Phuket is an Island located in the South of Thailand, it is one of the most popular beach destinations in the world. It’s no wonder why so many people flock to this tropical paradise year-round. There are so many things to see and do in Phuket, you’ll never get bored! Aside from beautiful beaches and bar street in Patong, you can go to see the majestic Big Buddha that watches over the island. Or go visit the charming Old Town with its colorful Sino-Portuguese architecture. You’re in for a treat!
But wait, there’s more! Phuket is also home to a plethora of night markets and shopping malls, where you can find everything from delicious street food to trendy clothing and souvenirs. And let’s not forget about the breathtaking viewpoints that offer stunning panoramic views of the island.
And today Phuket, Thailand is more popular than ever!
1. Phuket, Thailand Beaches
Phuket, Thailand is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The crystal clear waters and white sandy beaches will make you want to stay forever. Whether you’re looking to sunbathe, swim, or try out some water sports, Phuket has got you covered. And don’t forget about the beach bars and restaurants where you can enjoy a refreshing drink or a delicious meal while taking in the stunning views.
Most popular beaches on Phuket are:
- Patong Beach
- Karon Beach
- Kata, Kata Noi beaches
- Nai harn beach
- Rawai Beach
Patong Beach, Phuket Thailand
Most popular area on Phuket is Patong. The famous Bangla Road is there (walking street with bars and clubs), as well as the Patong Beach. Recommended for people who want to be in the hustle and bustle, enjoy the crowds and want to party. It’s not the most beautiful beach on Phuket, but definitely the most lively!
Kata Beach, Phuket Thailand
Kata beach on Phuket is the second most popular after Patong. Popular with families and less busy. Kata is actually not only the name of the beach, but also for the nearby small town that is situated next to the beach.
At Kata Beach on Phuket, Thailand you can find everything you need, great street food, relaxing massages and you can rent sun beds with an umbrella. The beach is beautiful with pristine white sand and clear blue water to get that tropical island feeling wen you see it.
Karon Beach, Phuket Thailand
Karon Beach is another popular beach on Phuket and second biggest. Popular with families and couples. Compared to its neighbor, Kata Beach, Karon is slightly more laid-back, making it the ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful escape.
Kata Beach on Phuket, Thailand is known for its crystal-clear waters and soft, powdery sand, very similar to Kata Beach.
You will find some of the luxury hotels of Phuket here on Karon Beach (Hilton, Ramada).
2. Big Buddha
Big Buddha Statue is the most popular place to see in Phuket. And get ready for some serious views!
Phuket Big Buddha is also calledThe Great Buddha of Phuket, it is 45 meter (148 feet) tall, made of concrete and covered with white marble. It is the third-tallest statue in Thailand. There is no entry fee, but donations are welcome. In fact, the Big Buddha statue is built mostly from donations and cost 30 million Thai Baht (about $950,000 US in February 2019).
From here you can see Chalong Bay and you definitely don’t want to miss this place.
Right next to Big Buddha there is a great restaurant with affordable prices and great sea views, we visited recently, check out the video below.
3. Phuket, Thailand Old Town
Phuket Old Town is famous for it’s colorful houses and a very colorful mix of styles!
Things to see in Old Town Phuket:
Phuket Museum (Peranakannitat). The building used to be a ‘Standard Chartered Bank’ and now opened up as a museum after 7 years of renovations.
Hai Leng Ong Statue (Golden Dragon Monument). Golden Lion statue, symbol of Old Town Phuket.
Thalang Road, Phangnga Road, and Soi Romanee – beautiful old houses, cute cafes, vintage shops.
4. Phuket, Thailand Night Markets
Are you ready to shop till you drop? Then head on over to one of the many night markets in Phuket! Night markets are a popular and lively way to experience the local culture, food, and shopping scene. Phuket boasts some of the most bustling and exciting night markets in Thailand, attracting both locals and tourists alike.
Here are the top 5 most popular night markets in Phuket:
- Chillva Market – located in Samkong, this market offers a trendy and hipster vibe, with unique stalls selling everything from handmade crafts to vintage clothing. It’s open from 5pm to 11pm.
- Phuket Weekend Market – also known as Naka Market, it’s one of the largest and most popular markets on the island. You’ll find an impressive array of food stalls, souvenirs, and local products here. It’s open on Saturday and Sunday evenings from 4pm to 10pm.
- Phuket Walking Street – held every Sunday in the old town of Phuket, this market is a charming mix of cultural performances, food stalls, and handicrafts. It’s open from 4pm to 10pm.
- Malin Plaza Patong – located in the heart of Patong, this market offers a wide range of local street food, drinks, and shopping. It’s open from 4pm to 11pm.
- Lard Yai Walking Street – held every Thursday in the old town of Phuket, this market is famous for its delicious street food and lively atmosphere. It’s open from 4pm to 10pm.
Whether you’re looking to try Thai Street food, buy souvenirs, or simply soak up the vibrant atmosphere, Phuket’s night markets are a must-visit. So grab your wallet and get ready for some serious shopping!
5. Patong Beach, Bangla Road on Phuket Thailand
If you travel to Phuket and want to party, Patong beach is the place to be! This beach town is known for its vibrant nightlife and crystal-clear waters. The beach here is so beautiful, you’ll feel like you’re in a postcard. You and probably a hundred other people, it’s the most crowded beach on Phuket.
And let’s not forget about Bangla Road, the heart of Patong’s nightlife scene! This lively street is packed with bars, clubs, and restaurants, and is the perfect place to experience the buzzing atmosphere of Patong after dark.
If you’re feeling brave, take a stroll down the famous Bangla Walking Street, where street performers and vendors line the way. But beware, this street is not for the faint-hearted, as it can get pretty wild! Whether you’re looking for a night out with friends, or a solo adventure, Bangla Road is the place to be in Patong. Just make sure to pace yourself, those Thai cocktails can be pretty potent!
So come to Patong, where the beach and nightlife meet in perfect harmony. But remember, what happens in Patong stays in Patong!
7. Boat tours on Phuket Thailand
If you’re looking for a fun and unique way to explore the beauty of Phuket, Thailand, then you definitely need to try out the boat tours! With so many options available, it can be hard to decide which one to choose. That’s why I’ve put together a list of the top 3 most popular boat tours in Phuket that you simply can’t miss out on:
- James Bond Island Boat Tour – This boat tour takes you to the iconic James Bond Island, made famous by the movie “The Man with the Golden Gun”. You’ll get to explore the stunning limestone cliffs and enjoy a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters. Plus, if you’re lucky, you might even spot some monkeys!
- Phi Phi Islands Boat Tour – The Phi Phi Islands on Phuket are some of the most picturesque destinations in Thailand, and this boat tour will take you to some of the best spots. You’ll get to snorkel with exotic fish, relax on pristine beaches, and even visit the famous Maya Bay where the movie “The Beach” was filmed.
- Sunset Dinner Cruise – For a romantic evening with your special someone, book a sunset dinner cruise on Phuket Thailand. You’ll sail along the stunning coastline while enjoying delicious Thai cuisine and sipping on cocktails. It’s the perfect way to end a day in Phuket.
Overall, you can’t have a holiday on Phuket and don’t go on a boat tour. It’s one of the best things to do on the island!
6. Central Festival Shopping Mall, Phuket Thailand
Are you looking to do some shopping in Phuket without getting scorched by the sun? Look no further than the Central Festival Shopping Mall! This air-conditioned haven is the perfect place to beat the heat and shop till you drop.
Firstly, let’s talk about the shopping experience. With over 300 stores to choose from, you’re bound to find something that tickles your fancy. Whether you’re looking for designer clothes or cheap souvenirs, Central Festival has got you covered. And don’t worry, you won’t have to haggle with any street vendors here!
Not only is the shopping great, but the mall also boasts a plethora of restaurants and cafes. So when you’re ready for a break from all that shopping, you can refuel with some delicious Thai cuisine. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love to eat while shopping?
But wait, there are even more things to do! Central Festival also has a cinema, arcade, and even a trampoline park. So if you need a break from shopping and eating, you can catch a movie or jump around like a kid again.
In short, Central Festival Shopping Mall is the perfect place to spend a day indoors on Phuket. So grab your wallet and get ready to shop ’til you drop (or at least until your credit card gets declined).
8. Plane spotting on Phuket Thailand
Are you tired of just sitting on the beach and sipping on piña coladas? Why not spice up your beach vacation by going plane spotting on Phuket, Thailand? Yes, you read that right. Plane spotting has become a top-rated attraction in recent years, and for good reason!
The best place to do this in Phuket, Thailand is at Mai Khao Beach, where you can watch planes land with the beautiful ocean as a backdrop. But before you pack your bags and head to the beach, there are a few things you should know.
First, there is a season for plane spotting in Phuket, Thailand and it has nothing to do with birds or bees. It’s all about the monsoon winds. During high season, which is from December to June, planes land over the ocean. But during low season, the wind changes direction, and planes approach from the roadside and take off over the beach. Not as impressive, if you ask me.
The best time to go is at the end of the morning when the light hits the sea and makes it look incredibly blue. And if you want to be really prepared, download the FlightRadar 24 app to know when and which plane is landing next. Talk about being an aviation expert!
9. Best Viewpoints in Phuket, Thailand
Among the best things to do in Phuket, Thailand is visiting one (or better several) of the viewpoints.
Khao Rang Viewpoint – Located in the heart of Phuket Old Town, this famous hill overlooks Phuket Town with a glimpse of Chalong Bay and Big Buddha at 140m above sea level. You can enjoy an evening walk while soaking up the view, and there are also several great restaurants nearby.
Koh Sirey Temple Viewpoint – Situated on the hilltop of Sirey Island, this viewpoint boasts impressive views of Tukkae Cape, Siray Bay, and Rassada Pier. The temple is a melting pot of diverse cultures and beliefs of Koh Sirey, with Thai and Burmese beliefs blending together in the same temple.
Kao Khad Views Tower – Located in the Wichit district close to Cape Panwa, this observation tower provides a 360-degree view. You can witness amazing views of Cape Panwa, Koh Mai Ton, and Phuket Town.
Tarzan Adventure Viewpoint – This viewpoint is accessible by an adventurous hike through the jungle. It offers breathtaking views of the Andaman Sea and Phuket’s west coast.
Big Buddha – This giant statue sits atop a hill overlooking the island, providing a stunning panoramic view of the surrounding areas. You can also visit several shops and restaurants in the area.
Karon Viewpoint – One of the most popular viewpoints in Phuket, Karon Viewpoint offers a fantastic view of Kata Noi, Kata Yai, and Karon beaches.
Black Rock Viewpoint – This viewpoint is located on the southernmost tip of Phuket and offers an amazing view of the ocean and nearby islands.
Windmill Viewpoint – Located on a hilltop near Nai Harn Beach, this viewpoint offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the beach and surrounding areas.
Phromthep Cape – This is one of the most famous viewpoints in Phuket and provides an amazing sunset view over the Andaman Sea.
10. Join a cooking class in Phuket Thailand
Thai food is undoubtedly one of the most delicious and flavourful cuisines in the world. With a perfect blend of sweet, spicy, sour, and salty flavours, it’s no wonder that Thai cuisine is highly sought after. And what better way to experience Thai food than by taking cooking classes? Believe me, it’s one of the most fun things to do in Phuket, Thailand!
Apart from learning how to make authentic Thai dishes from scratch, you’ll also have the chance to meet new people and make lifelong friends. Imagine bonding over your love for Tom Yum soup or Pad Thai with people from all over the world! It’s the perfect opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals while indulging in some culinary adventures.
So why not book a cooking class in Phuket today and embark on an unforgettable culinary journey? You’ll learn new skills, create delicious food, and make memories that will last a lifetime.
If you are on a holiday, after Phuket you must go to Bangkok, the capital of Thailand. Some people love it, others hate it, but no one stays indifferent!
