Phuket Destination Guide
When it comes to touring Phuket, you'll never run out of choices. Choose your destination depending on your budget, personal preferences or age. The best thing about Phuket is that it has something for everybody. There's a multitude of parks, beaches and forests that are waiting to be discovered. The artistically inclined can revel in Phuket's rich history and culture, while the food lover can rejoice in its gastronomic delights.
There's good news for the party animal as well - Phuket has an extremely vibrant nightlife.
This Phuket Destination Guide and our Phuket tour page tell you all you need to know about the highlights and must-see's of a trip to Phuket. We also provide some useful general information about your trip to Phuket. Also check out the highlights of some other great Thailand destinations such as Bangkok, Koh Samui, Pattaya, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, or Sukothai.
Things to See & Do in Phuket
Phuket Beaches
The winding coastal roads of the west lead to some of the world's most remarkable beaches. With their sparkling white sands, glimmering sea and tranquil waters, the beaches in Phuket are truly a treat.
Depending on your taste, you can enjoy the quiet seclusion of an isolated stretch in the north or immerse yourself in the wild excitement of Patong.
Some of the most famous beaches include the Kamala Bay, Kata Beach, Nai Yang Karon Beach, Pansea, Kata Noi, Bang Tao, Patong Beach, Laem Singh, Surin, Mai Khao, Nai Harn, Rawai, Nai Thon, Chalong Bay and Cape Panwa.
A word of caution, though - the monsoon rains from May to October make the weather, and consequently the swimming conditions, rather erratic, so do heed the warnings that are posted regularly.
Phuket City
Phuket City has heaps of exciting experiences in store. Since its label as a "city" is quite recent, you'll find that a lot of the old world charm still lingers. The result is a heady mixture of the old-fashioned and the modern, the simple and the suave. Revel in the many local sights, or try out the interesting cuisine. Better still, go shopping!
You'll be surprised to find that this quaint little capital has some really chic little shops and many a Sino-Portuguese splendour.
Old Phuket and Chinatown
To fully appreciate the Chinese legacy, take a stroll down the Dibuk and Krabi-Thalang Road, keeping your eyes open for the intricate latticework, multi-hued ceramic tiles and other typical Chinese designs.
The Sino-Portuguese style is also reflected in many mansions in the city. Though most of the old houses belong to private owners, some are open to the public and can be visited on a heritage tour.
Temples
The best time to visit a wat is in the early hours of the morning, when you can watch devotees doling out alms to the monks, and enjoy the strains of Pali chanting in the main halls.
One of the most important wats is the Wat Chalong. Decorated with hundreds of small glass pieces, it exudes a charming iridescent glow. To experience the authentic local aura, visit the Wat Chalong during a "country fair".
Night Markets
Wending its way into the back roads and smaller lanes, or soi, these stalls typically stock a range of items like handicrafts, luggage, wooden toys and silk scarves.
Near the Robinsons Department store is the busy night market of Phuket City. The weekend market found on Phang Nga Road is a great place for good bargains. Other popular markets are found near Chalong Circle and in Cherng Talay town, just opposite the police station.
Museums
Art Galleries/Studios
There are quite a few workshops and galleries belonging to local as well as expat artists. Some of these include the Rinda Studio of Rawai, located near Evason Phuket Resort, Karon Plaza's Nakonnai Gallery and Sarasil Art Gallery on Phuket City's Phang Nga Road.
If you're looking for masterpieces by Picasso or Van Gogh, try the beach road or the shops that dot Patong's Prachanukhao Road leading to Karon - you'll find that these hand-painted imitations are not only convincing but also pretty reasonable.
If you want to pick up works of local artists, the Dusit Laguna Phuket, Mom Tri's Boathouse and some other resorts are a good option, as they regularly hold art exhibitions. Several shops sell handicrafts and artwork too.
Sea Gypsy Villages
Laem Phromthep
Muay Thai
Spa Treatments
National Parks and Waterfalls
Phuket FantaSea show
Located on Kamala beach, the park opens at 17:30 hrs and the main show starts at 21:00 hrs.
Patong
Patong also has the reputation of having quite an active nightlife. To experience the local life in full swing, visit a "singsong" or karaoke bar in the evening. The neon signs will guide you easily.
Diving
The waters afford high visibility and warm temperatures, especially from November to April, making it even more attractive to divers. There is a whole range of diving courses offered by the dive shops here, so don't hesitate to add diving to your agenda.
Elephant Trekking
One of nature's most impressive animals, you'll better appreciate the intelligence, grace and strength of elephants when you travel astride them! The ride will probably be a bumpy one, but you'll enjoy seeing the world from a whole new perspective.
What's more, the mahouts quote pretty reasonable fares. Try tipping them by placing the money into the elephant's trunk. You'll be delighted to see them handing over the money faithfully to the mahouts.
Golf
There are about 81 holes that can be played at three different golf clubs, and all three are open to the public. Caddies, equipment and carts can be hired at reasonable prices.
However, during the holiday season in December and January, Phuket gets pretty full. If you wish to play golf while you are in Phuket, do remember to register in advance.
Gibbon Rehabilitation Centre Phuket
The trademark "singing" of the gibbons is pretty unique and impressive, and the volunteers give you a great introduction to the apes. If you want to find out more about the project, check with the visitor centre, which is managed by Western volunteers and Thais speaking fluent English.
While the talks are free, a generous gesture will be appreciated. You can show your solidarity for the project by purchasing a souvenir, making a donation or sponsoring a gibbon.
The centre is open daily from 10:00 hrs to 16:00 hrs. Your donation is your entry fee.
