Top 10 Best Things To Do In Phuket (Thailand)
Nestled on the west coast of Thailand, Phuket is the roughly the size of Singapore. Measuring at least 540 square kilometers, this large island is home to world-famous destinations, jaw-dropping cultural attractions, and exotic natural wonders. Often touted as the perfect tropical paradise, the island stretches for miles and miles with serene Phuket beaches, majestic mountains, tropical rainforests, and limestone mountains.
Phuket is the prime example of what a tropical island should be, offering its visitors and locals alike whatever they seek. If you won’t be spending your time splashing in the water, you’ll be spending it sampling the mouth-watering street food or the delicious culinary delights found in Phuket. Of course, the endless entertainment options that come with Phuket’s nightlife will have you partying from dusk until dawn.
You’re probably looking for the perfect vacation destination to go to. If so, you’ve come to the right place. Phuket is large and offers a bucket load of activities, making it a bit difficult to navigate. To help you, we’ve outlined the best things to do in Phuket.
1. See The Phuket Big Buddha
On top of Nakkerd Hills sits a 45 meter tall Buddha statue that overlooks Rawai, Kata, Karon and Chalong Bay. Notably, it is made out of sparkly Burmese marble which makes the image even more breathtaking.
Its dominance steals from the presence of the golden image situated right next to it, which is much smaller in comparison. Nearby, is a shrine that complements the two aforementioned images of Buddha.
2. Phuket Town Weekend Night Market
If you’re looking for the perfect place to look for keepsakes and unique souvenirs, without having to part with more than a few bucks, the weekend night market is the place for you. Considered as one of the largest night markets on the Island, is home to hawkers selling new and second-hand items, and a variety of local foods.
Due to its popularity, it can get very crowded. To avoid hitting the market when it’s busy and crowded, try your best to get there at around 4 pm. Please note that the market closes around 9 pm.
3. Night Out on Bangla Road
When the sun sets, Bangla Road comes alive with nightlife activities. On this road, the atmosphere simply buzzes with excitement as numerous bars open from every corner on the street. Of course, what makes this location even more exciting are the dancers that line the streets, adding to the overall entertainment.
4. Surin Beach
Among the many Phuket beaches available to the public, Surin beach is among the most sought after. Surin beach is basically for the rich and famous, hence its nickname, the Millionaires Row. For this reason, the cuisine served here is a high- end delicacy and may require that you part with a large chunk of money.
With celebrities like Naomi Campbell and Leonardo DiCaprio visiting, it’s no wonder the beach is recognized as one of the most exotic in the world.
5. Visit Phang Nga Bay
Picture this: perfect emerald colored waters that stretch for miles, only to be disturbed by large limestone cliffs. Surrounding the bay, are lush forests that cover the mountains exquisitely. Phan Nga Bay is not only famous for its flourishing and exotic flora, but its breathtaking fauna as well.
6. Mai Khao Beach
This 11km-long straight beach is practically deserted most of the time. Situated in the northwest coast of Phuket is part of the Sirinat National Park.
One of the highlights of this beach is the ability to watch the planes fly over and land at Phuket airport. Every day people gather at the end of the runway to get their photo taken while the planes land and takeoff.
6. Khao Rang Viewpoint
If you love photography and live for panoramic views, you need to head down to Kha Rang viewpoint. Due to its unique location, you can view the famous Phuket Big Buddha from this particular viewpoint. Of course, you can also view the neighboring islands with their numerous Phuket beaches and famous landscapes.
It’s known as the perfect place to relax after traveling for long hours. With restaurants that offer top food choices, a safe children’s playground, and a fitness park, it’s impossible to resist the charm that Khao Rand Viewpoint offers.
7. Old Phuket Town
When it comes to the best things to do in Phuket, visiting the Old Phuket Town always tops the list for most travelers.
Old Phuket Town attracts every type of tourist, from the adventurous and the laid back traveler to those interested in history and culture. As the name suggests, this old town is characterized by Sino-Portuguese styled mansions, houses, and shops. Everything that lines the streets of this town is a depiction of the rich history of Phuket.
8. Pa Tong Beach
Pa Tong beach is mostly famous for its thriving nightlife. Hence, it ranks among the top and busiest beaches in all of Phuket. Other than its white sandy coastline that tends to sparkle under the sun, the beach is home to a number of bars, luxury resorts, restaurants, and clubs.
9. Wat Chalong
There’s a reason Wat Chalong hardly misses the list of the best things to do in Phuket.
When it comes to beauty, Wat Chalong is simply breathtaking. It’s made up breathtaking grounds that will have you exclaiming in surprise and relaxing from its serenity. However, this place is usually busy and is often filled to the brim with local worshippers and tourists.
10. Karon Beach
It goes without saying that there are countless Phuket beaches that deserve to be visited. Karon beach is among the top beaches to see.
Ranking as the third-longest beach on the Island, Karon beach is home to three major destinations: Karon Centre, Karon Beach Road, and the Luang Poh Chuan Road. At Karon Centre, you can either shop until you drop or opt for nightlife entertainment.
On the Karon Beach Road and Luang Poh Chuan Road, you have access to top restaurants and resorts that can help ease your rumbling stomach.
In conclusion, Phuket is a land of adventure and promise just waiting to be explored. Don’t miss out on what it has to offer. Book your tickets today and head on to an adventure of a lifetime.
