phuket travel advice

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Phuket International Airport Guide

Top Things to Do

Best Beaches

Best Dive Locations

Day Trips from Phuket

Food to Try

Best Restaurants

Nightlife Guide

Your Trip to Phuket: the Complete Guide

If you can only visit one place in Thailand, zero in on the island of Phuket. Set some 400 miles south of Bangkok, Phuket crams a near-excess of sights and activities within its coastline: gorgeous beaches, delicious food, amazing natural parks, and access to some of the Andaman Sea’s most breathtakingly beautiful islands.

Backpackers introduced Phuket to the tourism world. The first backpacker-friendly accommodations sprung up in Patong in the 1970s, presaging a steady rise in visitors that peaked at 14 million in 2018. Phuket’s present-day attractions have evolved with tourist tastes; beyond the beaches, visitors can now check out Phuket’s Michelin-starred restaurants, world-class theme parks, and luxury hotels fringing the sands.

For the first-time visitor to Phuket, the island can be a lot to unpack at first glance. Read on to make sense of Thailand’s most popular tourist destination, and how you can have the time of your life when you visit.

Planning Your Trip

• Best time to visit : Plan your trip between mid-October to mid-February; the “winter” months coincide with a cool, dry climate caused by northeast monsoon winds blowing in from Siberia.
• Language: Central (standard) Thai is widely spoken throughout Phuket, though southern Thai is the local mother tongue. A fair number of Phuket locals can manage basic English, but don’t expect them to manage sustained conversation. These are a few useful phrases to learn when traveling in Phuket.
• Currency : The Thai Baht (THB) is standard currency across the island.
• Getting Around: You can ride buses (songthaew), tuk-tuks, or motorbike taxis to get around Phuket. Songthaew commute between Phuket Town and resort areas like Surin, Karon, and Patong. Tuk-tuks and motorbikes can take you on a point-to-point basis for short distances.
• Travel tip: Phuket’s beaches are lovely to visit and swim in—but during the monsoon months between May and October, riptides and unpredictable swells make them positively dangerous for casual swimmers. Watch for red flags on the beaches, which warn against swimming when the conditions are too risky.

Things to Do

For an island just over 200 square miles in area, Phuket offers a surprising number of things to see and do. To be sure, its beaches are Phuket’s spotlight attraction, but there’s more to discover once you move beyond the coastline.

• Enjoy Phuket’s beaches . Each beach in Phuket offers a distinct appeal that caters to different folks—partygoers go to Patong Beach, couples to Karon, and nature lovers and plane-spotters prefer Mai Khao.
• Visit Phuket Town. In its heyday, Phuket Town was a key trading post for Thai, Chinese, and British colonial entrepreneurs. While the tin trade that drove local business has long since faded, the old town has retained its old-timey charm, its townhouses having been converted into museums, restaurants, and shops.
• Take in the nightlife. All nightlife adventures in Phuket begin at Bangla Road in Patong—a neon-lit thoroughfare with attached soi (alleyways) brimming with bars, live music venues, and street performers.
• Go island-hopping: The seas of southern Thailand offer some of the most breathtaking views, both above and underwater. Tours to Koh Phi Phi, Phang Nga, and Koh Similan can be easily booked from your Phuket hotel.

Explore more attractions with our full-length articles on the best things to do in Phuket , the best day trips from Phuket , and scuba diving excursions from Phuket .

What to Eat and Drink

Thanks to Phuket’s long history as a trade entrepot, the local culinary scene bears influences from all over—European fine dining, Southern Chinese home cooking, and Thai royal cuisine, among others. Foodies in particular swear by Phuket’s fusion of Thai and Chinese cuisines, the natural result of the island’s Chinese/Peranakan community centered around Phuket Town.

The local food scene has earned Phuket recognition as a "Creative City of Gastronomy" by UNESCO, owing to the variety of dishes and dining styles. High-end diners can take in a meal at one of the island’s Michelin-starred restaurants, while budget eaters can count on Phuket Town's hawker-style premises that resemble similar setups in Singapore and Malaysia . The street food scene in Patong helps balance out the town’s raucous nightlife, and many resorts offer in-house dining experiences overlooking the sea.

Learn more with our guides to foods to try in Phuket , Phuket's best restaurants , and Phuket's nightlife scene .

Where to Stay

The vast majority of hotels and resorts in Phuket are located around the west coast, as Phuket’s top beaches can be found there. One exception is Phuket Town, whose affordable hotels are offset by its considerable distance from the beaches.

The graceful Sino-Portuguese buildings, cheap food, and activities around Phuket Town make it an excellent choice for history nerds and foodies. Meanwhile, budget travelers and partygoers should look for accommodations around Patong, home to the island’s hottest nightlife scene and most affordable budget hotels. Hotels around Karon Beach offer a happy medium for tourists who like staying close to the beach, but abhor Patong’s congestion and party-happy atmosphere. The relaxed energy around Karon appeals to families, couples, and seniors.

For a selection of Phuket accommodation options, check out this list of Phuket’s top hotels.

Getting There

Some 16 million people fly into Phuket International Airport from all over Asia and Europe. Located at the northern end of Phuket, the airport sits over 20 miles from the island’s main tourist stretches. If you’re flying in during Phuket’s peak season, be aware that it will take over an hour to get to or from your Phuket resort, so plan accordingly.

Phuket is connected by bridge to the Thai mainland, allowing domestic travelers to take the bus from cities around Thailand to the island. Most cross-country buses arrive and depart to/from Phuket Bus Terminal 2 on Thepkasattri Road in Ratsada.

Despite Phuket’s relatively low crime rate, some risks remain for visitors to the island. The beaches hide dangerous riptides and jellyfish, whereas locals might also take offense to fighting words or undue talk about politics or religion.

When hanging around the beaches, keep the following threats in view.

• Beware of riptides. During monsoon season, Phuket’s beaches hide a nasty secret: deadly riptides that can pull you out to the open sea, or pull you under to drown. Patong, Karon, and Kamala beaches are notorious for these. If you see red flags flying on any Phuket beach, do not go into the water.
• Listen for tsunami warnings. The 2004 Boxing Day tsunami hit Phuket hard, killing over 5,000 people. Today, an advanced tsunami warning system watches over Phuket; warnings will be sent via broadcast media and SMS on local cellphones, giving you plenty of time to head to higher ground.

Thai locals are some of the most easygoing people on earth, but remember that their patience can be severely tested, too. Here’s how to stay on locals’ good side—and how to stay out of trouble otherwise:

• Never get angry or aggressive . Avoid conflict wherever possible. Thais do not go for pranks or humiliating jokes at their expense, and they also look down on Westerners picking fights. You should also avoid political talk—Thailand has a lese majeste law that penalizes insulting talk about their royal family, so steer clear of that topic in polite conversation.
• Don’t do drugs. Thailand has extremely punitive laws against drug trafficking and use. You can spend years in prison if caught with even a small amount of prohibited drugs, or get the death penalty at worst.
• Keep your eyes open for scams . Tourist locations tend to attract a fair number of scammers, and Phuket is no exception.

Money Saving Tips

Even as luxe hotels and Michelin-starred restaurants have taken over, they haven’t crowded the backpackers out yet—budget travelers can still find plenty of ways to stretch their dollar. Follow these simple rules to get the most value out of your Phuket trip:

• Eat the way locals do. Get a meal at a Patong food hall, or hunker down to street food in Phuket Town. The cheapest meals can be found at wet markets in your vicinity, where you can get rice, meat, and a drink for no more than 100 baht ($3.30).
• Use local transportation. Look up the songthaew routes around your hotel and your preferred destinations, and ride them whenever possible. Tuk-tuks and motorcycle taxis will also let you haggle the price down to a certain extent.
• Visit Phuket in the low season. Between May and October, Phuket gets the brunt of the monsoon season. Prices are at their lowest for both accommodations and transportation, though, which can save you money in what is arguably Thailand’s priciest town.
• Get a local SIM card for your phone. Assuming your phone is compatible with the local networks, buying a prepaid SIM card will let you surf the web and call home without breaking the bank. You have your choice of three brands: AIS , DTAC , and TrueMove . All are available at the airport, or at any convenience store on the island.
• Drink Thai-made beers. Chang, Leo, and Singha beers are much cheaper than Australian or European beers around Phuket—and they’re arguably just as good.

Phuket.net. "History of Phuket." 2021.

Channel News Asia. "Phuket already bursting at the seams but more tourists on the way." December 8, 2019.

The Phuket News. "History: Cultural History of Phuket Town." May 6, 2016.

UNESCO. "Creative Cities Network: Phuket." 2015. 

Michelin Guide Global. "Phuket Restaurants." 2020.

The Nation Thailand. "Tsunami warning system finally ready, after 8 years." December 25, 2012.

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Travelers guide to the amazing island of Phuket, find the best things to do, places to go, travel tips and advice.

Phuket Travel Guide Contents

Places To Go | Things To Do | Hotels & Resorts | Tours | Weather & When To Go | Getting There & Around | See & Do | Where To Stay | Day Trips & Excursions | Typical Costs | Money Saving Tips | Safety Tips | Recommended Resources | Transport | Travel Blog

Welcome to Thailand Travel Hub’s complete guide to Phuket, Thailand’s world-famous tropical paradise which attracts millions of tourists every year, and for good reason. Located on Thailand’s west coast in the Andaman sea, this incredible destination offers something for everyone, whether you want to relax on a secluded white sand beach, shop till you drop in a modern mall or Thai night market, or even indulge in the infamously hedonistic nightlife of Patong. With fantastic weather, delicious food, stunning beaches and friendly locals, a trip to Phuket is an experience not to be forgotten.

Discover the best hotels and resorts, the best beaches, the best activities and the best places to shop and eat on the island, along with our essential travel tips and advice, travel resources and booking information, all here in one place. Phuket has a vast array of accommodation options, with everything from the most basic hostel dorms to five-star ultra-luxury spa resorts, here you can find all the key information which you need to ensure that you choose the place that’s best suited to you. Wherever you choose to stay, Phuket is a great choice and you can look forward to an amazing holiday experience surrounded by lush tropical vegetation and crystal clear azure waters.

Places To Go View All

Kata Noi Beach

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Sirinat National Park

Wat Chalong

Phuket International Airport

Things To Do View All

Blue Tree Phuket

Merlin Divers Phuket

Smile Bar & Restaurant

Local Dive Thailand

Price THB 2,000 - THB 30,000

Hotels & Resorts View All

Baan Laimai Beach Resort

Price ฿2000 - ฿6000

The Yorkshire Hotel

Price ฿800 - ฿3500

Safari Beach Hotel

Amari Phuket

Price ฿ 5000 - ฿ 13000

Tours & Activities View All

Pawara: Thailand Liveaboard Diving Trip

Tour Destination Similan - Koh Bon - Koh Tachai - Richelieu Rock (Tablamu Pier - Tablamu Pier)

Price $142 / Day

Phuket: James Bond and Hong Island Luxury Sunset Cruise

Price Now Just $120.18

Phuket: Phi Phi, Maya, Bamboo, and Maiton Island Day Trip

Price Now Just $91.55

Ferry Transfer Between Phuket and Koh Phi Phi

Price ฿300 / $9.86

Phuket Travel Guide Map

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Weather & When to Go to Phuket

Like the rest of Thailand, Phuket has three seasons; "cool", "hot", and "wet" (the monsoon season). But don't be deceived, the cool season is actually still hot, so a better description would be "hot", "very hot", and "monsoon". The best time to visit is undoubtedly between November and April when you will find that the conditions are optimal for enjoying the beaches and engaging in water-sports or boating activities, with a good amount of sun and minimal rain.

The cool season is November to February when you can expect average daily temperatures of 25°C. This is followed by the hot season from March to May, when you can expect temperatures of around 30°C, and the rest of the year, June-October is the monsoon season when you can expect temperatures of around 28°C. During the monsoon season, the rain can be torrential, heavy enough to make driving very hazardous, and it can stop and start very quickly. Despite this, visiting during the rainy season can still be fun as you will find fewer tourists and should be able to secure a better deal for your accommodation – but just make sure any plans you have are flexible to allow for the downpours.

How To Get To Phuket

Phuket is connected via two road bridges to the mainland in the Phang Nga Provence, although there are also speedboat transfers from Ko Hae, Ko Phi Phi and Krabi. If you’re traveling from Bangkok to Phuket , there are several transport options from flights leaving Don Mueang or Suvarnabhumi Airports, VIP buses from the southern bus terminal or Khao San Road, or a combination of train and bus from Bangkok's Hualampong train station.

Getting to Phuket by Plane – Flying is the easiest way to get to Phuket, with most travelers stopping at Bangkok before arriving at Phuket International Airport, although there are also many charter flights which fly direct from some international airports (especially in the high season). Budget flights from Bangkok start at around 700 baht ($23) each way but can cost considerably more if you book them last minute. Flights take around 1 hour and 15 minutes. A good tip is to fly from the older, domestic airport called Don Mueang (DMK) as the fares will almost certainly be lower.

Getting to Phuket by Bus – Buses depart from both of Bangkok's bus terminals and arrive in Phuket around 13 hours later, costing you 600-1000 baht ($20-$33) per person. There are also numerous private tour buses which can be booked at hotels and travel agents in the capital which may be more comfortable but don't count on it. If you travel by bus never leave your valuables in any stowed luggage, things can and do sometimes go missing.

Getting to Phuket by Train – It is possible to go as far as Surat Thani by train, and then continue your journey to Phuket by bus, but this will take a long time and cost more than a budget air ticket so is not a great choice, but if you want to travel last minute and haven’t booked flights it could be an option. Trains depart Bangkok’s Hua Lamphong station and arrive at Surat Thani 9-12 hours later at a cost of around 500 to 1500 baht ($16.50-$49) each way.

TTH Recommendation: There are many methods of transport you can take to get to Phuket and surrounding area, including Taxis, Minivans, Buses, Ferries and Flights . All can be booked in advanced and conveniently online. We highly recommend 12Go Asia , they have an easy-to-use booking system and helpful staff if you have any questions or queries with your bookings.

Check Transport Routes and Book Tickets on 12Go Asia

Getting Around Phuket

Once you've arrived on the island, there are many ways to get around. Phuket has a decent number of tuk-tuks, which look a little different to the tuk-tuks in the capital, the ones here are a little bigger and painted red. Be warned, though, for many years now, visitors and locals alike have complained about the prices which they charge, and it has been suggested that the drivers collude to keep the prices high – try to avoid using them where possible.

Taxi - Metered, air-conditioned taxis are a much better bet, however, they can be difficult to find and the driver may, as usual for Thailand, refuse to use the meter. If he does so, refuse the taxi and look for another as you will invariably end up paying at least double what the meter would have charged. There are public buses on the island which are good value, however, the network is radial with Phuket Town at the center meaning to go from one beach to another would require two buses and take longer than you would imagine.

Songthaew - Songthaews are the best compromise for most travelers, being cheap, convenient and safe. They are a little smaller than the ones you would see in Bangkok or Chiang Mai, but they work on the same principle. Songthaew's run from Ranong Road in Phuket Town and on to Phuket's most popular destinations such as Chalong, Kamala, Kata, Karon, Makham Bay, Nai Harn, Nai Yang, Patong, Rawai, Surin and Thalang. Songthaew's do not have any bus stops, to get on just flag one down, then to get off, just ring the bell, your fare will be 15-40 baht ($0.49-$1.30) depending on distance. Fares start from 15 baht and a typical journey to Phuket Town from one of the main beach towns will cost around 30 baht. Songthaew's always return to their origin at Ranong Road in Phuket Town, so unfortunately you can't get a Songthaew from beach to beach. Songthaew's run from 7am to 6pm.

Motorbike - By far the most convenient way to get around is to hire a motorcycle. For 300 baht ($10) a day, you can go as far as you want and explore the island at your leisure. 60 baht ($2) will get you a full tank of gas, which will seem to last forever. A few key points though; only get a bike if you have a motorcycle license and are a confident rider as some of the roads can be treacherous. Always wear a helmet and never drink and drive, even if others appear to be doing it.

Airport Bus - An Airport Bus runs from Phuket International Airport to Phuket Town Bus Terminal, which leaves every hour starting at 7.30am to 9.30pm from outside the arrivals hall in the domestic terminal. You will need to look out for the orange bus, the fare is 100 baht. When you exit the arrivals hall just turn left to reach the pickup point. If you are going to Thalang, Kamala Beach, Surin Beach, Bang Tao Beach, Por Bay you can get off at Horoines Monument for a connecting bus. If your going to Patong Beach, Kata Beach, Karon Beach or Rassada Pier you will need to get a connecting bus at the Phuket Bus Terminal.

Where To Stay In Phuket

Patong is the biggest and most developed part of the island, and for many people, it will be the best place to stay. It has a huge choice of accommodation, hundreds upon hundreds of restaurants, bars, pubs and by far the best nightlife options. It is also home to some of the island's best shopping, including the JungCeylon mall and many night-markets and small shops. Patong is fairly large, and a bit too big to be able to comfortably cover on foot, so hiring a motorcycle would be advised. The downside is that it is packed with tourists, especially on the beach, and can be quite noisy at night time.

Karon is a little more relaxed than Patong and noticeably smaller, but still has a lot of choice and variety with many restaurants and bars, and the nightlife is more subdued. The beach is not so packed and cleaner as a result, making Karon a great compromise for most travelers with the nightlife options of Patong still only 15-20 minutes away. It is a better choice for families as some of the Patong entertainment options are not quite family-friendly (with lady-boys and young girls walking around in bikinis in the evenings).

Kamala is smaller and quieter than Karon and can be covered on foot fairly easily. It is more relaxing and has a laid-back village feel to it, the northern end is the quietest, with most amenities being found on the Beach Road at the southern end. Kamala has a fantastic beach, which is quieter and cleaner than either at Karon or Patong, with noticeably fewer tourists. Kamala is only 15 minutes north of Patong, so if you want a more chilled holiday but still want to be within easy reach of extensive shopping and nightlife options, Kamala could be the place for you.

Kata consists of two beaches, Kata Yai (big Kata) and Kata Noi (small Kata), both of which are beautiful with clean, clear waters and white sands. Kata has many accommodation options and plenty of restaurants, bars and shopping options and all the amenities you could need during your holiday. There are also some lively nightlife spots, but nothing as in your face as Patong, which when combined with the great beaches makes this a popular choice for families. Kata could neither be described as quiet nor busy, but a happy compromise with some great value hotels.

Surin is a more upmarket destination with luxury, private resorts, with prices to match. A popular getaway for celebrities, the town itself has little to offer, with most amenities being provided inside the resorts themselves. There are a few high-end restaurants and cocktail bars attached to some of the resorts which are open to the public, where you can try some exquisite food from international chefs. Surin beach is very quiet but stunningly clean and beautiful, a welcome change if you want some peace and quiet.

Phuket Town

Phuket Town is very different to other destinations on the island, and although it doesn't have a nice beach, there is still plenty to see and do. It is a fully functioning Thai town and looks like many provincial towns around the country, and as such, you can see monks walking the streets in the early morning and Thai people going about their business during the day. Cheap accommodation is abundant, and the town is peppered with great restaurants, bars and attractions with plenty to see and do in the evenings. Great for backpackers on a budget.

TTH Recommendation: There are lot's of fantastic accommodation options available in Phuket, from budget hostels, guest houses, beach bungalows, hotels and high end resorts. It's always best to book online before you go, we recommend Agoda.com and Booking.com . Both companies offer excellent customer service and good cancellation policies just in case you change your mind or your travel arrangement change. You can also check out all the customer reviews and experiences before you make your booking!

Check Out Our Top 16 Best Places To Stay In Phuket

Best Things to See & What to Do in Phuket

Discover Phuket's Beautiful Beaches

Phuket is home to some spectacular beaches with perfect white sands and crystal clear warm waters, but Patong beach, in particular, can get quite crowded and busy during the high season. But don't worry as Phuket has more than 30 beaches, with some very secluded and serene places if that is more your speed. Different beaches will have a different feel, with different types of sand, scenery, varying numbers of tourists and different local amenities, so take the time to find out which one you’d prefer.

Some beaches will, unfortunately, be thronged with tourists in addition to hawkers hassling you every five minutes to buy sunglasses, fresh coconuts, or to get a massage, whilst on the other hand, it is also possible to find secluded, quiet beaches with less than a dozen people on them. Some of the more up-market resorts even have private beaches, so that may be something to consider if your budget can stretch to it. But in short, Phuket is famous for its beaches and whichever one you choose you will be sure to enjoy yourself.

There are some truly stunning beaches in Phuket . In Kata for example there’s the gorgeous Kata Noi, which retains a slightly rustic ambience with far less crowds than its lively neighbour Kata Beach, while in Surin, you’ll find the curvaceous Laem Singh Beach – which is surrounded by thick rickets of forest and the most beautiful aquamarine waters.

Scenic Nai Thon Beach is one of our favourites though. A part of the Sirinat National Park – meaning that in terms of development, it’s been almost entirely left alone.

Kamala Beach is another pretty beach that has retained some of its original charm and has a lovely fishing village attached to it with a few restaurants and bars. Stick to the north side of the beach if you want to avoid the crowds.

The more popular beaches include Freedom Beach in Patong, Karon Beach and the once secret Banana Beach – which despite efforts to keep it cloaked in mystery is now a constant on the tourist trail.

Diving & Snorkeling Around Phuket

The surrounding waters of Phuket offer some the best diving sites in the world, such as the world renowned Similan Islands, Surin Islands, Richelieu Rock and Koh Tachai to the North and dive sites such as the King Cruiser Wreck, Anemone Reef, Racha Yai, Racha Noi and Phi Phi Islands to the south. Checkout our article on the best dive sites in Phuket to find out more.

Phuket hosts some of the best diving experiences and marine life in the world, which keeps divers from all over the world coming back time and time again. There are an extraordinary amount of fish species, including angelfish, lionfish, scorpionfish and trumpetfish, as well as manta rays, seahorses and of course sharks. Whale shark, reef sharks and leopard sharks are all commonly spotted. You can also expect to experience some amazing coral reefs, shipwrecks, sea caves, pinnacles, shelves and swim-through's.

Whether you are an advanced diver or a complete beginner, Phuket is an excellent place to enjoy a spot of scuba diving. Scuba diving in Thailand is an absolute bargain with single dives available from as little as 1500 baht ($45) or a complete PADI open water dive course from as little as 8500 baht ($280). With the prices being so low here in Thailand, it offers a great opportunity to get your scuba diving certificates completed.

There are numerous dive shops to choose from, so feel free to shop around for the best deal. Phuket is a fantastic place for divers with many excellent dive sites featuring extensive coral formations and an abundance of aquatic wildlife. There is a choice of basic or more advanced dives, with an interesting wreck site to be explored in Racha Yai, make sure to discuss with your dive shop if that is something that you might be interested in. Most of the dive centres offer packages with a 3-dive deal going for around 3500-4000 baht ($115-$132) but note that many charge for extras such as equipment hire and insurance.

Explore Phuket Island & Beyond

Phuket is a huge island and you’ll need to allow several days to explore and visit the top attractions. But don’t forget to allocate a few days to visit the Phi Phi islands and Phang-Nga bay, which are a must if you can spare the time. And then there are the Similan islands, plus many other tiny islands dotted about where you can spend a whole day visiting and doing some swimming or snorkelling, there’s a lot more in the area than just Phuket island itself.

Phang-Nga Bay is an unforgettable experience with dramatic limestone formations seeming to rise out of the sea. It is a fantastic photo opportunity and James Bond fans may remember the scenery from "The Man with the Golden Gun".

The Phi Phi islands are just as spectacular and are worth an entire day of your time. Once touted as the most beautiful islands in the world, they were hit hard by the 2004 tsunami which wiped out practically all of their infrastructure, but it has now been rebuilt and the islands welcome many visitors daily.

Visit Phuket's Stunning Temples

Phuket is home to many Thai temples (29 in fact), known as wats, and also some Chinese shrines (known as Taoist temples). These temples are intricately constructed and incredibly ornate, they are fascinating and relaxing places to visit whilst a trip to some of the more important ones should be on every visitor's agenda. Remember that Thailand is a deeply religious country, with around 95% of the citizens being practising Buddhists, and as such these temples are working places of worship, meaning you will have to be quiet when visiting, take off your shoes, and ensure that shoulders and knees are covered to avoid offending the locals.

Wat Chalong is the biggest and most important temple on the island, it is a beautifully elaborate and colourful temple which features lots of gilding and the traditional multi-layered roof, and inside you will see handmade antique hardwood furniture, Thai porcelain and many large golden Buddha statues. On the walls are depictions of Buddha's life story, you could easily spend an hour at this temple alone, make sure you don't miss it.

Experience The Buzzing Nightlife In Phuket

If you want to find the best nightlife on the island, Patong is the place to go. Whether you fancy listening to some live music, seeing a comedy show, relaxing in a sports bar or going to a cabaret, Patong has got all bases covered. And of course, if you're looking for something a little more raucous, there are nightclubs and a string of go-go bars and lady bars. But don’t panic if you’re not staying in Patong, because all but the quietest locations on the island will have some nightlife, but may well be notably more sedate and family-friendly.

There are numerous bars around the island where you can stop for a cold beer and a game of pool, with many showing sports on large screen TVs. Numerous bars will have flags outside indicating to passers-by what types of food and drink they serve, you’ll see many Scandinavian bars and British-style pubs where you can find a taste of home in the evening if you’ve had enough Thai food or just fancy something a little less exotic.

Indulge In The Amazing Cuisine Of Phuket

Food is incredibly important in Thai culture , and indeed you’ll find plenty of great restaurants on the island to sample some of the country’s famous cuisine. And as food is such great value in Thailand, make sure to treat yourself at least once by visiting one of the island’s best restaurants such as the Siam Supper Club or the Blue Elephant. There are numerous cookery classes on the island too, which are great fun and can reveal the secrets of how to make that delicious Pad Thai or green curry which you can whip up once back at home to impress your friends and family.

But Phuket doesn't just offer Thai food, of course. There is an abundance of cuisines from around the world, with everything from authentic Italian pizza, fish and chips, Chinese food, Indian curries and Turkish kebabs to Korean BBQ, Russian and even Armenian food. Whatever you fancy, you can find it here. Just don't forget to try the street-food; from noodle soups to tacos, Thai desserts, pancakes or waffles, the street-food on Phuket is very cheap and delicious.

Tours, Day Trips & Excursions In Phuket

There are numerous day trips and excursions available in Phuket, and these can be booked quickly and easily from either your hotel or the nearest travel agent. Booking a trip or tour is a great way to enjoy a stress-free day out, and in most cases will cost a lot less than you may have thought. Day trips and activities are a fantastic choice for when you've spent too long lying on the beach and are a fascinating way to experience a bit of the local culture whilst having the chance to meet other like-minded people.

Boat Trips - You can book all kinds of boat trips, either around the island or to other small islands in the vicinity, which can include snorkeling, fishing, beach hopping or just sightseeing. You can book a private boat or one shared with other guests, depending on your budget. Many will include a buffet lunch and complimentary drinks. A popular full-day tour is one that takes in the Phi Phi Islands, the famous Maya Beach and the Coral Island, with prices around 3000-4000 baht ($100-$133).

Phuket Sightseeing Tours - You can also book minibus tours of the island, which will show you the most dramatic and beautiful highlights of Phuket, and stop to enjoy the most spectacular viewpoints for some fantastic photo opportunities. You could even combine your sightseeing tour with half-day trips to the elephant sanctuary, or include the mangrove jungle and hidden beach tour (which involves driving quad bikes), almost all the packages can be tailored to your needs with little added expense.

Thai Cooking Tours - There are also half-day food tours where you will be guided around some of the best spots on the island to try tasty local specialties such as Burmese curries, Hokkien noodles, zesty grilled satays and many other tasty morsels, and you will be shown around some of the local food markets which you may otherwise have missed. There are also many Thai cooking classes which last for 3-4 hours and start at about 1500 baht ($49) per person. Then there is the amazing cocktail workshop at the Chalong Bay Rum Distillery for 1700 baht ($56), an experience not to be missed.

Khao Sok National Park Tours - For those willing to go a little further onto the mainland, there are jungle tours of the incredible Khao Sok National Park, where you can see ancient rainforest, stunning scenery with dramatic limestone cliffs, and an abundance of local wildlife including elephants, tigers, monkeys, deer, tapir, wild boar and hundred of tropical bird species.

TTH Recommendation: You'll find travel agents and tour companies absolutely everywhere in Phuket, whether you are staying in Patong, Karon, Kamala, Kata, Surin or Phuket Town. However if you want to plan ahead, you can conveniently book online with Get Your Guide and Viator . Both companies offer excellent customer service and have excellent customer reviews. Another reason to booking online is you can look at customer reviews and experiences before you make your booking! Get Your Guide and Viator have a good cancellation/refund policy, in case your travel arrangements happen to change.

Check The Best Phuket Tours & Activities On Get Your Guide

Prices, Expenses & Typical Costs In Phuket

Accommodation - Phuket is a little more expensive than many other places in Thailand, but despite that, you can still find hostel beds from as little as 130 baht ($4.30) per night in the low season. At the other end of the scale, there are a few resorts where you can drop 152,000 baht ($5000) per night. Good quality, comfortable boutique-style guesthouses are usually in the 1000-2000 baht ($33-$66) range, with family rooms for a family of 4 at around 1500-3000 baht ($49-$100) per night.

Transportation - Transportation is noticeably more expensive in Phuket than on the mainland. Motorbike rentals start at 250 baht ($8.23) per day and can save you a fortune if you are a competent rider. Tuk-tuks are expensive, with short trips within the same area at around 200-300 baht ($6.50-$10), and a trip from the airport to Patong or vice-versa can be over 1000 baht ($33), however, prices can usually be negotiated. Metered taxis are a bit cheaper (if they use the meter that is). Songtaews are a great compromise at 25-40 baht ($0.80-$1.33) per person.

Food and Drink - Don't disregard the roadside food vendors, they offer the best value and their food can be just as good if not better than many restaurants. Expect to pay 40 baht ($1.33) for a plate of food or a bowl of noodles, many will provide drinking water free or have sodas for 15 baht ($0.50). In a local-style restaurant, a Thai meal with rice will usually be under 100 baht ($3.33), Western food is more expensive. Expect to pay 150 baht ($4.94) for a full English breakfast, 150-200 baht ($4.94-$6.58) for that familiar fast food meal such as KFC or McDonalds, and with imported food such as Australian steaks, the sky is the limit. Seafood, however, is great value and will almost certainly be much cheaper than in your home country, so make the most of it!

Alcohol is expensive by Thai standards, a 620ml beer will be 65 baht ($2.14) in 7-Eleven and 70-150 baht ($2.30-$4.94) in a bar or restaurant. Cocktails start at 150 baht ($4.94) but can be as much as 600 baht ($20) in upmarket places, and imported wine, being heavily taxed, usually starts around 1000 baht ($33) per bottle. There are locally produced wines at much lower prices, but don't expect too much from them.

Recommended Budgets - Budget backpacker staying in a shared dorm, no alcohol: $25-$30 per day per person. Young traveler in boutique guesthouse with some attractions and nightlife: $70-$80 per day per person. Party animal budget staying at Patong guesthouse or hotel: $120-$140 per day per person. Family of four with guesthouse or resort, attractions, taxi/tuk-tuk transport and restaurant meals: $240-$300 per day per family. Luxury traveler, 5-star hotel, taxis, cocktails and evening entertainment: $320 and up per day per person.

Phuket Money Saving Tips

Avoid expensive taxis - Avoid expensive taxis and tuk-tuks and try to stick to the songtaews wherever possible. It's very easy to fritter away $30 a day on tuk-tuks if you're not careful and on a two-week vacation that can add up. If you're staying in a built-up area such as Patong or Karon, you will find that many places are with 10-15 minutes walk anyway.

Be careful of the hawkers - A lot of the stuff they sell is junk. But if you really want something go and buy it at the night market for half as much! Don't be surprised if that hand-carved item stains all your clothes in your suitcase because it was covered in boot polish, not paint.

Eat street food and at local restaurants - Western-style restaurants charge a premium and usually don't offer anything more than the cheap local restaurants. Try to stick to smaller, basic places and street food stalls and you will save a fortune, you can eat five street food meals for the price of one large McDonalds meal! Look for where the locals are eating, a busy restaurant is always a good sign in Phuket. Most Western food is done badly in Thailand, remember that when ordering.

Don't buy your currency in your home country - You will get 10-15% more by changing it once inside Thailand. Even at the airport in Phuket, you will get a much better rate than back home, but they are very picky about torn or defaced bills, so check them before arriving. SuperRich in Phuket Town often has very good rates.

Don't be scared to offer less - Thais respect a decent haggler! You can haggle with tuk-tuk drivers and at markets, but not in shops or restaurants. Don't come in so low that you insult the vendor, about 50% or a little more is a good place to start proceedings. Many Phuket vendors are aware that prices are cheap for westerners and will try and raise their prices accordingly.

Don’t drop your cigarette butts - If you are a smoker, always ensure that you dispose of your cigarette butt responsibly. Throwing it on the street or even down a drain is not allowed and if spotted you could be charged a 2000 baht ($65) fine. Try to find an ashtray if possible.

Ask for a discount at your hotel - If you are planning on staying several nights at the same hotel or guesthouse, and you haven’t booked and paid in advance, ask for a discount. More often than not you may be given a token amount such as 100 baht ($3.28) per night deduction, but you will then be asked to pay upfront. Most places will charge a deposit of 1000 baht for the key or key-card, so don’t lose it, and don’t forget to reclaim your deposit upon departure.

ATMs charges are very steep - Try to avoid using your foreign debit card in a Thai ATM as the charges are sky-high. There is a 220 baht ($7.25) charge on foreign card transactions which cannot be avoided, plus your bank back home will add on their foreign withdrawal fee and may also use an unfavorable exchange rate meaning that you could lose $25-$30 per withdrawal. For budget travelers this could easily be a day's budget lost so look at other options before traveling. Some banks offer debit cards with no foreign transaction fee (but you'll still pay the 220 baht each time), plus there are international money cards which can be preloaded with funds. Failing that, you should either bring as much cash with you as you feel comfortable with or make use of travelers cheques.

Beaches are free - If you find yourself short of funds, spend a day on the beach and eat street-food, the beaches are free and 2 street-food meals will cost as little as 80 baht ($2.65).

Look for happy hour deals and food vouchers - Many, if not most bars will have some kind of promotion or happy hour. This can range from 50% off deals to buy two beers get one free, or even a free beer with certain meals. If you’re a fast food fan, all the big chains in Thailand produce money off vouchers and coupons which can be picked up in various shopping malls, or you can download their online app to get free meals and discounts.

Is It Safe to Travel Around Phuket?

Phuket, like most parts of Thailand, is very safe, and certainly much safer than somewhere like London or Paris, for example. However, as it is arguably Thailand's most upmarket destination attracting tourists with money to spare, basic precautions should still be taken to protect yourself from opportunists. Bear in mind that many Thai people in the service industry earn under $10 per day, so be careful about flashing large wads of cash in your wallet, leave any valuable jeweler at home, and place expensive belongings in the hotel safe before venturing out. You are extremely unlikely to be the victim of violent crime, but petty theft and scams still take place.

Be very careful on the roads - Like many places in Thailand, your biggest danger is likely to be the roads and the traffic, especially if you are renting a vehicle. Some of the roads on Phuket can be very steep, winding and poorly maintained and as such, don’t attempt to drive yourself unless you are confident that you can do so safely. Take care when crossing the road, Thai drivers are not the most diligent in the world, and drunk-driving is unfortunately commonplace.

Keep your wits about you - Particularly in Patong at night, visitors should be aware of their surroundings and possessions. If someone tries to say that they know you from your hotel, it will be a scam. If a lady-boy puts her arms around you and kisses you on the cheek, check to see if your wallet, watch and necklace are still there immediately.

What what you drink - Drink-spiking can happen, so don't let your drink out of your sight where possible. Don't trust people who approach you out of the blue, and don't be tempted by offers to go somewhere you aren't comfortable with. If you are visibly intoxicated, you will be more likely to attract the attention of thieves and scammers so take care when enjoying the nightlife.

Stay away from trouble - If you witness an altercation involving a Thai person, under no circumstances should you get involved as you are very likely to end up being assaulted, blamed for something or possibly both. The best advice is to get as far away from the situation as you can.

Watch out for creepy-crawlies - Other wildlife will include numerous lizards (both inside and outside), spiders, scorpions, snakes, mosquitoes, hornets and the dreaded giant centipede, which the Thais call “da-karb”. Most are harmless unless provoked. If you find something nasty in your bedroom, ask a Thai for assistance, they will know immediately whether it is dangerous or not.

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Phuket   Travel Guide

Courtesy of simonlong | Getty Images

Why Go To Phuket

Pure white sands, aquamarine waters and limestone cliffs await travelers who visit Thailand's southwestern island of Phuket. Surrounded by the Andaman Sea and about an hour by plane from Bangkok , this island is a little piece of paradise, which comes with a relatively low price tag for everything from its accommodations to spa treatments and boat tours . But along with its tropical appeal, Phuket beckons to travelers wanting to experience its flavorful cuisine (think: lemongrass, lime leaves, chillies) and its rich culture, heavily influenced by its reigning religion: Buddhism. 

And although the island's beaches and tourism operators have bounced back from the 2004 tsunami, which hammered its western coast and tragically claimed thousands of lives, it remembers the past with memorials and a better warning system, should the area once again come under threat. 

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• # 1 in Best Places to Visit in February 2024
• # 2 in Best Beaches in Thailand
• # 3 in Best Places to Visit in Thailand

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Best of Phuket

Best hotels in phuket.

• in Andara Resort Villas
• in Trisara Villas & Residences Phuket
• in Banyan Tree Spa Sanctuary

Best Things to Do in Phuket

• # 1 in Promthep Cape
• # 2 in Big Buddha
• # 3 in Nai Harn Beach

Popular Tours

Phi Phi Islands Adventure Day Trip with Seaview Lunch by V. Marine

(2044 reviews)

from $ 78.06

Elephant Sanctuary Small Group Tour in Phuket

(194 reviews)

from $ 100.07

Luxury Boat to James Bond Islands with Lunch and Sunset Dinner

(545 reviews)

from $ 131.03

Phuket Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best time to visit Phuket is between November and April when weather conditions are ideal for beach activities, such as swimming and boating . The six months between May and October are monsoon season, and although accommodation prices are much lower this time of year, the water conditions can be dangerous. 

Weather in Phuket

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

Learn the beach flags There are drownings every year in Phuket – not to mention daily rescues – so pay attention to the flags posted in the waters. Red means "no swimming," yellow means "be careful," and a pair of half-red half-yellow flags denote that you should swim in between the two flags.

Barter with the tuk-tuks Make sure you agree upon the price of your tuk-tuk ride before you get in to avoid being overcharged when you reach your destination.

Avoid the tap water Buying and drinking bottled water will help you avoid any water-induced stomach woes.

How to Save Money in Phuket

Book your hotel in advance You'll pay a premium if you're booking your hotel on arrival, especially during the peak season months of December and January.

Find the best exchange rate Skip the airport when you want to exchange your U.S. dollars for Thai baht. The off-brand kiosks in the main streets of popular beach towns usually offer the best rates.

Check the hotel perks Some hotels offer a complimentary shuttle service to and from the airport, as well as between popular beaches, so check out the property's perks before shelling out your baht for other modes of transport.

Culture & Customs

Thai is the official language of Thailand and its island Phuket, but you'll find that most tourist operators speak proficient English. Still, you might want to carry along a Thai phrasebook just to be safe. Some phrases you might want to memorize include: "hello," sa wat dee ; "how are you?," sa baai dee reu ; and "thank you," kòp kun mâak . When you're communicating with various taxi or tuk-tuk drivers, you might want to show them the address of your destination in Thai, especially if you're traveling to places that are off the beaten track. 

Thailand's currency is the baht. One U.S. dollar is equal to about 33 Thai baht, but the exchange rate fluctuates, so be sure to check it before you go . Travelers can exchange their money at the airport, but moneychangers in various cities on Phuket offer the best exchange rates. 

Buddhism is the official religion in Thailand, and the island hosts many attractions, such as Big Buddha and Wat Chalong , which reflect its predominant religion. When visiting these places, it's important that visitors respect the dress code, including wearing shorts or skirts that come to the knee and shirts that cover shoulders and midriffs. 

What to Eat

Phuket's cuisine is an extension of the culinary delights found on the mainland. Tom yum goong (a soup with shrimp), som tam (a papaya salad) and green curry are all mainstays on the menus in Phuket. For an upscale Thai experience, visitors should book a table at Thong Dee The Kathu Brasserie , which earns high marks among recent travelers for its friendly and accommodating staff and consistently delicious meals. For a cheap but nonetheless delicious experience, travelers should head to O-Oh Farm Ta-Eiad in Phuket Town. 

To get a deeper understanding of the local cuisine, travelers may want to book a cooking class, many of which are taught in English. The Kata Thai Cooking Class by Sally , located in Kata Beach, and Phuket Town's Phuket Thai Cookery School are both traveler-approved. At classes like these, chefs coach travelers on how to make traditional Thai foods, such as prawn soup and green curry, among other dishes. These cooking classes charge the equivalent of about $60 to $90 per person. 

One of the biggest safety concerns you'll run into on a Phuket vacation are the dangerous rip tides and undertows at the beach, especially during monsoon season, which stretches from June to October. Make sure to pay attention to lifeguard warnings and all of the posted beach flags. For instance, a red flag means "no swimming," a yellow flag means "be careful," and a pair of half-red half-yellow flags signal that you should swim in between the two flags.

Because of the threat of the Zika virus, the Centers for Disease Control & Protection recommends that pregnant women and couples – or those hoping to become pregnant –

refrain from traveling to Thailand. All travelers can ward against mosquito bites by wearing bug repellant and skin-protective clothing, such as high-tech fitness wear. 

There are some areas of Phuket that are known as hotbeds for sex trafficking, prostitution and drugs. For instance, Patong, which is known for its wild nightlife, is a center for such activity. Take care to be aware of your surroundings, especially in the evenings in areas like Patong.

Getting Around Phuket

The best way to get around Phuket is by tuk-tuk, though occasionally you might have to rely on another mode of travel, such as a taxi or rental car, if you want to travel beyond the town in which you're basing your vacation. Not only is a tuk-tuk (a small yellow or red truck) the most atmospheric of all transportation options, it's also one of the most convenient – they're absolutely everywhere. Still, they can be expensive for trips outside of town, and a metered taxi, songthaew or rental car might be a better option.  

To reach Phuket, most travelers fly into Phuket International Airport (HKT), which is located at the island's northern end. Most of the accommodations are congregated in the south around Patong, Kata, Karon and Phuket Town. Travelers should check if their hotel offers an airport shuttle, and if not, they can hop in an airport bus, which takes travelers to Phuket Town. A taxi is probably the easiest and most efficient way to traverse the distance between the airport and accommodations. Although there are vans and minibus operators that offer rides from the airport to these southern locations, it can be hard to decipher which ones are reputable. If your hotel does not offer a shuttle service, ask if the concierge can recommend any reputable van or minibus operators.

Phuket is a riot of colors, from its aquamarine waters to its vegetation-covered rock formations. 

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Things To Do

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Phuket Travel Guide: The Best Beaches & Secret Tips

Phuket is mass tourism at its finest. No need to sugar coat anything here because it’s become common knowledge that many parts of Phuket is not as paradise-like as you would imagine Thailand to be. Unfortunately, this is something you experience quite early on and cannot really escape – at the latest, you’ll see what we mean when you walk through the streets of Patong (the hotspot on Phuket).

Although Phuket is notorious in some places for its headache-inducing tourism, there are also some beautiful lesser-known places – thankfully! We ourselves, have personally been to Phuket twice and our mission was none other than searching for the most beautiful sights and beaches , as well as for secret corners on the island. In this travel guide, we will share with you the main highlights in Phuket, as well as our top tips for having a great time on this island.

1. Phuket: What to know before you go & Pre-Travel Tips

2. phuket travel guide: main sights and attractions, 3. beach travel guide: the most beautiful beaches on phuket, 4. the best view points on phuket: our tips, 5. day trip: phuket to phang nga & james bond island, 6. where to eat: tips for restaurants and cafes on phuket , 7. where to stay on phuket: our hotel recommendations, 8. phuket transport guide: how to rent a scooter, 9. extra travel tips for phuket: getting there, travel guides and what to avoid.

Phuket is the largest island in Thailand. That’s right, it’s an island! Phuket is located in the southwest of Thailand in the Andaman Sea. What many people do not know is that Phuket island is connected to the mainland by a bridge.

Is Phuket the right destination for me?

Phuket cannot be generalised into any one category. In other words: Phuket is so big that there is something for everyone to be found on the island. Therefore, you will find all sorts of people on Phuket: from party-goers to couples or families with children. 

However, if you’re looking for a quiet beach destination for your holiday, then Phuket would not be first on our list of recommendations. There are far better options like Khao Lak , Koh Lanta or Koh Phangan . However, there are exceptions on Phuket, namely regions or (exclusive) hotels where you don’t notice the hustle and bustle .

If you go to Phuket, you have to be aware that the island is almost entirely geared towards tourism. That comes with its many disadvantages, no doubt. But there are also advantages. For example, medical care on Phuket is excellent. This is often not the case in other corners of Thailand. Thanks to the international airport, Phuket is probably (together with Khao Lak) the fastest accessible beach destination in Thailand.

Phuket is understandably an attractive travel destination for people who consider (tourist) infrastructure very important. Alternatively, Khao Lak (which is also located near Phuket Airport), is a great choice too.

Where should I stay on Phuket?

Phuket is much larger than you might think. To put it into perspective, if you travelled from the northern most point to the southern most point, then it would easily take you an hour by scooter – depending on the traffic situation, it can also be significantly longer. Since Phuket is so large and diverse, it is not so easy to find the right area to spend the night.

What we really mean by this is: Avoid Patong! Patong is the most popular place on Phuket, but believe us when we say… you really don’t want to stay here. This is the place where party meets sex tourism and it’s always busy no matter the time of day. We even dare to say that Patong is worse than you might imagine it to be. Kata is also not a great place to be and reminds us a little of Patong.

The south has the advantage of being quite close to the many sights (e.g. Big Buddha, Phuket Town). There are also some great view points in the south. Cape Panwa is a quiet corner in the southeast, which we can highly recommend. (Our hotel tip here is The Cove . We’ll tell you more about this below.)

The beaches in the north tend to be quite calm. So if that’s what you are looking for, then you will love the exploring the north (e.g. Bang Tao Beach). In this travel guide, we will share with you our top tips and highlights on Phuket island and all our favourite beaches.

In summary: This is what to expect on Phuket

• Phuket is spoilt with lush green, hilly landscapes and is home to some really impressive sights such as the Big Buddha.
• The sandy beaches on Phuket are beautiful and heavenly, but unfortunately often overcrowded in the high season.
• That brings us to the not so nice side: In some corners you will definitely be confronted with over-tourism . Phuket is an extremely popular destination for package travellers from Russia and China – especially in Patong and Kata. Crazy, but true: you’ll find a lot of signs in Cyrillic script.
• But don’t worry: there are also enough places away from the crowds , so you can rest assured that it’s possible to have a great time on Phuket!

In this section, we will show you all the main sights and attractions in Phuket that aren’t beaches (because we have a whole section dedicated to beaches later on). Most of these highlights we are about to share with you are located (roughly speaking) in the south and southeast of the island.

Phuket’s Big Buddha

One of our favourite places on Phuket is the Big Buddha. This 45-meter-high white marble statue is marvellously enthroned on a mountain in the south of Phuket. Not only is the Buddha statue itself already highly worth seeing, but the view from up there is also incredibly stunning.

The Big Buddha is one of the most popular day trip destinations on Phuket. You can expect it to be busy, especially during the day. We have always visited this place during the late afternoon and can highly recommend you to come at this time of day as well. Although you don’t have a direct view of the actual sun setting, it does set somewhat behind the Buddha the soft light is still very beautiful. The later it gets, the fewer people there are. On the other hand, sunrise is also a great time to come visit!

Side note: The construction of the Buddha has been underway since 2004 and is still ongoing – the construction is financed by donations. So for this reason, you’ll see small marble tiles being sold, on which you can write your wishes (or just your name) – consider your tile a contribution.

Getting there & information for visiting the Big Buddha

The Big Buddha is perched on a small mountain in the south of Phuket. You’ll follow a winding road leading up to the Big Buddha, which can be quite steep in places, but is relatively well-maintained. Therefore, you can easily reach the Big Buddha with the scooter if you have experience in riding. What’s even more uncomfortable than the mountain roads are the main roads with high traffic! Thankfully, parking is free.

If you don’t feel confident enough to ride a scooter (which is totally understandable), then we would recommend booking a private driver. We’ll tell you more about our tips and various transport options on Phuket later in this travel guide.

The entry to the Big Buddha is free, however, a small donation is requested. Also, please make sure you dress appropriately – the shoulders and knees should be covered up as much as possible.

Wat Chalong

Wat Chalong is the most important and most visited temple on Phuket. Since it’s quite close to the Big Buddha, we would recommend combining these two places in a single trip. 

As is often the case with Thai temples, Wat Chalong consists of several structures. There are also some green areas around the place, as well as countless stalls where you can buy street food and drinks.

In the building with the large, golden Chedi (shown in the photo on the left), there is a staircase that leads up, and from the top you have a really nice view of the entire temple complex. We visited Wat Chalong at lunchtime, but would actually recommend you avoid coming at this time. Not only is it unbearably hot, but there were simply too many people. It’s best to come early in the morning or late in the afternoon around 4 pm. (The temple is open until 5 pm.)

Travel & information about visiting Wat Chalong

Wat Chalong is located in the south of Phuket, at the foot of the mountain on which you’ll find the Big Buddha. You can easily reach Wat Chalong by scooter . Alternatively, you can also rent a private car with a personal driver. We will share our tips with you about transport, scooter riding, car rentals and private drivers at the end of this travel guide.

The entrance in to Wat Chalong is free. As with every temple in Thailand, you have to make sure you are wearing (or have with you) appropriate clothing before entering Wat Chalong. The knees and shoulders should be covered up as much as possible. However, it’s acceptable for men to wear shorts. 

Phuket Town

The old town of Phuket (usually called Phuket Town or Old Phuket Town) is a remarkable mix from the remains of Portuguese colonial architecture and Chinese influence.

Some streets in Phuket Town are really well renovated. We really liked the Soi Romanee (also written Romani). Here you will find some nice cafes, such as the Dou Brew Coffee & Craft or the city’s most popular ice cream parlor, Torry’s Ice Cream. We get the feeling that there are many great restaurants and cafes in Phuket Town to choose from!

Phuket Town is also known for its variety of street art . Some murals or graffiti have been created with impressive detail on the house walls. The mural, which stood out to us the most, was the one with the former king – you’ll find it on Dibuk Road.

Good to know: Phuket Town gets a lot of bus groups during the day. When we arrived around 3 pm there was still a lot going on. But every hour thereafter, it became calmer and quieter. So, if you’re going to make a trip here, we can highly recommend you visit in the late afternoon!

There is catch when it comes to beaches on Phuket. While many of them are beautiful in terms of landscape and paradise-like, this dreamy scenery has a price. Some beaches on Phuket are completely overcrowded and these primarily include Patong Beach and Kata Beach. In the high season, you feel like a sardine lying on the beach.

In this section, we will tell you which beaches we would recommend visiting on Phuket. We have listed them from north to south, so hopefully you will find it easy to navigate. Remember that Phuket is big. Very big in fact – and most of the time you will probably be within a short radius of your accommodation. However, the vast majority of the beaches are on Phuket’s west coast .

Banana Beach

Banana Beach is still a bit of a secret tip (if you can even say that on Phuket). It is located between Nai Thon and Bang Tao Beach. You can park your scooter on the street and then reach Banana Beach by a small and rather steep trail.

Once at the bottom, a small bay with a beautiful sandy beach awaits you. If you get hungry, there is also a restaurant. There are no accommodation options here though. What’s interesting, is that Banana Beach is not yet well known and we hope it will stay that way for a long time!

Bang Tao Beach

Bang Tao Beach is north of Patong Beach, but is the complete opposite. The beach is miles long and surprisingly calm . You will always find a cozy place here without a problem. You can also borrow a lounger for around 100 Baht. There are also some small restaurants along the beach.

Some high-priced hotels are located on Bang Tao Beach. There are also cheaper accommodations nearby. So if you want to stay in the north of Phuket, Bang Tao Beach is a good option.

Kata Noi Beach

Kata Noi Beach was once an insider tip. Unfortunately, it is now extremely crowded during high season. The landscape with the light sand is beautiful, but we didn’t last long in January as there were just too many people. We imagine it to be much quieter and more pleasant in the off-season.

Nai Harn Beach & Ao Sane Beach

South of Kata you can reach Nai Harn Beach in about 20 minutes. There is much less going on here than in Kata, although you shouldn’t expect an empty beach – especially not in high season. Nevertheless, we liked the sandy beach. You can also watch the sunset from here.

There are some accommodation options at Nai Harn Beach and you will also find everything you need for the day at the beach (loungers, restaurants and even showers).

Our tip: In addition to Nai Harn Beach, there is another beach that is worth a visit: Ao Sane. Ao Sane consists of two small bays. The beach is best known for snorkelling. Because of the stones, the beach is not quite as suitable for swimming as some others.

Yanui Beach

Yanui Beach is located in the very south of Phuket, just a stone’s throw away from Nai Harn Beach. It is probably one of the smallest beaches in Phuket. Although we were here in the high season (mid-January) the beach wasn’t at all overcrowded. 

There are no showers, loungers or accommodations here, but there is a small restaurant on the other side of the street and a few stands where you can buy something to drink. The beach is not the best for swimming due to the large stones and rocks, but it is definitely possible.

Karon View Point

Once a secret lookout point, but now a very popular location. The Karon view point (also called the Kata view point) is one of the most popular view points along the west coast of Phuket. It is located on a hill south of Kata Noi Beach.

From this lookout point you can see three crescent-shaped bays: Kata Noi in the foreground, Kata and Karon in the distance. When we were here for the first time many years ago, the view was a little less “overgrown” – but hey, that’s nature and the view is still fantastic! You can even see the Big White Buddha out in the distance.

We highly recommend visiting in the late afternoon . However, if you’re after the perfect sunset photo, then we would recommend a different place, as the sun can hide behind the trees (depending on season). 

Getting there & information for visiting the Karon view point

The Karon view point is located directly on the coastal road in the west (4030). You can easily reach the view point with the scooter and there are free parking spaces available. The Karon view point is always open 24/7 and it’s free for everyone.

Windmill View Point

A great place to catch the sunset in Phuket is the Windmill view point. However, don’t be fooled by the name because there isn’t actually a romantic windmill or any windmill for that matter. In fact, the view point was named after the (very unspectacular) wind turbines that are located here.

Be that as it may, the view is still really fantastic – especially at sunset! The Windmill view point is located between Nai Harn Beach and Yanui Beach, directly on the coastal road and is very easily accessible. That probably explains why so many people gather here in the evenings. There is a kiosk where you can buy something to drink, then find a grassy patch to sit on and enjoy the sunset.

Getting there & information for visiting the Windmill View point

The Windmill view point is located in the south of Phuket directly on the coastal road (4030). You can park your scooter for free. The view point is always open 24/7 and it’s free for everyone.

Promthep Cape

One of the most scenic places in the south of Phuket is this cape called Promthep Cape. The nature here is incredibly stunning and the Cape is almost directly on the coastal road, which makes it very easily accessible. With this in mind, don’t be surprised at the large crowds during sunset .

The most famous photo spot (shown in our picture) is at the top, right next to the street. From here, you’ll find a footpath that leads down to the sea –  we would recommend wearing sturdy shoes. The further you go, the fewer people you’ll meet. That means weighing up view from above vs. less crowds and view down by the water.

Although this place is definitely not a secret tip by any means, we would still highly recommend that you come here for at least one sunset. The gorgeous view makes it all worthwhile!

Getting there & information for visiting the Promthep Cape

The Promthep Cape lies on the southernmost tip of Phuket, more or less directly on the coastal road (4030). You can park your scooter on the street for free. From there, it’s just a short walk (2 minutes) down to the view point. This area is always open 24/7 and free for everyone.

Our personal highlight on Phuket was our trip to Phang Nga Bay at sunrise. We spent half an eternity thinking about whether we should fork out the money for this tour. After all, the price was around 120 Euros per person. That’s a lot of money for Thailand.

Anyway, in the end, we are so glad that we decided to do it! The tour started in the middle of the night (around 4 am), so that you arrive at the view point well before sunrise (after a 15-minute hike). The view of Phang Nga Bay at dawn is breathtakingly beautiful!

After a quick breakfast, we got on the boat towards James Bond Island . The small island with the striking 30 meter high rock needle became famous from the James Bond film “The Man with the Golden Gun” – hence the name. A real hype has arisen around the rock and it is one of the most popular excursion destinations from Phuket.

We have to admit that we find the James Bond Rock itself rather average. We were much more captivated by the boat trip through Phang Nga Bay itself. You float across the water in the most beautiful morning light through the expansive karst landscape.

Later, there are a few more short stops (e.g. for a kayak trip) and lunch. At about 2 pm you will arrive back at your accommodation. Our conclusion: Yes, the price is steep. But for such a unique experience, we think the money is well worth it. We can highly recommend the tour!

You can book the tour here: Sunrise in Phang Nga & James Bond Island

The culinary offer in Phuket is honestly so huge and diverse that it’s overwhelming. Many restaurants – especially those near the hotels – are very touristy (which is not always a bad thing). In this section, we share with you our to restaurant recommendations. If you decide to try some of them out, leave us a message and let us know what your experience was like!

Tip for the Vegetarians/Vegans: We can highly recommend the HappyCow app to all vegetarians/vegans. In our opinion, the few Euros it costs are definitely worth the investment. 

Sai Than Boon Vegetarian Restaurant (Unfortunately reported closed): Our favourite culinary discovery in Phuket! This locally run small restaurant serves only vegetarian Thai dishes. Authentic flair, incredibly friendly owners & super delicious meals – what more could you ask for? Our conclusion: more than recommended!

Wilson’s Cafe: Very nice, cozy café in Rawai (in the south of Phuket). They serve western dishes such as smoothie bowls, salads or sandwiches. The breakfast menu is also very extensive.

Dou Brew Coffee & Craft: This little hip cafe serves some very good espresso in the Old Phuket Town.

Rawei Beach Restaurant: Not exactly a local tip, but the beach bars in Rawai still come recommended. In some places, you get to sit on the floor in the traditional cultural way. The Rawai Seafood Market is also worth a visit (daily from 11 am to 9 pm).

For those seeking tranquility: The Cove on Cape Panwa

Looking for relaxation and tranquility on Phuket? Then you’ll feel right at home here! Our number one choice for a vacation away from the crowds is this oasis in the southeast of Phuket . The Cove on the Cape Panwa peninsula is beautifully designed and the perfect place to unwind.

The hotel is right on the beach . From some bungalows, you can even see the sea. The rooms (or bungalows) are very spacious and tastefully designed – an absolute dream. The hotel beach is very calm and you will find a few restaurants here too – luckily, without any tourist hustle and bustle.

Perhaps the only downside is that the change in tides at Cape Panwa is a little more prominent than in other parts of Phuket. But that wouldn’t stop us from staying here. However, due to the more remote location, the beaches on the west coast are about a 30 minute drive away – but as mentioned before, there is a beach right outside the front door.

Unfortunately the hotel was fully booked during our travel period, otherwise we wouldn’t have hesitated for a second. Next time we stay in Phuket, it will definitely be this one!

You can book the hotel here: The Cove

For a low budget: Sugar Ohana Poshtel in Kata

The bad news first : Kata itself is really awful. The place was already not overly spectacular a few years ago, but nowadays, you simply just want to escape. Kata is most definitely Russian central as the vast majority of vacationers come from Russia.

However, Kata is a strategic location to stay in if you want to discover as much of Phuket as you can on your own. Some beaches or bays are located in the south. The most important sights (Big Buddha, Wat Chalong) are not far either.

If you want to stay in Kata and are looking for cheap accommodation, we can recommend the Sugar Ohana Poshtel . The rooms are pretty and you feel very comfortable. However, the accommodation is located directly on the main street (in the middle of the hustle and bustle), you just have to get used to that. We would not stay in Kata again, but if you are looking for something cheap , then this is the place for you.

You can book accommodation here: Sugar Ohana Poshtel

There are three major problems when it comes to transport in Phuket:

1. The island is very large and the distances should not be underestimated. 2. There is also a lot of traffic , so much so that they lead to long traffic jams on some routes. 3. The worst of the worst: taxi prices are horrendous! We were told that Phuket harbours a taxi mafia and judging by the extortionately high prices, it could very well be a possibility!

Unfortunately, there is no well-developed public transport network on Phuket. Some routes (especially the ones towards Phuket Town) can be taken by bus, but unfortunately this is basically the only exception.

So if you want to see more of Phuket than the surroundings of your hotel, then you have no choice but to take care of your own transport. Here are the few options we would suggest:

Option 1: Rent a Scooter on Phuket

Renting a scooter is the cheapest and easiest way to get from A to B on Phuket. You can rent a moped and ride around the island for about 250 Baht per day . Petrol is sold in glass bottles on the side of the road. (1 litre usually costs around 40 Baht.)

Is scooter driving dangerous on Phuket?

Yes! Sorry, but yes! Anyone who claims otherwise are obviously unaware of the statistics. Thailand is one of the countries with the highest traffic fatalities worldwide, and the majority of these cases involve mopeds. Riding a moped around Thailand is always risky and Phuket is no exception.

We ourselves have seen a road accident on Phuket with our own eyes and saw injured people lying on the street. It’s awful, but it’s also the reality. However, despite being aware of the risks, we still rent scooters in Thailand all the time. Here are some tips we recommend to stay as safe as possible:

• We always wear a helmet – always! It’s tempting to drive without a helmet, we get that too. But please don’t put your safety at risk! On another note, we always buy our own helmet at the beginning of a trip to Thailand because the quality of helmets in Thailand are usually sub-par.
• Sand on the road can easily cause your scooter to slide sideways – especially around the turns. So always pay attention to the road and reduce speed if necessary.
• We try to avoid driving in the dark (even though we can’t always avoid this). Visibility is of course poorer at night, but above all there is a risk that others will drive under the influence of alcohol.
• Make sure you don’t burn yourself on the exhaust. There is usually a protective cover made of plastic to prevent this, but it is sometimes fragile or non-existent.

What about the traffic on Phuket?

Super important: drive on the left! Thailand has left-hand traffic, which will be a mild shock for many of you – but you’ll get used to it faster than you think, so don’t worry. There is generally a lot of traffic on the streets of Phuket. However, there are major differences between the main roads and the less busier roads. In any case, be prepared for the fact that there are a lot of cars and minivans on the roads in Phuket.

Do I need an international driver’s license?

No – at least not for renting the scooter. A normal driver’s license is enough for the rental company. BUT: If you get pulled over by traffic control, then the police will most certainly ask for an international driver’s license (more on that in a moment).

Do I need a Class A driver’s license?

Yes and no. You can rent a scooter with an ordinary Class B (which is what most people have for driving cars) – the rental companies don’t care much. However, it does matter to the police and you may face a fine (more on that in a moment). On an even more serious note: if you were to be involved in an accident and it turns out that you drove the scooter without proper legal license to do so, then you will most likely not be covered by your insurance. 

Is it true that there are regular police checks on Phuket?

Yes, unfortunately it happens very often and they’re definitely out to get tourists. Not even 10 minutes after we had just rented our scooter, we got pulled over by road control. Normally they only pull you over in the event of an actual offence (which is fair), however they also set up regular station checks to catch unaware tourists. These are the top offences the police will catch you out for:

• Helmet: Helmets are compulsory!
• A driver’s license with Class A: because in Thailand, the law treats scooters as motorcycles and thus requires all riders to have a motorcycle license (Class A).
• International driving license: This is also often asked for.

If they fine you, it’s usually 500 Baht per offence. The funny thing about it is that once you’ve paid the fine, you can continue on your merry way. And they even give you a little present with the ‘receipt’ from your penalty. It basically gives you right of way to legally ride the scooter for a more few days, so in case you bump into another police control, you can simply show them you’ve already paid a fine – and they’ll let you go, just like that! 

Is there anything else I should consider?

They often require your passport as a form of deposit . We always try to avoid this by alternatively offering our driver’s license instead – Kathi’s of course, since she won’t be driving. It just gives us more peace of mind. 

Before leaving, you should check that the lights work – just in case you’re met with an unwelcome surprise after your evening dinner to find out they don’t turn on! We made this mistake once and experienced it first hand, so that’s why we’re telling you this. It is also worthwhile to make a short video or photos of the existing damage (scratches, dents), so you’re not liable for extra damages at the end. 

And on a final note: Don’t worry too much ! Fear and scooter riding don’t go well together. Of course, you have to be aware of the dangers, but we don’t want to over-exaggerate the risks of riding scooters in Thailand. We always rent a scooter, in fact, every time we visit Thailand. 

Option 2: Rent a car on Phuket

Of course, driving by car is much safer than riding a scooter. You can easily rent a car from Phuket, but unfortunately, it’s very expensive when compared a scooter. Expect to pay around 1,500 Baht per day to rent an average car. 

We have also rented a car before in Thailand and can confirm that you can do so without any problems . It’s also the better option if you are in a slightly larger group or with children. Since the distances in Phuket are quite large, you’ll find it much more comfortable in a car. 

We always book our rental cars through Sunny Cars and have only had positive experiences with this company so far.

You can search for your rental car here: Sunny Cars

Option 3: Private Driver on Phuket

If you only plan to do day trips on a few days max, then a car with a private driver could be worth considering. No brainer that this option is more expensive than a rental car, of course. Expect the prices to start around 85 Euros for 4 hours and 130 Euros for 8 hours.

You can book your driver here: Private drivers on Phuket

Getting to Phuket: From the airport to the hotel

Thanks to the international airport , Phuket is very easy to reach. There are even direct flights to Phuket from Germany. The airport is located in the north of Phuket where planes fly directly over the beach.

Immediately after leaving the airport building, there are plenty of taxi stands waiting for you. The cheapest option is to take a shared taxi . However, you will most likely be brought directly to your hotel in a minibus. The price varies depending on the destination: to Kata, for example, it costs around 200 Baht.

A private taxi is much more expensive, but also faster and more convenient. For comparison, a trip to Kata would cost 1,000 Baht. Some hotels also offer an airport pick-up service. The best thing is to ask around for the prices. 

Travel Guide for Thailand: Our Recommendation

Most likely (and hopefully) your trip will not only take you to Phuket, but also to other regions of Thailand. In this case, we can highly recommend  Lonely planet’s Thailand Travel Guide. The  Lonely planet Travel Guides are always our first choice for Southeast Asia. They are aimed at individual travellers and are known for being quite extensive and very well researched.

The Thailand Travel Guide by Lonely planet has been around for decades. The new edition appeared in November 2021 and is therefore, quite up to date. With this travel guide you can really appreciated how experienced the authors are. Our conclusion: highly recommended!

You can buy the travel guide here: Lonely Planet Thailand

What to Avoid in Phuket!

One last but very important thing: Phuket is full of elephant camps where tourists can ride on the elephants’ backs on seats especially built for this purpose. Elephant riding and other animal attractions are particularly popular with Russian and Chinese tourists. Please, for the love of animals, do not support these sick businesses. It’s nothing but unnecessary cruelty towards animals and the only way we can stop this together, is by raising awareness and decreasing tourist demands. 

Unfortunately, there are also many providers who have made a business out of the growing ethical awareness. Many self-proclaimed “eco camps” where you can bathe and feed elephants are not as ‘ethical’ as you might think. Since it’s extremely difficult for to know what is truly behind these organisations, we recommend that you avoid all animal attractions.

Disclaimer: Affiliate Links

This travel guide contains our personal recommendations in the form of affiliate links. If you book or buy something through these links, then we will receive a small commission. This will not change the prices for you at all. A million thanks from the both of us!

Have you ever been to Phuket? Perhaps you have some extra tips or recommendations you’d like to share? We look forward to hearing from you in the comments below this travel guide! 

You might also be interested in this

Thailand Island Guide: The Most Beautiful Islands

Thailand Itinerary: The Best Destinations from North to South

Koh Yao Noi: The Most Beautiful Beaches & our Travel Tips

2 responses.

The best guide i’ve read! Thanks! How do you edit your photos?

Hi Tania, thank you so much! We use Lightroom to edit our pictures. :)

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Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

Phuket Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 30, 2023

Phuket is one of the most popular destinations in Thailand . The island is the biggest in the country and boasts a wide range of beaches as well as a vibrant nightlife and large expat scene.

Backpacking, partying, coming to learn Muay Thai, lounging at the resorts — Phuket is one of those places that has something for everyone.

That said, Phuket also illuminates the good and bad of Thai tourism — from overdeveloped beaches and sex tourism to tiny towns with no tourists that showcase authentic Thailand.

While most visitors stick to the overdeveloped south, if you stay away from Patong Beach, you can avoid most of the overdevelopment and crowds. In fact, the north part of the island is one of my favorite places to visit in all of Thailand. It’s a paradise!

This travel guide to Phuket will show you the best places to visit, help you save money, and ensure you make the most of your time on this popular island getaway!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Phuket

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Phuket

1. Chill on the beach

Phuket is all about the beaches. If you stay away from Patong Beach, you can avoid most of the overdevelopment, expensive prices, and crowds. Do this, and you’ll see that Phuket is a lovely destination. Check out Mai Khao, Surin, Freedom, and Naithon for the best beaches!

2. Visit the temples

Most of Phuket’s population is Thai-Buddhist and there are close to 40 Buddhist Temples located all over the island. Phuket’s Big Buddha is one of the island’s most important; Wat Suwan Khiri Khet, the only temple in Karon Beach, is small but attractive; and Wat Chalong is also beautiful.

3. Cruise Phang Nga Bay

Lined by limestone cliffs, collapsed caves, and archaeological sites, these glorious emerald-green waters form a delightful bay. It’s also where the James Bond movie The Man with the Golden Gun was filmed. Day trips can be had from anywhere on the island and cost 3,500 THB.

4. Visit the gibbons

Run by volunteers and financed by donations, the Gibbon Rehabilitation Center rescues gibbons from captivity. There is no touching, but visitors can watch them from a viewing platform. On your two-hour visit, you’ll learn about gibbons. A visit costs 4,000 THB and you must book in advance.

5. Tour the Similan Islands

Just 84 kilometers (52 miles) northwest of Phuket are the Similan Islands. It’s one of the few places in Thailand with environmental protection. Only two (#4 and #8) of the nine islands are publicly accessible. The preserve is open to visitors from October 15-May 15 and costs 500 THB to enter.

Other Things to See and Do in Phuket

1. skip patong.

This is the main tourist section of Phuket, filled with crowded beaches, resorts, hawkers, bars, and sadly, a lot of sex tourists. Unless you want to get drunk a lot, try to avoid this beach at all costs (although I do still recommend taking a cooking class near here). There are much better beaches around, like Hat Karon, Surin, and Mai Khao Beach.

2. Learn to cook traditional Thai food

If you are looking to learn how to make Thai food, take a class at Pum’s Thai Cooking School. It’s one of the best souvenirs you can take back with you: the knowledge to make some of your favorite dishes from Thailand! There are several of these schools in Thailand, and the one in Phuket is on Patong Beach. You can take classes ranging from 30 minutes to 6 hours. Classes start at 500 THB for a 30-minute mini-class, and full classes (3+ hours) start from 1,500 THB.

3. Watch a Muay Thai fight

To see something truly Thai, watch some Muay Thai. This is a form of combat that combines striking techniques using fists, elbows, knees, and shins, and is known as “the art of eight limbs.” It requires extreme mental and physical discipline to train to be a Muay Thai fighter. The Patong Boxing Stadium is the destination to see regular matches or go to Patong Beach where you can watch these disciplined fighters in action. You can usually find tickets for around 1,500-2,000 THB.

4. Visit Khao Phra Thaeo Wildlife Park

Take a trip to the Khao Phra Thaeo Conservation Development and Extension Center, a center focused on preserving the environment. The center contains a park with giant trees in the midst of dense a dense forest that is home to a number of endangered animals and wildlife including boars, mouse deer, langurs, and gibbons. It’s also the last remaining evergreen rainforest of Phuket. Make sure to check out the Nam Tok Sai waterfall, which is located close to the park headquarters. There is also a floating restaurant located in the mangroves! Admission is 200 THB.

5. See the Thalang National Museum

If you are eager to find out more about historical Phuket, visit the Thalang National Museum. The museum holds an exhibition of ancient artifacts from Old Phuket and items used during the war with Myanmar (1809-1812). Learn about the local life through exhibits on the island’s tin mining history, indigenous culture, and Chinese heritage. There’s a monument outside to Thao Thep Krasattri and Thao Si Sunthon, two sisters revered heroines who helped save Phuket during the Battle of Thalang during the Burmese-Siamese War. Visiting this museum is a great way to immerse yourself in the history of the island. It’s 30 THB.

6. Enjoy the viewpoints

Phuket has many scenic viewpoints that are great for taking in the stunning island views. Promthep Cape and Karon View Point tend to be the most popular, but another great spot is the Kata viewpoint. Nothing is better than watching a golden sunset from these points. Your camera will thank you!

7. Rent a bike

Renting either a bike or motorbike gives you the freedom to explore Phuket. Find your way to Laem Singh Beach, a more secluded and laid-back spot with some great snorkeling opportunities. Just be careful as biking in Phuket can be a little dangerous as traffic is hectic at times. You can expect to pay about 250 THB a day for a basic motorbike. If you’d rather do a guided half-day bike tour, expect to pay around 1,800 THB.

8. Explore Sirinat National Park

This national park was founded in the early 1980s and consists of three beach areas along the northwest coast of Phuket. It includes the beaches Nai Yang, Sai Kaew, and Mai Khao, as well as the mangrove forest where saltwater and freshwater mix. This is a good place for camping too if you enjoy the outdoors. During the spring, endangered Leatherback Turtles come here to lay their eggs. Park entrance costs 200 THB. The park is closed between June 1st-July 31st.

9. Check out the Phuket Mining Museum

Located in Kathu, this museum highlights the history of Phuket’s mining industry (tin mining has been a large industry here). It’s located in a spacious, colonial villa and is one of the most interesting museums on the island. There are a couple of neat models and even a re-creation of an opium den! Some of the models seem so real, it’s like you are living it. You also get a chance to see some of the mining methods used back when Phuket was a major tin mining center. Entry is 100 THB.

10. Stroll the Phuket Weekend Market

Known also as the Naka market, this market is located right outside of Phuket Town. It offers a crazy assortment of local and secondhand goods, interesting objects, and a huge variety of food. The market is broken up into two sections: the covered section (which sells everything from jeans to pirated DVDs), and the open market (which has food, food, and more food). It’s open Sundays from 4pm-10pm.

11. Go snorkeling

Phuket has over 30 beaches, and all of them are pretty incredible. While not all of them are great for snorkeling, some of the best are Laem Singh Beach, Ao Sane, Ya Nui, and Surin. You might want to bring your own gear, as renting it all the time can get a bit pricy. It is possible to buy some cheap gear in Phuket too. Snorkel rental is generally around 200 THB for a mask, snorkel, and fins. Alternately, you can do a snorkeling day trip, which generally costs around 2,500 THB and includes pickup at your hotel, gear, and food while you’re out on the boat.

12. Visit the Soi Dog Foundation

Soi Dog Foundation is a charity that helps the stray dogs and cats you see on the streets of Phuket ( soi means street in Thai). The non-profit has been extremely successful, and since its founding in 2003, has reduced the stray dog population by over 90% through its spay/neuter programs. To meet and play with the animals (weekdays only), submit a volunteering form on their website. Longer volunteer opportunities are also offered, and donations are always welcome.

13. Explore some waterfalls

Some of the biggest and best waterfalls in Thailand are in Phuket. Bang Pae, Ton Sai, and Kathu are the three most popular. They are all at the end of scenic nature walks too. Kathu is free and entry to Khao Phra Thaeo National Park for Bang Pae and Ton Sai is 200 THB.

14. Visit an elephant sanctuary

Riding an elephant is the dream of many a tourist – until you realize how badly elephants are treated and the injuries that they incur all in the name of a quick ride. Luckily, in recent years there’s been a large movement to protect the elephants and raise awareness as to why riding them is an unethical practice. Visiting or volunteering at an elephant sanctuary is the best way to see these majestic beasts, and one of the oldest sanctuaries is Phuket Elephant Sanctuary. A half-day visit including lunch and transportation to the sanctuary costs 3,000 THB. Whatever you do, don’t ride elephants!

  For more information on other cities and islands in Thailand, check out the guides below:

• Bangkok Travel Guide
• Chiang Mai Travel Guide
• Ko Chang Travel Guide
• Ko Lipe Travel Guide
• Ko Pha Ngan Travel Guide
• Ko Phi Phi Travel Guide

Phuket Travel Costs

Hostel prices – A bed in a dorm with 4-6 beds costs 350-450 THB per night while a bed in an 8-10-bed dorm costs 275-350 THB. Private rooms for two people with ensuite bathrooms cost 650-800. Free Wi-Fi, linens, and air-conditioning are standard at hostels in Phuket. Breakfast isn’t usually included, although some have cafes where you can purchase breakfast.

Hostels in Phuket often have extra amenities and offerings, such as free drinks, coworking spaces, and outdoor swimming pools. Lub d Patong even has a Muay Thai boxing ring in the middle of their lobby.

There are also campgrounds on Phuket. Expect to pay 200 THB per person for a basic plot and tent. If you have your own tent, it’s usually around 150 THB.

Budget hotel prices – A night in a centrally located budget hotel costs around 850-1,200 THB for a room with air-conditioning and free Wi-Fi. About half of the hotels include free breakfast.

Phuket surprisingly has some of the least-expensive 5-star hotels in Thailand, often as low as 2,500 THB per night! The Memory at On On Hotel is a great choice (and it was featured in the movie The Beach )! Prices remain fairly consistent across the island, even away from busy Patong.

Private Airbnb rooms are 600-825 THB per night, while entire villas or apartments average 1,200 THB per night.

Food – Over the centuries, Thai cuisine has taken on influences from neighboring countries, including India, Malaysia, Indonesia, Laos, Myanmar, and Cambodia. All these influences mesh to become Thai’s flavorful national cuisine, which is aromatic and spicy. Expect a lot of curries, salads, soups, and stir-fries that differ based on region.

Thai cuisine uses fresh (not dried) herbs and spices, with many ingredients used in one dish to create layers of flavor. Typical flavors include garlic, basil, galangal, cilantro, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, chilies, shrimp paste, and fish sauce. Coconut milk is commonly used in curries and desserts, especially in central and southern Thailand.

Popular dishes include tom yum goong (hot and sour soup with shrimp), massaman curry, pad thai (a stir-fried noodle dish), som tam (spicy papaya salad), kao phad (fried rice), khao man gai (rice with boiled chicken), and satay (grilled meat on skewers, served with a peanut dipping sauce).

In Phuket, Hokkien mee is an incredibly popular noodle dish that originated in China but arrived here by way of nearby Malaysia. Being an island, seafood is a big part of most of Phuket’s dishes.

Dessert is usually fruit or various dishes comprised of coconut milk or glutinous rice. Mango sticky rice combines all these elements in a popular choice.

Compared to the rest of Thailand, food is a bit more expensive in Phuket. Lunch at a casual Thai restaurant costs around 150-180 THB. A dish, such as a curry or fried rice, at a nice sit-down restaurant offering traditional cuisine costs 190-280 THB.

Western meals start at around 330 THB, even for a basic pizza. Dinner with drinks typically costs around 270-300 THB or more, but it can be more expensive if you’re right on Patong Beach. If you are having a fish meal or getting wine, expect to pay around 500-675 THB. In the major tourist area, you’ll probably pay 25% more.

You can grab a beer for about 60-75 THB, but on Bangla Road they’re 100 THB or higher. Remember that buying beers from 7-Eleven vs in bars and restaurants saves you lots of money.

If you eat at the street stalls, the food is not only cheap, but it’s also utterly delicious. A meal from a street stall can cost as little as 80-120 THB.

A week of groceries including basic staples like rice, veggies, and some meat or fish costs around 1,040 THB.

Backpacking Phuket Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget, expect to spend about 1,100 THB per day. On this budget, you can get a bed in a hostel dorm, cook some meals and eat cheap street food, limit your drinking, use public transportation to get around, and stick to mostly free or cheap activities like hiking and enjoying the beaches.

On a mid-range budget of 2,525 THB per day, you can stay in a private hostel room or Airbnb, eat out for most meals, enjoy a few drinks, take the occasional taxi, and do more paid activities like cooking classes or watching Muay Thai fights.

On a “luxury” budget of 4,475 THB per day or more, you can stay in a hotel, eat out for all your meals, drink as much as you want, rent a scooter or take more taxis, and do whatever tours and activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in THB.

Phuket Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Although Phuket is more expensive than many other islands in Thailand, there are still plenty of ways to save money here:

• Eat street food – Don’t be afraid to eat the street food here. It’s safe — even safer than most restaurants. The best of Thailand’s food is on the street, and it costs a fraction of what you pay at a restaurant.
• Buy beer at convenience stores – Buy your beers from the supermarket or convenience stores as they are much cheaper here than anywhere else.
• Ride in a songthaew or rent a bike – Songthaews are converted pickup trucks that act as shared taxis and cost less than a tuk-tuk or a taxi. If you are looking to get around on your own, renting a bike is also a great option and can usually be done for about 250 THB per day.
• Come during low season – Prices drop drastically during the rainy season between May-October. If you don’t mind a bit of rain, this is a cheap time to visit.
• Stay with a local – Couchsurfing connects you with locals who not only provide a free place to stay but who can share their insider tips and advice with you.
• Bargain hard – When shopping at the markets, use your negotiation skills. The rule of thumb is the more you buy, the cheaper the prices so shop in packs for the best deals.
• Use a water bottle with a purifier – It isn’t safe to drink the tap water in Phuket, and although buying bottled water is cheap, it does add up. Instead, pick up a LifeStraw , which have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe (it’s good for the environment too!)

Where to Stay in Phuket

Phuket has tons of cheap accommodation. Here are my suggested places to stay in Phuket:

• Pineapple Guesthouse
• Bodgea Party Hostel
• BearPacker Patong Hostel
• Dfeel Hostel
• Lub D Phuket Patong

How to Get Around Phuket

Local Bus – Small buses connect Phuket’s Old Town with the main beach resorts around the island, like Patong and Karon. They’re slow because of the number of stops to make, but they’re cheap and reliable. Shared minibusses are also common. It’s just 100-200 THB to get across the island or 150 THB from the airport to Patong Beach, but it can be an exercise in patience.

Songthaews – Songthaews are covered trucks that have been converted into multi-passenger vehicles (the truck’s box is usually converted with two wooden benches for seating). There are no set stops like the local bus — you just have to flag one down that is headed in your direction and get off when you need to. There is usually a sign on the dashboard to let you know where the final stop is. Negotiate your fare ahead of time. A ride in a songthaew usually starts around 25-50 THB.

A songthaew from Patong Beach to the airport costs 1,000 THB, and to other beaches (like Kamala, Kata, or Surin) it costs around 500 THB.

Motorbike Taxi – A motorbike taxi costs about 60 THB per short journey around town. It’s quick but it’s not the safest option so I’d probably avoid them if you can.

Tuk-Tuk – The tuk-tuks in Phuket look more like songthaews than the tuk-tuks in other parts of Thailand. These can be even more expensive than metered taxis because the drivers work together to avoid undercutting each other. Since there is no public transportation between the beaches, and because other transportation tends to stop early in the evening, tuk-tuk drivers know that they can charge higher prices. A 3-kilometer (2-mile) ride in a tuk-tuk can cost about 335 THB. Shorter distances average about 100 THB.

Taxi – Metered taxis are expensive, but sometimes they’re cheaper than tuk-tuks. Their fares start at 50 THB per two kilometers. Non-metered taxis typically charge flat rates and are not really necessary for long distances. An hour-long journey from the airport to Patong is around 900 THB.

Ridesharing – The Grab app is like the Uber of Thailand — prices are cheaper than taxis, and you’re driven by a local in their vehicle. You can pay via the app or in cash, and you get a price estimate for your journey before you even get in the car. Having said that, in Phuket, the prices are sometimes not much different than taxis. You can get from Patong to Karon for less than 200 THB, while Kata to Karon is about 120 THB.

When to Go to Phuket

Like the other islands in this part of Thailand, the peak season in Phuket is from November to April. If you travel from May through October, you avoid the busiest season and save quite a bit of money, although it may be rainy.

November to February are the coolest months, with temperatures between 23-30°C (73-86°F). February is the driest month and is the best time of the year to be a beach bum.

The end of March to mid-May is the hottest time of year. It’s just before monsoon season hits, so humidity is high and temperatures soar into the high 30s°C (90s°F). If you can’t tolerate the heat, don’t come during this time.

Mid-May to October is the Monsoon season in Phuket. Although it rains for a while each day, the temperature averages about 28°C (84°F) per day. If you don’t mind a bit of rain, this is an excellent time to visit.

How to Stay Safe in Phuket

Phuket is safe, especially for solo travelers, including solo female travelers. It’s one of the easiest places in Thailand to meet other solo travelers, so you’re never really on your own here.

That said, petty theft (including bag snatching) can occur here so always keep an eye on your belongings, especially in popular tourist areas. Avoid flashing your valuables and don’t leave any valuables unattended when at the beach.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here, though the standard precautions apply (don’t leave your drink unattended at the bar, don’t walk home alone intoxicated, etc.)

Patong is a party destination so most people run into problems here when they’re drunk and stupid. Don’t overdo it, and always be mindful of your alcohol consumption. Although uncommon, travelers have been known to fail victim to drugging so they can be mugged or molested. Never leave your drink unattended or accept drinks from strangers for that reason.

Do not do drugs or participate in the sex industry. Both can have severe consequences here and lead to huge fines and jail time. Don’t risk it.

If you’re worried about scams, read this post on common travel scams to avoid.

If you experience an emergency, dial 191 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

For more information about safety in Southeast Asia, check out this article .

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Phuket Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Agoda – Other than Hostelworld, Agoda is the best hotel accommodation site for Asia.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.

Get the In-Depth Budget Guide to Thailand!

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Phuket Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more tips for your trip? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Thailand travel and continue planning your trip:

The 8 Best Hostels in Chiang Mai

The 7 Best Hotels in Bangkok

The 22 Best Things to Do in Bangkok

The Ultimate Guide to Teaching English in Thailand

Is Bangkok Safe to Visit?

The Complete Guide to Diving in Koh Tao

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Phuket Travel Guide

Travelers' pro tips or experiencing phuket.

Taxis and Tuk Tuks are usually a fixed price. Wherever you go they will try to get every penny out of you. After a little bit of haggling, you’ll get say 50 - 100BHT or so off the fixed price.

Do not be afraid to eat street food, is it abundant and cheap. You can get skewers with shrimps, mussels, crab and even crocodile meat for as low as 30 Thb per piece.

Walk the beach, check out Bangla road, get a massage, have a banana (or mango) shake, and keep in mind if you see something for sale at an unbelievable price, it's probably a copy.

Phuket is a large island – so much so that it doesn’t really feel much like an island at all! Its size means there is always plenty to see and do and as such it’s a popular destination for all types of holidaymakers, from families and couples to groups of friends.

Phuket is a beautiful mountainous island with so much do and see. From mouth-watering food to animals and rainforests, and pristine beaches to upscale spas and resorts, Phuket has something for everyone.

TravellingMitch

Phuket has lots of lovely beaches, fabulous food, lots of temples, plus some churches and mosques.

What is the best way to get there?

Phuket only has one airport, the Phuket International Airport. International and Domestic terminals are separate.

Here  is some information on the best airport transfer options available.

Do I need a visa?

If you’re visiting Phuket from overseas, find out if you need a visa  here .

Visa on arrival is also available, you can find out how other travelers did it  here .

When is the best time to visit?

November to February: The weather in Thailand varies between hot, and really, really hot. The hottest season runs from March through to June, with April and May as the hottest months of the year.

The cool season normally runs from November through February and will still feel hot to most visitors. Temperatures during this time typically range from 73 Fahrenheit (23 Celsius) to 86 Fahrenheit (30 Celsius).

Most of the resort areas are small enough to walk around, with popular resorts and hotels located close to the beach, restaurants and shopping areas.

If your hotel isn't on one of the main beaches, tuk-tuks are some of the best ways to get around. The small vehicles can weave through the tiny streets with ease and are worth the ride alone.

If you prefer exploring Phuket on your own, there are plenty of places to hire cars or motorcycles. However, if you’re looking to drive around Phuket, remember that they drive on the left.

Songtaew refers to blue open-air buses that run between Phuket Town and the main resorts, while air-conditioned mini buses service the Phuket Town area.

Check out more tips on getting around Phuket  here .

On the ground

What is the timezone.

Indochina Time (ICT)

What are the voltage/plug types?

220 Volts / 50 Hz. In Thailand, they typically use Type A and Type C plugs

What is the currency?

Thai Baht (THB)

Are ATMs readily accessible?

Are credit cards widely accepted, how much do i tip.

Tipping is not customary in Thailand, there is absolutely no mandatory requirement to tip anyone, but small gratuities for great service are very much appreciated.

Get more tipping tips  here .

Are there local customs I should know?

The king is very highly regarded in Thailand, as evidenced by the pictures displayed everywhere. Do not say or do anything disrespectful of the king or the royal family, even to the extent of stomping on a Thai coin or banknote which has been dropped and is rolling/blowing away. (It bears an image of the King's head, and is highly insulting to be touched by your feet.)

Bangkok Taxies

When hailing taxis, it is common to keep your hand horizontal, fingers facing down. Holding your hand with fingers up is considered rude.

Temples and Monks

When visiting temples, dress conservatively. Women particularly should wear long skirts or trousers and cover their shoulders and knees. Many temples state as you enter that photography is not permitted. Even if there is no sign, please be respectful and consider whether it is appropriate to be taking flash photographs in a place of worship. Even more so if monks are present worshipping!

Always remove your shoes when entering temples (the same rule applies when entering a person's home), and do not sit with your feet towards the Buddha. Sit either cross-legged or with your feet tucked behind you. In many Asian cultures, the feet are considered the lowest, dirtiest part of the body, and the head the highest. So do not point to things with your feet, hold doors open with your feet, point your feet to the Buddha images, or point at or touch peoples' heads. Under no circumstances should a woman ever touch a monk.

Here’s  a great overview of customs and etiquette in Thailand generally.

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• Phi Phi Islands Adventure Day Trip with Seaview Lunch by V.Marine
• Phi Phi Islands Day Tour from Phuket
• Phuket City Tour: Karon View Point, Big Buddha & Wat Chalong
• Luxury Boat to James Bond Islands with Lunch and Sunset Dinner

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Jade-hued waves concealing rainbows of fish wash white-gold beaches wrapped in Phuketian heritage: Phuket (ภูเก็ต), Thailand's dazzling largest island, is so diverse you may never want to leave.

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Experience the real Phuket. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Hat Bang Thao

Beautiful 8km-long Hat Bang Thao is one of the longest, dreamiest beaches on Phuket. This slice of pearlescent sand is just asking for you to laze around…

Soi Romanee

Phuket Town

Branching off Th Thalang, in the heart of the Old Town, this small, vibrant street flaunts some of Phuket's most gorgeously revamped Sino-Portuguese…

High atop the Nakkerd Hills, northwest of Chalong Circle, and visible from half the island, the 45m-high, Burmese-alabaster Big Buddha sits grandly on…

Laem Phromthep

Come here to the island’s southernmost point to see the glittering Andaman Sea wrapped around Phuket. The cape is crowned by a mod lighthouse shaped like…

Hat Nai Harn

Ask a Phuketian or a local expat for their favourite island beach and many will choose Hat Nai Harn. A beautifully curved golden-white crescent with…

Phuket Thaihua Museum

Founded in 1934 and formerly a Chinese-language school, this flashy museum is filled with photos, videos and English-language exhibits on Phuket’s history…

Chinpracha House

Built in 1903 with tin-mining riches, this beautifully preserved Sino-Portuguese mansion should make any antique- or architecture-lover's must-visit list…

Jui Tui Shrine

One of the island's most important Chinese shrines, this red-washed, elevated complex is dedicated to Tean Hu Huan Soy, god of performers and dancers. It…

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The ultimate guide to visiting Phuket

Often referred to as the Pearl of the Andaman, Phuket is Thailand’s largest island. It’s a popular spot for visitors to southeast Asia – and for good reason too. With an impressive coastline featuring long stretches of sandy beach strung together by dramatic rock formations, it’s been attracting people to its shores for decades. While this means that some parts of this large island can be busy, there is still a traditional and authentic side of Phuket to discover–plus it means there is always something to see and do.

Best time to visit Phuket

If you’re not a fan of crowds, avoid January and February. These are peak travel months for Phuket and much of the rest of Thailand. if you don’t mind sharing your beach with a throng of other people, it’s at least a great time to meet like-minded travelers.

The rainy season in Phuket runs from April through to October. However, many Phuket regulars cite this as the best time to visit, as hotel and travel rates are low and the beaches are much less crowded. There is usually a downpour daily in the early evening at this time, but throughout much of the day, Phuket weather is usually sunny and pleasant.

Getting to and from Phuket

Phuket has the huge advantage of having its own international airport . Direct flights are possible from many major airline hubs, while Air Asia offers low cost regular flights to Phuket from destinations such as Malaysia, Australia, New Zealand, China, Indonesia, Japan, and India.

Phuket Town has a main bus terminal that sees buses arriving and departing from just about everywhere in Thailand throughout the day and night. Phuket can also be easily reached by boat from Krabi on the mainland, plus the surrounding islands of Koh Lanta and Koh Phi Phi.

Go beyond the beach in Phuket Get creative

Where to stay in Phuket

For a base within easy reach of all the main attractions, beach life, and nightlife, the Holiday Inn Resort in Phuket provides a little oasis of calm in the middle of Patong. Just moments from the beach, it’s walking distance to all the main action. Other than that, the choice of hotels in Phuket are endless and scattered all across Phuket, from the heart of its old town right along its coast.

Phuket’s top attractions

Source: Getty Images

You’ll never run out of things to do and see in Phuket. Here are some top attractions to keep you busy on your trip.

Map the location

At 45 metres tall, the Big Buddha statue (pictured above) is one of Phuket’s most iconic landmarks, and is a huge draw for visitors to the island. This huge monument sits on Nakkerd Hills between Chalong and Kata, and offers some incredible panoramic views of Phuket Town, as well as the beaches and bays of the coast. The road leading up to the statue winds through the ‘real’ Thailand and is well worth taking the trip, if not only for the views when you reach the top.

Wat Chalong

Wat Chalong is the largest temple in Phuket. This colourful building is elaborately decorated with numerous images of the Buddha, along with imagery from Thai and Buddhist mythology. Wat Chalong houses many Buddhist statues, with the most revered being Poh Than Jao Wat , located in the westerly old hall of the temple.

Khao Sok National Park

For an outdoor adventure, head inland to Phuket’s Khao Sok National Park , where you can get the full jungle experience–complete with elephants, lazy rivers, and tree-house lodgings. This area is said to be one of the oldest rain forests in the world, and it’s certainly one of the most scenic, with its magnificent cascading waterfalls and dramatic limestone formations.

Phuket’s best water sports away from the beach Make a splash

Islands around Phuket

One of the best advantages of Phuket is its proximity to a plethora of other islands to explore.

Phang Nga Bay and James Bond Island

A boat trip through the dramatic limestone karsts–jutting out of the turquoise waters of the Andaman Sea–is the best way to fully appreciate Phang Nga Bay. James Bond Island and Koh Panyee are just two of the more famous spots in this bay, and it makes for a great day trip, particularly if stopping off at the quieter beaches along the way. The so-called James Bond Island was featured in The Man with the Golden Gun .

Similan and Surin

Map Similan Island Map Surin Island

Heading northeast from Phuket will lead to the pristine islands of Similan and Surin , where divers are in their element amid clear waters and an array of marine life, including leopard sharks, octopus, and colourful exotic fish.

Koh Phi Phi

Perhaps the most famous of all the islands around Phuket, Koh Phi Phi in fact refers to two islands in this part of the Andaman Sea. Phi Phi Don is the main island where most visitors head to (mainly backpackers) for all night parties and days spent recovering on the pristine beach. Phi Phi Leh is the quieter southern island. This has no overnight accommodation and features a number of coves and caves, as well as Maya Beach–the famous setting for the film, The Beach .

Phuket’s beaches

Beaches, beaches, beaches. It’s all about the warm sand and the gentle waves.

Phuket has always been synonymous with beautiful beaches. For those into their nightlife, Patong Beach is the centre of the main action in this department, although it’s surprisingly family-friendly and close to all of Phuket’s main attractions. It’s certainly busy, but the beach has a great atmosphere in the day, and there’s always plenty going on to keep the whole family entertained.

Kata and Karon Beaches

Map Kata Beach Map Karon Beach

For a more laid back Phuket beach experience, head to the beautiful sands of Kata and Karon beaches . These are some of the best on the island, and there is plenty going on around these bays to keep you entertained, despite being much less busy than Patong. There are also some amazing viewpoints nearby, well worth hiring a motorbike or tuk tuk to go and seek out.

Kalim Bay has recently become the cool place to hang out, with a plethora of trendy bars and restaurants lining the coast here. Surrounded by mountains and protected from the swell, Kalim is also a popular spot for surfers.

Cherngtalay

Situated a few beaches up from Patong, Cherngtalay caters to the high-end crowd, with Surin and Bang Tao beaches in its domain. It’s a relaxed sort of place with a good choice of international restaurants, bars, and beach clubs.

Discover Rayong: Thailand’s underrated treasure See the views

Best viewpoints in Phuket

Phuket has views for days. Challenge yourself to visit them all.

Phromthep Cape

Leave Phromthep Cape (also known as Laem Phromthep, pictured above) until the end of the day and enjoy a beautiful view over Phuket. Phromthep Cape is a popular and often busy tourist hub–but this shouldn’t distract from the incredible sunset views from Phuket’s southernmost point.

Karon Viewpoint

Confusingly named Karon Viewpoint , this viewpoint is in fact in Kata. Those who climb the steps to the top of the pavilion here on a clear day will be rewarded with sweeping views across Kata Noi Beach, Kata Beach, and Karon Beach in the north.

Windmill Viewpoint

Not far from Phromthep Cape, the Windmill viewpoint in Phuket is located between Ya Nui and Nai Harn beaches. It’s not as busy as Phromthep Cape yet offers similar southwest-facing vistas and is characterised by the tall, white windmills looking out to sea.

Sitting atop one of the tallest hills in Phuket, the Panwa viewpoint is perhaps one of the less-visited viewpoints on the island. Situated in Cape Panwa, its location is certainly less obvious, but the views from here easily rival any other, with 360-degree vistas out over southern and eastern Phuket.

The viewpoint at Rang Hill is located in Phuket Town and offers an inland view of the southern part of the island, including Chalong, Panwa, and the Big Buddha in the distance. A handful of restaurants are situated on Rang Hill, which are perfect for taking in the views while enjoying some local food.

Radar Hill is said to be the highest point in Phuket. This viewpoint is only accessible from the east via a long, steep road that winds up through the Thai countryside. Named after the government radar facility at the peak of the hill, Radar Hill presents dazzling views of Patong, Chalong, and Phuket Town.

Nightlife in Phuket

Phuket has beaches, views, and other attractions. What more could you want? Nightlife.

Bangla Road

Hurtling down the centre of Patong, Bangla Road is where all the action takes place after the sun goes down in Phuket. Late-night bars pump out music from huge nightclubs such as Famous, Seduction, and The Factory. Bangla Road–and Beach Road nearby–is truly the beating heart of nightlife in Phuket. This area is always alive with music, girly bars, and clubbers, and while it is of course busy, it’s also a non-threatening place to party the night away.

Beach bars at Kata

For a (much) more relaxed vibe, head to Kata Hill overlooking Kata Noi Beach, where three little bars invite chilled out beach-bum types to sip cocktails while watching the sun go down. The bars here– After Beach , Small Viewpoint and Baan Chom –all play Bob Marley music on loop and have fantastic sunset views.

Simon Cabaret

Located near Patong Beach, the Simon Cabaret hosts the most respected lady boy shows in Phuket, and is an attraction in Phuket in its own right. The show features some impressive sets, even more dazzling costumes, and some of the most glamorous performers in the industry, so it’s not difficult to see why it’s become one of Phuket’s main attractions.

Phuket FantaSea

For a family night out, head to the Phuket FantaSea Show , which sits in its own theme park complex. This iconic nighttime attraction features exotic animals that help tell a traditional Thai story infused with modern technology. This large complex also houses carnival games, a shopping village, and a place to enjoy a buffet dinner.

Siam Niramit

Located on the outskirts of Phuket Town, the Siam Niramit show is another family-friendly show that celebrates Thailand’s rich culture and history. With elaborate sets, astonishing special effects, and a talented cast, Siam Niramit is one of the most popular shows in Phuket.

This city is the hidden gem of Thailand Can you guess it?

An authentic Phuket

Want to know what the real deal is? Where the locals hang out? Read on…

Old Phuket Town

For a historic look at Phuket, head to Phuket Old Town . Small enough to explore on foot, the area was built from the riches of the tin mining boom of the 18th century, and so the architecture is heavily European (Portuguese and British) influenced.

Thalang Road is the main hub here. It’s lined with Sino-Portuguese shop-houses and plenty of places to grab a coffee and a spot of lunch. After lunch, head to Soi Romanee (the road that connects Thalang to Dibuk Road, and the former red-light district), and you’ll discover latticed windows and internal courtyards on the quaint old buildings lining the street.

Aside from the shophouses, other architectural highlights within Old Phuket Town are the Sino-Colonial mansions . These stately mansions were originally the homes of the rich Chinese tin barons. The grandest example of these is the Blue Elephant Governor Mansion on 96 Krabi Road.

Food in Phuket

Visitors to Phuket are also spoiled for choice when it comes to food. From tiny hawker stalls and local noodle shops, to seafood restaurants and fine dining establishments, Phuket caters to every taste and budget.

The Natural Restaurant

Talat Nuea, Mueang Phuket DistrictThe Natural Restaurant in Phuket Town is a traditional Thai wooden shack featuring a jumble of plants, waterfalls… and fish tanks made out of disused TV sets! It has an extensive menu of Thai cuisine and is very reasonably priced.

Another great foodie spot in Phuket Town is the small, family-run La Gaetana –it has a fun atmosphere, and serves up some fantastic Italian and international cuisine.

Old Siam Restaurant

For more traditional Thai food, Old Siam Restaurant in Nakalay Bay is a fine choice. With its authentic food and peaceful atmosphere, it’s one of the few restaurants in Phuket where diners can enjoy delicious Thai Royale Cuisine with their toes buried in the sand. Reservations required.

Street food and hawker stalls

In terms of street food, hawker stalls can be found in almost every corner of Phuket, offering up delicious homemade food at minuscule prices. Find them by the roadside, along the beachfront or at Phuket’s markets–the hawker stalls serve up a wide range of food, from spicy salads and fruit, to fried chicken and noodles. Visitors to Phuket needn’t be afraid to eat the local street food. It’s an inexpensive and tasty choice that rarely leads to an upset stomach. 10 Best Street Food to try in Phuket

Phuket’s markets

Markets by day and by night are a way of life for the locals.

Phuket Weekend Market

The most famous market in town, the Phuket Weekend Market (known locally as Naka Market) sits on the fringes of Phuket Town along Chao Fa West Road. It’s a chaotic and atmospheric place, selling everything imaginable–from second-hand clothes to fake designer handbags, and it also has a thriving food section. Visiting the Phuket Weekend Market is an experience in itself, but there’s always something worth bartering for among its diverse and colourful stands.

Banzaan Market

While prices aren’t as reasonable here as they are at the Phuket Weekend Market, Patong’s Banzaan Market attracts visitors to its modern stalls on Sai Kor Road for its clean and pleasant environment, and huge choice of fresh food. The market is divided into different sections for meat, seafood, vegetables, exotic fruits, and Thai sweets, among other tasty treats.

5 locals you must meet on every trip Get the inside scoop

Events and festivals in Phuket

Festivals and events are always on the horizon: this island never stops.

Vegetarian Festival

The Phuket Vegetarian Festival is held over a nine-day period, usually in October, and came about due to the Chinese community’s belief that a vegetarian diet during the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar enables them to obtain good health and a sound mind.

It’s fair to say that the festival transcends most people’s perceptions of what it entails. Many picture passive scenes of vegetarian food stalls and perhaps some accompanying music. The truth is that it in fact involves some dangerous activities for its participants, including ladder climbing with rungs made of knives, barefoot walks across hot coals, and some extreme piercings with various hooks and skewers. This is all accompanied by rapid-fire explosions and dramatic puffs of smoke thanks to all the Chinese fire crackers.

Celebrated countrywide, Songkran is the ultimate festival in Thailand–a time when people from every walk of life, from the young to the old, come out to participate in what is essentially one giant water fight! It takes place in April, which marks the beginning of the traditional Thai New Year, and Phuket is a great place to celebrate it as the whole island comes alive in celebration.

Loi Krathong

Loi Krathong is one of Thailand’s most significant festivals. Loi means to ‘float’ and ‘krathong’ is a small lotus shaped carving made (traditionally) from the trunk of a banana tree and decorated with folded banana leaves, flowers, candles, and incense sticks. Held in November, thousands of these small candles are sent to float gently out to sea so that waters around the whole of Thailand become awash with light. If staying in Phuket or another coastal area, it’s possible to see these for miles out to sea, with reports of sightings close to the Similan Islands.

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Phuket Travel Tips: Top 13 Attractions In Phuket

Phuket travel tips: This article provides essential travel advice for a trip to Phuket, including must-see attractions, popular beaches, local cuisine, and transportation options. If you’re planning a visit to Phuket, read on to discover everything you need to know for a memorable and enjoyable experience.

Phuket, the largest island in Thailand, is renowned for its stunning beaches , vibrant nightlife, and rich cultural heritage. With so much to offer, it’s important to plan your trip wisely to make the most of your time there. We’ll provide you with a comprehensive guide to help you navigate through Phuket, whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning for another fantastic vacation.

From exploring the famous Old Town to indulging in delicious street food, Phuket offers a diverse range of experiences that cater to every traveler’s taste. So, let’s dive into the Phuket travel tips to ensure you have an unforgettable trip to this tropical paradise.

Credit: www.kten.com

Best Time To Visit Phuket

Phuket, the largest island in Thailand, is a tropical paradise that offers something for everyone, from stunning beaches to vibrant nightlife and rich cultural experiences. However, the timing of your visit can greatly impact your overall experience. In this article, we will explore the best time to visit Phuket, considering weather conditions, peak tourist seasons, and ideal months for outdoor activities and beach vacations .

Weather Conditions In Phuket Throughout The Year

The weather in Phuket is characterized by two main seasons – the dry season and the monsoon season. The dry season, which runs from November to April, is generally the best time to visit Phuket. During these months, you can expect warm temperatures, clear skies, and low humidity. This period is perfect for sunbathing, exploring the island, and engaging in water activities.

On the other hand, the monsoon season in Phuket starts around May and lasts until October. During this time, the island experiences heavy rain showers and occasional storms. Although the rain can provide relief from the heat, it can also limit outdoor activities and beach time. Traveling during the monsoon season can be a gamble, but it’s also the time when you can find better deals on accommodation and experience a quieter side of Phuket.

Peak Tourist Seasons And Off-peak Seasons

Phuket attracts tourists all year round, but there are distinct peak and off-peak seasons to consider. The peak tourist season in Phuket aligns with the dry season, particularly from November to February. During these months, the island is bustling with visitors from all over the world, and prices for accommodation and activities are generally higher. If you prefer a vibrant atmosphere and don’t mind the crowds, the peak season can be an exciting time to visit.

On the other hand, the off-peak season in Phuket falls during the monsoon months. This is when you can find lower prices on hotels and experience a more serene and laid-back version of the island. While some businesses may reduce their operations during this time, you can still explore Phuket’s cultural attractions, indulge in delicious Thai cuisine, and enjoy indoor activities such as spa treatments and cooking classes.

Ideal Months To Visit For Outdoor Activities And Beach Vacations

For outdoor enthusiasts and beach lovers, the best months to visit Phuket are typically from November to April. During these months, the weather is dry, temperatures are comfortable, and the sea is calm and clear. This creates ideal conditions for snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, and other water sports. Moreover, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to enjoy sun-soaked days on the island’s breathtaking beaches, such as Patong, Kata, and Kamala Beach.

However, if you don’t mind occasional rain showers and seek lower prices, you can also consider visiting Phuket during the shoulder months of May to October. While the weather may not be as picture-perfect, you can still engage in outdoor activities, with the added advantage of fewer crowds and better deals on accommodation. Just remember to check the forecast and plan your activities accordingly.

Top Attractions In Phuket

Phuket, known as the Pearl of the Andaman, offers a plethora of attractions that make it a dream destination for travelers. From stunning beaches and breathtaking natural wonders to rich cultural experiences, this island has it all. Let’s explore some of the top attractions in Phuket.

Explore The Stunning Beaches Of Phuket

Phuket is famous for its pristine beaches, each with its own unique charm. Whether you seek vibrant entertainment, tranquility, or family-friendly vibes, Phuket has a beach for everyone.

Patong Beach, A vibrant hub of entertainment and nightlife

Patong Beach is the liveliest beach on the island, offering a buzzing atmosphere day and night. With a long stretch of golden sand, it is perfect for sunbathing and people-watching. In the evening, Patong comes alive with its vibrant nightlife scene, featuring numerous bars, clubs, and entertainment options.

Kata Beach, A tranquil spot for relaxation and water sports

Kata Beach is a serene paradise that caters to those seeking a peaceful getaway. With crystal-clear waters, soft sands, and lush greenery, it is an ideal spot for sun-seekers and water sports enthusiasts. Whether you want to try surfing, snorkeling, or simply unwind by the sea, Kata Beach has you covered.

Kamala Beach, A family-friendly beach with a laid-back atmosphere

If you’re traveling with your family, Kamala Beach is the perfect choice. This laid-back beach offers a calm and relaxed vibe, making it ideal for families with children. With shallow waters and a range of activities such as beach volleyball and kayaking, Kamala Beach ensures a memorable day for the whole family.

Discover Phang Nga Bay’s Natural Wonders

Just a short boat ride away from Phuket, Phang Nga Bay is a natural wonderland that will leave you in awe. Here are some must-visit spots:

James Bond Island, a famous movie location with unique limestone formations

Stepping onto James Bond Island feels like entering a movie scene. This iconic island was featured in the James Bond movie “The Man with the Golden Gun.” Marvel at its unique limestone formations rising from the emerald-green waters, creating a picturesque sight that will leave you spellbound.

Koh Panyee, a floating fishing village offering a glimpse into local life

Experience the authentic charm of Koh Panyee, a floating fishing village that provides a fascinating insight into local life. Explore the village’s stilt houses, visit the mosque, and savor delectable seafood dishes at the floating restaurants. It’s a cultural immersion you won’t want to miss.

Sea cave kayaking and snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters

Embark on an adventure through the sea caves and crystal-clear waters of Phang Nga Bay. Kayak your way through hidden caves, marvel at the limestone cliffs, and snorkel in the vibrant underwater world. This thrilling experience will leave you with memories to cherish.

Immerse Yourself In The Rich Culture And History Of Phuket

Phuket’s cultural heritage is as captivating as its natural beauty. Here are some cultural highlights to explore:

Visit the iconic Big Buddha and enjoy panoramic views of the island

Perched atop Nakkerd Hill, the Big Buddha is a majestic landmark that offers panoramic views of Phuket. Marvel at the giant statue and the serene atmosphere of the temple complex while taking in the breathtaking vistas of the island.

Explore the Old Town’s charming streets and vibrant markets

Phuket Old Town is a treasure trove of colonial architecture, colorful buildings, and charming streets. Stroll along its bustling lanes, immerse yourself in the vibrant markets, and indulge in delicious street food. The fusion of cultures in this historic district is sure to leave you captivated.

Discover the fascinating history of Wat Chalong, the largest temple in Phuket

Wat Chalong is Phuket’s most revered and largest Buddhist temple. Explore its beautifully decorated halls, admire the intricate architecture, and learn about its history. Take a moment to find serenity and offer your respects at this sacred site.

13 Must-try Activities In Phuket

Phuket is a tropical paradise that offers a myriad of exciting activities to make your holiday unforgettable. Whether you are a thrill-seeker, a nature lover, or a food enthusiast, this island has something for everyone. Here are some must-try activities in Phuket that will make your trip truly memorable.

Embark On An Island-hopping Adventure

One of the best ways to explore the beauty of Phuket is by going on an island-hopping adventure. There are several beautiful islands in close proximity to Phuket that are worth visiting. From crystal-clear waters to stunning landscapes, each island has its own unique charm.

Visit Phi Phi Islands And Enjoy Snorkeling In The Colorful Coral Reefs

Phi Phi Islands are a must-visit destination for snorkeling enthusiasts. Dive into the vibrant underwater world and feast your eyes on the breathtaking coral reefs teeming with colorful marine life. Swim alongside tropical fish and discover the wonders of the underwater kingdom.

Explore Similan Islands, A Paradise For Divers And Nature Lovers

If you are a diving enthusiast or simply love being close to nature, a visit to the Similan Islands is a must. This archipelago is renowned for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and diverse marine life. Dive into the depths of the Andaman Sea and witness the wonders of the underwater world.

Take A Boat Tour To The Picturesque Racha Islands

The Racha Islands are known for their picturesque beauty and tranquility. Take a boat tour and be mesmerized by the crystal-clear turquoise waters and soft sandy beaches. It’s the perfect spot for swimming, snorkeling, and simply basking in the sun.

Indulge In Delicious Thai Cuisine

No trip to Phuket is complete without sampling the mouthwatering Thai cuisine. Whether you prefer street food or fine dining, Phuket has it all.

Experience The Vibrant Flavors Of Street Food In Local Markets

Explore the bustling local markets and dive into a culinary adventure. From sizzling satay skewers to savory Pad Thai, the vibrant flavors and exotic spices of Thai street food will leave you craving for more.

Try Traditional Dishes Like Pad Thai, Tom Yum Goong, And Green Curry

Phuket is the perfect place to indulge in traditional Thai dishes such as Pad Thai, Tom Yum Goong, and Green Curry. These iconic dishes represent the unique flavors of Thailand and will tantalize your taste buds.

Dine In Beachfront Restaurants And Savor Fresh Seafood Specialties

For seafood lovers, Phuket is a paradise. Dine in beachfront restaurants and feast on an array of fresh seafood delicacies. From succulent lobster to grilled fish, the taste of the ocean is brought straight to your plate.

Engage In Thrilling Water Sports And Recreational Activities

Phuket offers an array of thrilling water sports and recreational activities that are sure to get your adrenaline pumping.

Go Scuba Diving And Discover The Diverse Marine Life Of The Andaman Sea

Explore the depths of the Andaman Sea and immerse yourself in a world of vibrant coral reefs and exotic marine life. Phuket is a diving paradise, catering to both beginners and experienced divers.

Try Wakeboarding, Jet Skiing, And Parasailing For An Adrenaline Rush

For those seeking an adrenaline rush, Phuket offers an array of water sports such as wakeboarding, jet skiing, and parasailing. Feel the wind in your hair and the rush of excitement as you glide through the sparkling waters.

Enjoy A Sunset Cruise Or Sunset Kayaking In The Scenic Phang Nga Bay

Witness the mesmerizing beauty of the sunset as you embark on a cruise or kayak through the stunning Phang Nga Bay. The breathtaking limestone cliffs and emerald-green waters create a truly magical atmosphere.

Essential Tips For A Memorable Phuket Trip

Planning a trip to Phuket? Congratulations! This vibrant island in Thailand is a popular destination for its stunning beaches, rich cultural heritage, and exciting activities. To ensure your vacation is truly memorable, here are some essential tips to keep in mind:

Plan Your Itinerary Wisely To Make The Most Of Your Time

Phuket has a plethora of attractions and activities to offer, so it’s crucial to plan your itinerary wisely. Research the must-visit places and prioritize the ones that interest you the most. Consider the duration of each activity and allocate sufficient time to fully enjoy them. This way, you can make the most of your time on the island.

Prioritize The Attractions And Activities That Interest You The Most

With so much to see and do, it’s important to prioritize the attractions and activities that resonate with your interests. Whether you’re a beach lover, an adventure enthusiast, or a culture seeker, Phuket has something for everyone. By focusing on what truly captivates you, you can create a tailored experience that matches your preferences.

Consider The Distances Between Locations And Plan Transportation Accordingly

When planning your itinerary, take into account the distances between different attractions and plan your transportation accordingly. Whether you choose to rent a car, hire a driver, or use public transportation, make sure you factor in travel time to avoid any unnecessary delays.

Allocate Sufficient Time For Relaxation And Exploring Off-the-beaten-path Spots

While Phuket is known for its popular beaches and tourist hotspots, don’t forget to allocate some time for relaxation and exploring off-the-beaten-path spots. Venture beyond the tourist areas and discover hidden gems that offer a more authentic experience of the island. This will add depth to your trip and create lasting memories.

Respect The Local Culture And Customs

When visiting any destination, it’s important to respect the local culture and customs. In Phuket, this means being mindful of Buddhist traditions and etiquette. Dress modestly when visiting temples and religious sites, as a sign of respect. Additionally, remember to remove your shoes before entering sacred places, as this is a common practice in Thailand.

Be Mindful Of Your Behavior And Avoid Excessive Noise In Public Areas

As a responsible traveler, it’s crucial to be mindful of your behavior and avoid excessive noise in public areas. Phuket is a bustling destination, but it’s essential to be considerate of others. Keep the volume down, especially in places like hotels, restaurants, and residential areas, to maintain a peaceful atmosphere for everyone to enjoy.

Stay Safe And Take Necessary Precautions

Ensuring your safety should be a top priority when traveling. Use reliable transportation options and avoid unlicensed taxis to minimize any risks. Be cautious of your belongings and avoid carrying valuable items, as petty theft can occur in crowded areas. Additionally, remember to stay hydrated, use sunscreen, and protect yourself from mosquito bites to prevent any health issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. what you need to know before going to phuket.

Before going to Phuket, there are a few important things to know. Plan your trip in advance and check the weather, as it can vary throughout the year. Be aware of local customs and dress appropriately, especially when visiting temples.

Carry cash, as not all places accept credit cards. Finally, don’t forget to try the local cuisine and enjoy the beautiful beaches!

2. How Do I Prepare For A Trip To Phuket?

To prepare for a trip to Phuket, gather travel documents, check passport validity, research weather, book accommodations and flights in advance, learn basic Thai phrases, and pack essentials like sunscreen and insect repellent. Remember to also check for any travel advisories or necessary vaccinations.

3. What Are The Do’s And Don’ts In Phuket?

Do’s in Phuket: Visit Patong Beach, explore Big Buddha, enjoy Thai cuisine, experience nightlife in Bangla Road, and take island-hopping tours. Don’ts in Phuket: Don’t disrespect Thai customs, avoid illegal activities, don’t overpay for tourist activities, be cautious of scams, and don’t litter or damage the environment.

4. How Much Money Do I Need For 7 Days In Phuket?

For a 7-day trip to Phuket, you will need approximately $500-800 for daily expenses like food, accommodation, transportation, and activities. The amount may vary depending on your travel style and preferences.

5. What Are The Best Beaches To Visit In Phuket?

Phuket is famous for its stunning beaches, including Patong, Kata, Karon, Nai Harn, and Kamala.

To wrap up, these Phuket travel tips are designed to enhance your experience in this magnificent destination. From visiting iconic landmarks like the Big Buddha and Phi Phi Islands to indulging in delectable Thai cuisine and immersing yourself in the vibrant nightlife, Phuket offers something for everyone.

Remember to plan your itinerary, stay hydrated, and have an open mind to embrace the local culture. By following these tips, you’ll create lasting memories and make the most of your Phuket adventure.

17 Best Things to do in Phuket, Thailand

Discover Phuket, a huge island connected by a small bridge to the mainland of Thailand . While it might be a ‘love it or hate it’ type of place, it offers something for every kind of traveler, from partying in the towns to natural excursions among jungle-covered temples and idyllic beaches. Spend some time exploring its hidden corners, or use it as a jumping-off point to discover the paradise islands that lay just off the shore. We’re showing you our favorite spots with this guide to all the best things to do in Phuket!

Things to do in Phuket, Thailand

Phuket may be an island, but it feels more like a peninsula of Thailand, mainly because of its vast size. However, it has buildings and culture which feel distinctly different from the mainland—home to a melting pot of Chinese, European , and Thai architecture, and its own regional dialect called Baba Malay.

Many people know Phuket as a party destination. However, if you look in the right places, there is so much more on offer. Discover its lush greenery, colonial-style old town, and buzzing markets with all the top things to do in Phuket.

Here are all your hotel options in Phuket.

1. Phuket Old Town 

Explore the beautiful streets of Phuket Old Town, home to a unique mix of Chinese and European architecture, due to its location on ancient trading routes. In the 19th century, merchants came to Phuket and began building pretty homes, some of which look straight off a Portugal postcard. In fact, at times, it’s hard to believe you’re in Thailand! 

Also read: Best Places to Visit in Thailand

Get lost among the streets and colorful buildings, many of which have now been transformed into cute shops, trendy cafes, or interesting galleries and museums. The area is also very artistic and has become famous in its own right for street art. As such, you’ll find huge murals that plaster the walls and regular art workshops on offer.

Tip: You can find the oldest buildings on Thaland Road, Dibuk Road ( see the exact location here ), and Soi Romanee. On Soi Romanee you’ll also find a great ice cream spot called Torry’s Ice Cream, located here .

Weekend Night Market

Don’t miss out on the bustling weekend market in Phuket! On Sunday nights the Old Town comes to life with stalls and vendors selling traditional and local products.

As the sun sets, weave your way down the lively street lit up by fairy lights and try all sorts of authentic Thai dishes at the many street food stalls. It’s also the perfect place to shop for handcrafted souvenirs and be entertained by street performers. 

Tip: Get there early to avoid the bigger crowds, as it’s a popular market for both tourists and locals.

Book this fantastic food tour in Phuket Old Town

Cafes in the Old Town

There’s nothing better than grabbing a delicious cup of coffee in one of the many great cafes in Phuket Old Town. Some of our favorites are:

• Campus Coffee Roasters
• GRAPH Phuket
• MŌMUS coffee
• Shan coffee

2. Wat Chalong

Wat Chalong is one of the island’s most important and beautiful temples and one of the best things to do in Phuket! Discover the expansive temple complex, home to five temples, each one unique and different from the others.

Crafted from white and pink marble, gold detailing, and beautiful tilework, these temples are as stunning on the outside as they are in. Best of all, visiting Wat Chalong is free! 

Come at the end of the day when it’s less busy. During this time, you’ll have more space to take in the sacredness of this important site. You may even get the chance to witness some of the rituals taking place. For example, candle lighting or offerings to the gods.

Alongside this, there is the unique practice of lighting firecrackers in the temple complex. This ritual is believed to ward off bad energy and evil spirits and bring positivity and good fortune to temple visitors—a must-see! 

Note: Wat Chalong is an incredibly sacred monument for the people of Phuket. Always be respectful, cover your shoulders and legs, and remove shoes before entering any of the temples. Although it’s free to enter, we recommend leaving a donation to the temple as a token of appreciation.

How to get to Wat Chalong 

The temple is located just 25 minutes from Phuket Old Town and is easily accessible by car, motorbike, or taxi. Remember, you’ll need about an hour to see the entire complex, and it closes at 5 PM, so leave plenty of time. The easiest option is to join a tour that includes many of the main sites in Phuket, including Wat Chalong and the Big Buddha.

3. White Big Buddha

Seeing the big Buddha up close is one of the most extraordinary experiences in Phuket. Standing 45 meters high, the enormous buddha overlooks Phuket, offering 360-degree views across the entire island.

Although you’ll find big buddhas like this one in places like Chiang Rai and Pai , this has to be one of the most beautiful as it’s extremely detailed with beautiful white and grey tiles and ornaments. Even the staircase to the top is exceptionally intricate, crafted with the traditional naga (snake) sculptures up the side. It’s nearly 100 steps to the top, but well worth it to experience this sacred environment.

The temple is free to visit (although donations are appreciated) and open from 6 AM until 7.30 PM. We visited around 8.30 AM, and it was relatively quiet and peaceful. Make sure to leave enough time, usually 1 hour, to stroll around the complex and visit the multiple viewpoints.

The Journey to the Big Buddha in Phuket

The drive to the Big Buddha is all part of the experience; it’s a stunning drive through lush green forest, which is doable with a motorcycle or car. In total, the journey from Phuket Town is 40 minutes. However, from the highway, it’s only about a 10-15 minute drive to the top.

Make a stop halfway at a lovely restaurant named Mountain Breeze, where you can order some food and enjoy incredible views over Phuket.

Note: Unfortunately, halfway to the Big Buddha, there are a lot of wildlife tourist traps offering travelers the option to take selfies with tigers or ride elephants. This is something Thailand is working hard to try and crack down on. Please support their efforts by being sustainable and ethical travelers and avoiding this type of wildlife tourism .

4. Pottery Class

Sitao Ceramic Studio is a popular spot for pottery classes, located in a cheerful bright yellow building in the middle of Phuket Old Town. Perfect for a rainy afternoon, you can spend a few hours crafting your own unique souvenir to take home, made with local clay and paint. You can even make magnets! 

Phuket has a long history of ceramics production, with influences from China and Europe blending together to make unique and intricate designs. Learn about this fascinating history, while you create something special of your own. Alternatively, browse the collection of handmade pottery on offer in their shop.

Open every day except Wednesday, 10 AM – 7 PM. It’s recommended to book in advance, as it’s a popular activity. 

Good to know: Sitao Ceramic can ship what you make to your home address. This saves you from carrying around fragile ceramics for the rest of your holiday!

5. Samet Nangshe Viewpoint

Motorbike through green jungles and small villages to Samet Nangshe Viewpoint – easily one of Thailand’s most breathtaking natural views! Beautiful at any time of day, but especially spectacular at sunrise, the viewpoint is perched atop a (very!) steep hill. Once you’re at the top, you’ll be rewarded by a view over Phang Nga Bay, a stunning body of turquoise blue water dotted with hundreds of limestone islands and framed by a luscious mangrove forests. 

Entrance fee: 50 THB (1.44 USD)

We recommend staying a night somewhere close by, so you can enjoy the sunrise and some fantastic stargazing. It’s worth noting that it’s not on the Phuket peninsula, so you might want to book a night close to the viewpoint. We stayed at the lovely Baan Kamana , about 30 minutes away, but you can also stay at this resort . There are a few different spots to take in the view. The main ones are Samet Nangshe Viewpoint and Bay View Cafe . 

Book a stay at Santhiya Phuket Natai  or Baan Kamana

6. Thai Cooking Class

Phuket has incredible food; the wide variety of fresh, local ingredients available including fantastic seafood, are used to create a fusion of Thai, Chinese, and Malay cuisine, which has grown from their international trading past.

Have a go at making Hokkien-style noodles, spicy soups, and traditional Pad Thai at a local cooking class. There are all the delicious secrets of these dishes are revealed, and you can learn more about Phuket’s unique culinary culture. 

Most classes will include a tour around the local market to pick out fresh ingredients first. Delicious!

7. A Night Out on Bangla Road in Patong

Bangla Road in the Patong Beach district of Phuket is notorious for its wild night out, where you can party until the early hours. Grab a drink, enjoy the music, and watch the crowds of people embracing the party atmosphere at one of Thailand’s top nightlife spots.

Good to know: The street opens for pedestrians at 6 PM. During the day, there’s not much going on here.

8. Phuket Elephant Sanctuary

Thailand has faced a lot of controversy for its animal tourism over the years. This is paticularly the case with elephants, who are forced to perform or give rides to tourists and are often abused in the process. To have the chance to see these beautiful creatures in an ethical environment, visit the Phuket Elephant Sanctuary . This retirement home (for older and injured elephants) works to rescue these incredible creatures from the logging and tourism industries.

Tip: If you are planning to visit Chiang Mai during your holiday, we’d recommend visiting the Elephant Nature Park there instead, as it is the most ethical elephant sanctuary in Thailand. However, Phuket’s Elephant Sanctuary is the next best thing.

Visiting the Elephant Sanctuary

Take a guided tour of the sanctuary, through their 30-acre forest, and observe the herd bathing from a respectful distance. As you learn about their heartbreaking stories, you can also watch them roaming freely from the 600-meter-long canopy walkway in the treetops. Human contact is limited to keep the elephants calm and happy.

See tickets and availability for a guided tour of the Elephant Sanctuary

9. Soi Dog Foundation

Soi Dog Foundation is a non-profit organization and shelter for street dogs and cats. They currently have over 1800 animals in their care. You can take a free 40-minute guided tour of the shelter, where you learn about their programs and also play with the animals!

What’s more, if you are planning to stay in Phuket for a while and would like to help, there are several volunteer programs you can get involved with.

Open Monday – Friday, tours run at 10 AM and 1:30 PM. No entry fee, but donations are welcomed.

Getting there: The shelter is in Mai Khao village, close to the airport, which is around a 50-minute taxi drive from Phuket’s Old Town. However, it’s definitely worth a visit, so we suggest combing it with another trip.

10. Banana Beach

This quiet and somewhat secluded beach on the north-west side of Phuket is surrounded by lush green forest, with soft white sand and gorgeous clear blue water.

From the main road, it’s a short trek down through the trees to reach the beach and enjoy an undisturbed afternoon of swimming and snorkeling in stunning natural surroundings. There is a small beach bar, but no sunbeds or umbrellas, so bring towels.

Good to know: Please respect the natural beauty, take your trash away, and wear reef-safe sunscreen .

11. Hanuman World

Hanuman World is an incredible zipline in the hills of Kathu, a 15-minute drive from Phuket Old Town. You can do activities like ziplining, waterfall abseiling, and sky bridge walks. See the beautiful natural scenery of Phuket as you fly through the rainforest—one of the most exhilarating things to do in Phuket, Thailand!

Opening Times & Entrance Fee: Open 8 AM – 6 PM daily. The price depends on the package of activities. There is also a shuttle service for visitors who book a tour in advance (300 THB / 8.50 USD).

Book your tickets in advance for Hanuman World

12. Kamala Beach & Laem Sing Viewpoint

Kamala Beach, once a quiet fishing village, is now a popular destination for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. However, it’s still kept its laidback and peaceful atmosphere, with its beautiful palm trees and untouched blue bay. Spend a day here, sipping from a coconut at one of the beachside bars or taking a walk along the clean white sand.

Laem Sing Viewpoint overlooks the beaches of Kamala and Surin and offers incredible panoramic views of the Andaman Sea and the surrounding coastline covered in tropical forests. Come here at sunset when the whole bay turns breathtaking shades of pink and orange. 

Here are all your hotel options in Kamala Beach.

13. Nai Thon Beach Staircase 

To reach Nai Thon Beach you’ll need to make the steep climb down 200 steps. However, this tucked-away staircase is actually the most picturesque thing to do in Phuket! The wooden stairs, lined on either side by thick green jungle and palm trees, lead down to a tropical paradise of white sand and turquoise water.

Although the stairs are now a popular photo spot, the beach itself is a beautiful place to relax and spend a few hours watching the sun go down. Because it’s difficult to reach, it’s also relatively quiet.

Unfortunately, the beach was highly polluted during our visit, with a lot of plastic washed up on the shore and by the stairs. 

Read: Learn more about how to travel plastic-free!

14. Karon Beach

Another tiny fishing village turned tourist hotspot, this long stretch of sand in Karon is stunning, with soft white sand and an inviting clear blue sea just waiting to be dived into! The popular area can get busy, but it is big enough that you should be able to find a quiet spot for yourself.

There are plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops here. We’d recommend Soul I Vegan Cafe & Restaurant for a delicious and nourishing meal to keep your energy up in between swims in the sea.

Tip: If it’s super busy, try Kata Beach or Kata Noi Beach, which are quieter.

Here are all your hotel options in Karon Beach.

15. Bang Pae Waterfall

Bang Pae Waterfall is a stunning natural feature In Khao Phra Thaeo National Park, the only remaining rainforest in Phuket. The falls cascade down a rocky cliff into a natural pool below, surrounded by tropical plants, and it’s a great place to cool off in the hot and humid weather! 

The park is a natural sanctuary for rare and endangered wildlife, so keep a close eye out for flying squirrels and macaques as you walk. You are also closeby to the Gibbon Rehabilitation Project if you want to learn more about these amazing animals.

Entrance Fee: 200 THB (5 USD) to enter the national park.

Travel Insurance Don't forget a travel insurance for your Thailand trip! Heymondo covers medical emergencies, theft, delays, cancellations, lost luggage, and more, with 24/7 worldwide assistance and medical chat. As a Salt in our Hair reader, we've got you 5% off! Check Heymondo here

16. Go Island Hopping

Phuket is the perfect jumping-off point for island hopping. Because of its location in the stunning blue Andaman Sea, there is easy access to hundreds of beautiful limestone islands with white sandy beaches and dramatic green cliffs. Spend a few days exploring pristine beaches, snorkeling and diving in coral reefs, and visiting floating villages. 

Many of these islands are only a short boat ride away, so you can base yourself in Phuket and make day trips. Alternatively, pick your favorite and spend a few nights away in a tropical island paradise.

Getting there: Book a tour from the many operators in Phuket, or there are plenty of flexible transport options, including speedboats and ferries, which can take you to most islands in under an hour. Prices: 1000-4000 THB (30-120 USD)

One of the most famous places in Thailand, Phi Phi is, in fact, a group of six islands, all with beautiful beaches and crystal clear water. Come here for out-of-this-world snorkeling and diving spots, stunning scenery that you may recognize from movies like ‘The Beach’, and vibrant nightlife.

See availability for a tour to the Phi Phi Islands

Racha Islands  

Koh Racha Yai and Koh Racha Noi are two beautiful islands, only one of which is inhabited. Both have snowy white beaches, clear azure water, and world-class snorkeling and diving. These quiet islands are also great for stargazing.

Book tickets for a catamaran tour to the Racha Islands

K ai Islands

These stunning islands are what you see on the posters—home to untouched sandy beaches, bright blue water dotted with small wooden boats, and palm trees waving in the breeze. The island has a relaxed and authentic vibe, making it the perfect place to unwind and snorkel in the shallow waters.

See availability and tickets for a day tour to the Kai Islands

Coral Island 

Coral Island, also known as Koh Hae, is home to the beautiful Banana Beach and breathtaking coral reefs, great for snorkeling and diving. It is also only 15 minutes by speedboat from Phuket, so it’s an excellent option for a day trip.

Book your speedboat ticket in advance to Banana Beach

17. Visit the Gibbon Rehabilitation Project

The Gibbon Rehabilitation Project aims to rescue, protect and rehabilitate gibbons that have been illegally captured for the tourism and pet trades. The team works to repopulate the endangered species and reintroduce them back into their natural habitat, which is also sadly Phuket’s last remaining rainforest. 

The visit includes a visit to the nearby Bang Pae waterfall, a beautiful natural oasis where you can cool off.

See the official website for tour prices and times

Best Cafes and Restaurants in Phuket

Phuket has countless restaurants and cafes offering everything from international cuisine to delicious local dishes and incredible seafood, of course! There are loads of great vegan and vegetarian options as well, and you can cafe-hop for days. 

There are so many amazing places to choose from, but here are some of our absolute favorites:

• Beach Coconuts Bowls
• Laem Sai Cup Cafe
• Soul Vegan Cafe
• Three Monkeys Restaurant
• The Neighbors Cafe
• Origami Cafe
• Maimorn Seafood & Karaoke
• Pizzeria Da Moreno
• The Vegan Table
• Amore Mexican Tapas & Bar

Where to Stay

We recommend splitting your time between the beach and the old town, spending at least 2-3 days in each. There are plenty of accommodation options, from cheap and cheerful hostels in Phuket to upmarket hotels and luxury villas. Here are some of the most popular areas for your stay:

Phuket Old Town

The best time to stay here is during the weekend when the Sunday night market is on, and there is a lively atmosphere. Although small, it’s the cultural and historical heart of the island, with beautiful colonial architecture, museums, and many cute cafes. 

Hotels in Phuket Old Town 😴

Patong Beach

Patong is the most popular area for visitors as there are plenty of restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops to explore. There are also lots of backpacker hostels here, and if partying is your thing, this is where you should be based. 

Hotels in Patong 😴

Kata Beach or Karon Beach

Come here for relaxed beach vibes, stunning natural scenery, and more peace than busy Patong. Laid-back Kata is a bit quieter than Karon. 

Hotels in Kata Beach 😴

Bang Tao is a huge stretch of beach (one of the longest in Phuket), where many resorts are based. It’s much quieter, a little fancier, and has beautiful sunsets.

Hotels in Bang Tao 😴

How Many Days in Phuket? 

There are so many things to do in Phuket that it would be a shame to pack it all into a few short days. We recommend staying at least a week to fully explore and experience everything that this huge island has to offer. There are loads of different towns and beaches to visit, great shopping, fantastic cafes and plenty of parties! You should also definitely spend a day or two island hopping if you have the time. 

How to Visit Phuket

There are international and domestic flights to Phuket , with daily flights from Bangkok taking just under two hours. If you’re lucky enough to have a window seat, keep an eye out for Mai Khao Beach while landing, which is right by the airport, where you’ll see people plane-spotting on the sand! 

From the airport, it is a 40-minute drive to Phuket Old Town; you can take a shared van (120 THB / 3.50 USD) or a public bus, and there are always plenty of taxis waiting if you have a slightly bigger budget (550 THB / 16 USD). Please note that Grab, Indrive, and other apps are not allowed inside the airport. 

Book your airport transfer in advance here

If traveling from Bangkok, you can take a night bus or train (both take around 12-14 hours), which is a more affordable and sustainable option. The train stops at Surat Thani, so you must take an onward bus from there to Phuket.

See availability and tickets for a train to Surat Thani

Getting Around

You can rent a motorbike for around 5-10 USD per day. However, remember that traffic in Phuket can be heavy, and road safety is not always a top priority. Tuk-tuks are the easiest way to get around and generally the cheapest, as taxis are a little more expensive. Grab taxi is another handy option. Alternatively, you can rent a car to have complete freedom.

We recommend to rent a car in Thailand through Sunny Cars with free cancellation and insurance included. Book your rental car here .

How Much Does Phuket Cost?

Phuket is a popular holiday destination for all kinds of budgets, whether you’re looking to treat yourself or you’re on a budget. There are plenty of great hostel options, and choosing local restaurants or street food is also great for saving money.

Tip: During the high season, from November to February, prices will be higher.

Costs of Traveling in Phuket

Travel on a budget in Phuket, from $110 − $240 USD weekly per person, mid-range $490 − $590 USD, and high-end from $590 − $750 USD. However, costs depend on factors like accommodation, transportation, and activities. We did not include flights. Check flight prices here

• Hotels: $50 − $80 USD Check available hotels
• Hostels: $5 − $25 USD Check available hostels
• Transport: $2 − $10 USD Book public transport
• Food: $3 − $8 USD
• Activities: $2 − $10 USD See tickets & tours
• Sim: $1 − $3 USD Get an eSIM or SIM here
• Travel Insurance: $2 − $6 USD Get Travel Insurance

Best Time to Visit

Phuket can get very busy during the high season (November to February), which means higher prices, but the weather is cooler, and there is less chance of heavy rain. The shoulder season of March to May is an excellent time to come if you want to avoid the bigger crowds and enjoy lower prices while still having good weather.  

Tip: If you’re here in September/October, don’t miss out on the Phuket Vegetarian Festival, a colorful and lively event with different ceremonies over 10 days and lots of firecrackers!

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• 62 Best Things to Do in Phuket
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18 Frequently Asked Questions about Phuket – The Basics

• Information , Things to Know , Tips
• Last updated 19 July 2020 13 February 2023

First Time in Phuket – Phuket FAQs

Phuket travel – sharing tips, useful travel info, frequently asked questions, things you should know before you go and even more once you arrive in Phuket. These are the little things we gathered that can make a difference during your holiday. There is a lot to say to help you enjoy your stay while avoiding problems, so bookmark this page as we try to add as questions arise.

Before you go and on arrival

1. currency :.

Thai Baht Banknotes : 1,000, 500,100, 50, 20.Coins: 10, 5 2, 1 and the useless 50 ‘satang’ (0.5 baht) and 25 ‘satang’ (0.25 baht). Major credit cards are accepted in many stores and restaurants but not in taxis, bazaars, massages, beer bars and other local businesses.

2. Electricity

220Volts – 50/60 Hz

Most common is the ‘ Two round pins ‘, sometimes with the ground (Europlug CEE 7/16) and occasionally the old ‘ Two flat parallel blades ‘ similar to the US (NEMA 1­15 or JIS C 8303). Most modern plugs accept both. Adapters are easy to find at the many convenience stores.

4. Do I need a Visa for Phuket?

Use this link to check if your country requires a visa on arrival (and how to get one online)

5. Phuket Airport

Phuket airport is a large and modern complex, accommodating the millions of visitors Phuket receives each year (in normal times, obviously). A full page is dedicated to the renovated, enlarged and improved Phuket International Airport: what to expect on arrival, how to get to your hotel, money changes, etc. It’s not that stressful if you know what to expect.

Get listed or advertise on Phuket101: contact us here!

6. ATM in Phuket

ATMs are everywhere and usually work safely. In the Bangla area of Patong, make sure no one watches over your shoulder but isn’t it just common sense?

NOTE : in Thailand, money comes out FIRST, and only after you take your money your card is ejected! A great way to forget your card in the machine after those three beers! NOTE : When changing money at a money exchange, count your money in front of the cashier; there have been some cases of missing money. The best exchange rate is usually in the non-brand exchange booths you will spot easily on most streets of main beaches.

7. Car Rental

Renting a car at the airport is very simple, but we recommend you book in advance if you prefer a specific model, especially during the high season. Cars are third-party insured (it will only cover the damage done to the other vehicle you may hit), but you will have to pay for any damage to your car. Always double-check the condition of your car before leaving the airport. The best is to pay a little extra to have it fully covered and worry-free. You can also rent a GPS at the airport. Renting cars from the street is possible; you will see plenty around the island, but it’s a lucky draw. As long as things go fine, you might save a few baht, but it can get ugly if something happens. In any case call tourist police: 1155. They have a good basic understanding of English.

8. Hotels in Phuket

Booking your hotel in advance is always cheaper than on arrival, especially at the airport . There are so many hotels in Phuket there is no lack of choice. Most important is to choose your location; if you want everything available at any time, go to Patong but get ready for some crowd. If you like it quiet and romantic: Mai Khao Beach . Something in between good for the family? Kata , Karon or Kamala . Note that beaches quiet during the high season often appear deserted in low.

9. SIM Cards

SIM cards are easy to find for 50 Baht at any convenience store in Phuket, but the fastest way is to pick up a free one at the airport luggage claim, usually from TRUE Move. Then go to the next 7-11 once you are all set with your hotel and add credit to it. According to our readers, all cards work quite well: TRUE, DTAC, AIS, and 12Call, but DTAC seems better for data (Internet and Facebook)

Once in Phuket

10. driving in phuket.

With so many things to see and do in Phuket, renting a bike or a car seems to be one of the best ways to get around freely at a low cost. But it comes with some risks and dangers. Following these basic rules might help to avoid unnecessary trouble.

11. Jet Skis

It costs around 1,500 baht for 30mn. This is just an indication; the rate varies with the gasoline price, but always up, never down! Jet skis riders are often victims of accidents or major scams involving huge unjustified fines. Stay away from them; it’s not worth it!

12. Suntan vs Sunburn

Please don’t take it lightly: the sun in Phuket is strong, even on a cloudy day. Do yourself a favour and don’t ruin your chances of a nice smooth suntan on your arrival day by overexposing yourself without sunscreen. In 24 years, we have since had some pretty severe sunburns! Take it easy the first days; trust us, you will get a better tan! Read about mistakes people make on a 1st visit .

13. Swimming Safety

Swimming red flags and warning signs must be taken seriously, especially during the low season. Riptides are treacherous, and no matter how good a swimmer you are, the danger is real. One second you stand waist-deep on the sand; the second, later, you are meters away and swimming back can be impossible. During low season, pick a hotel with a nice swimming pool if you want to swim your laps. The newspapers report daily rescues, so please think twice.

14. Taxis and airport transfers

Taxi Meters often forget to turn on their meter and therefore will try to overcharge you on arrival or offer a higher ‘agreed’ rate. Keep an eye on that meter and insist. Also, always assume that taxi meters, even in Bangkok, NEVER have small change. This can lead to serious tips!

15. Tuk Tuks

Tuk Tuks have bad reputation… I feel sorry for the few drivers I met that were nice guys. ALWAYS agree on the fare before you go and always bargain since they will try to overcharge by default, maybe by 30%. It’s not recommended for girls to ride a Tuk Tuks alone at night. Otherwise, it’s convenient since they are everywhere, and once again, most Tuk Tuks are OK.

16. Visa Overstay

Make sure you double-check the expiry date of the arrival stamp on your passport! If you overstay, it will cost you 500 baht per additional day for the next 40 days, then 1,000 baht per day beyond that. You could even get blacklisted! But who would ‘forget’ more than 40 days? It has become increasingly difficult to ‘negotiate’ the fine when in the officer’s office, but it’s not forbidden to try 😉

17. Water (and ice)

The consensus recommends not drinking tap water and buying drinking water (widely available). Usually, your hotel will supply a couple of complimentary bottles, and 7-11 stores are everywhere. However, ice is safe! Companies supplying ice all over the island use filtered water.

18. Weather in Phuket

Phuket lies in a tropical region and is warm all year round. Temperatures range from ‘WARM’ to ‘TOO HOT’. Best Time to Come : Coolest and supposedly best months are December to March. Rainy Season: June to August is a mix of rain and sun, usually enjoyable. September, October and November are often the wettest months. Hottest Time : April and May are the hottest months.

More reading

How many days do you need in Phuket for a great holiday?

1st Time in Phuket ? 26 Things You Should See, Do, Eat, Know and Enjoy!

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Latest update

Exercise a high degree of caution to Thailand overall due to the risk of civil unrest and the threat of terrorism, including in Bangkok and Phuket. 

Higher levels apply in some areas.

Thailand (PDF 998.61 KB)

Asia (PDF 2.21 MB)

Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue services, medical emergencies.

Call 1669 for medical emergencies and rescue services.

Call 1724 for an ambulance in Bangkok. 1669 Nationwide.

Call 191 for police.

Call 1155 for the tourist police.

Advice levels

Exercise a high degree of caution  to Thailand overall due to the risk of civil unrest and the threat of terrorism, including in Bangkok and Phuket. 

Exercise a high degree of caution  to Thailand overall due to the possibility of civil unrest and the threat of terrorism, including in Bangkok and Phuket. 

Reconsider your need to travel  to Yala, Pattani and Narathiwat provinces.

Reconsider your need to travel  to:

• Yala province,
• Pattani province, and 
• Narathiwat province

due to ongoing risks of low-level insurgent activity.

See  Safety .

• Anti-government protests have previously occurred in Bangkok and other areas of Thailand. The security environment can be unpredictable and turn violent. Those attending protests can face arrest or other legal consequences. Monitor local media for information on protest locations and avoid public gatherings. Take official warnings seriously and follow the advice of local authorities.
• Popular tourist areas in Thailand may be the target of terrorist attacks. Thai authorities have warned of possible bombings on symbolic dates or holidays. Be alert to possible threats. Take official warnings seriously and follow the advice of local authorities.
• Border areas near Cambodia, Myanmar and Malaysia are dangerous due to violence, armed conflict and landmines. Pay close attention to your personal security.
• Reconsider your need to travel to the 3 most southern provinces of the Thailand-Malaysia border: Yala, Pattani and Narathiwat. Low-level insurgent activity continues to occur in these areas.  
• Sexual assault, assault, robbery and drink spiking can happen to tourists. Never leave your drink unattended. Stick with people you trust at parties, in bars, nightclubs and taxis.

Full travel advice:  Safety

• If you're visiting Thailand and then travelling to a country that requires COVID-19 testing (RAT or PCR test) for entry, you'll need to purchase medical insurance prior to your arrival in Thailand. The insurance will need to provide cover for COVID-19 treatment.
• Travellers have been arrested for carrying medicine they bought at a Thai pharmacy without a prescription. Get medical advice before buying medicine.
• Insect-borne diseases include malaria, Zika virus, dengue, chikungunya, Japanese encephalitis and filariasis. Use insect repellent. Ensure your accommodation is insect-proof as possible. 
• Animals in parts of Thailand can carry rabies. Don't ever feed, pat or tease monkeys. If you're bitten or scratched by a dog, monkey or other animal, get treatment immediately.
• Thailand has high levels of air pollution. Air pollution can make bronchial, sinus or asthma conditions worse. Check air quality levels on the World Air Quality Index .
• Medical tourism is common. Avoid discount and uncertified medical establishments. Their standards can be poor. Research medical service providers and choose with care.

Full travel advice:  Health

• Penalties for drug offences are severe. They include the death penalty.
• Commercial surrogacy is illegal. E-cigarettes, e-baraku, vaporisers and refills are illegal. Smoking on some beaches is illegal. Travel without carrying identification is illegal.
• Penalties for breaking the law can apply to anyone aged under 18 years. Penalties for children can include detention in a juvenile or adult prison.
• Thailand has the death penalty for serious crimes, including murder, attempted murder and rape. Crimes against the state and offences against the monarchy can also attract the death penalty. Take care not to cause offence about the monarchy, including on social media.

Full travel advice:  Local laws

• You can get a visa exemption for up to 30 days if you arrive through one of the international airports or for up to 15 days if you enter through a land border (restricted to 2 entries per calendar year). Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. You should contact the nearest embassy or consulate of Thailand or see the  Thai government's Facebook page  for the latest details. 
• You may be subject to biometric screening at points of entry, and restrictions may change at short notice. Check with your airline, the  International Air Transport Association (IATA)  or the nearest Thai Embassy for the latest information. 
• You can transit between international flights in Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport . Ensure that your connecting flight is booked on the same itinerary and ticket. You must remain in the transiting area in the airport.

Full travel advice:  Travel

Local contacts

• The  Consular Services Charter  tells you what the Australian Government can and can't do to help when you're overseas.
• For consular help, contact the  Australian Embassy, Bangkok , the  Australian Consulate-General, Phuket  or the Passport and Notarial Services, Chiang Mai .
• To stay up to date with local information, follow the Embassy's social media accounts.

Full travel advice:  Local contacts

Full advice

Civil unrest and political tension, security situation .

The security situation can be unpredictable in Thailand.  Large protests have occurred in Bangkok and other areas. In previous years, large political protests and government crowd control operations have resulted in violence.

More incidents are possible.

To stay safe during periods of unrest:

• avoid demonstrations, processions and public gatherings
• follow media and other sources
• take official warnings seriously
• follow the advice of local authorities
• If you see a suspicious package, stay clear and report it to Police

More information:

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

Thailand-Cambodia border

Thailand and Cambodia have an ongoing border dispute. There's a risk of landmines and unexploded weapons near the Thai-Cambodian border area.

Be extra careful at tourist areas, including:

• the Preah Vihear temple - Khao Pra Viharn in Thailand
• the Ta Kwai temple - Ta Krabei in Cambodia
• the Ta Muen Thom temple - Ta Moan in Cambodia

Tourist attractions and border crossings in this area may close with little or no notice.

Thailand-Myanmar border

Fighting and armed theft can occur along the Thai-Myanmar border. This includes:

• fighting between the Burmese military and armed ethnic opposition groups
• clashes between Thai security forces and armed criminal groups, such as drug traffickers

Armed clashes between the military and opposition groups inside Myanmar may lead to border closures.

If you try to cross the border illegally, you may be detained and deported.

Bandits may target you if you travel through national parks in this border region.

If you travel to this region:

• monitor the news
• watch out for other signs of unrest
• pay close attention to your personal security

Thailand-Malaysia border

Reconsider your need to travel to or from the three most southern provinces:

Violence includes attacks and bombings, with deaths and injuries. Since 2004, over 6500 people have been killed and many more injured in these provinces.

Bombings are often coordinated to target people who respond to the first explosion.

Over the past few years, multiple coordinated explosions have occurred in the southern border provinces, and low-level insurgent activity continues.  

If you travel to or stay in these provinces, you could get caught up in violence directed at others.

Attacks can happen at any time.

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

Attacks, including bombings, are possible anytime. They can happen anywhere, including Bangkok and Phuket.

Popular tourist areas may be the target of terrorist attacks.

Thai authorities have warned of possible bombings on symbolic dates or holidays.

In August 2016, around 24 incidents with improvised explosive devices (IEDs), arson and other suspicious events killed 4 people and injured over 30.

Some IEDs were detonated in popular tourist spots, including:

• Hua Hin, Patong Beach and Loma Park in Phuket
• Surat Thani

On 10 March 2019, several IEDs exploded in Phatthalung and Satun provinces. No people were killed or injured. 

IED incidents have occurred in Bangkok and other tourist areas in recent years. On 2 August 2019, a series of explosions occurred in public places throughout Bangkok, including near Chong Nonsi BTS Station and outside several Thai Government buildings.

In May 2017, attacks at a Bangkok Military Hospital and the National Theatre injured 26 people.

Possible targets for future attacks include:

• shopping malls, markets and banks
• hotels and beach resorts
• restaurants, bars and nightclubs
• schools and places of worship
• outdoor recreation events

Other targets include public buildings, public transport, airports and sea ports.

To reduce your risk of being involved in a terrorist attack: 

• have a clear exit plan in case there's a security incident
• be alert to possible threats
• report suspicious activity or items to police
• monitor the media for threats

If there is an attack, leave the area as soon as it's safe. Avoid the affected area in case of secondary attacks.

Sexual assault and violent crime

Travellers may experience  sexual assault , other  assault  and  robbery .

Be extra careful in tourist spots such as Khao San Road in Bangkok and the night-time entertainment zones in Bangkok, Pattaya and Phuket.

Be aware of drink-spiking. Don't drink homemade or local cocktails. They can contain narcotics or poison. You're at higher risk of sexual assault and theft if you get drugged.

Never leave your drink unattended.

Stick with people you trust at parties, in bars, nightclubs and taxis.

Get urgent medical attention if you think you or someone else has been drugged.

If you're a victim of violent crime, including rape, get immediate medical attention.

Under Thai law, courts will only accept the results of a medical examination from some government hospitals. After you've been examined by a government hospital, you can receive medical attention at a private hospital. Please contact the Australian Embassy Bangkok, Consulate-General Phuket, Consulate Chang Mai or Consular Emergency Centre in Canberra for assistance.

• Partying safely

Petty crime

Money and passports have been stolen from budget hotel and hostel rooms, and from bags on public transport. Thieves also target luggage stored on trains and below buses.

Bags have been snatched by thieves on motorcycles, or sliced open with razor blades. 

To reduce your risk of theft:

• don't leave valuables in luggage stowed under buses or away from you on trains
• be wary of motorcycles approaching from behind as you walk on the footpath
• hold bags and backpacks in front of you

Cyber security 

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you're connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth.

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media.

More information: 

Cyber security when travelling overseas

Tours and adventure activities

Transport and tour operators don't always follow safety and maintenance standards. This includes for:

• scuba diving
• elephant safaris
• bungee jumping

If you plan to do an  adventure activity :

• check if your travel insurance policy covers it
• ask about and insist on minimum safety requirements
• always use available safety gear, such as life jackets or seatbelts

If proper safety equipment isn't available, use another provider.

Climate and natural disasters

Thailand experiences  natural disasters  and  severe weather , including:

• earthquakes

Severe weather events are likely to disrupt transport, electricity and communications.

To stay safe during severe weather:

• check media and weather reports
• check in with your tour operator
• don't enter areas affected by flooding or landslides

If there is a natural disaster:

• secure your passport in a safe, waterproof place
• keep in contact with friends and family
• monitor the media and other local sources of information
• Register with the  Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System  to receive alerts on major disasters.

Storms and floods

Severe storms and widespread seasonal flooding can occur without warning. This includes flash floods.

The wet season in north and central Thailand is from May to October.

In Koh Samui and the south-east of the peninsula, the wet season is from November to March.

• Thai Meteorological Department
• Mekong River Commission  — flood levels for the Mekong River

Earthquakes and tsunamis

Earthquakes occur in Thailand.

Tsunamis are more likely in Thailand because of the risk of earthquakes. 

Check with the  US Tsunami Warning Centre  for updates on seismic activity and tsunamis.

If you're near the coast, move to high ground straight away if advised, or if you:

• feel a strong earthquake that makes it hard to stand up
• feel a weak, rolling earthquake that lasts a minute or more
• see a sudden rise or fall in sea level
• hear loud and unusual noises from the sea

Don't wait for official warnings such as alarms or sirens. Once on high ground, monitor local media.

Travel insurance

Get comprehensive  travel insurance  before you leave.

If you're visiting Thailand and then travelling to a country that requires COVID-19 testing (RAT or PCR test) for entry, you'll need to purchase medical insurance prior to your arrival in Thailand. The insurance will need to provide cover for COVID-19 treatment.

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

• what activities and care your policy covers, including in terms of health and travel disruptions
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away

Physical and mental health

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. 

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Thailand. Take enough legal medicine for your trip.

Get medical advice before buying medicine in Thailand. Travellers have been arrested for carrying medicine they bought at a Thai pharmacy without a prescription.

Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medication is
• your required dosage
• that it's for personal use
• Medications

Health risks

Insect-borne illnesses.

Zika virus  is a risk in Thailand. If you are pregnant, defer non-essential travel to affected areas. Speak to your doctor before you travel. Several cases have been reported, including in Bangkok.

The Department of Health's  Zika virus bulletin  has advice for all travellers on how to reduce Zika virus risks. There's no vaccine for Zika virus.

Malaria  is a risk throughout the year in rural areas. The worst affected areas are near the borders with Cambodia, Laos and Myanmar. 

Dengue  occurs in Thailand. It's common during the rainy season:

• November to March in Koh Samui and the south-east of Thailand
• May to October in the rest of Thailand, including Phuket

Dengue peaks in July and August although it is prevalent throughout the year . There's no vaccine or specific treatment for dengue.

Other insect-borne diseases include:

• chikungunya
• Japanese encephalitis

To protect yourself from disease:

• make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing
• consider taking medicine to prevent malaria
• get vaccinated against Japanese encephalitis
• Infectious diseases

Animals in parts of Thailand can carry  rabies .

Rabies is deadly. Humans can get rabies from mammals, such as:

• other animals

Don't ever feed, pat or tease monkeys, even if you're encouraged to.

If you're bitten or scratched by a dog, monkey or other animal, get treatment as soon as possible.

Smoke haze and air pollution

Thailand has high levels of air pollution. It can reach hazardous levels. Bangkok and Chiang Mai can be particularly bad. 

Air pollution can make bronchial, sinus or asthma conditions worse. 

Smoke haze is an issue across the north and north-east of Thailand from March to April.

Check air quality levels on the  World Air Quality Index .

Get advice from your doctor before you travel. 

Medical care

Medical facilities.

The standard of medical facilities varies . 

In an emergency, we recommend you contact an ambulance on 1669.

Private hospitals in major cities have high standards of medical care. Services can be limited in other areas.

Hospitals and doctors often need to confirm your insurance before they'll treat you, even in an emergency. Otherwise you may need to pay cash up-front. Costs can be very high.

Hospitals in Bangkok and other large cities can treat serious illnesses and accidents. In other areas, you may need to be moved to a place with better facilities. Medical evacuation can be very expensive.

Decompression chambers are located near popular dive sites in:

Medical tourism

Medical tourism , including for cosmetic and sex-change operations, is common.

Standards at discount and uncertified medical establishments can be poor. Serious and life-threatening complications can result.

Some hospitals and clinics have refused to compensate patients:

• who aren't satisfied with the results of cosmetic surgery
• who are harmed during surgery
• who die during surgery

Do your research. Choose your medical service providers with care.

Don't use discount or uncertified medical service providers.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed , the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our  Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Penalties for drug offences are severe. They include the death penalty.

Possession of even small quantities of drugs for recreational purposes can lead to long jail sentences and deportation.

Thai authorities may conduct spot-checks for illegal drugs in tourist areas.

Travellers have been targeted for narcotic tests. Under Thai law, authorities have the right to demand urine samples from people suspected of taking illegal drugs.

If you're asked to submit a urine sample, ask to do it at a police station. You can also ask to contact the Tourist Police. Call 1155 for English-speaking officers.

Private recreational use of cannabis is legal if the THC content is below 0.2% in weight. Cannabis use in public places remains illegal, and smoking outside is considered a public nuisance, and offenders risk fines and arrest. It is still illegal to sell or supply any extracts of cannabis containing more than 0.2% of THC.

Follow directions from local authorities.

• Carrying or using drugs

Surrogacy laws

Commercial surrogacy is illegal.

• Going overseas for international surrogacy
• Going overseas to adopt a child

E-cigarettes

E-cigarettes, e-baraku, and other related vaporisers, including refills, are prohibited. You can't import or transfer them through Thailand, even for personal use.

Producing or selling these items is illegal. You face either 10 years of imprisonment or a fine up to THB1 million, or both.

Penalties for breaking the law can be severe.

These penalties can also apply to anyone aged under 18 years who is subject to Thai juvenile judicial processes. Penalties can include detention in a juvenile or adult prison.

The death penalty can apply to:

• attempted murder
• crimes against the state, including treason
• some offences against the monarchy

Insulting the monarchy, or defacing images of the monarchy - including on a bank note bearing the King's image - can lead to prison terms of up to 15 years.

Take care not to cause offence when posting, commenting or liking items about the monarchy, including on social media.

In Thailand, it's illegal to:

• travel without carrying identification
• gamble - other than at a few major race tracks
• make a false statement to police, including about an insurance claim

It is also illegal to smoke on beaches in tourist areas, including:

• Prachuap Khiri Khan

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

• Staying within the law and respecting customs

Dual citizenship

Thai-Australian dual nationals may be liable to complete military conscription.

If you're a dual national, contact the nearest  embassy or consulate of Thailand  before you travel.

• Dual nationals

Local customs

Respect local customs and take care to not offend. Deliberately ignoring local customs can cause grave offence.

Do not show the soles of your feet or touch the top of a person's head. These are insulting in Thai culture.

If in doubt, ask for local advice.

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

Australian tourists can get a visa exemption for:

• up to 30 days, if you arrive through one of the international airports
• up to 15 days, if you enter through a land border (restricted to 2 entries per calendar year)

For longer stays, or if you're travelling for reasons other than tourism, you'll need to apply for a visa before you travel.

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the nearest Embassy or consulate of Thailand, the  Royal Thai Embassy Canberra  or Royal Thai Consulate-General Sydney . See  the official website of the Tourism Authority of Thailand  for the latest details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.

Visas overstays

If you overstay your visa, you'll need to pay a fine before you can leave. You can also be:

• banned from re-entering Thailand

Thai authorities can blacklist you, which means you can never return to Thailand.

Penalties for not paying the fine include long prison sentences. Conditions at Immigration Detention Centres are harsh.

• Thai Immigration Bureau

Border measures

International passengers can transit Suvarnabhumi Airport , Bangkok.

You may be subject to biometric screening at points of entry. Clarify entry requirements with your airline,  International Air Transport Association (IATA)  or your nearest Thai Embassy. 

Travellers are responsible for all COVID-19 treatment expenses if their medical insurance does not provide adequate coverage for COVID-19 illness. 

Departure from Thailand

Travellers should refer to the relevant airline or travel provider for information about departing Thailand. 

• Royal Thai Embassy , Canberra
• Thai government's Facebook page

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting  a new passport .

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

Don't give your passport to third parties - like a jet ski or motorcycle rental businesses - as a guarantee. Companies may hold on to the passport and ask for payment for damages.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the  Australian Passport Information Service .
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest  Australian embassy or consulate .

Passport with ‘X’ gender identifier 

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can't guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest  embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers.

• LGBTI travellers

The currency of Thailand is the Thai Baht (THB).

You can convert Australian dollars for THB in tourist areas, major cities and towns.

ATMs are available in cities and regional centres.

Most hotels, restaurants and higher-end shops accept international credit cards.

Card skimming occurs. See  Safety

Local travel

Driver's permit.

To drive a car or motorcycle in Thailand, you'll need a valid Australian driver's licence for the type of vehicle you're using.

To drive a motorbike, you'll need a valid motorcycle licence. Some rental companies will tell you otherwise.

You are required to have an International Driving Permit (IDP).

Don't drive any vehicles not covered by your Australian licence.

The  Department of Land Transport  issues Thai driver’s licences. Contact them to confirm:

• your eligibility
• what documents you need to apply

The legal driving age in Thailand is 18.

Road travel

You're more likely to die in a motor vehicle accident in Thailand than in Australia.

Thailand has one of the highest traffic-related fatality rates in the world. Motorcyclists are most at risk.

Road accidents are common, including in resort areas such as Phuket, Pattaya and Koh Samui. 

Driving in Thailand is dangerous due to:

• reckless passing
• ignoring traffic laws

Be extra careful during holidays, such as Songkran (Thai New Year). Alcohol use and congestion are worse during these times.

Don't drink and drive.

If you're walking, use overhead walkways. Look in both directions before crossing streets, even at marked crossways.

• Driving or riding

Motorcycles

Under Thai law, motorcycle riders and passengers must wear a helmet. However, hire companies or motorcycle taxis rarely provide helmets. You may need to shop around to hire a helmet.

Australians are regularly injured or die in motorbike accidents in Thailand. Alcohol is often involved.

If you're in an accident, police may detain or arrest you until compensation is agreed. This can often cost 1000s of dollars.

Many vehicle hire companies don't have insurance.

If you have a motorcycle accident, you could be responsible for any damages, loss or costs associated with injury to others. The embassy can't help you negotiate on compensation demands.

Lawyers who can represent you are available from:

• Australian Embassy and Consulates-General in Thailand
• the Consular Emergency Centre in Canberra

If you plan to hire a motorbike, make sure:

• your insurance policy covers it
• you have a valid motorcycle licence
• the hiring company has comprehensive and third-party insurance
• you know the excess you would need to pay if you have an accident
• you always wear a helmet

Don't drink and drive, or drink and ride.

Never give your passport as a deposit or guarantee.

Taxis, tuktuks and motorcycle taxis

Official, metered taxis are generally safe and convenient. Be alert to possible  scams  and safety risks.

Be aware of apparently friendly taxi or tuktuk drivers who offer you cheap tours. They will take you to shops where they receive a commission. You may be overcharged or sold worthless goods or gems.

Before you get in an unmetered taxi, tuktuk or motorcycle taxi, agree on the fare and the route.

Make sure your bags are secure when you're travelling in a tuktuk or motorcycle taxi.

Never put yourself in danger by confronting a taxi, tuktuk or motorcycle taxi driver. Call the Tourist Police on 1155 if you need help. 

Be careful when opening taxi doors. Look out for other vehicles, pedestrians and cyclists.

Ferry and speedboat travel can be dangerous. Serious incidents involving tourists have occurred and people have died.

If you plan on  travelling by boat  or ferry:

• check safety standards are in place
• check there is enough safety equipment for everyone
• wear your life jacket at all times
• avoid travelling after dark
• don't get on overcrowded boats

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check  Thailand's air safety profile  with the Aviation Safety Network.

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider

Call 1724 for an ambulance in Bangkok.

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

Read the  Consular Services Charter  for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

Australian Embassy, Bangkok

181 Wireless Road Lumphini, Pathumwan Bangkok, Thailand. 10330 Phone: (+66 2) 344 6300 Fax: (+66 2) 344 6593 Website:  thailand.embassy.gov.au   Email: [email protected]   Facebook:  Australia in Thailand Twitter:  @AusAmbBKK

Check the Embassy website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

Australian Consulate-General, Phuket

6th Floor CCM Complex 77/77 Chalermprakiat Rama 9 Road (Bypass Road) Muang Phuket, Thailand, 83000 Phone: (+66 76) 317 700 Fax: (+66 76) 317 743 Website:  phuket.consulate.gov.au E-mail:  [email protected]

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia

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The Only Phuket Travel Guide You Will Need To Plan Your Thai Vacation

Check out the phuket travel guide to plan a phuket trip in 2023. best things to do, hotels, shopping places & restaurants in phuket..

By: Nikita Mazindar Baruah Published: Feb 01, 2023 08:00 AM IST

One of Thailand’s most loved and frequently explored travel destinations, Phuket, is the largest island in the country. Laden with white sand beaches, thriving nightlife, gastronomical adventures and a lot more, the list of places to visit in Phuket is endless.

Whether you’re on a backpacking trip or for leisure, Phuket has it all. Wondering how to outline your trip? Our Phuket travel guide comprises the list of stunning attractions to see, dishes to try and things to do for a picture-perfect vacation .

Best time to explore Phuket

Having a tropical climate pattern, Phuket is primarily warm, rainy and pleasant often. However, it never gets too cold. The coldest season, with temperatures ranging between 23°C to 30°C, starts from November and continues till February. This is the best time to travel to Phuket. The sea is the calmest during this time. You can relax and enjoy your time at the beach without having to worry about the weather.

Also, the monsoon season, which extends from May to October, is a good time to visit Phuket if you do not mind some rainfall.

Best places to visit in Phuket

Patong beach.

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If you’re a party animal and love shopping, this is your place to be. Known for numerous shopping centres, cafes and restaurants along the shore, Patong beach receives a massive number of tourists every day.

If you want to experience amazing nightlife, there are many beer bars and clubs around the beach. You can also find shops selling various items including sarongs, sunglasses and souvenirs.

Book your stay near Patong Beach

Phang Nga Bay

Soak in the spellbinding sight of emerald-green waters, limestone cliffs and ancient caves at Phang Nga Bay. Featured in the famous 1974 James Bond movie, The Man with the Golden Gun , Phang Nga Bay is home to exotic flora and fauna and unparalleled scenic beauty. It is also well known for various water sports such as kayaking and diving.

Kalim Beach

Unlike its neighbour Patong beach, Kalim beach is known to retain the local Thai touch and it offers mesmerising views like no other. One of the best places to visit in Phuket, the beach houses several eating spots and plenty of space to relax and rejuvenate under the warm sun on the sand.

The beach is one of the best spots for surfing in Phuket and hosts several competitions too during the low tide season.

Book your stay near Kalim Beach

Khao Phra Thaeo Wildlife Park

A must-visit for nature enthusiasts, the Khao Phra Thaeo Wildlife Park is home to rare flora and fauna in an otherwise fast-growing Phuket. The park also houses many attractions, including naturally formed pools and waterfalls that are an absolute treat to the eyes. One can also find walking trails laid out by the park to explore the region on foot.

Book your stay near Khao Phra Thaeo Wildlife Park

Thalang National Museum

The Thalang National Museum provides interesting information about the history of Phuket. It displays permanent exhibitions in four themes — Phuket Island and early inhabitants of the Andaman, the battle at Thalang, the Chinese and the development of Phuket and Phuket people.

Historical scriptures and antiques are displayed at the museum that give a glimpse of the Phuket of yesteryears. The museum also exhibits weapons used during the conflict with Myanmar.

Book your stay near Thalang National Museum

Sirinat National Park

The Sirinat National Park is famous for its natural beauty and gorgeous views. An important conservation site, the park includes a 13-kilometre-long coastline with several beaches. Frequently visited by a significant number of tourists, the park is an ideal spot for relaxation amid serene nature.

Paradise Beach

If you want to take a break from the usual hustle, there’s no better spot than Paradise Beach in Phuket. Offering breathtaking views, the beach is known for its soft sands and tall coconut trees where you can spend quality time with your loved ones. Located around eight minutes from the famous Patong Bay, Paradise Beach is known for various water activities including scuba diving, paddling and snorkelling. The beach is also famous globally for its full moon parties where you can dance the night away.

Book your stay near Paradise Beach

Phuket Elephant Sanctuary

All animal lovers should schedule a trip to this fantastic elephant sanctuary which also happens to be Phuket’s first and most ethical. Hike through the huge property to observe the magnificent animals in their natural habitat. Taking elephant tourism to new heights, the sanctuary has recently introduced a one-of-a-kind 600-metre long and six-metre-tall canopy walkway for spectators to see the elephants from an appropriate distance.

Freedom Beach

Another hidden gem of Phuket, Freedom beach, bordered by hills covered in dense, lush forests, is known for its white, soft sand. This is the place to be if you’re searching for a serene area to sunbathe. Beach volleyball, soccer and snorkelling are some of the other fun activities to indulge in at Freedom Beach.

Phuket Old Town

A historically significant capital, old Phuket town is home to exquisite shrines, beautiful temples and stores. One of the most exciting places to visit in Phuket, the old town is located near Krabi Road. The buildings in this town have managed to retain their old architectural charm. Unquestionably one of Phuket’s most beautiful tourist destinations, the old Phuket town is home to cosy cafes and various museums too.

Book your stay near Phuket Old Town

Wat Phra Thong

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Partially buried Golden Buddha is this temple’s central attraction. According to sources, the Buddha’s entire body is buried beneath the earth except for his head and shoulders. Thousands of tourists visit the temple each year, seeking the blessings of the Golden Buddha.

Book your stay near Wat Phra Thong

Bang Tao Beach

Another pristine beach in Phuket, Bang Tao Beach, is the second longest in the region, spanning an area of six kilometres. An ideal location for an opulent getaway, there are many fantastic clubs for a great evening. There are several fine-dining restaurants and boutiques selling premium brands indulgence in as well.

Book stays near Bang Tao Beach

Phuket Aquarium

If you are not ready to try snorkelling but still wish to see the beauty of the world under the sea, you must visit Thailand’s biggest aquarium, Aquaria, located in Phuket. Dive in for a splendid experience and witness over 25,000 marine creatures. There are many interactive zones to explore as well.

Monday to Sunday: 11:00am – 7:00pm Last admission: 6:00pm

Hanuman World

Hanuman World must be on the list of top places to visit in Phuket for all thrill seekers. One of the best places to visit in Phuket, it is an eco-adventure park where you can enjoy ziplining and can get an aerial view of the city and the Andaman sea from above. The Roller Coaster Zipline, which follows an 800-metre curving course through the forest at 40 kilometres per hour, is another option to try.

Book your luxury staycation here

Things to do in Phuket

Visit the temples.

With most of its population being Thai Buddhists, Phuket is home to numerous stunning Buddhist temples. One of the most significant is the Big Buddha Temple in Tambon Karon. Some other notable temples you can visit include Wat Chalong and Rua Shrine.

Head to the viewpoints

Phuket is home to unparalleled scenic beauties that must not be missed. Visit the various viewpoints in Phuket to truly admire nature’s masterpiece. Promthep Cape, Karon and Kata are some of the most well-known ones.

Go snorkelling

For water lovers, snorkelling is a must to explore the rich marine life. Phuket has a vast number of beaches with clear, turquoise water, perfect for snorkelling. Kata Noi, Paradise beach, Laem Ka are a few of the most popular snorkelling spots.

Experience the nightlife at Bangla Road

If you wish to experience the nightlife of Phuket, Bangla road is where you should head to. Brimming with nightclubs and bars, it is one of the most happening and sought-after places in Phuket. You will come across numerous beer bars, food stalls and restaurants along this road. The crowd is also entertained by fascinating street performances during late hours.

What to eat in Phuket?

Thai pancakes.

With a strong resemblance to the French crepe, Thai pancakes or roti is a flatbread made from flour, and fried until crisp. A light snack, these pancakes are rolled with butter and sugar and are simply irresistible. Sweetened condensed milk is also added to this, which further enhances the flavour.

These pancakes come in various flavours and can be eaten with eggs, fruits, jam or even chocolate sauce. This delectable Thai food option tastes best when eaten warm, especially from the street vendors of Phuket.

Mee Hokkien

Mee Hokkien or Hokkien style noodles is one of the most loved dishes by tourists and locals alike in Phuket. Consisting hearty wheat noodles, scrumptious seafood, melting slices of pork and a warm gravy like broth topped with a fried egg, this dish indeed hits the right spots on the palate.

Shaved ice topped with flavoured combinations is commonly served as a dessert in various parts of Southeast Asia. However, Phuket has its own take on this popular item. Extremely sweet with bright colours, this is a crowd favourite. It includes gelatinous cubes made from kidney beans and banana starch and is often drizzled with sweet, red syrup.

What to shop in Phuket?

Not just a beach destination, Phuket is also considered to be a shopping hub. From big shopping malls to street stalls and old handicraft shops, you have all options here. There are many stalls near the beaches too where you can buy souvenirs and other local products.

Thai cosmetic products, variety of teas and exotic fruits are some of the items you can buy in Phuket.

How to reach Phuket?

You can reach Phuket from Bangkok by flight, bus or rented car. There are several daily flights from Suvarnabhumi International Airport to Phuket International Airport. Flight fares during weekends and peak season are usually higher than on other days. Additionally, you can fly to Phuket from Bangkok’s domestic airport — Don Muang Airport. You can also travel from Bangkok to Phuket by day and overnight buses that take approximately 14 hours to complete the journey.

(Main image credit: Mitiladis Fragkidis/Unsplash; Featured Image Credit: Sumit Chinchane/Unsplash)

Related: Bangkok Travel Guide: Everything You Need To Know About The Vibrant City

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Answer: There is a lot to explore in Phuket. Hence, the ideal time would be seven days. However, four days are enough if you are tight on time.

Answer: Many beaches such as the Kata Beach, Karon Beach and Patong Beach and famous temples such as Big Buddha and Wat Chalong have no entry fees. You can enjoy these locations without spending any money.

Answer: Living in Phuket is relatively inexpensive. It has many pocket-friendly food and accommodation options, which help cut down on living expenses.

Answer: Phuket offers many local Thai dishes that you should try such as pad Thai (stir-fried rice noodles with shrimps), Thai pancake, 'char kway teow' (noodle soup) and 'som tam' (papaya salad).

Answer: There are both cheap and luxury hotels in Phuket. You can also find hostel accommodations for solo travellers. Beach resorts are also a great option to stay in Phuket.

Answer: There are a number of transportation options in Phuket with public buses being the cheapest. Other ways to roam around in Phuket are taxis, rental cars and bikes, tuk-tuks and boats.

Answer: Phuket has a tropical climate, hence it's mostly hot. Summer clothing such as loose T-shirts, summer dresses, shorts and linen shirts are best for a vacation in Phuket.

• Hotels in phuket
• Phuket Vacation
• Thailand destinations

Nikita Mazindar Baruah

An anthropology graduate, Nikita started her journey in writing and editing while she was still a student. She has worked with various agencies and brands, creating content in lifestyle, entertainment, travel and wellness space. She aspires to travel the world and explore food, culture and more while penning it all down to share with the world.

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Phuket travel guide — the fullest guide for a budget trip to phutket, thailand.

Located to the south of Thailand, Phuket is a destination not to be missed, especially if you love the beach and ocean. If you choose one of these islands for their vacation is too great. To help you get the perfect trip, Living Nomads has synthesized all experience for Phuket trip in this article. Let’s explore the beautiful island through our Phuket travel guide — Phuket on a budget: Tips to save budget for a Phuket trip.

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Phuket traveling costs

The cost of moving

Phuket International Airport (HKT) is the main gateway to reach the island for the majority of domestic and foreign tourists. Each year, having more than 14 million visitors come to Phuket through 46 airlines from over the world. You can choose to depart from Vietnam (Tan Son Nhat airport or Noi Bai) or combined to Thailand, then depart from other airports such as Bangkok.

If you choose to fly directly from Vietnam, with about 6607 baht to 7079 baht you can fly directly to Phuket roundtrip. Or you can also find the promotions of airlines to find the “soft” price. One other way is combined with tourism Bangkok and fly from Bangkok to Phuket. With this approach and choose the cheaper cost airlines as Nok Air or Air Asia, you just lose less than 1 million and 1-hour flight to fly to Phuket.

In case you do not interest in moving by aircraft, rail buses and systems are always ready to take you travel from Bangkok to Phuket. If selecting bus, you can go straight to the center of Phuket Hua Lam Phong station Bangkok with the cheapest class is the between 600-700 baht and 12 hours to move. In case you travel by train, you will take the same time and 1,000 baht per ticket but you can go to Sura Thani only, then you have to take the bus to Phuket.

To have a cheap cost experience, you can choose to move in the city by tuk-tuk, songthaew or taxi. Costs for moving in the city are not too expensive and convenience for exploring you can choose to rent car for about 1000 – 1500 baht per day/unit (rates can be changed in vary time)

The cost of accommodation

If you are thinking about Phuket, this really is a great destination with dozens of beaches around the island and the island’s resorts. If coming to a strange place, one advice is to choose the caliber resorts. Reducing the risk, and the risk you have to pay more than services you used, which also happen in cheap motels. Typically, the price per night in mid-range motels in Phuket will not exceed 300 baht – 500 baht.

Phuket travel guide: Where to stay in Phuket?

Phuket offers about 120,000 accommodations along the beaches. In almost all of the resorts and hotels, the accommodation is priced at 4,000 to 16,500 baht per twin share (breakfast included).

Below are some best cheap, budget, mid-range and upscale hotels with good ratings and reviews you can refer to.

The Marina Phuket Hotel (Address: 240/9 Phangmuang Sai Kor Road, Patong, Kathu Patong Beach 83150, Thailand / Phone: +66 76 345 888), 4-star hotel with room rates from $31/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ) .

La Vintage Resort (Former Poppa Palace Hotel) (Address: 14,16 Rat-U-Thit 200 Pee Rd., Soi1, Patong Beach Kathu Phuket 83150, Thailand / Phone: +66 76 345 522), 3-star hotel with room rates from $23/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ) .

Banthai Beach Resort & Spa (Address: 94 Thawewong Rd, Tambon Patong, Amphoe Kathu, Chang Wat Phuket 83150, Thailand / Phone: +66 76 340 850), 4-star hotel with room rates from $58/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ) .

Burasari Resort (Address: 18/110 Ruamjai Road Tambon Patong, Amphur Kathu Phuket Chang Wat Phuket 83150, Thailand / Phone: +66 76 292 929), 4-star hotel with room rates from $64/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ) .

Amari Phuket (Address: 2 Meun-Ngern Road Tambon Patong, Amphoe Kathu, Chang Wat Phuket 83150, Thailand / Phone: +66 76 340 106), 4-star hotel with room rates from $125/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ) .

Katathani Phuket Beach Resort (Address: 14 Kata Noi Road, Karon, Muang, Phuket 83100, Thailand / Phone: +66 76 318 350), 5-star hotel with room rates from $104/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ) .

Thavorn Beach Village Resort & Spa (Address: 6/2 Moo6, Kamala, Kathu District, Phuket 83150, Thailand / Phone: +66 76 618 217), 5-star hotel with room rates from $61/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ) .

Chanalai Garden Resort, Kata Beach, Phuket (Address: Kata Beach, 247 Kata Rd, Tambon Karon, Amphur Muang, Chang Wat Phuket 83100, Thailand / Phone: +66 76 285 211), 4-star hotel with room rates from $41/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ) .

The Shore At Katathani (Address: 14 Kata Noi Road, Tambon Karon, Amphoe Mueang Phuket, Chang Wat Phuket 83100, Thailand / Phone: +66 76 318 350), 4-star hotel with room rates from $367/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ) .

Mandarava Resort and Spa (Address: Karon Beach, Amphoe Mueang Phuket, Chang Wat Phuket 83110, Thailand / Phone: +66 76 681 800), 5-star hotel with room rates from $93/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ) .

Phuket Marriott Resort & Spa, Merlin Beach (Address: 99 Muen-Ngoen Road Tri-Trang Beach, Patong Patong Phuket, Phuket 83150, Thailand / Phone: +66 76 335 300), 5-star hotel with room rates from $102/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ) .

Deevana Patong Resort & Spa (Address: 43/2 Raj-U-Thid, 200 Pee Rd, Pa Tong, Kathu District, Phuket 83150, Thailand / Phone: +66 76 317 179), 4-star hotel with room rates from $56/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ) .

Baan Laimai Beach Resort & Spa (Address: 66 Thawewong Rd, Tambon Patong, Amphoe Kathu, Chang Wat Phuket 83150, Thailand / Phone: +66 76 342 621), 4-star hotel with room rates from $65/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ) .

Below we recommend more best budget, mid-range and upscale hotels with good ratings and reviews you can refer to.

• JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa ( Agoda , Booking )
• The Marina Phuket Hotel ( Agoda , Booking )
• Avista Grande Phuket Karon – MGallery Hotel Collection ( Agoda , Booking )
• Holiday Inn Resort Phuket, an IHG Hotel ( Agoda , Booking )
• Grand Mercure Phuket Patong ( Agoda , Booking )
• DoubleTree by Hilton Phuket Banthai Resort (SHA Extra Plus Certified) ( Agoda , Booking )
• Mandarava Resort and Spa ( Agoda , Booking )

You can also find, check rates, availability & booking for Phuket hotels on Agoda.com or Booking.com .

The cost of eating

If you are not a person too picky eating or prefer to experiment with luxury dishes, the prices for meals in Phuket is not too 200-300 baht. Depending on the accommodation area in order to stay or eat, the price may be cheaper if you choose the center area instead to eat at the beach. Similarly, Bangkok, street food is also one of the things you should not miss.

Tips to save budget

Enjoying street cuisine

The most notable experience to save the budget for a cheap Phuket is enjoyed street cuisine. Whether you are at the beach or inside the inner area, do not miss the street food. Although seafood and some dishes can be more expensive than Bangkok area a bit, but overall price is quite cheap compared to other restaurants, resorts, and bars at the beach.

Noting about water problems

One other note is that if you select to visit the islands, you should carefully review the terms of drinking water. If not, you can bring your water. A small bottle of water will help you through thirst and not waste money to buy water along the trip.

Booking tickets for entertainment

With a multitude of activities and entertainment, you should make plan firstly for games which you will join in Phuket. By this way, you will reduce the wasting of money on the games seem attractive but very expensive when buying tickets on the spot. Additionally, you can choose to buy tickets online before to avoid queues overcrowded or overpriced when buying on the spot.

Phuket travel guide: The experience can not miss for a self-trip to Phuket

Phi Phi Islands

To come here, having an advice for you is to choose speedboat. Vehicles will also give you the opportunity to watch the beautiful coast when coming here. Phi Phi owns the beaches, beautiful beaches in southern Thailand including Maya Bay, famous by the film “The Beach”, as well as Viking Cave and Monkey Beach. You should also enjoy a buffet meal here, usually has both Western and local dishes, occasionally there will be a few cuisine in some countries.

Koh Panyee is a small island. Most are giant limestone cliffs, vertical. Hundreds of huts, tents, restaurants, and houses where the villagers lived. All create a unique architectural ensemble and is.

Samet Nangshe Viewpoint

Samet Nangshe is really a wonderful place if you want to enjoy the panoramic view of Phang Nga. Located on a hilltop just 30 minutes drive from Phuket, this place gives you stunning limestone islands in Phang Nga Bay. And this is also one of the places to watch the peaceful nature or even a brilliant starry sky.

Phang Nga Bay

One of the reasons to visit Phang Nga Bay is stunning limestone mountains emerging from the clear water and turquoise. James Bond and Koh Panyee just two of the famous places in this bay. To experience the perfect time here, make a boat trip from the north of Phuket. A leisurely day trip through the beautiful limestone islands, occasionally stopping to enjoy the quiet beach, that is a way to enjoy life.

Joining the night activities

As well as other locations in Thailand, nightlife creates an entirely new Phuket. The bars, the Ladyboy girls on the long line of “Soi” (sugar) as Seadragon, Freedom, Crocodile, … You will feel like you lost in a gala dinner extremely, extremely noisy.

Entertainment activities in Bangla road

This is the most famous nightlife of Phuket. If you’ve come here, do not hesitate to spend a night immersed in busy streets with the bustling atmosphere in all seasons Bangla. It also has a network of bars, cafes and attractive eating shops where you and your team can play day and night.

Phuket Fantasea

Not only full of spectacular performances, Phuket FantaSea is also a theme park with the works of Thai culture. You can come here to look – watch – listen and enjoy the unique art of Phuket.

Discovering the traditional markets

The buildings which are decorated carefully. The temporary bazaar, colorful flea market? All create a comfortable and fun shopping space. You can find small souvenirs, hunting in bulk or simply find delectable dishes in any bazaar in Phuket

Continued reading…

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Phuket Solo Travel Guide: Top Tips and Things To Do in Phuket, Thailand

With its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, fascinating culture, and super-friendly locals, Phuket has become a top destination for solo travelers. 

This comprehensive Phuket solo travel guide covers everything you need to know to plan an epic solo adventure in Phuket, Southern Thailand. From the best things to do, where to stay, getting around tips, safety advice, and more. Let’s dive in!

Why Travel to Phuket Solo?

Phuket continues to grow in popularity for solo travelers, for good reason. With its laidback tropical vibe, it’s easy to make your way around the island alone and have an incredible time. Here’s why Phuket should be your next solo destination:

• Crystal clear waters and white sand beaches await – take long sunset strolls and beach comb for shells.
• Experience the electric atmosphere and indulge in nightlife along Bangla Road. Dance the night away!
• Meet tons of fellow travelers and locals at the many sociable hostels, bars, and tours.
• Pamper yourself with relaxing (and super cheap!) Thai massages, spa treatments, and facials.
• Organize a day trip to discover secluded beaches, secret lagoons, and uncrowded islands.
• The warm Thai culture makes it easy to navigate and interact as a solo traveler.
• Enjoy the flexibility to set your own schedule and go at your own relaxed pace.

Phuket really does have something to offer every type of solo traveler – from party animals, nature lovers, culture buffs, adventure seekers, and digital nomads. With an open mind and a sense of adventure, you’ll create memories to last a lifetime.

Best Time to Visit Phuket, Thailand

Phuket enjoys a tropical climate year-round, with distinct wet and dry seasons. The peak high season from November to March brings ideal weather in the low 80s F, mostly sunny skies and low humidity. The crowds and prices also peak during these dry months. 

The low season runs from May to October during the monsoon season with more frequent heavy rains. But it’s the cheapest time to visit with fewer tourists. Shoulder seasons of April/May and September/October strike a nice balance – decent weather, lower prices, fewer crowds.

First-time solo travelers may want to target high season. But don’t rule out a trip during shoulder season to save money. Just bring an umbrella!

Top Things To Do in Phuket as a Solo Traveler

Phuket serves up endless options to keep solo travelers entertained. From world-class beaches, amazing Thai cuisine, and nonstop nightlife – you’ll never run out of activities. Here are some top things to experience:

Relax on Phuket’s Top Beaches

One of the top attractions is simply basking in the sun and surfing on Phuket’s spectacular beaches. Pack beach reads, sunscreen, and snacks, and post up on a rental lounger for hours.

Don’t miss legendary Patong Beach, family-friendly Kata Beach, or peaceful Bang Tao Beach. Wander down the soft sand, dip your toes in the turquoise Andaman Sea, and watch magical sunsets. Pure bliss.

Experience Bangla Road Nightlife 

When the sun sets, the nightlife scene along Bangla Road comes alive. Dance the night away at pumping clubs and live music bars where drinks flow and everyone is looking for a good time. The lively street fills with thousands of revelers – solo travelers will find it easy to mingle in the electric atmosphere. Find YOUR tribe here!

Marvel at Phuket’s Famous Big Buddha 

You can’t miss the imposing 148-foot Big Buddha statue, the island’s most renowned landmark perched on a hilltop. The views are jaw-dropping from up here! Be sure to dress respectfully – cover bare shoulders and knees when entering the temple grounds. A visit here for some quiet contemplation between partying gives balance.

Pamper Yourself with Massages and Spa Treatments

One of the top things to do alone in Phuket is spend a day at the spa getting super cheap Thai massages, facials, body treatments, and more. You’ll find affordable options all over the island. For next-level relaxation, book a package at luxury spas like Let’s Relax, Sun Spa, or Cool Spa. You deserve it!

Take a Day Trip to Phi Phi Islands

Easily doable as a solo day trip, visiting the famed Phi Phi islands makes for a scenic escape from Phuket’s busy west coast. Cruise by speedboat and snorkel in the crystal waters, admire Maya Bay’s beauty, stroll the sandy paths on Monkey Beach, and enjoy a seafood lunch on Phi Phi Don island. Island vibes at their best!

Make Friends at Phuket’s Hostels

One of the top ways to meet fellow travelers in Phuket is to stay at a sociable hostel. Options like Chill Patong Hostel, Lub D Phuket Patong, and Slumber Party Phuket host nightly activities from beer pong to family dinners to pub crawls. Chat with other solo travelers over drinks – you’ll quickly make vacation buddies.

Tour Phuket Old Town 

For a break from the beaches, spend a day wandering Phuket Old Town to admire the 19th-century Sino-Portuguese architecture, colorful street art, hip cafes, and funky shops. Don’t miss the historic Thavorn Hotel and Baan Teelanka mansion. And sample local treats at the Old Town Market.

There are literally endless things to experience on Phuket island, enough to keep any solo traveler busy for weeks. It’s ideal for both relaxation and adventure. Pick whatever interests YOU most for an unforgettable trip.

How to Get to Phuket 

Flying directly into Phuket International Airport (HKT) is the most convenient option. It serves domestic and international flights from around the world. Bangkok Airways, Thai Airways, AirAsia, Qatar Airways and more fly this route. 

Upon arrival, you can catch a taxi from the airport arrivals area to anywhere on the island for around 500-800 THB depending on the distance. Be sure to agree on the metered fare before getting in. Phuket Smart Bus also run to major beach areas like Patong and Karon.

You can also reach Phuket by overnight bus from Bangkok’s Southern Bus Terminal, which takes 12-14 hours. There are morning and evening departure times. Trains from Bangkok stop in Phuket’s closest mainland town of Surat Thani, where you can bus to the island.

For getting to more remote areas or islands from Phuket itself, ferries and speedboats connect through Rassada Pier. Easy!

How to Get Around Phuket: Transportation and Travel Tips

Phuket is an easy island to navigate independently once you arrive. With a bit of planning, you can easily hop between the area’s beautiful beaches, cultural sites, and attractions. Here are the best transport options:

• Taxis and Tuk Tuks: Agree on metered pricing before getting in to avoid scams. Grab is also popular.
• Public buses: Cheap local buses connect major towns and beaches but can be crowded. 
• Private car or minibus: Hire a car and driver for the day if you want door-to-door convenience.
• Motorbike rental: Popular with solo travelers but beware of dangers. Get travel insurance.
• Day tours: Joining organized day trips takes the logistics off your plate.

With Phuket being so spread out, having a plan to get around smoothly as a solo traveler is key to maximizing your time.

Best Places to Stay in Phuket

Phuket offers endless lodging choices. As a solo traveler, consider convenience, safety and opportunities to socialize when picking accommodations in Phuket. Here are some top areas and hotels to consider:

Patong Beach

Situated right on Patong Beach, Thailand’s most famous nightlife playground. Great area to stay for solo first-timers. 

• Patong Backpacker Hostel 
• Chill Patong Hostel
• The Chilli Salza Patong Hotel

Karon Beach

More laidback family-friendly vibes than Patong but is still centrally located.

• Phuket Backpacker Hostel
• Bazoom Haus Hostel 
• Sugar Palm Grand Hillside 

Rawai/Nai Harn Beach

South Phuket’s quieter alternative to the west coast party scene.

• Rawai VIP Hostel
• The Royal Phuket Yacht Club
• Proud Phuket Pool Villas

Phuket Town

Experience local culture and architecture.

• The RomManee Classic Hotel
• Sino House Phuket Hotel
• The Memory at On On Hotel

Any central spot gives you access to attractions island-wide via day trips. For socializing and nightlife, stay west. Quieter locales on the southern end cater to relaxation or families. 

And you can always change it up – spend a few nights in lively Patong, then shift to chilled-out Nai Harn to balance the vibe. With so many transport options, customizing your Phuket stay is part of the fun!

Phuket Hostels vs. Hotels: Which is Best for Solo Travelers?

One of the first decisions when trip planning is whether to stay in hostels or boutique hotels. Both options exist on the island, so what’s better for solo travelers in Phuket? Here are factors to consider:

Hostel Pros:

• Social atmosphere to meet other travelers
• Cheap dorm bed rates around 150 THB
• Centrally located near the action
• Plentiful activities like bar crawl 
• Shared kitchens to cook budget meals

Hotel Pros:

• More privacy with private bathrooms
• High-quality amenities and facilities  
• Often better locations away from the party noise  
• Female-only rooms catering to solo women
• Luxury options for a splurge

Ultimately it depends on your travel style and preferences. Hostels facilitate meeting people easily. Hotels offer more independence and flexibility. Combining both on your trip can give you the perfect solo experience!

Phuket Solo Travel Tips & Safety Advice

While Thailand is generally safe for tourists, it’s always smart to practice extra caution when traveling solo:

• Only take registered taxis or tuk-tuks and agree on pricing upfront 
• Use good judgment if you rent a motorbike – drive defensively
• Don’t walk alone late at night; text friends your location
• Avoid seedy areas like the Soi Bangla red light district 
• Keep valuables locked away – don’t take them to the beach
• Beware of pickpockets in crowded tourist spots and events
• Only book tours and activities through reputable companies
• Stay sober and alert when partying; watch your drink being poured
• Carry emergency cash and a spare debit/credit card
• Always listen to your intuition – leave any situation that feels off

With common sense, Phuket is an incredibly safe and welcoming place for solo travelers. Just use the same smart precautions you would anywhere.

Making New Friends & Solo Connections in Phuket 

One of the best parts of solo travel in Phuket is meeting new people along the way! Here are tips to link up with other travelers, digital nomads , and Thai locals:

• Stay at hostels that organize sociable events
• Join free walking tours to sightsee with other solos
• Sit at the bar and chat with fellow patrons at beach clubs
• Sign up for group activities like cooking classes or bike tours
• Strike up conversations with people in line for attractions 
• Ask friendly-looking people for tips on good local hangouts
• Join Facebook groups like Phuket Digital Nomads to find community
• Be open-minded and friendly – others are looking to connect too!

Backpacker vibes and Thai hospitality make it easy to form new friendships in Phuket. But you have to put yourself out there! Traveling solo pushes you to be social.

Is Phuket Safe for Solo Female Travelers? 

For women traveling solo, safety is an understandable concern. The good news is that Phuket is largely safe for female travelers who take normal safety precautions. Use your street smarts:

• Avoid walking alone in isolated areas, especially at night
• Take registered taxis or tuk-tuks, especially at night; don’t hitchhike
• Be cautious about accepting drinks from strangers at bars 
• Stay in a female-only hostel dorm if it makes you more comfortable
• Use hotel safes, money belts, and lockers to secure valuables
• Avoid seedy areas like the Patong red light district alleyways
• Say no firmly to any unwanted attention; don’t feel pressured
• Have your hotel book trusted drivers for day trips
• Follow your gut instinct always

While any travel has risks, Phuket is quite safe for female tourists with the right precautions. Travel confidently but responsibly.

Top Tips for an Epic Solo Trip to Phuket

To wrap up this guide, here are final quick tips for an awesome trip:

• Pack light breathable clothes – it gets hot! Bring sandals, swimsuit, and sunscreen. 
• Grab a prepaid SIM card at the airport for Google Maps and Grab app access
• Make the most of low-season rates but bring an umbrella for occasional storms
• Venture beyond the West Coast beaches to get the real Phuket experience 
• Sample authentic Thai dishes at local food markets 
• Splurge on a luxury spa day – you’re worth it!
• Meet other solos at beach clubs, walking tours, or fun hostels like Lub D Phuket
• Get lost wandering around Old Phuket Town’s colorful streets
• Island hop to deserted beaches, secret lagoons, and uncrowded islands
• Find a balance between beach chilling, cultural immersion, and partying

Phuket serves up the perfect blend of tropical vibe, cultural immersion, relaxation, and adventure. Get your solo trip planning underway and prepare for an amazing time making new friends and memories!

FAQs: Ultimate Guide to Phuket for Solo Travellers

Is phuket safe for solo female travelers.

Yes, Phuket is generally safe for women traveling alone using sensible precautions. Avoid isolated areas at night, only use registered transport, and be careful accepting drinks from strangers.

What are the best hostels in Phuket to meet fellow travelers?

Top-rated party hostels include Lub D Phuket Patong, Slumber Party Phuket, Chill Patong Hostel, and Phuket Backpacker Hostel. They offer fun group activities and sociable vibes.

Should I rent a motorbike to get around Phuket solo?

Renting a motorbike is popular but also risky, especially for newbies unaccustomed to chaotic traffic. Get travel insurance covering medical transport. Drive defensively.

What are some fun things to do alone in Phuket at night?

Bar hop around Bangla Road. Catch a Simon ladyboy cabaret show. Devour seafood at a beachfront restaurant. Relax with beachfront cocktails. Check out a Muay Thai fight. Go bar crawling in Kata or Karon.  

Is Phuket an affordable destination for budget solo travelers?

Absolutely! Dorm beds start around 150 THB. Tasty street food is cheap. Attractions like temples, beaches, viewpoints, and parks are free. Activities and tours are very reasonably priced too compared to home.

James Collin, with an MBA and over 14 years in the travel and publishing industries, founded Thailand Solo Travel to spotlight Thailand’s untold stories. His extensive experience in both the travel and publishing sectors, coupled with his academic prowess, has enabled him to steer the company toward success and recognition. James is not only a business leader but also a storyteller at heart, dedicated to sharing the rich, diverse narratives of Thailand with audiences around the world

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This Tiny Island Nation's Beaches Were Just Named the Best in the World for 2024

Let's go have a beach day in Fiji ASAP.

Martina Katz/Getty Images

Any day on the beach is a great day. But there is one way to make it better — spending the day at the best beach in the entire world. 

US News and World Report released its list of the Best Beaches in the World for 2024. To come to its conclusion of which sandy patch of earth is the best, the experts at US News and World Report ranked the beaches on a variety of factors , including its User Score, which accounts for 50% of the ranking and is based on votes by the public, and the Editors Score, which accounts for the other 50%. For the Editors Score, the team behind the list ranks spots based on the local sights, culture, people, food, nightlife, adventure, accessibility, and more, then averages those categories to give it a score. 

After plugging in all the data, US News and World Report named Fiji as the place with the best beaches on Earth.

“With its turquoise waters, glittering sands, and luxe resorts, Fiji is similar to many other tropical getaways. Likewise, the set of 333 islands caters to lovebirds of all kinds. Plus, adventure-seekers, like surfers and divers, appreciate the archipelago's quality waves and coral reefs,” the rankings page reads. “But Fiji differs from other island destinations in its otherworldliness. Since it's more than 1,300 miles from New Zealand's North Island in the South Pacific Ocean, Fiji affords you the delectable feeling of seclusion. You'll be as far from reality as possible when you're sipping Fiji Bitter beer and watching the sun dip below the horizon.” 

The best news is there are also plenty of fantastic hotels in Fiji that come with their own private stretches of beach, making it possible to feel somehow even more secluded than you already do. 

Joining Fiji in the top 10 spots is another island spot, the Turks & Caicos in the No. 2 spot, followed by the Bahamas in third, Bora Bora, and the Maldives in fourth and fifth. And if you can’t tell, this list really loves crystal clear waters and white sandy beaches. That trend continues with Mauritius in the sixth spot followed by the Whitsunday Islands, Maui, Tahiti, and Phuket rounding out the top 10.

See the entire list of the World’s Best Beaches at travel.usnews.com .