Phuket’s story goes as far back as the 1st century when it was a trading hub between China, India, and the Malay Peninsula. Today, it’s a far cry from its early days, having become a world-renowned holiday destination with some of the best beaches in the world. And there are numerous ones to choose from on the island, each one with its own vibe. The most popular ones are Patong Beach, Karon Beach, and Kata Beach, but the list goes on and on.
This article shares a more comprehensive list of the popular beaches as well as other things to do in Phuket, including experiencing the culture, history, and cuisine. For those planning a trip, there are also recommendations on where to stay and some tips to find the best time to visit this Thailand beach paradise.
Things To Do In Phuket
Although Phuket is known for its beaches, and for good reason, visitors may find time to peel themselves from the sands to explore other parts of the island.
This destination has a rich culture and fascinating history and stunning natural attractions that form some of the best things to do in Thailand.
1 Hang Out At Phuket’s Beaches
A view of Kata Noi Beach in Phuket
Phuket beaches are the chief attraction on the island and this destination has a number where visitors can spend their time. Below are some of the most popular ones.
Patong Beach
This is Phuket’s most popular beach, so it is always quite busy. Patong has a vibrant atmosphere, offering lots of activities like jet skiing, parasailing, and banana boat rides.
The beach is also lined with restaurants, bars, and nightclubs, giving it an electric nightlife for those who love to have fun after dark.
Karon Beach
Karon Beach is perfect for those who want fewer crowds and a more laid-back vibe. This long and wide beach is perfect for those who love swimming and sunbathing, but visitors can still experience parasailing and jetskiing at Karon.
Surin Beach
Found on Phuket’s west coast, Surin Beach is more secluded, so it’s a quieter beach than the two above. It’s popular among those who want to get away from the crowds and have some family fun. Activities like snorkeling, swimming, and sunbathing are popular here.
Kata Beach
This is another beach on the west coast of the island, about a 20-minute drive from Phuket Town. Kata is known to get crowded, especially during peak tourist season, giving it a lively and hip vibe.
Activities like parasailing, jet skiing, volleyball, and surfing are popular here. Plus, Kata Beach is also close to nightclubs, bars, and restaurants, giving it a vibrant nightlife.
Nai Harn Beach
Nai Harn is quieter and more secluded than the options above, making it perfect for those who seek some tranquility. Found 45 minutes from Phuket Town, Nai Harn is surrounded by luxury resorts and villas, so it’s frequented by high-end travelers.
This is a perfect beach for families or couples seeking a romantic thing to do in Phuket.
2 Explore Phuket Old Town
Building in Phuket Old Town
Found in the heart of Phuket Town, Phuket Old Town is a historic center known for its Sino-Portuguese architecture, vibrant street art, and unique cultural attractions. This part of the island was once a trading port where Chinese and European merchants settled in the late 19th century.
Visitors can stroll through the old town and admire the architecture, characterized by colorful shophouses with ornate facades, wooden shutters, and decorative tiles. Phuket Old Town is also home to museums like the Phuket Thai Hua Museum and the Phuket Baba Museum.
There are also many markets and shopping outlets, including the popular Sunday Walking Street Market. Plus, those who are here in November can attend the Phuket Old Town Festival.
3 Learn About Thai Culture At Phuket FantaSea
A section of the Phuket FantaSea
Found in the town of Kamala on the island’s west coast, Phuket FantaSea is a popular cultural theme park that’s ideal for visitors of all ages. This destination has attractions like a cultural village, which is a replica of a traditional Thai village. Here, visitors get to learn about Thai culture and customs by exploring the traditional houses.
Phuket FantaSea also has a shopping street, a carnival village, and a theater. The highlight of this destination is the grand show, which showcases acrobatics, magic shows, and live animal performances to tell the story of Thai mythology.
Address
: 99, Kamala, Kathu District, Phuket 83150, ThailandHours
: Sun, Tue & Fri: 5:30 pm – 11:30 pm
4 Tour Phuket Aquarium
Aerial view of Yanui Beach in Phuket
Phuket Aquarium is found on the southern tip of Cape Panwa, which is on the east coast of Phuket island. This attraction has a range of exhibits that showcase the marine life found in the waters around Phuket. Exhibits include The Fish Tank Exhibit, which is an indoor display with diverse tropical fish.
There’s also a Seahorse Exhibit with rare and endangered seahorse species. Other exhibits include the Shark Tank Exhibit, Turtle Tank Exhibit, and Touch Tank Exhibit.
Address
: หมู่ที่ 8 51 ถ. ศักดิเดช Wichit, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83000, ThailandHours
: 8:30 am – 4:30 pm (daily)Admission
: $5.25 (adults), $3 (children)
5 Be Mesmerized At The Phuket 3D Museum
A street in Phuket City
The Phuket 3D Museum is found near the old town, in the heart of Phuket Town. This unique museum offers visitors an immersive experience through its over 100 3D art installations that create an illusion of depth and perspective.
The exhibits include a waterfall gallery, Ancient Time, U Variety, and Body Move, covering themes like culture, nature, and history.
Address
: 130 1 Phangnga Rd, Tambon Talat Yai, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83000, ThailandHours
: 10 am – 6 pm (daily)Admission
: $14 (adults), $8 (children)
6 Visit Wat Chalong
Phuket, Thailand: Wat Chalong
Wat Chalong is considered one of Phuket’s most important Buddhist temples. Built in the early 19th century, this temple is dedicated to two revered monks, Luang Pho Chaem and Luang Pho Chuang, whose statues are found in the main hall.
The temple has a traditional Thai Buddhist architectural style, with several pagodas, halls, and statues. Tourists can visit the Grand Pagoda, which is the tallest structure in Wat Chalong, and explore the temple’s halls and shrines.
Address
: 70 Moo 6 Chaofa Road ( West ) Chalong Phuket 83000 ThailandHours
: 8 am – 5 pm (daily)Admission
: Free
7 Interact With Tigers At Tiger Kingdom
A tiger in the Tiger Kingdom, Phuket
Those who have always wanted to get up close to Tigers can visit Tiger Kingdom in Phuket. This attraction has tigers of different sizes and visitors are allowed to pet and feed these big cats under the supervision of the staff.
The site is also home to other members of the cat family like cheetahs. In fact, Tiger Kingdom offers the only cheetah encounter in Thailand.
Address
: 118/88 Moo 7, Kathu, Phuket, ThailandHours
: 9 am – 5:30 pm (daily)Price
: Tiger encounters: From $27; Cheetah encounters: From $35
8 Enjoy The Views At Cape Phrom Thep
Boats near a cliffside in Phuket, Thailand
Cape Phrom Them is a scenic viewpoint at the southernmost tip of Phuket, offering visitors panoramic views of the Andaman Sea and the surrounding coastline. The area has a lighthouse as well as a park, offering visitors enough things to do while here.
However, the best experience is the sunset view; some say that this is the best place to catch the sunset on the island.
Address
: Rawai, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83100, ThailandHours
: 24 hours (daily)
9 Where To Eat In Phuket
Man selling food at a street food market in Phuket
Those looking for authentic Thai food like Pad Thai, Tom Yum Goong, Khao Pad, and Gaeng Daeng, will have lots of options for places to eat when in Phuket. Here are a few recommendations.
Breakfast/Lunch
The Neighbors Café
Address
: ตําบล, 93 Phangnga Rd, Tambon Talat Yai, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83000, ThailandHours
: 8 am – 5 pm (daily)Meals
: Peanut Butter Stuffed French Toast, Nutella Stuff French Toast, The Neighbors’ Pancake, Spinach Grilled Cheese & Tomato Soup
Address
: Thep Krasattri Rd, Tambon Talat Yai, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83000, ThailandHours
: 7 am – 4 pm (daily)Meals
: Pad Thai, Khap Phat, Pad Kra-Pao, Top Kra-Tiem, Cheesy Croissant Ham, Bacon Cheesy Eggs
Lunch/Dinner
Address
: 8 Phangnga Rd, Tambon Talat Yai, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83000, ThailandHours
: 11 am – 9 pm (daily)Meals
: Southern Thai Style Deep Fried Fish, Stir Fried Red Curry, Chicken Satay
Address
: 62/5 Phuthon, Bangkok Rd, Talat Nuea, Phuket 83000, ThailandHours
: 10:30 am – 10 pm (daily)Meals
: Steamed Phuket Fish Balls, Crispy Pork Belly, Chicken Curry Stuffed Potatoes
Dinner/Drinks
Address
: 115 Phangnga Rd, Tambon Talat Yai, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83000, ThailandHours
: Mon – Sat: 6 pm – 10 pm (closed on Sun)Meals
: Grilled Seabass, Australian Beef Tacos, Garlic Prawn, Chicken Liver Parfait
Address
: 39 1 Dibuk Rd, Talat Yai, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83000, ThailandHours
: 7 pm – 1 am (daily)Cocktails
: Lady Long Leg, Klang Kao Kin Kluay, Smell Like Teen Spirits, Milk Punch, DBH Sangria
10 Where To Stay In Phuket
Swimming pool in tropical resort , Phuket, Thailand
Phuket has a mix of affordable hotels and Airbnbs as well as luxury resorts to choose from. Below are some popular recommendations.
Hotels
Address
: 154 Phang-Nga Road, Phuket City 83000Price
: From $50Amenities
: Business center, pool, fitness center, restaurant, bar, picnic area, airport shuttle, free parking, laundry facilities
Stay Wellbeing & Lifestyle Resort
Address
: Soi Suksan2, Wiset Rd., T.Rawai, A.Muang Phuket, Phuket City 83130Price
: From $165Amenities
: Game room, fitness center, playground, infinity pool, spa, shuttle service, bike rental
The Westin Siray Bay Resort & Spa, Phuket
Address
: 21/4 Moo 1 T.Rasada A.Muang, Phuket City 83000Price
: From $339Amenities
: Private beach, hot tub, spa, pool, massage services, laundry facilities, kids’ club, child pool, airport shuttle, free parking, fitness center, watersport facilities
Vacation Rentals
Cyan Resort Kamala Beach Apartments Condominiums
Address
: Phuket City, PhuketPrice
: From $59Amenities
: Private pool, hot tub, child pool, BBQ grill, kitchenette, beach access
Address
: Tambon Kamala, Chang Wat Phuket, ThailandPrice
: From $373Amenities
: 4 bedrooms, 5.5 baths, mountain view, beach access, pool, washer, 50-inch TV, full kitchen, private patio, private backyard, BBQ grill
Address
: Tambon Patong, Chang Wat Phuket, ThailandPrice
: From $542Amenities
: 6 bedrooms, 4 baths, 4 living rooms, full kitchen, pool, beach view, washer, private backyard, free parking
11 When To Visit Phuket
Splash Jungle Water Park, Phuket, Thailand
The best months to visit Phuket are from November to February when the weather is cooler and drier. Below is a look at what to expect in Phuket during the various seasons.
November to February
These months are the peak tourist season in Phuket, as the weather is cool and pleasant, with average high temperatures of 89 degrees Fahrenheit (32 degrees Celsius) and lows of 73 degrees Fahrenheit (23 degrees Celsius). There are lower humidity levels and minimal rainfall, making this an excellent time to explore the island’s outdoor attractions.
However, during these months, visitors should expect higher prices for accommodations and activities.
March to May
Temperatures in Phuket begin to rise during this time, with highs reaching 93 degrees Fahrenheit (34 degrees Celsius) and lows of 77 degrees Fahrenheit (25 degrees Celsius). Humidity levels also increase as the island shifts into the wet season.
Despite the heat and humidity, this period remains a suitable time to visit Phuket, as tourist crowds leave and prices drop. However, visitors should be prepared for occasional rain showers during this season.
June to October
The wet season in Phuket is characterized by frequent rainfall, thunderstorms, and high humidity levels. During these months, temperatures range between highs of 88 degrees Fahrenheit (31 degrees Celsius) and lows of 75 degrees Fahrenheit (24 degrees Celsius).
The number of tourists decreases significantly during this period, resulting in more affordable prices for accommodations and activities. For those seeking budget-friendly options and who don’t mind the rain, this may be an ideal time to visit Phuket. However, it isn’t the best time to enjoy outdoor attractions and activities.
12 Getting Around Phuket
A street in Phuket, Thailand
Phuket is served by the Phuket International Airport, found roughly 20 miles from the city center. This airport welcomes daily flights from major cities such as Bangkok, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, and Hong Kong, among others.
For those coming from international destinations, the Phuket International Airport also serves as a convenient entry point. From the airport, visitors have several options to explore the island.
Taxi
Taxis are readily available at the airport and throughout Phuket. Visitors should always agree on a fare with the driver before starting the journey.
- Fares start at around $3 (100 THB) for short distances.
Songthaew
A popular mode of transportation in Phuket is the songthaew, a converted pickup truck with passenger benches in the back. These vehicles operate on fixed routes and are an affordable way to get around the island.
- Fares usually range from 50 US Cents to a dollar (20 to 40 THB) per ride, depending on the distance traveled.
Motorbike Taxi
For those seeking a more adventurous mode of transportation, motorbike taxis are an exciting option. These taxis can be found throughout Phuket and are easily identified by the riders’ colorful vests.
- Fares for motorbike taxis start at around $1.50 (50 THB) for short distances and increase based on the destination.
Tuk-Tuk
The iconic tuk-tuk is another popular way to explore Phuket. These three-wheeled vehicles can be found all over the island and offer a unique travel experience.
- Tuk-tuk fares start at around $3 (100 THB) for short trips but can be negotiated with the driver.
Car or Motorbike Rental
Visitors who prefer to have more control can opt to rent a car or motorbike. Numerous rental agencies are available in Phuket, offering a variety of vehicles to suit different needs and budgets.
- Car rentals start at around $25 (800 THB) per day, while motorbike rentals can be as low as $20 (720 THB) per day.
Public Bus
Phuket offers a public bus service known as the Phuket Smart Bus, which connects the airport to various points on the island, all the way to Rawai Beach.
- The bus operates from 6:30 am to 12 am daily
- Fares start at $3 (100 THB) per ride
13 Spending The Perfect Day In Phuket
Maya Bay beach near Phuket,Thailand
Start the day in Phuket with breakfast at one of the restaurants in Phuket City. Then, Wander around Phuket Old Town and visit the museums and historical sites in the area. Afterward, head to Wat Chalong and tour the temple before heading to Ao Yon Beach for a picnic lunch.
From here, visit Phuket Aquarium and marvel at the marine life before driving down to Cape Phrom Thep to enjoy the sunset views. Have dinner at the restaurants near here before returning to Phuket City center for some drinks to end the day.
FAQ
Q: Which currency is used in Phuket?
The currency used in Phuket is the Thai Baht (THB). Visitors will also encounter the Satang, which is smaller than 1THB, kind of like the cent version.
Q: Is Phuket worth the hype?
Yes, Phuket is certainly worth the hype, with world-class beaches, amazing food, and so many other popular things to do on the island.
Q: Is Thailand a cheap place to visit?
Thailand is an affordable place to visit with inexpensive food, travel, and accommodation costs for those on a budget. In fact, $100 can go a long way in Thailand.
