Why is Phuket known as a cool place to visit? Let’s find out by checking out all the awesome stuff you can do in Phuket, Thailand.
This renowned tourist destination lies on the west coast of southern Thailand, about 553 miles (890 kilometers) from Bangkok. It is the country’s largest island at 212 square miles (550 sq km).
Phuket is derived from “bukit,” a Malay word for hill. True to its name, the island is very hilly, with Khuan Wa, the highest point at 1,791 feet (546 meters).
The island offers a veritable treasure trove of memorable experiences. This article lists 40 of the best in Phuket to help you pick and plan how to spend your dream tropical holiday.
Wonderful Things To Do in Phuket – Sightseeing in Phuket
This tropical island paradise’s fascinating landmarks and natural beauty are bucket list-worthy. Consider checking out these sights:
1. Phang Nga Bay
One of the incredibly beautiful places you can visit is Pha Nga Bay. It is a national park featuring small islands, rock formations, limestone cliffs, and mangrove forests. You can explore this island’s enclosed lagoons and caves using a traditional Chinese junk-style ship or a canoe.
2. Phi Phi Island
Phi Phi Island is a beautiful archaeological site consisting of beautiful cliffs and pristine beaches reputed for its beach parties. Once in Phuket, You can take a speed boat for 3,514 THB ($100) or a ferry to the island, including lunch, which will cost you 2,389 THB ($68).
3. Chalong Temple
The Chalong temple dates back to the early 19th century and is Thailand’s biggest and most visited Buddhist temple. An iconic 230-foot (70-meter) structure in the temple shelters the splinter of the bone Buddha himself. Inside the temple are beautiful paintings that narrate the life of Buddha.
4. Old Phuket Town
Old Phuket town displays Sino-Portuguese culture. It consists of colorful shophouses and beautiful mansions. You can visit the local market and Thalang Street. The easiest way to get there is by riding the blue bus.
If you’re in Phuket Old Town, one of the best things to do is to walk around and sample the food. We did an amazing Phuket Food Tour with A Chef’s Tour, where the guide Nam took us to sample different flavors of Thai, Malay, Burmese, and Chinese cuisine.
With everything within walking distance and even the possibility of providing some vegetarian substitutes where available, it was an unforgettable culinary experience that I would recommend everybody tries.
5. Karon Viewpoint
The Karon viewpoint offers a panoramic view of the three magnificent bays—Kata Noi Beach, Karon Beach, and Kata Bay.
6. Big Buddha
The Big Buddha is a 148-foot (45-meter) sculpture made of white marble located at the peak of Nakkerd Hill. This spot also offers you a great panoramic view.
Visitors can pay their respects, learn about Buddhist traditions, and marvel at the intricate design of the statue.
7. Phuket Elephant Sanctuary
Phuket Elephant Sanctuary provides a compassionate and ethical environment for rescued elephants, allowing visitors to observe these magnificent creatures up close in a natural habitat.
The sanctuary offers a unique opportunity to learn about elephant behavior, contribute to their well-being, and support ethical tourism practices. It’s a must-visit for animal lovers seeking an educational and responsible experience in Phuket.
Wonderful Things To Do in Phuket – Activities to Do In Phuket
If you love an action-packed itinerary, you will not be short of options in Phuket. Some of the best activities include:
ith stunning natural views, offering a unique perspective of Phuket’s wilderness.
8. Watch Thai Boxing in Soi Sai Namen
How about watching skillful punching, powerful kicks, and skillful feints in a Thai boxing match? You can enjoy the match in a specially built stadium in Soi Sai Namen. Witness skilled fighters engage in intense battles of technique and strength, showcasing the ancient martial art of Muay Thai.
9. Kite Surfing at Layn and Nai Yang Beaches
Kite surfing is among the extreme sports that are gaining popularity in Phuket because of its gentle breezes and shallow waters at the Layn and Nai Yang beaches. Imagine being swept away by the wind and gliding across the azure water through a giant hand-controlled kite!
10. Scuba Diving
With many beautiful beaches, Phuket is a popular destination for scuba diving. So, why don’t you dive into the water and experience the undersea?
Explore vibrant coral reefs, encounter diverse marine species, and venture into the deep blue for an awe-inspiring adventure. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced diver, Phuket’s waters offer a range of dive sites suitable for all levels, making it an exceptional destination to discover the beauty and mysteries of the ocean depths.
11. Water Rafting at Phang Nga Rafting Camp
Consider water rafting at the Phang Nga Rafting Camp for a group water sport for 1,000 THB ($29). With a rubber raft accommodating up to six people, this is a great group sport for family and friends.
What Is Phuket Best Known For?
Phuket is known for its exotic beaches, colorful night markets, vibrant nightlife, delicious seafood, awesome sunsets, fascinating limestone cliffs, and thrilling water sports. It also has famous historical landmarks, such as temples and the Big Buddha statue.
How Many Days in Phuket Is Enough?
It depends on your interests and budget. With the numerous attractions and experiences available on the island, choose and plan accordingly. But for a truly great holiday in Phuket, we recommend you visit for at least three days to as long as two weeks.
Which Is the Best Month to Visit Phuket?
The best time to visit Phuket is between November and March, between the end of the rainy season and the start of summer heat. The dry and sunny weather during these months will be ideal for water sports and other beach-centric activities.
What Is the Best Part of Phuket To Stay?
If you love the vibrant part of the city, we recommend staying in Patong, where there is a large concentration of bars and restaurants. But if this is too crowded for you, we highly recommend Selina Serenity Rawai Phuket.
In the serene Rawai area, Selina Serenity offers a tranquil escape surrounded by nature’s beauty, including stunning beaches and lush landscapes. This charming retreat combines relaxation and adventure, providing a peaceful atmosphere with convenient access to island attractions, perfect for a romantic or rejuvenating getaway. Experience an unforgettable stay at Selina Serenity Rawai Phuket, tailored to your preferences.
Conclusion – Things to Do in Phuket Thailand
If you are looking for the most memorable things to do in Phuket, Thailand, whether you are a beach buff, a scuba diving enthusiast, or a certified foodie, your desired pleasures will surely be in the carefully-selected above list.
So get your passport, camera, and sunscreen ready for the tropical dream that is in Phuket. Safe and fun travels!
If you have a Phuket story to share, feel free to leave a comment below. For related stories, check out our feature on these equally fabulous Southeast Asian destinations:
- The Best Kept Secrets of Where to Stay in Bangkok: The Top Neighborhoods for Your Dream Vacation
- Experience Southeast Asia like Never Before: 10 Unforgettable Things to Do and Places to Stay
Founder of Spark Nomad, Radical FIRE, Journalist
- Expertise: Personal finance and travel content
- Education: Bachelor of Economics at Radboud University, Master in Finance at Radboud University, Minor in Economics at Chapman University.
- Over 200 articles, essays, and short stories published across the web.
Experience: Marjolein Dilven is a journalist and founder of Spark Nomad, a travel platform, and Radical FIRE, a personal finance platform. Marjolein has a finance and economics background with a master’s in Finance. She has quit her job to travel the world, documenting her travels on Spark Nomad to help people plan their travels. Marjolein Dilven has written for publications like MSN, Associated Press, CNBC, Town News syndicate, and more.