Phuket is the largest island in Thailand and one of the favorites amongst tourists and travelers. There are over 5 million tourists that visit Phuket every year so they can experience its turquoise waters, white sand beaches, fantastic resorts, thriving nightlife, and adventure activities. Whether you travel alone, with your love, your friends, or your family, Phuket has to offer something for everybody.
As one of Thailand’s most popular tourist destinations, you can stay there for weeks and yet there will be still places to visit and things to do. The following guide is designed to help you with your itinerary and make a list of the top tours and fun things to do in Phuket. You can either make a list on your own or leave that trouble to local operators like YonderTours.com.
Thailand safety & visa policy
Thailand is considered to be the safest country in the entire region of Southeast Asia. However, the crime rate in the South is somewhat worrisome, especially near the border with Malaysia and in the cities of Pattaya and Bangkok. Other than there, it’s perfectly safe to even travel with kids.
But before going on a trip to Thailand, make sure that you got travel insurance and visa. Passport holders of 64 countries can travel visa-free to Thailand. But, if your country is not on that list, then you need to obtain from the closest Thailand embassy.
Places to visit
The best starting point is the incredible beaches in Phuket. Some of the most famous beaches are Patong Beach, Karon/Kata Beach, and Laem Ka Beach. Each of them is perfect with crystal clear water and long stretches of sand. Patong Beach is always full of tourists and a bit crowded. Karon/Kata Beach is not as crowded as Patong Beach and more ‘laid back and enjoy’ type of place. Laem Ka is the farthest of all but at the same time, the most stunning one.
Aside from the beaches, you need to visit the Big Buddha & Wat Chalong, Wat Khao Rang, Promthep Cape, Karon Viewpoint, and Bang Pae Waterfall. Each site has its own story and is an essential part of Phuket’s heritage and charm.
Things to do
There is always something to do in Phuket for people of all ages and preferences. Phuket Fantasea & Siam Niramit are cultural festivals for those that want to learn more about Thailand’s culture. Those with more adventurous spirits may go scuba-diving, hang out with tigers at the Tiger Kingdom, visit a tropical rainforest on foot or riding an elephant, bungee jumping, and so on. But worth noting, for real die-hard animal lovers, you may find the treatment of the elephants and tigers so be somewhat backward and even verging on cruel. So be warned, whilst these shows were great entertainment decades ago, with humanities more recent outlook on the treatment of animals, these shows aren’t for everyone.
Places to eat
The night market in Phuket is not just great for an evening stroll, but also an opportunity to try local food from the food stands. If you are more into restaurants, you may want to check out places like Piang Pai, Laem Hin Seafood, One Chun Restaurant, Ko Ang Seafood, Kan Eang 2, Rim Pan Restaurant, and others.
