prices to tuk-tuks.

Keep in mind that travelling long distances around the island using tuk-tuk or taxi can add up to be quite expensive, so try not to drive too far if you want to save money.

You can also take public buses in Phuket; they are pretty slow-moving but definitely the cheapest public transport option.

The buses run from roughly 7 am to 6 pm and just ask around at your local accommodation where the buses stop because there aren’t reliable, specific bus stops.

What to Eat in Phuket

After you’ve figured out where to stay and what to do in Phuket, pick where to eat.

There are so many different cafes, bars and restaurants around the island offering delicious Thai cuisine at cheap prices.

Because of the long coastline and active population of local fishermen, Phuket has some top-notch seafood so be sure to indulge.

You can also find all the classics of flavorful Thai cuisine, like spicy curries and refreshing spring rolls.

Here are some of the best places to eat in Phuket, according to budget, mid-range, and luxury price ranges.

If you’re looking to eat out on a budget and taste authentic local cuisine, visit the Sabaijai Cafe .

This place is loved by tourists and locals alike, and there are lots of classic Thai dishes made to perfection and priced cheaply.

Mor Mu Dong Restaurant is award-winning and Michelin recognized, but affordable and popular among locals.

You can sit in unique bamboo and wood huts known as “salas” sitting over the mangroves, but the humble concrete tables and plastic dishes make the restaurant feel comfortable and relaxed.

For a nice meal with a view, visit Mom Tri’s Kitchen , a waterfront restaurant set on land owned by the Thai royal family.

You can gaze over Kata Noi Beach while sipping high-quality wine and tasting fresh local seafood.

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Gabby Boucher

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

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Places to Visit in Phuket, Thailand | 25 Must-See Attractions & Landmarks

Part of what makes Phuket such a fantastic travel destination is that you will rarely run out of things to see and do. While known mainly for its beaches – like vibrant Patong Beach and more relaxing Kata Noi Beach – the island also has a wide variety of landmarks and attractions. Take your pick between exploring the colorful streets of Phuket Old Town or enjoying a day trip to the beautiful Similan Islands , between a night of partying on Bangla Road or a day of sightseeing at Big Buddha Phuket . Here is a look at 25 of the top places to visit in Phuket to help you decide what stops to add to your itinerary.

1. Patong Beach

Patong Beach is Phuket ‘s most famous resort, known for its raucous nightlife and for the 1.77-mile-long beach that runs the length of the town. Though usually crowded, the beach has soft, white sand and crystal clear blue water that definitely make it worthwhile to visit. Plus, you can find quieter areas further north or south along the beach. Some of the most popular activities on Patong Beach are jet skiing, parasailing, and snorkeling, and you can easily rent equipment. There is also a range of accommodation options for every budget, whether you want something affordable in the heart of the action or a more upscale resort in a quieter but still accessible area. Patong Beach generally draws a younger crowd, but there is plenty for couples and families to do as well, making it one of the most popular places to visit in Phuket .

Check In to X2 Vibe Phuket Patong , Step Out to Patong Beach

2. Bangla Road

Located in Patong Beach , Bangla Road is the central nightlife hub on the island. This infamous party road and its adjoining streets are packed with more bars and clubs than anywhere else in Phuket . Once the sun goes down, Bangla Road closes to traffic and comes to life with neon lights as music blasts from every establishment. Just over 400 yards long, it offers everything you need for a night on the town, whether you want to dance until early morning or sit back with a beer and listen to live music. The section of Bangla Road closest to the beach has the most laid-back feel. As you head further into town, you’ll come across the street’s many go-go bars. On the end of the street furthest from the beach is where you will find most of the major dance clubs.

Check In to Hotel Clover Patong Phuket , Step Out to Bangla Road

3. Freedom Beach

If Patong Beach is a little too busy and overdeveloped for your liking, then you can easily make the trip over to one of Phuket ‘s most beautiful and secluded beaches instead. Freedom Beach can be reached via long-tail boat from the southern end of Patong Beach , a journey that costs around 1,500 baht for a round-trip. Only 330-yards long, Freedom Beach has stunning blue water and the softest white sand. The bay is flanked by hills covered in thick, green jungle, making for wonderful photographs. There are no noisy water sports here, so you can relax in the sand or enjoy the fantastic snorkeling opportunities offered by the clear, shallow water. Its secluded location keeps Freedom Beach from getting overly crowded. If you get peckish or thirsty, there is a restaurant that serves Thai food and chilled drinks.

Check In to Beyond Patong , Step Out to Freedom Beach

FIND HOTELS NEAR THE BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN PHUKET

4. Bangla Boxing Stadium

Muay Thai is the national sport of Thailand, and it is also the country’s most popular spectator sport. The fighters utilize their fists, knees, shins, and elbows in a variety of striking techniques, making it one of the most exhilarating combat sports to watch, particularly in person. Whether you are already a fan or you want to see what it’s all about, you can catch an exciting match at the Bangla Boxing Stadium on Patong Beach . Located just a few minutes away from Bangla Road , the stadium hosts fights every Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday night. A Muay Thai match is worth seeing both for the amazing display of physicality and for the traditional ceremony around it, which includes a special pre-fight dance. The energy of the crowd is also infectious.

Check In to The Marina Phuket Hotel , Step Out to Bangla Boxing Stadium

5. Phuket Old Town

Phuket Old Town is an important historical area in the center of Phuket Town , the capital of Phuket . It is one of the best places to visit in Phuket for an authentic experience of the island’s culture. Phuket Old Town was built with the proceeds from the tin mining boom of the 18th century, and it shows. There are several beautiful mansions that once belonged to the tin barons, as well as other buildings constructed in the unique style known as Sino-Portuguese. Many of these buildings now house museums, shops, restaurants, and hotels. The buildings are also brightly painted, which makes for some lovely photographs. Phuket Old Town is highly walkable and an easy place to spend a day exploring and stopping for refreshments at quaint cafes. It’s a great place to shop for souvenirs as well.

Check In to Casa Blanca Boutique Hotel Phuket , Step Out to Phuket Old Town

6. Jui Tui Shrine

A traditional Chinese temple in Phuket Town , Jui Tui Shrine is one of the top cultural sights in the capital. A pivotal part of the daily lives of many local worshippers, it also plays a central role in the annual Phuket Vegetarian Festival. Jui Tui Shrine was initially constructed in 1911 inside of Phuket Old Town but, after a fire, it was moved just to the west of the main Old Town area. More buildings were then added to create the bright and colorful temple complex you see today. The focal point of the temple is the main pagoda, which contains three altars. The central altar is devoted to the god Tean Hu Huan Soy, who is associated with dancing and the performing arts. Before you leave, make sure you pick up a fortune from the prayer hall.

Check In to The Besavana Phuket , Step Out to Jui Tui Shrine

7. Phuket Weekend Night Market

Located to the west of Phuket Old Town , the Phuket Weekend Night Market is another fantastic spot to shop for souvenirs. The market is held every Saturday and Sunday from around 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. along Chao Fa West Road. One reason you don’t want to miss it is that it is the biggest night market in all of Phuket . You’ll discover all manner of food and goods being sold among the stalls, making it easy to find the perfect gift to bring back home to a loved one or some goodies and knick-knacks for yourself. Some of the most common items sold here include second-hand clothing and accessories, jewelry, bags, electronics, and electronic accessories. When you’ve had enough of shopping, make sure you head to the food section to try some delicious Thai street food.

Check In to Little Nyonya Hotel , Step Out to Phuket Weekend Night Market

8. Wat Chalong

Though Phuket has a total of 29 Buddhist temples, Wat Chalong is considered to be the most important of them all. It is located in the subdistrict of Chalong and dedicated to two venerated monks, Luang Pho Chaem and Luang Pho Chuang, who aided the Chalong citizens during a rebellion in 1876. Wat Chalong is a visually striking building with a bright red roof, a golden spire, and golden embellishments along the walls. It is filled with numerous statues, and the pagoda is said to hold a fragment of one of the Buddha’s bones. The pagoda also has many paintings depicting the Buddha that are worth taking the time to stop and admire. Don’t miss the exhibition hall either, as it contains life-like wax models of several monks as well as beautiful porcelain and antique Thai furniture.

Check In to The Lake Chalong Resort , Step Out to Wat Chalong

9. Kata Noi Beach

One of the smallest beaches in Phuket , Kata Noi Beach is also among the most tranquil and relaxed spots on the island. The lush jungle, soft sand, and blue water combine to form an idyllic backdrop for a day under the sun. Located at the end of a dead-end road, it doesn’t tend to get overly crowded. The sea is calm and suitable for swimming from December to April, while the rougher waters from May to October provide favorable surfing conditions. Even when the swell is too strong for swimming, you can have a lot of fun watching the surfers. Kata Noi Beach is also a great locale for families, with one of the most popular activities being the banana boat rides. Jet skiing, parasailing, and snorkeling are available as well.

Check In to Chanalai Garden Resort, Kata Beach , Step Out to Kata Noi Beach

10. Karon Viewpoint

Phuket is full of stunning vistas, but perhaps none are more breathtaking than Karon Viewpoint . Located just past Kata Noi Beach , it is one of the most visited viewpoints on the island. From the top, you can look out west directly over the sea, but most tourists will have their eyes and their cameras looking north, towards the bays of Kata Noi Beach , Kata Beach , and Karon Beach . Each beach can be distinctly made out with the white sand and blue water glistening in the sun. Karon Viewpoint is almost always busy, but parking isn’t usually too hard to come by. There is a large gazebo where you can sit in the shade, and snacks and drinks are available as well. Note that locals might know this famous attraction better as Kata Viewpoint, as that is what it used to be called.

Check In to Katanoi Resort , Step Out to Karon Viewpoint

11. Nai Harn Beach

Nai Harn Beach is another of the arguably most beautiful beaches in Phuket (there are a lot of contenders!), and it is located just a few minutes past Karon Viewpoint . This quiet seaside resort is known for its fine, soft sand and deep blue water. The water quality is excellent and great for swimming during the high season, but, like at other west coast beaches, the low season brings strong currents better for surfing and kitesurfing. Just behind the beach, there is a large, freshwater lagoon that is also used for paddleboarding. The local restaurants provide wonderful views of the sea, particularly at sunset. Nai Harn Beach is popular among locals and expats, but it usually isn’t overcrowded with tourists, making it a perfect place for a peaceful stop along your travels.

Check In to Naiharn Beach Resort , Step Out to Nai Harn Beach

12. Promthep Cape

Continuing on past Nai Harn Beach , you will hit the southernmost tip of the island: Promthep Cape . This elevated viewpoint that looks out over the sea is also one of the most commonly photographed spots in Phuket . It is particularly popular at sunset when scores of tour buses bring throngs of visitors to photograph the sun as it dips below the watery horizon. You can take the relatively easy hike down to the end of the rocky promontory that extends into the ocean for some incredible views; just be mindful that you will have to make your way back up! There is also a lighthouse that doubles as a museum and which has a nice outdoor viewing terrace as well.

Check In to The Windmill Phuket Hotel , Step Out to Promthep Cape

13. Big Buddha Phuket

Big Buddha Phuket is one of the newest and one of the most prominent major landmarks in Phuket . Seated at the top of a large hill near Chalong , the massive concrete statue measures 83.5 feet wide and 148 feet tall. It is covered in white marble, which causes it to gleam in the sun, and it can be seen from all over southern Phuket , including Karon Beach and Phuket Town . This means that, from all the way up here, you can enjoy incredible, 360-degree views of all the surroundings. The sunset views are truly spectacular, though it does tend to get crowded around that time. Construction on Big Buddha Phuket began in 2004 and was funded mostly through donations, and some parts of the attraction are still receiving their finishing touches.

Check In to Splendid Sea View Resort , Step Out to Big Buddha Phuket

14. Surin Beach

At just over half a mile long, Surin Beach is known for its upscale village feel. Accommodations here aren’t cheap, but staying close to this idyllic tropical beach is worth it. The number one activity at Surin Beach is to sit back and relax with a refreshing drink in hand as you enjoy the sun and the sound of the waves. Because the water is exceptionally clear, this is also a top spot to do some snorkeling during the high season. The best snorkeling spots are found along the beach’s northern and southern ends. During the low season, the beach becomes a prime location for activities like surfing and boogie boarding. There is a good selection of restaurants along the beach road offering both Thai and international fare.

Check In to Villa Baan Phu Prana , Step Out to Surin Beach

15. Tiger Kingdom Phuket

Tiger Kingdom Phuket is a world-famous attraction where visitors get to spend some one-on-one time with gorgeous Indochinese tigers who have all been hand-raised by humans. The price of a visit will vary depending on the size of tiger you want to see. The largest tigers cost 1,300 baht while small and medium tigers are the most affordable at 900 baht. You can also purchase a ticket that allows for multiple visits with tigers of different sizes. Each encounter lasts 10 minutes, and guests are welcome to take as many photos as they want. For an extra 500 baht, you can opt to have a professional photographer accompany your group. Tiger Kingdom Phuket is open every day from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. There is a restaurant and a souvenir shop on-site as well.

Check In to Plus condo 2 by Tida , Step Out to Tiger Kingdom Phuket

16. Phang Nga Bay

While there is more than enough on Phuket to fill your vacation, a day trip to beautiful Phang Nga Bay will make it all that much more memorable. Located between the island and the mainland of Thailand, this stunning bay is known for its emerald green waters and mystifying rock formations. Jutting straight out of the water, the limestone rocks feature craggy cliffs and are covered in lush greenery. The most popular islands are James Bond Island – named for its appearance in a Bond flick – and Koh Panyi , which is home to a floating village where many tours stop for lunch. Booking a tour of Phang Nga Bay is easy and can often be done from your hotel. Alternatively, you can drive to the bay and rent a boat once there to explore at your leisure.

Check In to Phang Nga Viewpoint , Step Out to Phang Nga Bay

17. Similan Islands

Another incredible locale worthy of a day trip, the Similan Islands is an archipelago consisting of 11 islands off the coast of southern Thailand in the Andaman Sea. The archipelago has been protected as a national park since 1982, which helped to limit development and has kept the islands in a more pristine state. The Similan Islands are a dream destination for those who love snorkeling or diving. Beneath the crystal clear waters, you will find some stunning rock formations as well as some of the most beautiful coral growths in the world. On land, the islands consist of low-lying rock overgrown with thick forests. Note that the Similan Islands are closed from mid-May to mid-October every year to help them recover from tourist activity during peak season.

Check In to Eden Beach Resort and Spa , Step Out to Similan Islands

18. Wat Phra Thong

Wat Phra Thong is a relatively small temple, but it makes a great addition to a cultural tour of the island. It is also a highly convenient stop on the way to or from Phuket International Airport , as it is located just eight miles away. The main feature of the temple is a half-buried golden Buddha statue. Legend says that the top of the statue was discovered by a farmer boy and that the villagers tried but failed to completely dig it up, so a temple was built up around it. Wat Phra Thong is likely one of the oldest temples in Phuket , with a history dating back to at least 1909. The temple’s museum is also worth a visit, as it houses some interesting historical items from the tin-mining era.

Check In to Junior house & Apartment , Step Out to Wat Phra Thong

19. Thalang National Museum

Recently reopened after being closed for refurbishment for the past few years, the Thalang National Museum is shaping up to be one of the top places to visit in Phuket . Originally built in 1985, the museum started waning in popularity due to poor upkeep and an old-fashioned design. The new layout is very well designed and features excellent lighting that really showcases the exhibitions. The exhibitions themselves are all about the history of the region, from ancient times to the tin-mining boom, to exhibits on life in Phuket today. You’ll get to see a wide variety of artifacts, antiques, and statues, as well as old photos, maps, and illustrations. The Thalang National Museum is free to visit and closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

Check In to Green House Phuket , Step Out to Thalang National Museum

20. Phuket Elephant Sanctuary

The Phuket Elephant Sanctuary in Paklok should be at the top of every animal lover’s itinerary. It provides a comfortable home for retired working elephants to enjoy forest life. The rescued elephants are usually old or injured and sick from working in industries like logging or tourism. The sanctuary ensures that they are well looked after. Visitors can come and see how these beautiful creatures socialize with one another and go about their daily activities, which includes bathing in the freshwater lagoons. A visit to the Phuket Elephant Sanctuary costs 3,000 baht and lasts three and a half hours. During this time, you will get to observe and even feed the elephants. The sanctuary is open every day except for April 13th.

Check In to Moonlight Cottage Resort , Step Out to Phuket Elephant Sanctuary

21. Bang Pae Waterfall

Bang Pae Waterfall is located just down the road from Phuket Elephant Sanctuary . It is the tallest waterfall on the island at about 33 feet high. While this isn’t too tall by international standards, it is still a highly popular landmark among tourists and a common spot for locals to enjoy a picnic and to cool down in the water. Waterfalls in Phuket tend not to get very tall as the granite rock that the island is made of is hard for water to wear away. What Bang Pae Waterfall lacks in height, it makes up for in beauty. The waterfall can be reached via a short walk through the jungle. Though not far from the road, it feels very secluded.

Check In to Maneerat Goat farm and homestay , Step Out to Bang Pae Waterfall

22. Chalong Bay Rum Distillery

Once you’ve had your fill of beaches, viewpoints, and other natural landmarks, Chalong Bay Rum Distillery offers a more unique activity on your tour of the island. It is located on the southeast coast of Phuket , just a short drive from Phuket Town . The distillery is famous for its high-quality rum, which it produces using only the best organic sugarcane and traditional distillation methods. Tours are offered every day at 2 p.m., 3 p.m., 4 p.m., 5 p.m., and 6 p.m. and last for about half an hour. Guests are provided with a refreshing mojito while they get to see how the rum-crafting process works. The cost is 450 baht per person.

Check In to Studio 77 Phuket , Step Out to Chalong Bay Rum Distillery

23. Phuket FantaSea

Phuket FantaSea is a 60-acre nighttime theme park located in Kamala Beach . It first opened its doors in 1998 as a showcase of Thai culture, and it continues to be one of the island’s top attractions to this day. The main attraction at the theme park is an epic stage performance that takes place at a 3,000-seater venue called the Palace of the Elephants. About 70 minutes in length, the show takes you through the history of the Kamala region while acrobats perform astounding feats, and lights and illusions mystify the audience. After the show, you can grab a meal at the park’s buffet restaurants or from one of the eateries located along the shopping street.

Check In to Kamala Resotel , Step Out to Phuket FantaSea

24. Soi Dog Foundation

Just a short drive away from Phuket International Airport , the Soi Dog Foundation is another top attraction for people who love animals. Rather than exotic wild creatures, however, the sanctuary cares for cats and dogs who live on the street. The dedicated staff provides medical treatments and vaccinations, and they also run a sterilization program to help manage the street animal population. Visitors are welcome to come and take a 40-minute tour of the sanctuary, which is open from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Monday to Friday, and 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Saturdays. Tours are free, but there is a small store where you can purchase souvenirs to help support the important work that the Soi Dog Foundation does.

Check In to MaikhaoBeach Home , Step Out to Soi Dog Foundation

25. Mai Khao Beach

Mai Khao Beach is the longest beach in Phuket , offering miles and miles of uninterrupted coastline. The wide beach is clean and well-maintained, and it is located entirely in a national park. Nevertheless, a variety of fantastic resort hotels have sprung up in the area over the last several years. The most popular activities are, of course, swimming, suntanning, and sunset walks along the beach. One very unique feature of Mai Khao Beach , however, is that its southern end is located very close to the runway of Phuket International Airport . Many people come here to watch the planes as they land and pass incredibly close overhead. Because the beach is inside a national park, an entry fee of 200 baht per adult and 100 baht per child is required.

Check In to Maikhao Home Garden Bungalow , Step Out to Mai Khao Beach

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Phuket   Travel Guide

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8 Best Things To Do in Phuket

Updated May 8, 2023

From white sand beaches and breathtaking boat excursions to relaxing spa treatments and tours of Buddhist sites, such as Big Buddha and Wat Chalong Temple , there is a range of diverse things to do in Phuket. The only tricky thing is carefully

• All Things To Do

Promthep Cape Promthep Cape free

Where Nai Harn Beach is Phuket's southernmost beach, Promthep Cape (or Laem Promthep) is the island's southernmost point, and likewise, it offers an amazing view of the Andaman Sea. Visitors can also take a short hike from the cape (less than a mile) to a scenic lighthouse.

Sunset is the best time to view the beauty of Promthep Cape, according to recent visitors, but they also say that this is no longer a secret spot: Travelers will usually have to share their vantage point with a host of others, but even so, a trip to Promthep Cape comes highly recommended. 

Big Buddha Big Buddha free

Big Buddha is a giant statue of Buddha encased in Burmese alabaster that towers over Phuket from the peak of Mount Nagakerd. Construction on Big Buddha began in 2007, and Phuketians are proud of both the structure and the vantage point from which travelers can view the island. Visitors to Big Buddha will enjoy a bird's-eye view of the Kata Bay, the Karon strand and the islands that speckle the Chalong Bay.

Although some travelers say they had a spiritual experience at Big Buddha, most reviewers say the views from the peak are what captivated them. To that point, visitors suggest bringing your camera (and a wide-angle lens). 

Nai Harn Beach Nai Harn Beach free

Nai Harn Beach is the southernmost strip of sand in Phuket, and locals love it just as much as visitors. Picture gleaming white sands bordered by grassy knolls and rolling cerulean waves, and you'll start to be able to imagine the beauty of this seemingly remote spot. The beach also gets high marks for its authentic collection of nearby restaurants. 

While experiencing all of the Nai Harn beauty, visitors recommend keeping your ear out for the lifeguards' warnings. They also suggest only swimming within the flagged areas, since Nai Harn is no stranger to strong, dangerous riptides – especially during monsoon season (May to October). 

Popular Tours

Phi Phi Islands Adventure Day Trip with Seaview Lunch by V. Marine

(2079 reviews)

from $ 77.61

Elephant Sanctuary Small Group Tour in Phuket

(199 reviews)

from $ 99.50

Luxury Boat to James Bond Islands with Lunch and Sunset Dinner

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from $ 130.27

Soi Dog Foundation Soi Dog Foundation free

When you travel to an exotic Thai island, you might not think that an animal shelter would be high on your list of to-dos. But think again. Travelers call this innovative cat and dog shelter a must-do. The Soi Dog Foundation was established in 2003 to try and care for the tens of thousands of street cats and dogs as well as to fight the dog meat trade. Today, the shelter contains hundreds of animals that visitors can meet and play with. 

Reviewers said that although the Soi Dog Foundation is a bit out of the way, it's completely worth it, calling their visit both heartbreaking and inspirational. To get the fullest experience, most suggest taking one of the guided tours throughout the shelter, and some even recommend clearing a few days in your itinerary to volunteer at the shelter. 

Kata Noi Beach Kata Noi Beach free

Kata Noi Beach is known for its brilliant white sands and transparent aquamarine waters, as well as its relatively calm atmosphere, especially compared to other popular beaches like party-centric Patong (located just north). Backed by the fancy (and sprawling) Kata Thani Phuket Beach Resort, the beach is described by recent visitors as "family friendly." 

This spot along the southwest coast of Phuket is popular among travelers for its kid-friendly atmosphere and nearby facilities, including a handful of restaurants and shops and a 7-Eleven, which is useful for picking up drinks and snacks. 

Phuket Spas Phuket Spas

Relaxing at a spa is a must-do in Phuket. The island's spas, like many in Thailand, feature aromatherapy, herbal treatments and traditional Thai oil massages, among other services, which makes for a unique experience not found stateside. Plus, for a relatively small island, Phuket boasts an extraordinary number of spas – hundreds – and compared to U.S. prices, spa treatments are relatively affordable in Phuket. 

Travelers say their experience at Phuket's spas were amazing – even perfect – but as with most things, you get what you pay for. Visitors who spent a bit more for their treatments and went with traveler-approved spas tended to be rewarded with clean, relaxing treatment rooms and out-of-this world massages while those that went with cheaper, less-reviewed places had disappointing experiences. 

Phuket Boat Tours Phuket Boat Tours

You'd be remiss if you didn't spend some time sailing the waters around Phuket, stopping for a snorkel break along the way. Whether you want to stay dry and view all the beauty of the sea and surrounding islands from the boat deck or you want to swim, stand-up paddleboard, canoe, or even scuba dive, there is a boat trip for you. 

Travelers gush about their experiences on the various boat tours, calling them "a dream come true," wonderful, peaceful, entertaining and fun, among other descriptors. Still, it's important for travelers to do their research and book with a quality, well-reviewed tour operator even if the tours are a bit pricier. For every glowing review of the great tour operators, there are poor reviews of the not-so-great operators.

Wat Chalong Wat Chalong free

Wat Chalong is a colorful Buddhist temple and it's also the biggest and most famous temple on Phuket. Of particular note are the gilt statues of two monks, who are credited with helping halt the Chinese Rebellion of 1876. At 5 p.m. daily, visitors can see present-day monks praying. 

Visitors highly recommend a visit to Wat Chalong, as well as a stroll through its impressive, clean and well-maintained grounds, saying that the temple complex exuded peace and serenity. Reviewers also suggest planning a midweek visit, as the temple can get very crowded on the weekends. 

Phi Phi Islands Day Tour from Phuket

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8 Places to Visit in Phuket + Things To Do

Phuket is Thailand’s largest island and a top-notch tourist attraction. It features scenic surroundings dotted with high-end resorts, restaurants, spas, nightclubs, and everything the eclectic crowd could wish for.

The main attractions in Phuket include The Big Buddha, Patong, Kata, and Karon Beach, Banzaan Fresh Market, Ko Hong Lagoon, and Old Phuket Town. Treat yourself to some of the most thrilling adventures you can take on the island, from island hopping to all-night partying, shopping, swimming, diving, snorkeling, and even hiking. Moreover, enjoying the beautiful beaches while discovering the local lifestyle guarantees the best experience of Phuket. And for a great price, too. Some people also love coming here to shop. That’s because Jungceylon Shopping Center, Premium Outlet, and Central Festival offer lots of good buys you would love coming home with.

 Phuket is a well-connected destination with an extensive network, consisting of domestic and international flights. Regular schedules are available from Phuket to Taipei, Kuala Lumpur, Seoul, Hong Kong, Singapore, Melbourne, Abudhabi, Manila, and back.

1. Patong Beach

Location : Kathu District, Phuket, Thailand . Save on Google Maps .

See prices & book online

Surf House Phuket at Patong Beach

Phuket Simon Cabaret Show Admission Ticket

Phuket Siam Niramit Admission Ticket

Phuket Travel Essentials:

Where to stay in Phuket (click below to see rates and book online) Cheapest Rates | Best Reviews  | Home Rentals/Airbnb

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Thailand  WIFI/SIM Card

See also :   Places to visit in Thailand  |  Bangkok Itinerary  |  Cambodia Tourist Spots  |  Where to go in Vietnam  |  Indochina Itinerary

More travel tips coming up! In the meantine, enjoy this  quick list  of attractions and tourist spots in Phuket. To help with your trip planning, I’ve added links to the locations on Google Maps. Feel free to click/tap on the links posted. Then, use the “save” feature on the Google Maps app for easy reference.

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2. Bangla Road (Bangla Walking Street)

Location : Thanon Bangla, Pa Tong, Kathu District, Phuket 83150, Thailand . Save on Google Maps .

3. Banzaan Fresh Market

Location : Banzaan Market Pa Tong, Kathu District, Phuket 83150, Thailand . Save on Google Maps .

4. Jungceylon Shopping Center

Location : ถนน ราษฎร์อุทิศ 200 ปี Pa Tong, Kathu District, Phuket 83150, Thailand . Save on Google Maps .

5. Thalang Road & Old Phuket Town

Location : Talat Yai, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83000, Thailand . Save on Google Maps .

6. Phuket Town Weekend Night Market (Sunday Walking Street Market)

Location : Thalang Rd, Tambon Talat Yai, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83000, Thailand . Save on Google Maps .

Where to go near Phuket

7. Ko Hong Lagoon

Location : Pha Nga, Thailand . Save on Google Maps .

Phang Nga Bay ‘Koh Hong by Starlight’ Tour from Phuket by Big Boat

8. James Bond Island & Ko Hong Islands (Pha Nga Bay)

Location : Pha Nga Bay, Thailand . Save on Google Maps .

Phuket to James Bond Day Tour by Longtail Boat, Speedboat or Big Boat

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Beyond Phuket

Location : Krabi province, southern Thailand. West coast facing the Andaman Sea. . Save on Google Maps .

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Top discounts

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See more : Krabi travel tips

Ko Phi Phi Travel Essentials

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Phi Phi Islands and Maya Bay Day Tour in Phuket

Krabi to Phi Phi Day Tour by Speedboat

Phi Phi and Maya Bay Snorkeling Tour by Speedboat

Krabi to Phi Phi Day Tour by Speedboat or Speed Catamaran

See more : Ko Phi Phi travel tips

Location : Chumphon Archipelago, Surat Thani province, southern Thailand. East coast facing the Gulf of Thailand . Save on Google Maps .

Ko Samui Travel Essentials

Koh Samui-Phuket Ferry/Bus Ticket – Nathon Pier

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Koh Nangyuan Full Day Tour from Koh Samui by Speed Boat

Koh Tao and Koh Nangyuan Day Tour from Koh Samui – w/ Snorkeling Experience by Catamaran

See more : Ko Samui travel tips

Location : Bangkok, central Thailand . Save on Google Maps .

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Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport Rail Link (ARL) Ticket

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Ayutthaya Day Trip with Sunset Boat Ride from Bangkok

See more : Bangkok travel tips

What places have you added to your bucketlist? Have you been to beautiful places in Phuket that should be on this list? Feel free to share your thoughts!

Places to visit in Phuket

Phuket tourist spots, things to do in Phuket, where to go in Phuket & more.

Note: Destinations featured above are not listed by rank.

Where to Stay in Phuket

Click below & search recommended Phuket hotels/hostels/home rentals within your budget. Remember to set your  min/max price , travel dates, and  sort by review ratings . I often book online with these trusted booking sites below for rock-bottom prices & convenient bookings.

Agoda Airbnb Booking.com

Book sooner rather than later if you already have your dates set. Cheaper-priced rooms and hotels with high reviews tend to get fully booked faster, especially during busy days like weekends, holidays & peak tourist seasons.

Phuket Essentials & Top Discounts

See discounts

See discounts Compare here

Phuket Half Day, Full Day & multiple days private car charter

Thailand mobile data sim card/pocket wifi.

Travel with ease & confidence throughout your trip. Get a data SIM card or pocket WIFI device! Access Google Maps and all your favorite travel apps. Share your travel stories instantly with all your friends. Click below and choose your pick-up location:

Thailand SIM card Pocket WIFI See all discounts

Popular discounts and tours booked by other travelers:

Racha Yai, Racha Noi, Coral, or Maiton Island Day Tour from Phuket by Speedboat, Catamaran or Yacht

Krabi Airport Shuttle – Shared Transfers for Ao Nang, Krabi Town & more

Koh Tao-Phuket Ticket – Ferry & Bus Transfers

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17 Best Things to do in Phuket, Thailand

Discover Phuket, a huge island connected by a small bridge to the mainland of Thailand . While it might be a ‘love it or hate it’ type of place, it offers something for every kind of traveler, from partying in the towns to natural excursions among jungle-covered temples and idyllic beaches. Spend some time exploring its hidden corners, or use it as a jumping-off point to discover the paradise islands that lay just off the shore. We’re showing you our favorite spots with this guide to all the best things to do in Phuket!

Things to do in Phuket, Thailand

Phuket may be an island, but it feels more like a peninsula of Thailand, mainly because of its vast size. However, it has buildings and culture which feel distinctly different from the mainland—home to a melting pot of Chinese, European , and Thai architecture, and its own regional dialect called Baba Malay.

Many people know Phuket as a party destination. However, if you look in the right places, there is so much more on offer. Discover its lush greenery, colonial-style old town, and buzzing markets with all the top things to do in Phuket.

Here are all your hotel options in Phuket.

1. Phuket Old Town 

Explore the beautiful streets of Phuket Old Town, home to a unique mix of Chinese and European architecture, due to its location on ancient trading routes. In the 19th century, merchants came to Phuket and began building pretty homes, some of which look straight off a Portugal postcard. In fact, at times, it’s hard to believe you’re in Thailand! 

Also read: Best Places to Visit in Thailand

Get lost among the streets and colorful buildings, many of which have now been transformed into cute shops, trendy cafes, or interesting galleries and museums. The area is also very artistic and has become famous in its own right for street art. As such, you’ll find huge murals that plaster the walls and regular art workshops on offer.

Tip: You can find the oldest buildings on Thaland Road, Dibuk Road ( see the exact location here ), and Soi Romanee. On Soi Romanee you’ll also find a great ice cream spot called Torry’s Ice Cream, located here .

Weekend Night Market

Don’t miss out on the bustling weekend market in Phuket! On Sunday nights the Old Town comes to life with stalls and vendors selling traditional and local products.

As the sun sets, weave your way down the lively street lit up by fairy lights and try all sorts of authentic Thai dishes at the many street food stalls. It’s also the perfect place to shop for handcrafted souvenirs and be entertained by street performers. 

Tip: Get there early to avoid the bigger crowds, as it’s a popular market for both tourists and locals.

Book this fantastic food tour in Phuket Old Town

Cafes in the Old Town

There’s nothing better than grabbing a delicious cup of coffee in one of the many great cafes in Phuket Old Town. Some of our favorites are:

• Campus Coffee Roasters
• GRAPH Phuket
• MŌMUS coffee
• Shan coffee

2. Wat Chalong

Wat Chalong is one of the island’s most important and beautiful temples and one of the best things to do in Phuket! Discover the expansive temple complex, home to five temples, each one unique and different from the others.

Crafted from white and pink marble, gold detailing, and beautiful tilework, these temples are as stunning on the outside as they are in. Best of all, visiting Wat Chalong is free! 

Come at the end of the day when it’s less busy. During this time, you’ll have more space to take in the sacredness of this important site. You may even get the chance to witness some of the rituals taking place. For example, candle lighting or offerings to the gods.

Alongside this, there is the unique practice of lighting firecrackers in the temple complex. This ritual is believed to ward off bad energy and evil spirits and bring positivity and good fortune to temple visitors—a must-see! 

Note: Wat Chalong is an incredibly sacred monument for the people of Phuket. Always be respectful, cover your shoulders and legs, and remove shoes before entering any of the temples. Although it’s free to enter, we recommend leaving a donation to the temple as a token of appreciation.

How to get to Wat Chalong 

The temple is located just 25 minutes from Phuket Old Town and is easily accessible by car, motorbike, or taxi. Remember, you’ll need about an hour to see the entire complex, and it closes at 5 PM, so leave plenty of time. The easiest option is to join a tour that includes many of the main sites in Phuket, including Wat Chalong and the Big Buddha.

3. White Big Buddha

Seeing the big Buddha up close is one of the most extraordinary experiences in Phuket. Standing 45 meters high, the enormous buddha overlooks Phuket, offering 360-degree views across the entire island.

Although you’ll find big buddhas like this one in places like Chiang Rai and Pai , this has to be one of the most beautiful as it’s extremely detailed with beautiful white and grey tiles and ornaments. Even the staircase to the top is exceptionally intricate, crafted with the traditional naga (snake) sculptures up the side. It’s nearly 100 steps to the top, but well worth it to experience this sacred environment.

The temple is free to visit (although donations are appreciated) and open from 6 AM until 7.30 PM. We visited around 8.30 AM, and it was relatively quiet and peaceful. Make sure to leave enough time, usually 1 hour, to stroll around the complex and visit the multiple viewpoints.

The Journey to the Big Buddha in Phuket

The drive to the Big Buddha is all part of the experience; it’s a stunning drive through lush green forest, which is doable with a motorcycle or car. In total, the journey from Phuket Town is 40 minutes. However, from the highway, it’s only about a 10-15 minute drive to the top.

Make a stop halfway at a lovely restaurant named Mountain Breeze, where you can order some food and enjoy incredible views over Phuket.

Note: Unfortunately, halfway to the Big Buddha, there are a lot of wildlife tourist traps offering travelers the option to take selfies with tigers or ride elephants. This is something Thailand is working hard to try and crack down on. Please support their efforts by being sustainable and ethical travelers and avoiding this type of wildlife tourism .

4. Pottery Class

Sitao Ceramic Studio is a popular spot for pottery classes, located in a cheerful bright yellow building in the middle of Phuket Old Town. Perfect for a rainy afternoon, you can spend a few hours crafting your own unique souvenir to take home, made with local clay and paint. You can even make magnets! 

Phuket has a long history of ceramics production, with influences from China and Europe blending together to make unique and intricate designs. Learn about this fascinating history, while you create something special of your own. Alternatively, browse the collection of handmade pottery on offer in their shop.

Open every day except Wednesday, 10 AM – 7 PM. It’s recommended to book in advance, as it’s a popular activity. 

Good to know: Sitao Ceramic can ship what you make to your home address. This saves you from carrying around fragile ceramics for the rest of your holiday!

5. Samet Nangshe Viewpoint

Motorbike through green jungles and small villages to Samet Nangshe Viewpoint – easily one of Thailand’s most breathtaking natural views! Beautiful at any time of day, but especially spectacular at sunrise, the viewpoint is perched atop a (very!) steep hill. Once you’re at the top, you’ll be rewarded by a view over Phang Nga Bay, a stunning body of turquoise blue water dotted with hundreds of limestone islands and framed by a luscious mangrove forests. 

Entrance fee: 50 THB (1.44 USD)

We recommend staying a night somewhere close by, so you can enjoy the sunrise and some fantastic stargazing. It’s worth noting that it’s not on the Phuket peninsula, so you might want to book a night close to the viewpoint. We stayed at the lovely Baan Kamana , about 30 minutes away, but you can also stay at this resort . There are a few different spots to take in the view. The main ones are Samet Nangshe Viewpoint and Bay View Cafe . 

Book a stay at Santhiya Phuket Natai  or Baan Kamana

6. Thai Cooking Class

Phuket has incredible food; the wide variety of fresh, local ingredients available including fantastic seafood, are used to create a fusion of Thai, Chinese, and Malay cuisine, which has grown from their international trading past.

Have a go at making Hokkien-style noodles, spicy soups, and traditional Pad Thai at a local cooking class. There are all the delicious secrets of these dishes are revealed, and you can learn more about Phuket’s unique culinary culture. 

Most classes will include a tour around the local market to pick out fresh ingredients first. Delicious!

7. A Night Out on Bangla Road in Patong

Bangla Road in the Patong Beach district of Phuket is notorious for its wild night out, where you can party until the early hours. Grab a drink, enjoy the music, and watch the crowds of people embracing the party atmosphere at one of Thailand’s top nightlife spots.

Good to know: The street opens for pedestrians at 6 PM. During the day, there’s not much going on here.

8. Phuket Elephant Sanctuary

Thailand has faced a lot of controversy for its animal tourism over the years. This is paticularly the case with elephants, who are forced to perform or give rides to tourists and are often abused in the process. To have the chance to see these beautiful creatures in an ethical environment, visit the Phuket Elephant Sanctuary . This retirement home (for older and injured elephants) works to rescue these incredible creatures from the logging and tourism industries.

Tip: If you are planning to visit Chiang Mai during your holiday, we’d recommend visiting the Elephant Nature Park there instead, as it is the most ethical elephant sanctuary in Thailand. However, Phuket’s Elephant Sanctuary is the next best thing.

Visiting the Elephant Sanctuary

Take a guided tour of the sanctuary, through their 30-acre forest, and observe the herd bathing from a respectful distance. As you learn about their heartbreaking stories, you can also watch them roaming freely from the 600-meter-long canopy walkway in the treetops. Human contact is limited to keep the elephants calm and happy.

See tickets and availability for a guided tour of the Elephant Sanctuary

9. Soi Dog Foundation

Soi Dog Foundation is a non-profit organization and shelter for street dogs and cats. They currently have over 1800 animals in their care. You can take a free 40-minute guided tour of the shelter, where you learn about their programs and also play with the animals!

What’s more, if you are planning to stay in Phuket for a while and would like to help, there are several volunteer programs you can get involved with.

Open Monday – Friday, tours run at 10 AM and 1:30 PM. No entry fee, but donations are welcomed.

Getting there: The shelter is in Mai Khao village, close to the airport, which is around a 50-minute taxi drive from Phuket’s Old Town. However, it’s definitely worth a visit, so we suggest combing it with another trip.

10. Banana Beach

This quiet and somewhat secluded beach on the north-west side of Phuket is surrounded by lush green forest, with soft white sand and gorgeous clear blue water.

From the main road, it’s a short trek down through the trees to reach the beach and enjoy an undisturbed afternoon of swimming and snorkeling in stunning natural surroundings. There is a small beach bar, but no sunbeds or umbrellas, so bring towels.

Good to know: Please respect the natural beauty, take your trash away, and wear reef-safe sunscreen .

11. Hanuman World

Hanuman World is an incredible zipline in the hills of Kathu, a 15-minute drive from Phuket Old Town. You can do activities like ziplining, waterfall abseiling, and sky bridge walks. See the beautiful natural scenery of Phuket as you fly through the rainforest—one of the most exhilarating things to do in Phuket, Thailand!

Opening Times & Entrance Fee: Open 8 AM – 6 PM daily. The price depends on the package of activities. There is also a shuttle service for visitors who book a tour in advance (300 THB / 8.50 USD).

Book your tickets in advance for Hanuman World

12. Kamala Beach & Laem Sing Viewpoint

Kamala Beach, once a quiet fishing village, is now a popular destination for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. However, it’s still kept its laidback and peaceful atmosphere, with its beautiful palm trees and untouched blue bay. Spend a day here, sipping from a coconut at one of the beachside bars or taking a walk along the clean white sand.

Laem Sing Viewpoint overlooks the beaches of Kamala and Surin and offers incredible panoramic views of the Andaman Sea and the surrounding coastline covered in tropical forests. Come here at sunset when the whole bay turns breathtaking shades of pink and orange. 

Here are all your hotel options in Kamala Beach.

13. Nai Thon Beach Staircase 

To reach Nai Thon Beach you’ll need to make the steep climb down 200 steps. However, this tucked-away staircase is actually the most picturesque thing to do in Phuket! The wooden stairs, lined on either side by thick green jungle and palm trees, lead down to a tropical paradise of white sand and turquoise water.

Although the stairs are now a popular photo spot, the beach itself is a beautiful place to relax and spend a few hours watching the sun go down. Because it’s difficult to reach, it’s also relatively quiet.

Unfortunately, the beach was highly polluted during our visit, with a lot of plastic washed up on the shore and by the stairs. 

Read: Learn more about how to travel plastic-free!

14. Karon Beach

Another tiny fishing village turned tourist hotspot, this long stretch of sand in Karon is stunning, with soft white sand and an inviting clear blue sea just waiting to be dived into! The popular area can get busy, but it is big enough that you should be able to find a quiet spot for yourself.

There are plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops here. We’d recommend Soul I Vegan Cafe & Restaurant for a delicious and nourishing meal to keep your energy up in between swims in the sea.

Tip: If it’s super busy, try Kata Beach or Kata Noi Beach, which are quieter.

Here are all your hotel options in Karon Beach.

15. Bang Pae Waterfall

Bang Pae Waterfall is a stunning natural feature In Khao Phra Thaeo National Park, the only remaining rainforest in Phuket. The falls cascade down a rocky cliff into a natural pool below, surrounded by tropical plants, and it’s a great place to cool off in the hot and humid weather! 

The park is a natural sanctuary for rare and endangered wildlife, so keep a close eye out for flying squirrels and macaques as you walk. You are also closeby to the Gibbon Rehabilitation Project if you want to learn more about these amazing animals.

Entrance Fee: 200 THB (5 USD) to enter the national park.

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16. Go Island Hopping

Phuket is the perfect jumping-off point for island hopping. Because of its location in the stunning blue Andaman Sea, there is easy access to hundreds of beautiful limestone islands with white sandy beaches and dramatic green cliffs. Spend a few days exploring pristine beaches, snorkeling and diving in coral reefs, and visiting floating villages. 

Many of these islands are only a short boat ride away, so you can base yourself in Phuket and make day trips. Alternatively, pick your favorite and spend a few nights away in a tropical island paradise.

Getting there: Book a tour from the many operators in Phuket, or there are plenty of flexible transport options, including speedboats and ferries, which can take you to most islands in under an hour. Prices: 1000-4000 THB (30-120 USD)

One of the most famous places in Thailand, Phi Phi is, in fact, a group of six islands, all with beautiful beaches and crystal clear water. Come here for out-of-this-world snorkeling and diving spots, stunning scenery that you may recognize from movies like ‘The Beach’, and vibrant nightlife.

See availability for a tour to the Phi Phi Islands

Racha Islands  

Koh Racha Yai and Koh Racha Noi are two beautiful islands, only one of which is inhabited. Both have snowy white beaches, clear azure water, and world-class snorkeling and diving. These quiet islands are also great for stargazing.

Book tickets for a catamaran tour to the Racha Islands

K ai Islands

These stunning islands are what you see on the posters—home to untouched sandy beaches, bright blue water dotted with small wooden boats, and palm trees waving in the breeze. The island has a relaxed and authentic vibe, making it the perfect place to unwind and snorkel in the shallow waters.

See availability and tickets for a day tour to the Kai Islands

Coral Island 

Coral Island, also known as Koh Hae, is home to the beautiful Banana Beach and breathtaking coral reefs, great for snorkeling and diving. It is also only 15 minutes by speedboat from Phuket, so it’s an excellent option for a day trip.

Book your speedboat ticket in advance to Banana Beach

17. Visit the Gibbon Rehabilitation Project

The Gibbon Rehabilitation Project aims to rescue, protect and rehabilitate gibbons that have been illegally captured for the tourism and pet trades. The team works to repopulate the endangered species and reintroduce them back into their natural habitat, which is also sadly Phuket’s last remaining rainforest. 

The visit includes a visit to the nearby Bang Pae waterfall, a beautiful natural oasis where you can cool off.

See the official website for tour prices and times

Best Cafes and Restaurants in Phuket

Phuket has countless restaurants and cafes offering everything from international cuisine to delicious local dishes and incredible seafood, of course! There are loads of great vegan and vegetarian options as well, and you can cafe-hop for days. 

There are so many amazing places to choose from, but here are some of our absolute favorites:

• Beach Coconuts Bowls
• Laem Sai Cup Cafe
• Soul Vegan Cafe
• Three Monkeys Restaurant
• The Neighbors Cafe
• Origami Cafe
• Maimorn Seafood & Karaoke
• Pizzeria Da Moreno
• The Vegan Table
• Amore Mexican Tapas & Bar

Where to Stay

We recommend splitting your time between the beach and the old town, spending at least 2-3 days in each. There are plenty of accommodation options, from cheap and cheerful hostels in Phuket to upmarket hotels and luxury villas. Here are some of the most popular areas for your stay:

Phuket Old Town

The best time to stay here is during the weekend when the Sunday night market is on, and there is a lively atmosphere. Although small, it’s the cultural and historical heart of the island, with beautiful colonial architecture, museums, and many cute cafes. 

Hotels in Phuket Old Town 😴

Patong Beach

Patong is the most popular area for visitors as there are plenty of restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops to explore. There are also lots of backpacker hostels here, and if partying is your thing, this is where you should be based. 

Hotels in Patong 😴

Kata Beach or Karon Beach

Come here for relaxed beach vibes, stunning natural scenery, and more peace than busy Patong. Laid-back Kata is a bit quieter than Karon. 

Hotels in Kata Beach 😴

Bang Tao is a huge stretch of beach (one of the longest in Phuket), where many resorts are based. It’s much quieter, a little fancier, and has beautiful sunsets.

Hotels in Bang Tao 😴

How Many Days in Phuket? 

There are so many things to do in Phuket that it would be a shame to pack it all into a few short days. We recommend staying at least a week to fully explore and experience everything that this huge island has to offer. There are loads of different towns and beaches to visit, great shopping, fantastic cafes and plenty of parties! You should also definitely spend a day or two island hopping if you have the time. 

How to Visit Phuket

There are international and domestic flights to Phuket , with daily flights from Bangkok taking just under two hours. If you’re lucky enough to have a window seat, keep an eye out for Mai Khao Beach while landing, which is right by the airport, where you’ll see people plane-spotting on the sand! 

From the airport, it is a 40-minute drive to Phuket Old Town; you can take a shared van (120 THB / 3.50 USD) or a public bus, and there are always plenty of taxis waiting if you have a slightly bigger budget (550 THB / 16 USD). Please note that Grab, Indrive, and other apps are not allowed inside the airport. 

Book your airport transfer in advance here

If traveling from Bangkok, you can take a night bus or train (both take around 12-14 hours), which is a more affordable and sustainable option. The train stops at Surat Thani, so you must take an onward bus from there to Phuket.

See availability and tickets for a train to Surat Thani

Getting Around

You can rent a motorbike for around 5-10 USD per day. However, remember that traffic in Phuket can be heavy, and road safety is not always a top priority. Tuk-tuks are the easiest way to get around and generally the cheapest, as taxis are a little more expensive. Grab taxi is another handy option. Alternatively, you can rent a car to have complete freedom.

We recommend to rent a car in Thailand through Sunny Cars with free cancellation and insurance included. Book your rental car here .

How Much Does Phuket Cost?

Phuket is a popular holiday destination for all kinds of budgets, whether you’re looking to treat yourself or you’re on a budget. There are plenty of great hostel options, and choosing local restaurants or street food is also great for saving money.

Tip: During the high season, from November to February, prices will be higher.

Costs of Traveling in Phuket

Travel on a budget in Phuket, from $110 − $240 USD weekly per person, mid-range $490 − $590 USD, and high-end from $590 − $750 USD. However, costs depend on factors like accommodation, transportation, and activities. We did not include flights. Check flight prices here

• Hotels: $50 − $80 USD Check available hotels
• Hostels: $5 − $25 USD Check available hostels
• Transport: $2 − $10 USD Book public transport
• Food: $3 − $8 USD
• Activities: $2 − $10 USD See tickets & tours
• Sim: $1 − $3 USD Get an eSIM or SIM here
• Travel Insurance: $2 − $6 USD Get Travel Insurance

Best Time to Visit

Phuket can get very busy during the high season (November to February), which means higher prices, but the weather is cooler, and there is less chance of heavy rain. The shoulder season of March to May is an excellent time to come if you want to avoid the bigger crowds and enjoy lower prices while still having good weather.  

Tip: If you’re here in September/October, don’t miss out on the Phuket Vegetarian Festival, a colorful and lively event with different ceremonies over 10 days and lots of firecrackers!

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10 Best Places to Visit in Phuket

By Fiona Fiorentino · Last updated on October 3, 2023

Beaches of extraordinary beauty are the star attractions of Thailand’s largest island and wealthiest province. Served by the second largest airport in Thailand and connected to the mainland by road bridges, Phuket’s easily accessible location on the western shore of the Andaman Sea attracts holiday travelers from around the world. Stretches of white sand arcing around blue lagoons aren’t the island’s only appealing features. Phuket also boasts a broad array of cultural and entertainment attractions, ranging from the clubs of lively Patong to national parks, serene temples and engaging museums.

There’s plenty of active adventures to experience in Phuket too, including deep-sea diving, snorkeling and hikes into the island’s mountainous interior. An abundance of pampering resorts, hotels and restaurants means that visitors don’t have to sacrifice comfort to enjoy all the sights and activities Phuket has to offer. An overview of the best places to visit in Phuket:

10. Hat Mai Khao [SEE MAP]

Hat Mai Khao is a beach on the northwestern coast of Phuket. It’s also known as Airport Beach, as it’s very close to the airport. The northern portion is known as Hat Sai Khao, a long sandy beach with groves of Casuarina trees along the shore. The area around Mai Khao is still very quiet and undeveloped as it is part of the Sirinat National Park.

On quieter days it is still possible here to walk for kilometers without seeing a single person. A short distance out into the water, there is a sharp drop off into the Andaman Sea, making swimming dangerous from May to November.

9. Cape Panwa [SEE MAP]

The cape that stretches out from the southeastern corner of Phuket is home to a number of attractions worth visiting, including Khao Khat, or Panwa Beach. While the sand is rougher than beaches elsewhere on the island, few places in Phuket are as untouched by urbanization as Panwa.

While there are few facilities on the beach itself, a stay in one of the seaside villas offers travelers the chance to enjoy a quiet and peaceful holiday in perfect comfort. Nearby is the recently renovated Phuket Aquarium where visitors can stroll through a long underwater tunnel for up-close looks at marine life ranging from sharks to sting rays.

8. Hat Nai Han [SEE MAP]

Often referred to as Hat Nai Harn, Nai Han is a secluded beach located at the southernmost tip of Phuket Island. As home to the Nai Han monastery, this tranquil beach has escaped overdevelopment, although there are several fine resort hotels along the shoreline as well as anchorage for visiting yachts.

Hat Nai Han is also close to Phromthep Cape, one of the Phuket’s most popular viewpoints. Each evening, travelers from all over Phuket come to watch the sunset. Adventurous visitors climb down a rocky trail to the edge of the promontory to enjoy the best view.

7. Hat Kamala [SEE MAP]

Located to the north of Patong, Hat Kamala is a tranquil, picturesque beach that’s ideal for swimming, snorkeling and sunbathing. The north end of Hat Kamala has a coral reef that invites undersea adventures while the rest of the beach features a sandy sea floor that’s perfect for wading.

Located at the south end of this uncrowded beach is Wat Baan Kamala, a Buddhist temple, which includes images and statues depicting the Buddha’s life. With theatrical productions showcasing the legends and myths of Thailand, the nearby Phuket Fantasea theme park is a great place for families to explore the country’s cultural heritage.

6. Hat Surin [SEE MAP]

For an upscale beach vacation in Phuket, it’s hard to beat the amenities offered at the luxury resorts located among the gorgeous homes on the island’s so-called Millionaire’s Row. High-end resorts in the area offer everything from spa treatments and Thai cooking classes to elephant rides.

Lined with gently swaying casuarina trees, the west coast beach features beautifully groomed sand and crystal-clear water. For most of the year, Hat Surin’s calm waters make it ideal for snorkeling and kayaking. Strong currents during the off season, however, can make swimming treacherous.

5. Hat Rawai [SEE MAP]

Despite the fact that Hat Rawai was the first tourist beach established on Phuket, it’s better known today as a jump-off point for island-hopping tours. The southern-facing beach is primarily used as a harbor for long-tail, speed boats and fishing boats. A recently built pier invites leisurely strolls, but it’s the Sea Gypsies Fish Market situated next to it that makes a visit to Hat Rawai worthwhile.

Fishermen hawk a wide selection of freshly caught seafood. Across the road is a line of family-run restaurants that will cook the purchased fish. There are few better places than Hat Rawai to experience Phuket’s seafood cuisine.

4. Phuket Town [SEE MAP]

Phuket’s capital and largest city offers visitors the chance to step back in time and explore the island’s rich history. Tin mining made Phuket a boom town during the 19th century, and much of the city’s charm comes from the splendid Sino-Portuguese architecture built during this prosperous era.

With its rows of tightly packed and colorfully painted shops, the Old Town is a must for shoppers on the hunt for Phuket specialties like pewter and batik clothing. The incredible trompe-l’œil paintings of the Phuket Trickeye Museum make it a can’t-miss attraction as well.

3. Hat Kata [SEE MAP]

Known as Hat Karon’s sister beach, Hat Kata is situated to the south of its sibling and features two stretches of golden sand separated by a rocky headland. On the northern side, the clear waters and relatively safe swimming conditions of Hat Kata Yai make it a family favorite.

Multiple resorts, restaurants and shops are located across the road next to the beach. The more secluded Kata Noi Beach is a small cove nestled among forested hills. Challenging waves attract surfers to Kata Noi during the monsoon season, and the gorgeous scenery draws visitors year round.

2. Hat Karon [SEE MAP]

Located just a short drive south of bustling Patong, Karon Beach is the second most popular place to visit in Phuket. With large resorts lining the shoreline, Hat Karon attracts visitors who want comfortable accommodations that make it easy to relax and enjoy the sun, sea and sand.

From lazy strolls along the island’s third longest beach to snorkeling and diving adventures among the coral reefs located at the southern end of the sand, activities in Hat Karon revolve around the water. An array of excellent seafood restaurants adds to Hat Karon’s appeal.

1. Hat Patong [SEE MAP]

More than 50 years of continual development has transformed Hat Patong from a secluded beach into a holiday destination best known for its dusk-to-dawn nightlife. Located on Phuket’s west coast, the city of Patong is jam-packed with hundreds of restaurants, discos, bars and clubs, most of which are centered around Bangla Road.

Quieter sections of the city feature upscale shops and one-of-a-kind boutiques. Despite the city’s growth, with its scenic crescent-shaped bay and wide sandy shoreline, the beach remains one of the prettiest in Thailand.

Map of Phuket

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The 15 Best Places to Visit in Phuket, Thailand

Phuket, Thailand is for beach enthusiasts and those who adore the island life. Situated on the west coast of Thailand, it is home to some of the country’s most popular beaches as well as a bevvy of markets, restaurants and nightclubs to keep endlessly entertained in. Here, one can stay in one of the many Phuket villa rentals, blissfully relax on a turquoise beach and live it up in a vibrant nightlife environment all in one day. Here are some of the most interesting things to do in Phuket :

Table of Contents

15 Must-See Places to Visit in Phuket

Patong beach.

Patong Beach is the main tourist hub of the island and the most famous beach resort, and there are plenty of reasons why. Not only is the beach gorgeous with people all over the world bathing in the sun in a relaxed atmosphere, there is also plenty of water sports activities to do there, too. Lining the beach are plenty of restaurants, bars and markets, making it fairly busy during the day but thriving at night.

Phi Phi Islands

Made famous by the movie ‘The Beach’ starring Leonardo di Caprio, Phi Phi Islands and particularly Maya Bay is busy but nonetheless beautiful and worth the visit. When you first enter the islands by boat, giant cliffs rising out of the azure blue waters greet you. Each island is stunning in its own way and makes for unbelievable pictures: long-tail boats line the shores, golden sands gleam in the sun and ethereally blue waters beckon you in.

Phang Nga Bay

North-east of Phuket is a bay comparable to that of Halong Bay in Vietnam, other-worldly in its beauty and simply spectacular. Gliding through the waters by canoe is the best way to explore Phang Nga Bay and its dramatic limestone cliffs. Don’t forget to visit the ‘hongs,’ or rooms, within the bay – these are like fairytale realms where open-air caves are surrounded by towering cliffs – and they are sure to take your breath away.

James Bond Island

One of the most popular places in Phang Nga Bay, this is another island in Phuket made famous by a movie (no guesses which one!) and is a coveted bucket-list destination for travelers when in Thailand. Moving through the larger-than-life limestone cliffs is an experience in itself, but the climax begins when you get to KoTapu, the 20-meter vertical rock it is famous for.

Old Phuket Town

This town is a historical district and the provincial capital of Phuket, with Sino-colonial buildings, shrines and temples making this Old Town an interesting place to visit. The best-known street in this part of town is Thalang Road and it is very easy to explore by foot. Stroll around when it is not so hot and discover beautifully preserved shops, cafes and museums at your leisure, stopping at one the many restaurants on offer when you are ready for refreshments.

Bangla Road

Perhaps one of the most infamous streets in Thailand, Bangla Road is the heart of Phuket nightlife entertainment. Vibrant and colorful, this street is lined with nightclubs, bars and raunchy shows and is best enjoyed after-dark with an open mind and sense of humor. Be warned that it is loud as a lot of the establishments are open-air so the music blends into each other, and be wary of scammers. Other than night, it is a great place to have a lively night, whether you’re people watching, gawking at the extravagant ladyboys or having a few drinks.

Sitting on Nakkerd Hills, this stunning 45-meter tall Buddha statue is one of the most revered landmarks in Phuket. The white jade marble the statue is made of makes for a shimmering vision, and the site itself offers an impressive 360-degree view of the island. It is a peaceful and refreshing getaway from the hustle and bustle of other parts of the island. Make sure to wear clothes appropriate for religious sites, otherwise, you can borrow a sarong to cover yourself up at the site.

Wat Chalong

One of Phuket’s most important temples, Wat Chalong is a Buddhist site open to locals and foreigners alike. Exquisite, ornate and peaceful, visitors can see the Buddhist statue Poh Than Jao Wat and The Grand Pagoda where lies a splinter of Lord Buddha’s bone. As with most religious sites in Thailand, make sure you cover yourself appropriately and take off your shoes when entering some of the buildings.

Promthep Cape

Considered as one of the most photographed and best-known viewpoints on the island, Promthep Cape is the perfect place to watch the sun go down either with friends or a loved one. The stunning view of the Andaman Sea makes it extremely popular but worth the visit. Also on the hill is a lighthouse which you can enter for interesting maritime artefacts as well as handicraft shops, stalls and a restaurant.

Patong’s Paradise Complex

By Stefan from the Nomadic Boys

Phuket Island is one of the top LGBTQ destinations in Asia. As well as offering an array of stunning beaches to visit and unique world-famous islands close by to check out, it’s also famous for its large gay scene in Patong’s Paradise Complex. 

The  gay scene of Phuket  in the Paradise Complex is quite a unique and super exciting atmosphere to experience that we highly recommend! It is comprised of a series of pedestrianised streets located just off Thanon Ratuthit Songroipi Road, opposite the Royal Paradise Hotel. The Complex has lots of gay-owned/managed cafes, bars, clubs and restaurants.

The most famous include Boat Bar and ZAG Club, each offering quite a dramatic drag show every evening. From around 10 pm, the crowds head to the Paradise Complex to watch the hilarious displays of drag queens and GoGo dancer boys performing on the streets outside. Other places to check out here include the Frank Sinatra-inspired bar called “My Way” and the “James Dean” bar.

Baan Teelanka (Upside Down House)

By Sharon from Baby Journey

This unique attraction is actually three attractions – there is the upside-down house itself, a garden maze and an escape room. It’s the perfect place to visit in Phuket if you want to do something different and laugh a lot.

The main attraction, the upside-down house, is definitely the best part though. You start by entering the house in the roof since it is upside down. You then get to walk around the house and there are the usual rooms – like kitchen, living, bedrooms and bathrooms – but they are all upside down including laptops, wine glasses, paintings, absolutely everything. Even the garage is upside down complete with an upside-down tuk-tuk. The attention to detail is superb.

The staff can help you pose for bizarre photos that make you look like you are upside down or crawling around the walls like in the photo above. Walking around in here can cause some vertigo and it’s definitely strange walking down/up upside downstairs, but a lot of fun.

Phuket Night Market

By Sasha Naslin from The Alternative Travel Guide 

If you love good food, then visiting the night markets should be on your  Phuket bucket list . It will turn your trip into a real gastronomic adventure! 

One of the popular night markets in Phuket is Malin Plaza Market located near Patong Beach. The market is quite small and divided into grocery and clothing parts. Malin Plaza Market has an excellent selection of exotic fruits – pineapples, mangoes, coconuts, rambutans, dragonfruits… The fruit market is open all day, and in the evenings a night market with ready-made Thai food springs up around it. 

Here you can taste fried shrimps, crocodile barbecue, Thai fried chicken, noodles, rice, pad thai, Thai sweets. I recommend trying traditional Thai omelettes that are crispy, fluffy, sprinkled with fresh herbs and spicy Sriracha sauce. 

The good side of the Malin Plaza food market is that you can get large portions, and the food is delicious! There are even several tables and chairs nearby where you can sit down and eat your Thai street food. 

Another night market worth visiting is Naka Market in Phuket Town, opposite Naka Temple.  Here you can eat traditional and unusual food such as fried grasshoppers and scorpions. 

If you are a seafood lover, try grilled squid, deep-fried shrimp, and boiled crabs with spicy sauce. Most restaurants have tables where you can sit down with friends and enjoy your food, which is actually a favourite pastime of Thai people. So, Naka Market looks like many small pop-up cafes and restaurants in one place. 

Thai Mueang Sea Turtle Conservation Centre and Lampi Waterfall (Namtok Lampee)

By Karen from Big Adventures for Little Feet

Looking for a fantastic day trip location and some fun attractions from Phuket that take you away from the tourist trail? Head north towards Khao Lak and make some fun stops at the Thai Mueang Turtle Conservation Centre and Namtok Lampee (or Lampi Waterfall).

The turtle conservation centre is part of the Phang Nga Coastal Fisheries Research and Development Centre and is playing its part to rehabilitate injured turtles for release into the wild as well as a well-run breeding program.

The centre is no-frills and guests can wander freely amongst the tanks on a self-guided tour to see all the aquatic creatures being cared for. You may even be lucky to find a crocodile and sting rays as well as many turtles ranging from newborn babies through to mature turtles awaiting release.

Just a short distance away from the Turtle Rehabilitation Centre is the extremely pretty Lampi Waterfall. With an easy rainforest boardwalk leading you to a tiered waterfall complete with a swimming waterhole at the bottom this is a great place to visit and have a picnic.

Don’t be dissuaded to visit if it is raining as this is when the waterfall is at it’s most beautiful and you can visit in relative peace and quiet – or completely alone as we enjoyed! 

Monkey Hill

By Jessie Moore of Pocket Wanderings

Khao To Sae – more commonly known as “Monkey Hill” – is located in the north side of Phuket Town. A recognisable hill with its various antennas and radio masts at the top, it is easy to spot from afar. This monkey playground is free to visit and, along with Monkey Bay in the Phi Phi Islands , is the best place to see and interact with monkeys in Phuket.

The hill is walkable but can be hard work in the intense humidity and high temperatures, so you may prefer to take a motorbike or taxi ride. You can feed the monkeys fruit and nuts, but it’s always worth being cautious around the monkeys – although they are used to interacting with humans, they are still wild animals. If feeding the monkeys isn’t for you, they are extremely entertaining to watch with their signature cheeky personalities. 

Monkeys aside, a visit to Monkey Hill is worth it just for the viewpoints at the top. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views over Phuket, which are particularly special at sunrise or sunset. The best time to visit Monkey Hill is early morning or late evening to avoid the scorching temperatures in between

Sirinat National Park

By Cora + Helen from Inside our Suitcase

Sirinat National Park is located on the northwestern coast of Phuket, less than one mile from the airport. The national park is relatively undiscovered compared to many of the additional areas in Phuket and is designed to protect natural habitats of mole crabs, nesting turtles and seashells. 

Nai Yang Beach is just one of the beaches within Sirinat National Park, and our personal favourite.   If you’re looking to stay in the region then you’ll have a handful of hotel resorts and hostels to choose from. The prices can be slightly more than you may find elsewhere in Phuket as a result of them being so close to the airport. 

Whether you arrive in Phuket for a religious experience, to enjoy the many beautiful beaches and resorts on offer or to party in its infamous nightlife setting, you will be sure to walk away with a unique and memorable experience of Thailand.

It is an island bustling with visitors from all over the world hoping to understand what the fuss is all about – and people are hardly disappointed provided they keep an open mind and a sense of adventure.

Have you been to Phuket? Do you have more things to add to the list?

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2 thoughts on “The 15 Best Places to Visit in Phuket, Thailand”

Great info. What’s your top 3 favourite places in Thailand?

I don’t know Thailand that well but I like Khao Sok National Park, Ayuthaya and Ko Phi Phi. What about you?

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Map of Phuket — Best attractions, restaurants, and transportation info

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Tourist Places in Phuket

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Must Visit Places in Phuket

Patong beach.

Ideal for shopping lovers and fashionistas, Patong Beach is known for its shopping centres and stalls. Party lovers and bar hoppers flock here, because of the sheer variety of beer bars, go-go bars and nightclubs lining the beach. The vibrant nightlife invites crowds of bustling tourists, so you are sure to make some friends. Neon lights, bucket drinks, and thumping music are the trademarks of Patong, so it may not be ideal for those of you looking for peace and quiet. However, it is the place to be if you are a party animal. Hundreds of restaurants dot the beach, so you can also get some delicious local dishes if you get the munchies after a late night of dancing and drinking.  Location: Pa Tong, Kathu District, Chang Wat Phuket Timing: Open all day Entry Fees:  None Explore More:  Island Hopping in Thailand You Can Also Book:   Phuket Tour Packages For Family

Located a short drive away from Karon Beach, this place is enchanting with its soft sandy bays and crystal clear water. The palm trees lining up the shore, various restaurants as well as easy accommodation facilities available closely make it a pleasant site to spend quality time with your family. It is lively even during the night, but there are no wild parties as such. The beach remains open throughout the year. From May to October, several people come to surf while November to April finds people who want to enjoy the sun. The beach has two primary divisions; the Kata Centre up north and Kata South. There are several little shops that sell souvenirs, resorts, fashion stores and a large variety of fine eateries and street food stalls.  Location : Karon, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83100, Thailand Timing: Open all day. Entry Fees: None Recommended Read: T hailand Famous Night Market Also Checkout:  Best Things To Do In Phuket

The seated Maravija Buddha statue is one of the most popular Sightseeing places in Phuket and the most revered landmark in the country. Nestled atop the Nakkerd Hills between Chalong and Kata, the statue is 45 meters tall and can be seen even from the town. The serene atmosphere and chirping birds add to the tranquil vibes of this place. Soft dharma music and the gentle tinkling of bells can be heard in the background, and hundreds of yellow Buddhist flags fluttering in the wind create a mesmerizing sight. The statue is created with reinforced concrete, and a layer of Burmese white jade marble covers it, creating an awe-inspiring effect.  Location: Tambon Karon, Amphoe Mueang Phuket, Chang Wat Phuket Timing: 8 am to 7.30 pm Entry Fees: no entry fee  Click here to Book:  Big Buddha Phuket Tour Must Checkout:  Phuket Tour Packages

Trick Eye Museum

The internationally famous art gallery is one of the few tourist places in Phuket where you can unleash your imagination and enjoy the delights of augmented reality. Immerse yourself into an entertaining world with sound and light effects.The installations have been integrated with AR in order to deliver an extraordinary experience you will remember your entire life. The art installations and paintings seem almost realistic, and the optical illusions will boggle your mind. Relax on the beach, or fly on Aladdin’s magic carpet, ride on an elephant, or wrestle with sharks – Trick Eye transports you to an entirely different. Unlike other museums, patrons are encouraged to touch the artwork here and take as many photos as you want.  Location: Sentosa Gateway, #01-43/44, Singapore Timing: 10 am to 9 pm Entry Fees: INR 1000 Also Checkout & Book:   Trick Eye Museum Phuket Tickets Also Explore: Water Parks in Phuket

Phuket Bird Park

Spread over 12 acres of land, Phuket Bird Park is one of the most famous Tourist places in Phuket among nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. Featuring more than a hundred bird species from South America, Africa, and Asia – the park houses thousands of birds in their natural habitat. The lush gardens are well-maintained and also feature a natural waterfall, thus allowing the birds to fly freely and wildly in the premises. Live bird shows are also held thrice a day for the entertainment of guests. Enjoy walking through the dense jungles and witnessing hornbills, parrot Marcos, drawing birds, and ostriches flying and playing all around you.  Location: Chao Fah Tawan Tok Rd, Wichit, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket Timing: 9 am to 5 pm Entry Fees: INR 600/ THB 261 Checkout &  Book:   Phuket Bird Park Tickets You may also Explore:  Markets in Phuket 

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Slip N Fly Phuket

Enjoy one of the major Attractions in Phuket at KC Kathu Connection Club Bar and Restaurant featuring active entertainment options as well as a place to relax and rejuvenate in the quiet and comfortable beach gazebos. Moreover, for people who are travelling with family, there is a special kids’ zone where your little ones can engage with other children there are. A stylish and sophisticated bar for partying, and a clear swimming pool to splash around in the cool waters are also available. Intimate wine and dining can be enjoyed at the chic restaurant while enjoying the panoramic views of the mountains.  Location: 2/98 Moo 2 Phraphuketkeaw road Kathu, Phuket 83120 Timing: 11 am to 7 pm Entry Fees: INR 700 Planning for a honeymoon trip to Phuket, then you can Checkout:   Phuket Honeymoon Tour Packages Also Checkout:  Phuket Packages From Delhi

Hanuman World

Emerging as one of the most attractive Sightseeing places in Phuket, Hanuman World is the latest eco-adventure park in Thailand where you can enjoy ziplining. The 800-meter ride twists and turns over the dense canopy at the speed of 40 kilometers per hour. For adventure seekers and adrenaline junkies, there is nothing more thrilling than defying gravity and flying over the heart of the Thai rainforest. Get a bird’s eye view of the city and soak in the spectacular vistas around the Andaman Sea. For those of you who have a heart of steel, you can also try the Roller Coaster Zipline which has a winding path through the forest.  Location: 105 Moo 4, Chaofa Road, T. Wichit, Muang Phuket Timing: 8 am to 5 pm Entry Fees: INR 3550 You can Click here to Book: Flying Hanuman Ziplining in Phuket Suggested Read: Things to Do in Phuket with Kids

The 60-acre cultural theme park is one of the major attractions in Phuket. Inspired by the rich cultural history of the island, FantaSea offers the best in night-time entertainment in the city. The state-of-the-art theatre uses ultramodern technology and mesmerizing special effects to present the spectacular beauty of Thailand in its shows. From acrobatics to aerial performances, magic shows to pyrotechnics and animal performances – the production covers a host of categories and you will be left spellbound at the sheer scale and size of it all. There is also a grand dining facility where you can feast on delicious Thai food after the show.  Location: Kamala, Kathu District, Phuket 83150, Thailand Timing: 5.30 pm to 11.30 pm Entry Fees: Starting from THB 1745 / INR 4000. Also Checkout & Book:  Phuket Fantasea Tickets You may also like to Explore:  Best Thailand Resorts

Phuket Old Town

The old town of Phuket is a historically rich provincial capital where you will find beautiful shrines, majestic temples, and delicate shops preserved with their original architecture. Indisputably one of the most stunning places to visit in Phuket, Old Town features chic cafes, private and public museums, quaint little printing shops, and even an ex-red-light area. Magnificent mansions designed with Chinese colonial architectural motifs are common, and there is a host of restaurants to choose from. The amulet market is the perfect place to buy souvenirs for friends and family. Also makes sure you visit the Jui Tui Shrine, a popular Chinese temple famous as the oldest and most sacred spiritual centre in the city. Location: Krabi Road, Phuket Town Timings: Mon to Sat 9 am to 4:30 pm Entry Fees:  200 Baht. Click here to Book:   Phuket City Sightseeing Tour Must Checkout: Places To Visit In Phuket For Honeymoon

Surf House Phuket

Famous among novices as well as seasoned experts, Surf House is home to all kinds of surfers in the city. The incredible feeling of chasing through the waves and cutting through the waters is an unmissable experience. Thrill chasers will love the adrenaline high of riding wave after wave, and there is an afterparty filled with fun and booze where you can get to know the locals. If you are feeling especially adventurous, try the Double FlowRider where continuous waves of water are released to throw you off your board.  Location: 4 Soi Pakbang, Tambon Karon, Muang Chang Wat Phuket Timing: 9.30 am to 11 am, 10 pm to 11 pm Entry Fees: INR 1600 Must Checkout & Book:  Surf House Phuket Popular Read:   Islands in Thailand

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Patong Boxing Stadium

Enjoy the famous Muay Thai live kickboxing matches at one of the most popular tourist places in Phuket, Patong Stadium. Considered a quintessential part of Thai culture, an authentic Muay Thai match is an unparalleled experience not to be missed. Buy VIP tickets and get seats close to the ring in order to view the spectacular action-packed scenes from up close. Enjoy unhindered viewing experience as the boxers battle it out in this intense sport using their legs, elbows, knees and all kinds of techniques in five rounds of 3 minutes each.  Location: Sainamyen Rd, Tambon Patong, Amphoe Kathu, Chang Wat Phuket Timing: 9 am to 5 pm Entry Fees: INR 2800 Also Checkout:  Beaches in Phuket                             Phuket Packages From Bangalore

Sirinat National Park

Wat Phra Thong

Jungle Xtreme Adventure Park

Ziplining is one of the most famous Attractions in Phuket, and the best place to enjoy this adrenaline-releasing adventure sport is Jungle Xtreme Adventure Park. Featuring 16 zip lines criss-crossing across the dense forest, the park provides a truly goosebumps-inducing ride. Fulfill your childhood dream of flying like superman. Just put on your wings and glide over the rainforest’s dense canopy like a bird. You can also try the climbing tracks and walking bridges if you love hiking. The deep woods and nature trails make the entire experience serene and tranquil. Location: Phuket Rd, Tambon Chalong, Amphoe Mueang Phuket, Chang Wat Phuket 83130, Thailand Timing: 9 am to 6 pm Entry Fees: INR 4400 Must Explore:  Bangkok Resorts Checkout & Book:  Jungle Xtrem Adventure Park You should also Know:  Best Places to Visit in Pattaya at Night

Bang Tao Beach

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Elephant Jungle Sanctuary

Of all the Attractions in Phuket, the jungle sanctuary is the most fun. Housing the national animal of Thailand, this place offers you a chance to connect with the beautiful majestic beasts in their natural habitat. Participate in activities like bathing and feeding the animals, and learn about their behaviour and instincts. Meet cute baby elephants, swim with them, and have a relaxing mud spa. You can also arrange a traditional Thai lunch in the woods, or hike through the area to soak in the rich natural beauty. All the elephants are trained by professionals and are extremely docile and obedient, so you can take your kids along with you too.  Location: Elephant Jungle Sanctuary, Pong District Timing: 6.30 am to 5.30 pm Entry Fees: INR 4810 You Must Checkout:  Hidden Things To Do in Bangkok                                     Phuket Tour Packages From Kolkata

Tha Rua Shrine

• Places to Visit in Pattaya
• Things to Do in Pattaya

Bang Pae Waterfall

Relaxing Spa Treatments in Phuket

What better place to pamper yourself than Phuket where there is no dearth of luxurious and cosy spas? Rejuvenate your mind and replenish your body with a relaxing massage while enjoying the splendid views of the Andaman Sea. The luxe establishments are equipped with modern facilities and you can enjoy a variety of treatments, like Thai massage, aromatherapy oil massage, and hot rocks massage. You can get a facial and scrub too. Formed by a combination of Chinese and Indian healing practices, the massages employ both stretching and acupressure techniques to loosen the knots in your muscles.  Location: there are several branches of the brand all over Phuket Timing: 10 am to 12 am Entry Fees: starting at INR 1280 You can also Explore: Water Parks in Pattaya                                        Pattaya Tour Packages

Wat Chalong

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Laem Singh Beach

Places to Visit in Phuket with Family & Kids

Splash jungle water park.

When it comes to Sightseeing places in Phuket, Splash Jungle Water Park located in Mai Khao Beach is an unmissable destination in southern Thailand. With its 12 magical water slides and a host of rides and attractions, the park is particularly fun for little ones. If you are visiting with your family, make sure you take your kids here. From Lazy River ride where you can float in the water at your leisure – to goosebumps-inducing Boomerango, Splash has a buffet of options for the entire family. Facilities like Kids Aquarium, Kids Slide Pool, and Splash Jungle are also available for toddlers. Adventure lovers should check out The Superbowl ride where they will be dropped through an Aqua Tube into the pool.  Location: Grand West Sands Villa Phuket, 65 Moo 4, Mai Khao Timing: 10 am to 6 pm Entry Fees: INR 2160 Must Checkout:   Things To Do in Koh Samet Island

Dolphin Show

If you are looking for Tourist places in Phuket, make sure you visit the local dolphinarium where you can get up-close views of marine animals. Escape from your everyday life and humdrum routine to engage with these cuddly creatures and enjoy their naughty activities. Incredibly fun and playful, the dolphins are well trained and obedient. Witness them performing amazing tricks, and if you are lucky, you may even get a kiss or a hug. The dolphin bay is the perfect place to teach your children about loving animals and protecting the environment.  Location: Tambon Chalong, Amphoe Mueang Phuket, Chang Wat Phuket Timing: 11 to 11.45 am, 2 to 2.45 pm, 5 to 5.45 pm Entry Fees: starting at INR 1414 Do Checkout: Best Night Markets in Pattaya                          Pattaya Packages From Delhi

Visit Phuket Zoo and appreciate this superbly diverse kind of zoo. Rich tropical gardens welcome you to walk around in the shade of huge trees lined along the islands containing a wide range of exotic creatures. If you will ask locals about 'what to do in Phuket'? They will come up by saying 'go to Phuket Zoo and enjoy' New types of fish, feathered creatures and different wildlife species are received every year and also different brooding projects welcome more and more of off-springs every year.

The zoo also trades creatures with different zoos to dispose of abundance stock and get fresh beautiful recruits. The attentive and prepared staff will do their best to keep you entertained and enrich you with an array of wonderful photography opportunities. Icy beverages, desserts and so on are sold at a few unique areas around the broad grounds so you can sit and rest amid your visit.

Location : 23/2 Moo 3, Soi Palai, Chaofa Road (not far from the Chalong circle, the zoo is very well indicated)

Timings: Monkey Shows: 09.00 AM, 12.00 PM, 02.30 PM and 04.45 PM, Crocodile Shows: 09.45 AM, 12.45 PM, 03.15 PM and 05.30 PM, Elephant Shows: 10.30 AM, 01.30 PM and 04.00 PM 

Entry Fees: The approximate price is INR 1,800 per adult and INR 1,130 per child. Planning a trip to Bangkok? Then Checkout:  Islands near Bangkok                                                                               Bangkok Family Tour Packages

Phuket Aquarium

Dive into a world of tropical beauty that dwells underwater with a visit to Phuket Aquarium. A great place to have an entertaining day with your friends and family, Phuket Aquarium is where you can learn a great deal about aquatic animals and their ecological environment. 

With a giant tunnel that offers a glimpse of the most varied aquatic creatures, Phuket Aquarium is one of the most fun places for wildlife lovers in Phuket. Watching the fishes like reef sharks, stingrays etc swim past through you through the tunnel at Phuket Aquarium is a surreal experience in itself. 

Phuket Aquarium is a great visit if you want to take a break from the usual activities or going with children who are too young for snorkeling. 

Timings:  8:30 am to 4:30 pm

Location: Phuket Aquarium, Cape Panwa, Phuket  

Entry Fees:  INR 225 You can Also Book:  Resorts in Phuket                                   Bangkok Tour Packages

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The Tiger Kingdom

Gear up for an enthralling visit as you roam around in the company of majestic tigers when you are in Phuket. Visiting the Tiger Kingdom in Phuket should be on top of your list of places to visit in Phuket if you are a wildlife lover. Offering an opportunity to get close with these magnificent creatures. While visiting, tourists are asked whether they want to meet the small cubs or full-grown tigers on their visit. These animals have been raised in a human company since their birth and thus one can notice a wide indifference on the part of these tigers when you visit this place.  Tourists here can also enjoy capturing these adventurous moments with a tiger by paying some extra charge for photography at The Tiger Kingdom. Location: 118/88 Moo 7, Kathu, Phuket, Thailand Timing: 9 AM to 6 PM. Entry Fees: Staring from 1,500 THB Checkout for Best Offers: Tiger Kingdom Phuket Tickets Also Checkout:  Places To Visit In Phuket In 4 Days  

Karon Viewpoint

Best Beaches to Visit in Phuket

Karon beach.

The third-longest beach located between Patong in the north and Kata to the south, Karon Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Phuket. It is also wide enough for the beachgoers to not feel crowded. It has spots for snorkelling and diving at its southern end. Karon is divided into three main areas, each very distinct: Karon Centre is a lively small city that has a lot of options for food, shopping, nightlife, and a Buddhist Temple hosting a bi-weekly market. An ideal place for evening strolls, Karon Road boasts of several large resorts, restaurants and shopping areas including Karon Bazaar. The third main area is towards the south end of the beach which flaunts excellent restaurants and more rowdy nightlife spots of the town. Location : Karon, Mueang Phuket District, Thailand. Timing: Open all day. Entry Fees: None Recommended Read:  Places To Visit Near Jomtien Beach Suggested Read:  Best Places In Thailand

Nai Harn Beach

 A beautiful beach with an expanse of white sand and crystal clear water, Nai Harn Beach is a peaceful abode for revitalizing and recharging your soul and spirit. The bay is not sprawling in terms of size and has a few hotels and restaurants dotted along the shore. The conditions for swimming are most ideal from November to April while in the low season, it gets tricky. The time from May to October is best suited for activities such as kite-boarding and surfing. A few local restaurants on the beach makes it the perfect spot for relaxing and lazing in the sun.  Location : Nai Harn beach, Phuket town, Thailand Timing: Open all day. Entry Fees: None Looking out for Religious Tourism in Thailand, then Checkout: Temples in Thailand Also Checkout - T hailand Tour Packages From Pune

Freedom Beach

The 300-meter long stretch of white sand at Pa Tong is a hidden gem when it comes to Tourist places in Phuket. Set amidst beautiful granite rocks and flanked by lush green hills, the immaculate beach is ideal for people who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Observe the incredible beauty of the sea, enjoy sunbathing, and take part in beach volleyball and soccer. If you are an adventure enthusiast, you can also explore the rich marine life of the bay via snorkelling. Longtail boats are also available if you want to explore the bay and enjoy the beautiful vistas.  Location: Pa Tong, Kathu District, Chang Wat Phuket. Timing: Open all day. Entry Fees: None You Must Checkout:  Things To Do in Krabi in 2 Days                                     Thailand Family Packages

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Places to Visit in Phuket at Night

Siam niramit show.

There is no dearth of Sightseeing places in Phuket, but to get to know the rich cultural history of Thailand, you must check out the Siam Niramit Show. The elegant show is held just outside the town, off the by-pass road and features some of the wonderful costumes you will ever see, not to mention the powerful performances by the actors. It tells the rich history, culture and lifestyle of the local people through a series of breathtaking dance performances, melodious music, and beautiful art styles. The theatre can seat nearly 2000 people at once, and more than a hundred people take part in the performance. After the show, you will get to enjoy an authentic Thai buffet.  Location: 55/81 Moo 5, Rassada Road, Muang, Phuket Timing: 5 pm to 11 pm Entry Fees: INR 1400 Checkout & Book:  Siam Niramit Show Bangkok Tickets Recommended Read:  Places To Visit In Phuket With Family

Rawai Village

Irish Times

Of all the Sightseeing places in Phuket, there is nothing more fascinating than the Irish Pub - what with its stripped brick walls, a vast array of Gaelic paraphernalia, and photos from a long-forgotten world. You will also find a collection of hammers displayed here, along with many tin beer slogans. The cosy setting of the place is enhanced by compartment seating just outside and plush sofas inside. Although the entire facility is air-conditioned, ornamental ceiling fans are hung that give this place an old-world charm. It’s a great place for getting a few drinks with your friends and munching on some snacks. The pub is famous for its cordon bleu chicken and sirloin steak, and there is also a special kids’ menu. Location: Jungceylon Shopping Center, Phuket Timing: 11 am to 11 pm Entry Fees: INR 900 Must Explore: Beach Resorts In Thailand For Families                           Thailand Tour Packages From Chennai

Bangla Road

Best Places to Visit Near Phuket

James bond island.

Shot to fame with a feature in the famous 1974 James Bond movie, this island is one of the most serene places to visit in Phuket. Offering a glorious view of nature at its best, James Bond Island is known for limestone cliffs and turquoise waters. James Bond Island is covered under the group of Phang Nga Bay and is under national park protection. 

The island captivates the tourists with its brilliant flora and fauna and offers a glimpse of many exotic species like Pandanus, cycads, euphorbs etc. The scenic beauty here is unparalleled and attracts a lot of tourists who are looking for a day getaway from Phuket. 

Offering a number of activities like water sports, kayaking, diving etc, James Bond Island is one of the most fabulous tourist attractions in Phuket that you should add to your bucket list.

  Location: James Bond Island, Phang Nga Bay, Phuket

Timings:  8 am to 6 pm 

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Similan Islands

Of all the Tourist places in Phuket, Similan Islands are the most fun, especially if you love exploring nature. Adventure enthusiasts and water sports lovers unite at the islands where you can engage in tonnes of thrilling activities like swimming, snorkelling, and beach volleyball. Spread over 140 square meters, the panoramic islands offer magical views of the clear blue waters. Since the Andaman Sea has a rich marine life, you can also try scuba diving and get up close and personal with the beautiful underwater creatures. Or if you want to relax, you can hang out by the beach with your favourite book and a chilled drink.   Location: West Coast of Southern Thailand, in Lam Kaen, Thai Mueang District Timing: Tour starts at 6 am Entry Fees: INR 4780 Also Explore & Book: Similan Island Tour By Speedboat Suggested for You:  Best Things To Do In Kata Beach

Phi Phi Island

One of the major Attractions in Phuket is the famous Phi Phi island where you can enjoy the vibrant discos and thumping music all night long. Known for its lively atmosphere and crazy gatherings, the island is a haven for party animals. But if that’s not your thing, you can also enjoy the sun, sand and sea on the beautiful beaches. Cliffs jutting out into the aquamarine waters, clear blue skies, and immaculate shorelines are the trademarks of Phi Phi Islands. Participate in watersports activities, go shopping, and try delicious local curries. Witness tangerine sunsets over the sea and immerse yourself into the unparalleled natural beauty of Phi Phi.  Location: Krabi, Phuket Timing: open 24 hours  Entry Fees: INR 2050 Also Checkout:  Things To Do In Phuket In 3 Days                              Thailand Tour Packages From Bangalore

Raya Islands

Raya Islands are considered as the most beautiful places to visit in Phuket because of their immaculate white sandy beaches, majestic mountains, and peaceful environment. Surrounded by aquamarine waters of the Andaman Sea, Raya Islands are famous among people who love natural beauty and calm atmosphere. Getaway from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, and swim in the crystal-clear waters. Enjoy the panoramic views with a cocktail on the beach. You can also try snorkelling and explore the colourful corals and sea life. Make sure you get a delicious meal at the famous Raya Feather restaurant before heading back to your hotel.  Location: Rawai, Thailand Timing: 8 am to 4 pm  Entry Fees: INR 2400 Explore & Book:  Raya Islands Tour near Phuket Must Checkout:   Places To Visit In Krabi For Honeymoon

Khai Island

Escape the noise and traffic of city to enjoy a quiet day with your loved ones wrapped in the serenity of Khai Island when you are in Phuket. Located just 30 minutes away from Phuket, Khai Island is a hidden gem where you can enjoy in the beautiful beaches and indulge in swimming and snorkelling. 

The clear green waters and the shiny white sands at Khai Island will take your breath away and one can catch a glimpse of the beautiful coral reefs as well when you are there. Offering a relaxing getaway where you can sit all day sipping cocktails and witness the heavenly scenery around, Khai Island is one of the best places to visit in Phuket. 

The islands are also a delight for photography enthusiasts who want to capture the tropical fishes swimming in the beautiful turquoise waters.

Location: Koh Khai Islands is located 15 minutes away from Phuket

Timings: N/A

Phang Nga Bay

Of all the Tourist places in Phuket, Phang Nga is the richest in terms of natural beauty and mesmerizing panoramas. It is worth taking a canoe and exploring the spellbinding region on your own. Abundant in naturally formed limestone cliffs and beautiful sunken caves, the bay is a treasure trove of hidden gems just waiting to be discovered. Since it is untainted by human touch, the pristine location is serene and peaceful. Catch a view of magnificent mountains and strange rock formations while traversing the water channels, and enjoy a delicious dinner as you witness the tangerine sun disappearing in the waters.  Location: Lies between southern Thailand's mainland and Phuket Island Timing: 11.30 am to 8 pm Entry Fees: INR 7000. Popular Read:   Places To Visit In & Near Grand Palace Bangkok Book Now:  Bangkok Pattaya Tour Package From Mumbai

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Phromthep Cape

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Tri Trang Beach

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Bangla boxing stadium.

One of the major attractions in Phuket, or any major Thai city for that matter, is the live kickboxing matches called Muay Thai. It is a traditional Thai sport and you can enjoy it at the Bangla Boxing Stadium in the city. The high-stakes sport features locally trained kickboxers who use every strategy they know to defeat their opponents. Every move is fair game in this high stakes sport - whether it is using elbows and knees, or kicking and punching. If you want to watch the stimulating fight from up close, you have to pay a little extra, but the action and thrill of watching a live fight are worth it.  Location: Tambon Patong, Amphoe Kathu, Chang Wat Phuket Timing: 10 am to 11.45 pm Entry Fees: INR 3400 Click here to Book:  Bangla Boxing Stadium Tickets with Transfers Popular Read: Beaches Near Walking Street Pattaya

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Khao Rang Hill View Point

Treat yourself with the scenic vistas of Thailand from Khao Rang Hill View Point on your vacation. Offering a 360 degree view of the town of Phuket, Khao Rang Hill View Point is an ideal place to enjoy a romantic dinner at one of the restaurants or just have a laid back time sitting at the terrace. 

One of the most remarkable views from here is the Big Buddha which forms the ‘spine’ of the island. Along with the panoramic views, Khao Rang Hill View Point has numerous attractions like a landscaped park with children’s playground, three restaurants and bars, a fitness park, and a panoramic terrace. 

Being a popular picnic spot, Khao Rang Hill View Point attracts a number of tourists throughout the day and is best visited during the evenings when one can see the beautiful town all lit up from the top.

Location: 145/5 ThanonPatiphat, Amphoe Mueang Phuket, Chang Wat Phuket 83000, Thailand

Timings: Open 24 hours

Entry Fees: N/A Suggested Read:  Unexplored Places In Phuket Click Here to Book:  Thailand Honeymoon Packages

Phrompthep Cape

Bring your cameras to capture some of the most serene moments of your life watching the sunset at Phrimpthep Cave. One of the popular places in Phuket that offers a glimpse of the brilliant hues of the sun at the time of dusk, Phrompthep Cape is always buzzing with crowds. 

Offering a surreal viewpoint to witness the beauty of Andaman Sea and other neighbouring islands, this place is where you can find beautiful sceneries along with a number of other things. Some of the popular attractions of Phrompthep Cape include the small and beautiful shrine on top of the hill, a lighthouse and an unwinding escape into the tranquillity of nature. 

There is a popular Promthep Restaurant here, where one can enjoy a nice dinner as one can see the sun finding its way down towards the horizon.

Location: Rawai, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket, Thailand

Entry Fees: N/A Must Explore:  Best Pattaya Restaurants                           Thailand Tour Packages From Kerala

Wat Phranang Sang

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Chalong Bay Rum Distillery

Monkey Hill

Witness the most incredible views of Phuket town by visiting Monkey Hill, also known as Toh Sae Hill. Named Monkey Hill because of the presence of a number of macaques here on the hill, this place is a popular vantage point to soak in some mesmerising vistas of Phuket. 

In the company of these playful macaques who are always looking for a fruit to munch to be given away by the tourists, this place couldn’t be named more appropriately. An awesome place to go with your friends for a picnic or just enjoy a wonderful climb for some great views, Monkey Hill is one of the most idyllic tourist attractions of Phuket. 

It is the highest hill in Phuket and has many TV and radio stations.

Location: 34133 SoiMuensri, TambonRatsada, Amphoe Mueang Phuket, Chang Wat Phuket 83000, Thailand

Timings: Sunset and sunrise is the best time to visit Monkey Hill.

Entry Fees:  Free Popular Read:  Private Pool Villas in Phuket

Phuket Seashell Museum

Home to more than 2000 species of shells, Phuket Seashell Museum is a place where you will be fascinated by Phuket’s most offbeat tourist attraction. Displaying a variety of seashells and fossils, Phuket Seashell Museum is a repository of rare exhibits ranging from noble volute, tiger cowries and stout-spine murex in its collection. 

An ideal tourist attraction for tourists visiting Phuket with family and kids, this place offers an interesting insight into the beauty of underwater life. The popular museum in Phuket is a delight for history and archaeology lovers as one can see rare collections of seashells. 

There is also a gift shop at the museum where one can find a number of souvenirs of shells like seashell carving for indoor decoration, seashell jewelry, key chains, shell mobiles, and many more shell crafts and arts. 

Location: Viset Road Rawai Beach, Rawai, Phuket 83100, Thailand

Timings: 9 am to 5:30 pm

Entry Fees: INR 450                     200 Baht Also Know:  Things To Do & Places To Visit in Pattaya for Bachelors

Karon Temple Market

All shopping-lovers can gear up for a delightful visit at Karon Temple Market. One of the most recommended places to visit in Phuket to take back home some amazing souvenirs, Karon Temple Market is a popular shopping place. One can find a number of amazing goodies here ranging from t-shirts, bags, watches, cheap jewellery etc.  Offering a glimpse of the splendid local culture, Karon Temple Market is a place where you can put your bargaining skills to test and buy a number of things from Phuket.  The popular market is a fun getaway when you are tired of sightseeing and looking forward to enjoying some refreshing time while sampling some delectable street food of Phuket. Location: Patak Rd, Tambon Karon, Amphoe Mueang Phuket, Chang Wat Phuket 83100, Thailand. Timing: 4 to 10 pm every Tuesday and Saturday. Entry Fees: None Read More:  Things To Do In Phuket In November

People Also Ask About Phuket

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Phuket Top Attractions

Phuket Big Buddha is one of the most significant and admired landmarks in Phuket, Thailand. It is the third tallest statue in Thailand after Luangpho Yai and the Great Buddha of Thailand.  If you're planning a Thailand trip from India, exploring iconic sites like the Phuket Big Buddha can be a captivating part of your itinerary. The marvelous statue of the Great Buddha of Phuket is nestled on top of the Nakkerd Hills between Kata and Chalong. The Big Buddha Statue is structured to a height of 45 meters, while the lap of the statue is around 25 meters wide.The Big Buddha built during the year 2004 is devoted to the late King of Thailand, His Majesty Bhumibol Adulyadej. There is a tiny Buddha placed beside the large statue made from brass, which is dedicated to Her Majesty Queen Sirikit.The entire body of the Big Buddha has a layer of magnificent Burmese white jade marble that glistens in the sun. A tiny Buddha sits next to the Phuket Big Buddha which is completely made of 20 tonnes of brass. However, it has a golden color to it. Popularly known as Phra Phutta Ming Mongkol Eknakiri, the massive statue offers a 360-degree view of the island with extensive vistas of Kata, Karon, Chalong Bay, and Phuket town, thereby providing a meditative atmosphere for the tourists.The surrounding atmosphere of the Phuket Big Buddha is relatively peaceful. You can only hear the tinkling of tiny bells and the large bell going after every 7 minutes. Soft Dharma music fills the entire background of the serene atmosphere of Phuket Big Buddha. The funds of this tourist destination come entirely from the heavy donations by the visitors. At the base of the Big Buddha Statue, there is a hall that displays the history of the construction, some teachings of Buddhism, and plenty of donation boxes. You are not allowed to visit the site in beachwear, short skirts, and T-shirts containing offensive images as it is a religious place. You can also witness the novice ordination of the son of the family. It is a sign of pride for the entire family. Thus, the visitors also feel mesmerized to watch the ceremony of leaving the worldly things of life and attain Nirvana.

Old Phuket Town happens to be a place that takes you down in the memory lane on a cultural walk through some of the beautiful traditional architectures and marketplaces. The township is located on the eastern side of Phuket Island and is considered to be the capital of various shades of culture. Adding this place to your Thailand travel packages, you will get a chance to enjoy the traditional and Sino-Portuguese architecture. The township was brought into being in the 19th century and it has been able to earn a good name from the tin trade. Old Phuket township is also very much famous for being home to a number of cafes and restaurants that delight the taste buds of visitors with unique local delicacies like Dubik, Ranong, Rasada, Yaowarat, Krabi and Thalang. You will truly be amazed by the rich flavour of Thailand as well as get a chance to explore the exquisite combination of fresh ingredients and species. Old Phuket town can also be considered as a paradise for history and photography buffs. The township is home to some of the age-old structures and heritage sites giving a chance to the visitors to trace facts and capture some of the best pictures to cherish the moments.

Phuket Fantasea is located on Kamala beach and is known for its fine dining options, Thai theatre, and colorful events. This award-winning park is built over an area of 140 acres. With a Thailand trip package from India visitors can get a unique opportunity to experience Thai culture and traditions through mind-blowing and spectacular performances. The show is inspired by Thai mythology, folklore, and legends which forms the main attraction of the park. It offers a combination of 4-dimensional theatre effects, magnificent audio-visual effects, and magical illusion. The exhibition of the Legend Of Kingdom leaves you amazed with its fantastic blend of fireworks, music, and dance. The Phuket Fantasea is also quite well-known for its live street performances, cultural parades, and pageants. The carnival mascots are a main attraction of the street performances and are often seen chatting with the visitors and their kids. The park also features a plethora of exhibitions featuring traditional arts and crafts, organized by local craftsmen. The place offers a great shopping experience for the visitors at its Festival Village, participating in various exciting games while exploring the park. They can have a marvelous dining experience at the various restaurants, including the Golden Kinnaree, Asia’s biggest restaurant that has a seating capacity of 4000 people.

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