Dimaak

30 Best Things To Do in Phuket – You Should Know

Shares
16 min read

Phuket is one of the best places in Thailand that provides an incredibly vast range of activities and tours. The delightful beaches, natural wonders, and notable temples make everyone to choose it as a holiday destination. To make your travel planning easier, we have enlisted some of the top things to do in Phuket.

1.  Explore Phang Nga Bay:

Phang Nga Bay provides the most charming landscape in Thailand. The cliffs, caves, and sceneries across the bay are completely out of the world. It is a distinct place where the sheer limestone karsts extend vertically from the emerald-green water. You can explore kayaking along the gliding cliffs at this place.

James Bond Island and Koh Panyee are two famous spots in the bay. You will surely enjoy the spectacular scenery cruising through the limestone islands, across the beaches.

James bond island is also known as ‘Koh ta pu island’ and came to the picture after the movie ‘James Bond’. The entire area is surrounded by it’s signature rocky pinnacles. You can also explore the nearby fishing villages during your trip to James Bond Island. 

The Koh Panyee Island is a small island built over water on stilts near a rock monolith. You’ll find numerous huts, shacks, and restaurants that are built on stilts surrounding the sea. This place gives a completely unique and  extravagant experience to tourists and is listed as a must-visit place in Thailand. 

Phang Nga Bay is one of the best places in Thailand, famous for boating, white water rafting, and ATV riding. There are many safe places to anchor where you can enjoy it’s scenic wonders and wildlife. 

2.  Spend a Day at Phi Phi Island:

Phi Phi island is considered as the superstar island of Thailand. It is a hot topic among most of the travelers who travel to Thailand. The beauty of this island attracts more honeymoon couples and never disappoints them.

This Island is a beautiful archipelago surrounded by many beaches, cliffs, and viewpoints. It is one of the renowned islands, especially with young crowds for enjoying legendary beach parties all night long. The island looks like a fortress when seen from the boat. This mysterious and fascinating attraction of the island is a touch point for every tourist. Couples can really enjoy it’s sheer cliff tower, beachfront jungles, and pristine beaches.

If you love adventure, then scuba diving is the best water sport activity you need to experience in Phuket. You will enjoy it’s coral reefs, caves, and underwater  wrecks.

Sunrise trip to Phi Phi Island: 

Phi Phi island tour starts at 7 AM and ends at 4 PM. It usually covers 2 – 3 islands along with Phi Phi Island, lunch included. You can either choose a Big boat (cruise boat) or a speed boat for your Phi Phi Island tour. However, the speedboats are the most convenient choice to travel from Phuket to Phi Phi Island. 

If you’re an elderly person, then choose a big boat. However, you cannot get down in the water because it is a cruise. If you choose a speed boat, the thrill will be more and you can also get down at the beaches and enjoy snorkeling in it’s crystal clear waters. Both Phi Phi Island and Phang Nga bay need 400 THB for adults and 200THB for kids as an entry fee (including the national park entry fee). 

3.  Enjoy the Nightlife at Bangla Road:

Bangla Road/Soi Bangla is considered as the heart of nightlife in Phuket. This place has become the center of interest for many tourists over the years due to its popularity.

Bangla road stretches from the beach to Jungceylon Shopping Mall. You’ll find a lot of dancers demonstrating their skills along the streets. You can also enjoy live music venues across the streets if you are a music lover. 

4.  Chill at Patong Beach: 

The most famous beach in Phuket is the Patong beach. You will find a wide variety of activities and nightlife at this beach. Bachelors can hang out and enjoy nightlife as the area is filled with hundreds of restaurants, beer bars, Go-Go bars, and nightclubs.

You will find happening and chaotic atmosphere while strolling across the hot streets lit with neon lights. People usually come to experience the beach life and the wild nightlife. However, you can also try parasailing, jet skiing, and get a sunbed to experience sunbathing for a few hours. This place will give you an unforgettable experience of your Phuket trip.

5.  Walk Around the Old Town:

The Old Town is a historically rich part of Phuket, surrounded by many Chinese and Buddhist temples. You will find beautiful shophouses, printing shops, and also a red light area. You can taste Thai food at plenty of restaurants here. You can visit the old town on your own without taking any mode of transport. Walking across the old town will give you a wonderful experience.

6.  Visit Jui Tui Shrine:

Following a series of renovations, the Jui Tui Shrine houses 3 large statues, each of them of a different Chinese god. The most prominent among these is Tean Hu Huan Soy, the god of performing arts and dance. Next to the statue, there is a dog and a hen, which were said to be his favorite childhood pets. You will often see people celebrating with firecrackers during various occasions on the left of the shrine. 

7.  Enjoy the View from Karon Viewpoint:

Karon viewpoint, usually referred to as the Kata viewpoint is one of the hang out places in Phuket. You can view the Kata Noi, Kata Yai, and Karon beaches from this point. This viewpoint is busy most days, throughout the year and is one of the best tourist destinations in Thailand.

8.  Fun at the Impressive Phuket Trickeye Museum:

Phuket Trickeye Museum is a place located at the corner of Montri and Phang Nga road and is a perfect place for having great fun with family. It includes an interactive 3D painting exhibition and provides wonderful photo opportunities to tourists. It also offers the opportunity to interact with modern installation art which will kindle your creativity and imagination.

The museum has a gallery of about 100 painted and sculpted art works in which you can see ancient techniques and geometrical skills. You can also see three-dimensional illusion on a two-dimensional background in the museum.

The entrance fee for adults is 500 baht and 200 baht for children. You need to take off your shoes and keep your bags in a counter at the entrance. The timing of the museum is from 10 AM to 7 PM.                             

9.  The Big Buddha:

The iconic Big Buddha of Phuket is one of the most revered landmarks in the island city. It is considered not only a landmark but a religious place also. The large statue of Lord Buddha is situated on the top of Nakkerd hills. The Buddha is 45 meters tall and can be easily seen from the city of Chalong Bay. This is a must-see place for travelers in Phuket.

You can also contribute by sponsoring one white marble tile, with your name on it, at this place. An appropriate dress code is necessary to enter this peaceful place. If you wear dresses above the knee, then you would be provided with a sarong at the entrance.

10.  Visit the Nai Harn Beach:

Nai Harn beach is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Phuket. It’s charm and quiet nature makes it a popular destination. You’ll find only a few hotels, restaurants, and shops at this beach. It is a popular anchorage for boats during the high seasons. It is also a great option for surfers, kiteboarders, snorkelers, and divers.

11.  Trip to Kata Noi beach:

Kata Noi is a beautiful little bay on Phuket’s west coast and one of the premier beaches in Phuket Island. It is located at the south of Main Kata beach. You can explore the hillside road behind the beach and experience the stunning scenery. 

It is a beautiful sandy bay surrounded by clear blue waters. Unless you visit this place, you can’t experience the spirit of the beach through mere words. This beach offers the best sunset view.

This beach is very suitable for swimmers during the months of November to April. Snorkeling is one of the top things to do in Kata Noi beach. The northern part of the beach offers a very suitable spot for surfers as it’s a rock free area. 

You will find Phuket’s most luxurious resorts and restaurants at this place where you can enjoy tasty dinner and refreshing drinks. You’ll also find convenience stores, massage centers, and bars specifically for guests and tourists at the beach. 

12.  Tour at Similan Islands:

The Similan Islands, an extremely beautiful archipelago in the Andaman Sea, is located 85 km from Phuket. You can also capture some amazing photos of the island. Most people prefer a whole day trip as it is a little far from Phuket. You can also experience several beaches on the way to Similan Islands.

You can find ironwood, jackfruit, rattan, bamboo, and gum trees across the island. You can also see crab-eating monkeys, langurs, squirrels, lizards, and varieties of birds at this place.

13.  Enjoy the Phuket Fantasea Show:

The Fantasea show of Phuket is like a Las Vegas-style Thai cultural show. New technologies, incredible sets, essence of Thai culture, acrobatics, performing animals, and aerial performances with 4D effects make it a special show that attracts many tourists.

Fantasea show in Phuket is the only one in the country that offers entertainment and a wide range of activities on a grand scale, spread across a 140 acre complex. There are many restaurants serving gigantic buffets of both Thai and other international cuisines. 

You’ll find beautiful architecture, ancient Thai temples, and castles in the theme park at Kamala beach. The park looks colorful, full of shops, fun games, shows performed by Thai dancers and acrobats. You will also see village carnivals, shopping complexes, and Thai handicraft shops in the park.

14.  Trip to Wat Chalong:

Wat Chalong is located at the northern part of Tambon Chalong and is officially known as ‘Wat Chaithararam’ by royal decree. It has many local attractions replete with rich history. When you reach the place, you can see Poh Jao Wat which houses statues of two highly revered monks (Luang Pho Chaem and Luang Pho Chuang). You can also witness the Grand pagoda which is a notable highlight that contains a small splinter of Lord Buddha. This pagoda also depicts the life story of Buddha through beautifully decorated illustrations.

15.  Visit the Tiger Kingdom:

If you want to see Indochinese tigers, then Phuket Tiger Kingdom is the best place. The tiger kingdom gives an opportunity to get close to many tigers of varying ages and sizes. It is an attractive place located near the Go-Karting track at the foot of Patong hill. You can also experience bungee jumping or can zip line through the jungle.

A single ticket pricing starts from 800 baht to 3500 baht and depends on the size of the tiger you want to see inside the cage. You have to leave your belongings outside in a locker and wash your hands before entering the place.

16.  Enjoy the Simon Cabaret Show:

If you want to enjoy a glamorous night at the cabaret, then attend the energetic Simon cabaret show. You can witness a wide variety of acts played both by males and females, beautifully dressed in catchy costumes. If you love burlesque, musical shows, or dance shows, then this is the best option for you.

The performers dress in colorful and dazzling costumes, feature their performances energetically. You will also experience tribal themed decorations with ornamental, feathered crowns which gives a completely different scene about their rich history.

17.  Shopping at Phuket Weekend Night Market:

If you are wondering what to do in Phuket on the weekend nights, then the weekend night market is the best place to visit and shop. It is locally known as Naka Market and is located along the Chao Fa West Road just a little way from Phuket Town. You can buy many fruits, animals, clothes, and any other curiosities you might have. You will find a fascinating jumble of secondhand goods, pirated items, live animals, and some great local food.

The timing is from 4 PM to 9 PM on weekends.

18.  Learn Thai Cooking in Phuket:

Phuket has many locations that offer cooking classes for tourists. You can learn Thai cooking styles to prepare different tasty Thai food. Learn how to manage the ingredients and cook aromatic food from expert instructors.

You can choose slots from the available morning, afternoon packages, or whole day packages are also available.

19.  Surin Beach:

Surin beach is a naturally beautiful beach and is also commonly known as Millionaire’s place as top celebrities hang out at luxury beach resorts around this place. It is not a busy resort town, hence you’ll always find less crowd here. If you want a lavish experience to enjoy with a prime spot overlooking the Andaman Sea, then this beach is the best location.

You will see fine white sand and turquoise water which magnifies the scenic beauty of this coastal place. You will also find high-end hotels, restaurants, and wine bars along the coast which is quite expensive.

20.  Watch the Monkeys at Monkey Hills:

This place is also known as ‘Toh Sae Hill’ and is one of the highest hills in Phuket Town. There are around 400 macaques living in little groups on this hill. You need to be careful and watch your belongings while walking. However, the monkeys usually don’t attack humans at this place. There is a popular shrine at the bottom of the hill where Thai people usually go to ask lottery numbers!

21.  Visit the Elephant Sanctuary:

The elephant sanctuary in Phuket is a popular place among travelers. If you wish to observe elephants from close quarters, then these elephant park is the best place to visit. You will really enjoy your tour with these majestic yet gentle creatures.

The sanctuary timings are from 10 AM to 1 PM. 

22.  Visit the Phuket Aquarium:

If you’re staying near Kantary Bay, then the Phuket Aquarium is a good place to go and spend a couple of peaceful hours.

The undersea tunnel walk and the adjoining outside walk along the beach edge makes the place more attractive. You’ll get to know more about the species when you visit this place. Kids enjoy this place the most as there are lots of colorful fishes, large sharks, and rays. 

The price is relatively cheap for the aquarium. 

23.  Hangout at Coral Islands:

Coral Island is locally also known as Koh Hae. It is a beautiful destination located just 3 km southeast of Phuket. You can walk along the long banana beach. If you love adventure, then snorkeling provides the most thrilling experience, as it has impressive coral reefs. It provides a wide range of eateries, buffet and delicious cuisines. You’ll find a lot of water sports activities like banana boats, canoes, etc at this place.

The location looks extremely beautiful in the evening. It is a calm beach where you can also rent deck chairs and sun loungers from some resorts and enjoy your trip.

24.  Shop at Boat Avenue:

Boat Avenue is a large shopping complex in Bangtao that contains many fashionable boutiques, restaurants, large Villa Supermarket, and a weekly night market. It is one of the more popular shopping areas in Phuket.

At this place, you will find contemporary style car parking space. You’ll also find shops and restaurants lined on the right side of the supermarket. 

25.  Enjoy at Mai Khao Beach:

Mai Khao beach is located on the northwest coast of Phuket. The beach is 11 km long and is a part of Sirinat national park. It is very near to Phuket international airport.

The sand at this beach is the roughest in Phuket and is known as white wood. You’ll find a sharp drop off into the Andaman Sea which makes it a dangerous spot for swimmers. 

You can walk for kilometers without seeing a single person and can roam alone along the beach. This place is mostly not suitable for a family trip.

26.  Phuket Dolphin show:

You can have an amazing time with your friends and family at Phuket’s dolphin show. During the 45 minute performance, you’ll witness the intelligence of these dolphins. You’ll see these majestic creatures playing and performing lots of tricks.

You can also take photos with the dolphins and capture unforgettable memories. 

You can choose from different show timings to suit your schedule. 

The timings are 11:00 AM, 2:00 PM and 5:00 PM.

27.  See the Windmill Viewpoint:

Windmill viewpoint is the best place to chill alone or with some close friends, or with your loved ones. It is a less crowded place with an awesome view of the sunset that will make your day spectacular.

The viewpoint is just above the Ya Nui Beach and is a perfect spot to see the tropical sea. It is located at Nai Harn beach. You will also be able to see white windmills situated at long distance from this point. 

28.  Flying Hanuman Zipline Experience:

Flying Hanuman zipline is a rare adventure activity that you won’t find anywhere else in Thailand. You can experience the island’s beauty far beyond the sea, sun, and sand.

Flying Hanuman Zipline provides travelers with exceptional service, enjoyment, excitement, and memories. You will enjoy the surrounding forest environment area without even impacting the nature’s balance. Drive your adrenaline in the jungles of Phuket’s with a Flying Hanuman Zipline Experience.

29.  Phuket Helicopter Tours:

Enjoy Phuket’s best views from the top on the 10-minute Phuket Beach Helicopter Tour. You will see the exotic beaches, tropical rainforest, the big Buddha, Wat Chalong, the Royal Phuket Marina, and many more significant places of Phuket in this Helicopter Tour.

You’ll experience spectacular views of the natural scenery of Phuket city, the popular James Bond Island, the floating Muslim Village, and the Blue Canyon Golf Course. You can capture the beauty of the islands in Thailand in a completely new way with aerial filming and reconnaissance.

30.  Sightseeing Places in Phuket:

The other attractions and sightseeing places in Phuket city tour include the Cashew nut factory, Honey farm, Chalong temple, and Promthep Cape viewpoint.

The cashew nut factory in Phuket is a must-see point for cashew nut lovers. You will get good quality cashew-nuts for relatively cheaper price, compared to prices in the western countries. You will also find a large range of dry fruits at the factory.

Honey farm is a place where you can taste different types of honey. You can buy a lot of honey products, chocolates, vinegar etc. directly from the farm, at a reasonable price. 

Promthep Cape is one of the best-known locations in Phuket. Most of the local and foreign tourists come to visit this place every evening to view the sun-set. Thus the place is crowded with buses, cars, and scooters at the island’s southernmost hill point to watch the sunset from its peak. However, this does not affect the beauty of this place and you can enjoy its scenic beauty undeterred.