Phuket Travel Guide helps you plan your first or next trip with all the best things to do and many hidden gems off the beaten track! Discover the last secret beaches and amazing islands. Try the local food in local restaurants, explore night markets, and discover the legendary nightlife and the famous Bangla Walking Street in Patong Beach. Phuket 101 is the most comprehensive trip planner to prepare for your next trip, built by your local travel experts!
What to Do in Phuket?
Contents
- What to Do in Phuket?
- Must See in Phuket and Around
- Beaches Locator
- The Beaches of Phuket
- Islands Nearby
- Phuket Hotels and Accommodation
- Phuket with Kids
- Where to Eat?
- What to Eat in Phuket?
- Nightlife
- Shopping
- 1st Time in Phuket – a beginner’s guide
- Information
- Why is Phuket Famous?
- Phuket Video
- Fast Facts about Phuket Island
- FAQs about Phuket Island
What makes Phuket so famous? The island is relatively small and easy to explore in a day or two, and most attractions are just a short tuk-tuk ride away. The list of things to do goes way beyond the beaches: Wat Chalong, the Big Buddha, Phang Nga Bay, James Bond Island and the streets of the old town are just the most popular.
Must See in Phuket and Around
Beaches Locator
Our map will help you locate the many beaches and visualise our small island’s geography.
The Beaches of Phuket
Phuket Island counts more than 40 amazing beaches. All the sandy beaches are on the west coast. The most famous and busiest beaches are in the island’s southwest: Patong, Kata and Karon beaches can be bustling during the high season. The north beaches are peaceful, and some hidden beaches are still secret!
Islands Nearby
The vast Phang Nga Bay on the island’s northeast is home to hundreds of exotic islands. Phi Phi and the Similan Islands are the best known, but there are other gems, such as Racha Island, Coral Island, Rang Yai and Koh Yao, to name a few. Island hopping is very easy to organise for an unforgettable day trip.
Phuket Hotels and Accommodation
There is a vast range of hotels for all budgets, and it can be challenging to pick the right beach and hotel. Most hotels are on the main beaches of the island: Patong, Kata, Karon, Kamala, Bangtao, Maikhao and Old Town.
Phuket with Kids
Travelling to Phuket with kids offers a perfect blend of family fun and relaxation with the island’s beaches, attractions, and exciting adventures. Kids can enjoy building sandcastles on picturesque shores, explore vibrant markets, and visit attractions like the Phuket Aquarium and ethical elephant sanctuaries. Family-friendly accommodations with pools and childcare services make for a comfortable stay.
Where to Eat?
Experience true local food, as there is much to enjoy in south Thailand, from the cheapest street food to Michelin restaurants and everything in between. You can find great Thai food by the roadside for just 50 baht or have a fancy dinner with a sunset on a romantic terrace by the sea.
What to Eat in Phuket?
The choice of Thai food is staggering! You can start with the classic and well-known Thai dishes and the amazing seafood, try some excellent street food, and then experience real southern specialities!
Nightlife
Patong Beach nightlife has always been legendary; it’s pretty unique and as fun and wild as you want it to be. However, while Patong is still home to many beer bars and go-go bars, the island now has many to offer to families and couples.
Shopping
The shopping scene is vast, cheap and surprisingly fun. With so many street stalls, night markets and bazaars, anyone can find something to take back home. The Sunday Walking Street Market is the most talked about, but at least six more markets are open on weekdays.
1st Time in Phuket – a beginner’s guide
Phuket is Thailand’s largest and best-known island, about 850 km southwest of Bangkok. The island is relatively small: 48 km north to south, 21 km west to east which is about 570 km2 (222 square miles).
Information
Useful information about the island, from the correct Phuket pronunciation, to plan your trip: Where to exchange money at the best rates as there are many options for getting Thai Baht, but the best rate is in the street and at the many ATMs around the island, when is the best time to come, Phuket weather, with a live webcam.
Why is Phuket Famous?
Phuket is a popular vacation destination known for its many white sandy beaches, such as Patong, Kata, and Karon. The island is also conveniently located near other tropical islands like Phi Phi Island. In addition to its stunning beaches, Phuket is also famous for its limestone cliffs in Phang Nga Bay, such as the iconic James Bond Island.
Phuket is also home to many beautiful temples, including Wat Chalong and The Big Buddha. The old streets of Phuket Town offer a glimpse into the islandโs rich history and culture. In addition to its natural and cultural attractions, Phuket is renowned for its delicious Thai food, lively nightlife, and bustling night markets. Many people visit Phuket for its relaxed and easy-going atmosphere.
Phuket Video
Fast Facts about Phuket Island
| ๐ Distance from Bangkok | 846 km |
| ๐ท Main city: | Phuket Town |
| ๐ท Main attraction: | Big Buddha of Phuket |
| โฑ๏ธ How many beaches: | 43 |
| โฑ๏ธ Main beach: | Patong Beach |
| ๐๏ธ Main nearby island: | Phi Phi Island |
| โฉ๏ธ Main temple: | Wat Chalong |
| ๐๏ธ Main market: | Sunday walking street marker |
| โ๏ธ Main airport | Phuket International Airport: |