Top 11 Must-Do Activities in Phuket
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Explore Phang Nga Bay - Take a boat trip to discover dramatic limestone cliffs, hidden lagoons and the famous James Bond Island
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Visit the Big Buddha - Marvel at this iconic 45-metre-tall white marble statue offering panoramic views of the island
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Discover Wat Chalong Temple - Experience Phuket's spiritual side at its largest and most important Buddhist temple
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Stroll Through Old Phuket Town - Wander the streets lined with Sino-Portuguese architecture and sample authentic street food
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Relax at Patong Beach - Enjoy water sports, sunbathing and vibrant beachfront activities at Phuket's most famous beach
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Experience Bangla Road Nightlife - Immerse yourself in the electric atmosphere of bars, live music venues and entertainment
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Visit Phuket Elephant Sanctuary - Observe rescued elephants in their natural habitat at this ethical wildlife centre
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Island Hop to Phi Phi Islands - Take a day trip to these stunning islands for snorkelling and clear waters
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Explore Night Markets - Hunt for bargains and taste local delicacies at Phuket's vibrant weekend markets
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Watch Sunset at Promthep Cape - Capture breathtaking views from this famous viewpoint on the island's southern tip
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Visit Sirinat National Park - Discover pristine beaches, mangrove forests and rich marine life in this protected area
Accommodation Options
From luxury holidays to Phuket to family-friendly resorts, the island offers accommodations for every preference. Choose from beachfront hotels along Patong Beach, boutique resorts in Kata Beach or exclusive villas in Cape Panwa. Many properties feature clear waters views, multiple bars and restaurants and authentic Thai hospitality. Whether you're seeking a romantic getaway or planning Karon Beach holidays, Phuket's diverse range of accommodations ensures an unforgettable stay.
Luxury Hotels
Banyan Tree Phuket: A wellness-focused sanctuary featuring pool villas, a world-class spa and multiple dining venues including Phuket's first Michelin-starred restaurant, PRU.
Centara Grand Beach Resort Phuket: Located on Karon Beach with direct beach access, this resort features an extensive water park with four swimming pools, seven dining venues and a full-service spa.
Family-Friendly Hotels
Angsana Laguna Phuket: Located in the integrated Laguna complex with multiple pools, kids' club, and family activities including sailing classes and cooking workshops.
Cape Panwa Hotel: This resort offers stunning ocean views from its private beach location. The hotel features two swimming pools, multiple dining venues and the renowned Cape Spa.
Beach Hotels
The Surin Phuket: Nestled on Pansea Beach with cottage-style accommodations surrounded by coconut palms and offering direct beach access.
The Nai Harn: Perched above pristine Nai Harn Beach, offering panoramic sea views and private beach butler service.
Boutique Hotels
Keemala: A unique resort featuring bird's nest-inspired villas, treehouse accommodations, and a focus on wellness in a rainforest setting.
The Shore at Katathani: An adults-only resort overlooking Kata Noi Beach, featuring luxurious pool villas with stunning ocean views, world-class spa facilities and sophisticated dining venues.
Romantic Hotels
The Shore at Katathani: Adults-only resort with private pool villas overlooking Kata Noi Beach, perfect for honeymoons and couples' getaways.
Amari Phuket: Nestled on a secluded beach, offering spectacular Andaman Sea views, private balconies and intimate dining experiences at La Gritta restaurant overlooking the bay.
Top 5 Best Beaches in Phuket Kata Beach - The All-Around Paradise
Stretching 1.5km of golden sand, Kata Beach offers the perfect blend of beauty and activities. Crystal-clear waters during high season make it ideal for swimming and snorkelling, while the gentle waves provide excellent conditions for surfing in the monsoon season. Framed by rich green hills, this beach features plenty of restaurants and facilities without feeling overcrowded.
Nai Harn Beach - The Pristine Southern Gem
Known for its stunning white sand and turquoise waters, Nai Harn Beach remains one of Phuket's most beautiful and less commercialised beaches. Its sheltered bay creates perfect swimming conditions, while the surrounding hills offer spectacular viewpoints. The beach's clean, calm waters and excellent facilities make it a favourite among locals and tourists alike.
Freedom Beach - The Hidden Paradise
This 300-metre stretch of pristine white sand offers a perfect escape from busy tourist areas. Accessible only by longtail boat or a challenging trail, Freedom Beach rewards visitors with some of the clearest waters in Phuket, exceptional snorkelling opportunities, and a peaceful atmosphere away from the crowds.
Surin Beach - The Luxury Escape
Often called "Millionaire's Row" due to its high-end resorts, Surin Beach combines natural beauty with sophistication. Its powder-soft sand and crystal-clear waters are complemented by luxury beach clubs and fine dining restaurants, making it perfect for those seeking an upscale beach experience.
Kata Noi Beach - The Romantic Retreat
This smaller sister beach to Kata offers a more intimate setting with its 700-metre stretch of fine sand. Protected by towering green hills, Kata Noi features some of the island's clearest waters and most spectacular sunsets, making it ideal for couples and those seeking tranquillity.
Local Cuisine & Dining
From street food to fresh seafood restaurants, Phuket's culinary scene is a feast for the senses. Whether you're staying at an all-inclusive holiday resort or exploring local eateries, you'll find diverse dining options catering to all tastes.
Local Specialties to Try:
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Fresh seafood dishes featuring locally caught fish
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Authentic Thai green curry with aromatic spices
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Hokkien-style noodles reflecting Chinese influences
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Peranakan cuisine blending Thai, Chinese, and Malay flavours
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Street food favourites like pad thai and mango sticky rice
Dining Experiences:
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Beachfront restaurants with stunning ocean views
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Traditional food markets for authentic local flavours
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High-end resort restaurants offering international cuisine
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Street food stalls in Phuket Town
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Romantic sunset dining venues
Popular Dining Areas:
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Patong Beach for vibrant restaurant scene
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Old Phuket Town for authentic local eateries
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Kata Beach for seafood restaurants
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Bangtao for upscale dining options
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Night markets for casual dining and street food
From budget-friendly local spots to upscale dining, Phuket's food scene promises to delight every palate with its diverse offerings and authentic flavours.
Shopping Experience
Phuket's shopping scene is as diverse as its beaches. From the bustling markets of Phuket Town to the modern malls near Patong Beach, retail therapy comes in all forms. Browse through night markets selling traditional crafts, explore air-conditioned shopping centres or hunt for bargains at street-side stalls. With everything from designer boutiques to local handicrafts, shopping in Phuket offers something for every budget and taste.
Discover different parts of the island's retail landscape, from the colonial Portuguese shophouses in Old Town to the bustling street markets where you can hop on a tuk-tuk for an authentic shopping adventure. Many malls offer best deals during seasonal sales, and all purchases are protected under the ATOL scheme for peace of mind. Don't miss the handicraft stores near Big Buddha, where local artisans showcase traditional Thai craftsmanship at its finest.
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