Phuket may be somewhat of a mystery, aside from the gorgeous photos of beaches on social media.
Thailand’s largest island, Phuket, is located on the west coast of the Andaman Sea. The famous island boasts pristine beaches and islands perfect for snorkeling and diving.
It also has deliciously spicy Thai cuisine, thriving culture and communities, and an exciting nightlife. It is the top destination if you’re looking for fun, relaxation and everything in between.
Stop imagining yourself lounging in one of the many beaches on the island and book a trip already! Our guide to Phuket will surely get you excited for your own adventure.
Check out the best things to do in Phuket, Thailand:
1. Explore the Phi Phi Islands
Phi Phi Islands | Dmitry Rukhlenko, Shutterstock
The Phi Phi Islands is a 90-minute boat ride away from Phuket. The otherworldly beauty of Phi Phi Islands has drawn several filmmakers who put the view of the vistas on the big screen. Because of this, it is one of the most popular attractions. In fact, you may find yourself familiar with the exotic and towering rock formations and cliffs over the white sandy beaches and deep blue waters.
Take a boat tour and explore the Phi Phi Islands. Phi Phi is made up of 6 islands, but most people visit Maya Bay on Phi Phi Ley. The gorgeous bay is where the iconic movie The Beach was filmed. Bring your snorkeling gear as the tours allow you to stop in spots to see beautiful coral reefs and marine life.
Phi Phi Islands
Ao Nang, Amphoe Muang, Krabi 81000 Thailand
Admission: entrance fees to the national park is 400 baht
Get directions
Best places to eat nearby according to locals and visitors:
• View Point Restaurant (4.8/5 stars, Restaurant, ฿฿฿)
• Bryde Restaurant (4.8/5 stars, Restaurant, ฿฿)
• Nong Thai Restaurants (4.6/5 stars, Restaurant, ฿฿)
See the full list of places to eat nearby Phi Phi Islands.
The best hotel to stay near Phi Phi Islands based on overall price, location and amenities according to travelers:
• Sofitel Krabi Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort (8.2/10 stars, ฿฿฿) – Booking.com
2. Take a photo of the stunning sea view at the Promthep Cape
Seaview and palm trees at Promthep Cape at Phuket | on_france, Shutterstock
Promthep Cape is arguably the most Instagrammable location in Phuket. The landmark has been a must-stop for every tourist visiting the area, excited to take a photo of the picturesque landscape. The lookout point overlooks the sea and the surrounding islands, Phi Phi Islands, Koh Racha Yai, and Koh Kia.
Join other visitors who go up the island’s southernmost hill and take a memorable photo of the stunning seascape. Stay until 6 pm for one of the best views of a sunset you’ll ever see.
Promthep Cape
แหลมพรหมเทพ, Rawai, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83100, Thailand
Admission: Free
Get directions
Best places to eat nearby according to locals and visitors:
• Hang Out Restaurant (4.9/5 stars, Restaurant, ฿฿฿)
• Baan Klang Nam (4.7/5 stars, Restaurant, ฿฿)
• The Windmill Phuket Restaurant (4.5/5 stars, Restaurant, ฿฿)
See the full list of places to eat nearby Promthep Cape.
The best hotel to stay near Promthep Cape based on overall price, location and amenities according to travelers:
• Serenity Resort & Residences Phuket (8.6/10 stars, ฿฿฿) – Booking.com
3. Stand in awe of the Big Buddha
Aerial view Big Buddha of Phuket, Height: 45 m | ShutterSeed, Shutterstock
Big Buddha – A must see in Phuket Thailand | Amy and Anth, YouTube
Phuket’s Big Buddha is one of the important sacred landmarks on the island. The 45-meter tall seated image is located on the top of the Nakkerd Hills, making it visible from every part of the southern end of the island.The construction of the Buddha began in 2004 and is made from white Burmese marble that sparkles elegantly in the sun. Marvel at the large structure and learn about Thai’s predominant religion.
Big Buddha
ยอดเขานาคเกิด Karon, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83100, Thailand
Admission: Free
Ph: +66 81 891 3827
Get directions
Best places to eat nearby according to locals and visitors:
• Makai – Restaurant and Rooftop Pool Club (4.8/5 stars, Restaurant, ฿฿฿)
• Kalika restaurant (4.7/5 stars, Restaurant, ฿฿)
• Mama Jin Restaurant (4.6/5 stars, Restaurant, ฿฿)
See the full list of places to eat nearby Big Buddha.
The best hotel to stay near Big Buddha based on overall price, location and amenities according to travelers:
• Stay Wellbeing & Lifestyle Resort (9/10 stars, ฿฿฿) – Booking.com
4. Enjoy Kata Noi Beach
Kata Noi | GluehweinEffects, Flickr
Tucked in Phuket’s west coast, Kata Noi beach is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the beach. With an 800 meter stretch of shoreline, the relatively small beach doesn’t attract a lot of visitors, making Kata Noi a pleasure to visit and enjoy the beach and the serenity it offers.
Walk along the calming shore of this best-kept secret of Phuket. While the atmosphere is enough to help you unwind, you can go the extra mile and get a traditional Thai massage from the beachfront shacks.
Kata Noi Beach
Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83100 Thailand
Admission: Free
Get directions
Best places to eat nearby according to locals and visitors:
• Hakan’s Bar Restaurant & Lounge (4.5/5 stars, Restaurant, ฿฿฿)
• Golden Paradise Restaurant (NORTH-INDIAN CURRY HOUSE) (4.6/5 stars, Punjabi, ฿฿)
• SOMSUK HOUSE Restaurant (4.9/5 stars, Restaurant, ฿฿)
See the full list of places to eat nearby Kata Noi Beach.
The best hotel to stay near Kata Noi Beach based on overall price, location and amenities according to travelers:
• Le Méridien Phuket Beach Resort (8.8/10 stars, ฿฿฿) – Booking.com
5. Climb Karon View Point
Karon view point | MosayMay, Shuttestock
Karon View Point is a scenic spot located on a hillside, from this viewpoint overlooking Kata Noi Beach, Kata and Karon | Sorakrai Tangnoi, Shutterstock
One of the most frequented viewpoints and a favorite tourist stop in Phuket is Karon View Point. Near Kata Noi Beach, the lookout point overlooking the Andaman Sea showcases the amazing sparkly blue sea, foamy tides, snow-white sandy beaches, and the lush greenery of the surrounding hillsides. The viewpoint has a quaint gazebo where you can rest out of the sun and munch on a snack from the nearby snack stands.
Karon View Point
4233 Karon, Muang, Phuket 83100, Thailand
Admission: Free
Get directions
Best places to eat nearby according to locals and visitors:
• Kataturk Turkish Restaurant (4.6/5 stars, Turkish, ฿฿฿)
• Leonardo DaVinci Restaurant (4.5/5 stars, Italian, ฿฿)
• Deepavali Indian Restaurant – Karon (4.5/5 stars, Restaurant, ฿฿)
See the full list of places to eat nearby Karon View Point.
The best hotel to stay near Karon View Point based on overall price, location and amenities according to travelers:
• Centara Grand Beach Resort Phuket (8.5/10 stars, ฿฿฿) – Booking.com
6. Visit the Wat Chalong Temple
Wat Chalong is the most important temple of Phuket | Dima Fadeev, Shutterstock
Phuket Temples | Bismarck’s Paradise Phuket, Vimeo
The Wat Chalong Temple complex is a historic landmark for the people of Thailand and a wonder for visitors to see. First established during the reign of King Rama II in the 1800s, you’ll find much to admire as you meander about. Located in Tambol Chalong, the temple is also a center of activity as it is close to other attractions.
The highlight of the temple is the Grand Pagoda, an impressive pagoda decorated with Buddha images that houses a small splinter from the bone of Buddha.
Wat Chalong
70 หมู่ที่ 6 Chao Fah Tawan Tok Rd, Chalong, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83000, Thailand
Admission: Free
Ph: +66 76 381 226
Get directions
Best places to eat nearby according to locals and visitors:
• Da Restaurant (5/5 stars, Restaurant, ฿฿฿)
• Authentic Thai Food (4.9/5 stars, Restaurant, ฿฿)
• Halal Food (4.9/5 stars, Restaurant, ฿฿)
See the full list of places to eat nearby Wat Chalong.
The best hotel to stay near Wat Chalong based on overall price, location and amenities according to travelers:
• My Beach Resort (8.9/10 stars, ฿฿฿) – Booking.com
7. Sail Across Phang Nga Bay
Phang Nga Bay | Day2505, Shutterstock
Phang Nga Bay is a 400-square kilometer bay that can be found in the Strait of Malacca. Easily accessible from Phuket, the bay attracts visitors with its beautiful views and natural wonders such as caves, wildlife, lagoons, and rivers. A famous draw of the bay is the James Bond Island, where a movie featuring the titular character was filmed.
The beautiful limestone cliffs are the perfect backdrop for your boating adventure and multiple pictures. There is an unlimited amount of things to do on the bay, so check out the many kinds of tours operated in the area.
Phang Nga Bay
Phuket 83100 Thailand
Admission: 200-baht
Get directions
Best places to eat nearby according to locals and visitors:
• Suhring (4.6/5 stars, German, ฿฿฿)
• Mezzaluna (4.6/5 stars, Fine dining, ฿฿)
• Genevieve’s Restaurant (4.6/5 stars, Restaurant, ฿฿)
See the full list of places to eat nearby Phang Nga Bay.
The best hotel to stay near Phang Nga Bay based on overall price, location and amenities according to travelers:
• Pullman Phuket Panwa Beach Resort (8.4/10 stars, ฿฿฿) – Booking.com
8. Become a beach bum at Nai Harn Beach
Nai Harn Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches of Phuket, Thailand | Windofchange64, Shutterstock
Located between Phuket’s green hills and small islands, Nai Harn Beach is one of the island’s best beaches. The charming beach features the trademark pristine white sand and crystal clear waters you’ve come to expect from Phuket’s beaches.
As the beach is popular for visitors, there are entertainment and dining options near the beach. Spend your day lounging on the shore and splashing in the cool blue waters. The beach is perfect for swimming from November to April, but the waves can get stronger in the low season from May to October. However, you can still enjoy the beach during those times for kitesurfing and surfing.
Nai Harn Beach
Rawai, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket, Thailand
Admission: Free
Ph: +66 62 215 5646
Get directions
Best places to eat nearby according to locals and visitors:
• Rock Salt Restaurant (4.5/5 stars, Restaurant, ฿฿฿)
• Natural Efe Macrobiotic World (4.6/5 stars, Vegan, ฿฿)
• Chez Nous Co.,Ltd. (4.5/5 stars, Restaurant, ฿฿)
See the full list of places to eat nearby Nai Harn Beach.
The best hotel to stay near Nai Harn Beach based on overall price, location and amenities according to travelers:
• SUNSURI PHUKET (8.4/10 stars, ฿฿฿) – Booking.com
9. Meet gentle giants at Phuket Elephant Sanctuary
Elephant Jungle Sanctuary | phukettravelshop
Phuket Elephant Sanctuary | Phuket Elephant Sanctuary, YouTube
For an excellent ecotourism experience, check out the Phuket Elephant Sanctuary. While some parts of Thailand and the world are still exploiting elephants for tourism, the sanctuary offers a sustainable and ethical way to learn about and meet these magnificent creatures.
The sanctuary doesn’t allow bathing with the elephants as it may disturb them, but watching them have fun in the water is fun in itself! It allows you to feed, walk with, and observe the elephants enjoy their day. Proceeds from the tours pay for the elephants’ care.
Phuket Elephant Sanctuary
100, Moo 2, Paklok, Thalang, 83110, Thailand
Admission: THB 3,000 per Adult and THB 1,500 per Child (4-12 Years)
Ph: +66 88 752 3853
Get directions
Best places to eat nearby according to locals and visitors:
• Taste Yamu Restaurant and Bar (4.6/5 stars, Restaurant, ฿฿฿)
• Subhan Khao Mok Khai (4.6/5 stars, Halal, ฿฿)
• YAMIYAMU (5/5 stars, Restaurant, ฿฿)
See the full list of places to eat nearby Phuket Elephant Sanctuary.
The best hotel to stay near Phuket Elephant Sanctuary based on overall price, location and amenities according to travelers:
• COMO Point Yamu, Phuket (9.1/10 stars, ฿฿฿) – Booking.com
10. Say hello to the strays at Soi Dog Foundation
Soi Dog Foundation | phuketify
Another sustainable and ethical experience in Phuket is a visit to the Soi Dog Foundation. The non-profit foundation is committed to rescue and give a safe home to Thailand’s many stray animals and has several branches all over the world.
The Phuket head office offers tours around the area where you can play with the dogs and cats and has a modern animal hospital to keep the animals healthy. For animal lovers, visiting the adorable cats and dogs during your guided tour of the foundation is a must. If you have the time, you can opt to volunteer to walk and take care of the animals in need.
Soi Dog Foundation
หมู่ที่ 4 167/9 Mai Khao 10, Mai Khao, Thalang District, Phuket 83110, Thailand
Admission: Free
Ph: +66 76 681 029
Get directions
Best places to eat nearby according to locals and visitors:
• ร้านอาหารกินดี | Kin Dee restaurant (4.5/5 stars, Thai, ฿฿฿)
• The White Tree Restaurant (4.6/5 stars, Restaurant, ฿฿)
• Takieng (4.5/5 stars, Thai, ฿฿)
See the full list of places to eat nearby Soi Dog Foundation.
The best hotel to stay near Soi Dog Foundation based on overall price, location and amenities according to travelers:
• JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa (8.7/10 stars, ฿฿฿) – Booking.com
11. Spot the monkeys at Monkey Hill
Monkey Hill | Phuket Evgeny Grabovsky, Flickr
At the highest hill in Phuket Town, there are over 400 macaque monkeys that make it their home. Toh Sae Hill, lovingly nicknamed ‘Monkey Hill’, is a favorite destination for animal lovers wishing to see a glimpse of these curious and fascinating creatures.
Spend an afternoon observing the cute macaque monkeys go about their day. If you’re lucky you can catch Uncle Hog, a local man who performs a show with the monkeys. The macaque monkeys are not known to be aggressive towards humans, but you may keep an eye on your stuff as they are known to retrieve shiny items out of curiosity.
Monkey Hill
Ratsada, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83000, Thailand
Admission: Free
Ph: +66 61 990 6646
Get directions
Best places to eat nearby according to locals and visitors:
• Tumz Seafood Restaurant (5/5 stars, Seafood, ฿฿฿)
• Ban Roeng Chit Restaurant (4.5/5 stars, Restaurant, ฿฿)
• Singer Get Rich Restaurant (4.8/5 stars, Restaurant, ฿฿)
See the full list of places to eat nearby Monkey Hill.
The best hotel to stay near Monkey Hill based on overall price, location and amenities according to travelers:
• The Westin Siray Bay Resort & Spa, Phuket (8.6/10 stars, ฿฿฿) – Booking.com
12. Experience an authentic Thai spa
Cool spa in Phuket | coolspaphuket
If you’re looking for the ultimate spa experience, look no further than the haven of spas in Phuket. Phuket’s various spas offer relaxing massages and indulgent spa treatments for the total relaxation of the body and mind.
Most spa packages include a traditional Thai massage, which is a healing system combining a mix of acupressure and assisted yoga postures. Pamper yourself and rediscover your inner peace. You can’t go wrong with the variety of options available for each type of traveler and budget.
13. Appreciate Thai Cuisine
Delicious Thai cuisine |TMON, Shuttestock
Spicy and absolutely delicious, Thai food is one of the best cuisines in the world. Pad Thai and Tom Yum are only some of the dishes the country is known for. The flavors of the different dishes come to life, and you’ll have the opportunity to go on an exciting food trip along the island’s many food strips, restaurants, and food carts.
However, the best way to appreciate Thai Cuisine is to learn how to make it! Phuket has many cooking schools that offer lessons in mastering Thai cooking. Learning how to cook your favorite dish from a memorable trip is one of the best souvenirs you can take with you.
14. Browse the Night Market
Night Market | StephAndaman, Shutterstock
Known as Naka Market by the locals, the amazing Night Market is an attraction of its own. With an interesting collection of food items, colorful fruits, cheap and trendy clothes, buzzy bars, and fascinating souvenirs, this is not only a paradise for shopaholics but for foodies as well.
As the biggest Night Market in Phuket, it’s truly worth a visit. Most of the stalls open at 4 pm on Sunday. Head in early if you want to explore the market at a leisurely pace. The market is popular with the tourists and locals alike, so it can get packed.
Night Market (Naka Market)
Thalang Rd, Tambon Talat Yai, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83000, Thailand
Admission: Free
Ph: +66 86 943 1140
Get directions
Best places to eat nearby according to locals and visitors:
• Sea Breeze Thai Restaurant (4.6/5 stars, Thai, ฿฿฿)
• Curry Night Restaurant 正宗印度餐廳 (4.7/5 stars, Restaurant, ฿฿)
• Forest Bungalows & Mama’s Restaurant (4.6/5 stars, Restaurant, ฿฿)
See the full list of places to eat nearby Night Market.
The best hotel to stay near Night Market based on overall price, location and amenities according to travelers:
• Amatara Wellness Resort (8.7/10 stars, $$$) – Booking.com
15. Have fun at Bangla Road
Illuzion in Bangla Road | Phuketnightlifeguide
The night truly comes alive at the festive Bangla Road. When the sun sets, the 400-meter road is closed to vehicles and the clubs and bars open to curious and fun-seeking crowds. Hop from one bar to the next and experience the exciting nightlife of Phuket. Take care, though! The lively and fun-loving partying crowds can get a rowdy. Other than crowds on the vibrant street, there are also a variety of street performers entertaining the masses.
Bangla Road
Bangla Rd, Patong, Kathu, Phuket 83150, Thailand
Admission: 400 baht for most discos
Get directions
Best places to eat nearby according to locals and visitors:
• Haveli patong restaurant 2 (4.9/5 stars, Restaurant, ฿฿฿)
• shahi Kitchen indian Restaurant (4.9/5 stars, Indian, ฿฿)
• Shiraz Restaurant (4.8/5 stars, Restaurant, ฿฿)
See the full list of places to eat nearby Bangla Road.
The best hotel to stay near Bangla Road based on overall price, location and amenities according to travelers:
• The Naka Phuket (8.7/10 stars, ฿฿฿) – Booking.com
16. Have endless fun at Patong Beach
Crowds of tourists at Patong beach | Aleksandar Todorovic, Shutterstock
Known as the heart of Phuket, Patong Beach is what most tourists visit Phuket to see. The resort town has a beautiful 3-kilometer long beach that draws visitors to its powdery sand during the day and notoriously crazy nightlife at night.
There is also a diverse selection of shopping, dining, and relaxation options available in packed Patong Beach. You can go from day to night in the district with relative ease. Spend the day lounging on the beautiful beach or go on an exciting watersport adventure with jet skis and parasailing. At night, walk through the bustling Bangla Walking Street and join in on the fun.
Patong Beach
Kathu District, Phuket 83150 Thailand
Admission: Entry is free, but tour price is within 1000 baht per person
Get directions
Best places to eat nearby according to locals and visitors:
• Sun Smile Restaurant (4.7/5 stars, Restaurant, ฿฿฿)
• Austria Restaurant Schnitzelwirtin (4.7/5 stars, European, ฿฿)
• Acqua Restaurant (4.5/5 stars, Italian, ฿฿)
See the full list of places to eat nearby Patong Beach.
The best hotel to stay near Patong Beach based on overall price, location and amenities according to travelers:
• La Flora Resort Patong (8.6/10 stars, ฿฿฿) – Booking.com
Like our post? Please share it with it a friend!
Subscribe to get more travel tips and guides like these to your inbox.
