Phuket Destination Guide

This small island of about 540 sq. km has a coast packed with spectacular views and panoramic scenes scarcely rivalled by many other islands.

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.

The pleasures of the city are often overshadowed by the splendour of the beaches. Yet beneath the busy administrative façade of Phuket City is a wealth of fascinating delights.

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.

In the mid 19th century, there was a boom in the tin mining industry, leading to a huge influx of Chinese immigrants. The impact of this Chinese influence still lingers in the architecture of many buildings and streets.

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.

The wats or temples of Phuket perhaps fail to evoke the majestic aura of the religious sites in north Thailand and Bangkok. Nevertheless they do offer a glimpse into the beliefs and ideologies of the locals.

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".

Many an ambitious vendor has established a thriving trade for himself in the night markets of Phuket. The stalls situated along the roadside seem to change their locations with rapid frequency. The Patong Night Market along the beach is a comparatively permanent affair.

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.

The most famous museum here is perhaps the Thalang National Museum, which reflects the local culture and history. Also popular are the Sea Shell Museum of Rawai and the engaging little museum in the lobby of the Hotel Thavorn.

Phuket does not have the reputation of Chiang Mai or Bali when it comes to art and heritage, yet it is home to several upcoming artists.

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.

The Chao Ley or sea gypsies are found in small communities on Koh Sirey and Rawai. Many tours include a trip to these villages. However, since these tours offer little pleasure to either tourists or villagers, they are best avoided. Most gypsy communities have degenerated to little more than human zoos, and it would be kinder not to affront the dignity of these people.

A popular hilltop viewpoint, the Laem Phromthep is a great vantage point from which to see the ocean stretching to Phi Phi Island. End the day with delicious Thai food at the Phromthep Cape Restaurant and enjoy the cool ocean breezes.

Muay Thai or Thai kickboxing, as it is popularly known, has been rapidly gaining worldwide popularity. An enthralling show featuring martial experts can be witnessed at the Saphan Hin Stadium and at Patong beach. The dexterity and skill displayed by these well-trained experts are definitely worth watching.

Sheer indulgence or a must-have? A moot point indeed! Relax in the air-conditioned comfort of the Asian Spa and pamper yourself with a sensational body wrap made of natural ingredients. You could also try the traditional Thai massage or luxuriate with a massage beneath a shady tree, while listening to the soft ripple of the waves.

Visit one of Phuket's many beautiful waterfalls and National parks. The Khao Phra Thaeo National Park is a place of wild beauty while the Sirinat National Park boasts of a lovely beach.

The FantaSea show, while being lots of fun, is a highly professional performance, reminiscent of Las Vegas shows. Trapeze artists gambolling in the air, pyrotechnics and parading elephants combine to give a memorable show. Kids love visiting the theme park games, while adults enjoy shopping for souvenirs.

Located on Kamala beach, the park opens at 17:30 hrs and the main show starts at 21:00 hrs.

One of the oldest and best-developed tourist areas, Patong has a large number of accommodation options and is the most popular destination within Phuket. The crescent-shaped beach of 3,000 metres offers plenty of activities and is a popular destination for all in search of sun, fun and frolic!   From jet skis and banana boats, to paragliding and cruises.  For those just wanting to relax, beach recliners are provided for as little as 80 Baht - and even come with clothes hangers for you!

Patong also has the reputation of having an active nightlife. To experience the local life in full swing, visit a "singsong" or karaoke bar in the evening.  Just follow the neon signs.

Phuket easily qualifies as one of the top ten destinations for diving. With its exotic marine life and awe-inspiring coral reefs, Phuket is a diver's paradise.

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.

Experience the great outdoors of Thailand by taking off on an elephant trek. The elephants are well trained and domesticated.

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.

Phuket offers a number of good golf courses and easily figures as one of Thailand's best places to golf. Attracting visitors from across the globe, the course can be quite challenging.

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.

Situated inside the national park, this little sanctuary near the Bang Pae waterfall has been responsible for preserving and breeding gibbons for almost a decade. The idea is to protect the apes from being sold at the markets or exhibited at tourist spots.

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.

Phuket Zoo, located just outside of Phuket Town, offers a wide range of animals and activities - a children's favourite.  From daily monkey, elephant and crocodile shows to aquariums, bird parks and orchid gardens - there is plenty of fun for everyone.  For more details see Phuket Zoo