In contrast to other tourist destinations in Thailand, which are renowned for their rich cultural heritage and artistic flair, Phuket was formerly best known for its mining and fishing villages. The 1970s saw the start of the tourism boom. Currently, Phuket is one of Thailand's top tourist destinations which must be added to your your Thailand holiday package. When you visit Phuket, which is renowned for its vibrant beaches, high mountains, amazing islands, opulent resorts, and mouthwatering cuisine, you will have a ton of fun and opportunities to create lasting memories. In this blog, we'll list 40 things to do in Phuket while traveling there.
Island-hopping excursions in the Andaman Sea and Phang Nga Bay are among the best things to do in Phuket, Thailand, if you like beaches and islands. The Ao Por Pier and Chalong Pier in Phuket provide access to the majority of Thailand's islands. These have beautiful snorkeling spots, white sand beaches, and crystal-clear water. Islands are waiting for you to explore them, and depending on your tastes, you can pick between islands with opulent resorts and islands with peaceful, quiet beaches. Additionally, the islands are perfect for water sports like kayaking, parasailing, and rafting. James Bond Islands, Phi Phi Islands, Similan Islands, and Racha Islands are a few of Phuket's well-known island-hopping destinations.
You might want to save a trip to this location in Thailand for when it's raining. European settlements and other developed activities took place in Phuket when it was a mining hub. Because of this, the region still exhibits Dutch and Portuguese architectural influences. The Thalang Road, Dibuk Road, Krabi Road, and Phang Nga Road are a few of the well-known roads in this area. Among the top things to do in Phuket town, exploring the retro-styled coffee shops, Buddhist temples, old art museums, and night markets will find its way into the itinerary.
One of the best things to do in Phuket is to visit its beaches. In Phuket, you have a variety of options, whether you prefer to engage in water sports or simply unwind under a shady tree. Its pristine beaches and soft white sands draw visitors from all over the world, which is one of the main factors in increasing Phuket’s popularity. Under the waters off Phuket, you can also discover vibrant corals and marine life, including turtles, sea horses, clownfish, and even manta rays. The resorts with beach views or the nearby beach clubs are wonderful places to hang out in Phuket.
The nightlife in Phuket is extraordinary if you're a party animal who believes in having fun. The nighttime hours are typically kept busy by loud DJ music, live music, ladyboy shows, go-go bars, and ping pong shows. It's one of the best things to do in Phuket city to experience this kind of vibrant lifestyle. Due to Phuket's prominence as one of southern Thailand's main tourist destinations, this area is frequently overrun by tourists. The Bangla Road in Patong and the beach clubs close to Bang Tao Beach are some of the best locations to take advantage of this nightlife. Watch Muay Thai boxing at Patong Boxing Stadium if you enjoy sports.
The Big Buddha Temple, which is located atop the Nakred Mountains, is also known as "Happiness atop the Nakred Mountains." Being 45 meters tall, this temple is the biggest Buddhist building in Phuket and is currently the third-largest building in Thailand. From the southern Karon Viewpoint, one can see the temple. One can get a 360-degree view of the island from the top, and the serene atmosphere encourages visitors to stop by. It is recommended to visit the temple in proper attire, and entry to this temple is typically free. One of the best things to do in Thailand with family is typically visiting this temple.
One of the top things to do in Phuket is take a boat tour. When it comes to boat rides, you have a wide range of options. You could choose to use a straightforward kayak boat to travel through Phang Nga Bay or a cruiser boat to enjoy the sunset and dinner. When moving between islands, speedboats may be preferred. We are able to view the beauty of these islands from various perspectives thanks to these boat rides. When visiting the rides, it is advised to reserve your ticket as soon as possible because it is common for them to be crowded.
One of the most amazing things to do in Phuket with your family is to attend the Phuket FantaSea show. It is an inclusive tourist destination because it combines a royal setting, an excellent theatrical experience, and a ton of entertaining activities for visitors of all ages. This nighttime theme park is located in Kathu District and spans 140 acres of land. The most well-liked activities around here include Fantasy of Kingdom, dining in a royal setting, and shopping at the festival hub.
A rocky headland known as Promthep Cape extends into the Andaman Sea as Phuket Island's southernmost point. Additionally, there is a lighthouse here that displays interesting historical maritime artifacts and was once used to guide Malay sailors sailing to Phuket. The lighthouse, which is 200 feet above sea level, provides the ideal vantage point from which to see nearby islands. One of Phuket's most popular photogenic locales is Promthep Cape. The sunset view from here is one of the best and usually underappreciated. Exploring this southernmost tip is one of the offbeat things to do in Phuket.
Jungle explorations and safari tours along the Khao Lak and Khao Sok Mountains are some of the most daring and fun things to do in Phuket, Thailand. There are also short guided tours available in the forests on Phuket's other little islands. You can explore the jungle by bamboo rafting in the rivers, trekking and hiking in the mountains, or canoeing on the rivers. In addition to being entertaining, these safari tours are educational. Along the tour, you'll be able to see the chirping birds and spooky little creatures. The guide typically speaks English, but being able to communicate crucial information effectively would benefit from knowing a little of their language.
No matter your level of experience, taking part in some of Phuket's water sports should be on your itinerary. Patong Beach, Surin Beach, Kamala Beach, Bang Tao Beach, Kata Beach, and other beaches on Phuket's main island and smaller islands are places where one can try out water sports. A few of these sports include snorkelling, scuba diving, kitesurfing, flyboarding, jet skiing, parasailing, kayaking, and wakeboarding. These watersports are typically offered in the morning, and participating in them is one of the more adventurous things to do in Phuket. If you're a beginner, it is recommended that you try this sport with a lifeguard or an expert. Wear safety equipment when entering the water, regardless of your level of experience.
Phuket is one of the best places to be in Thailand if you enjoy shopping. We can examine Thai native goods and products at the weekend markets there. You can go to the nearby malls, which have a distinctive collection of imported wines, to buy imported goods. There aren't many places where you can shop to your heart's content, but Phuket Walking Street, Central Festive Mall, and Karon Market are some of them. Spending a day shopping is one of the crazy things to do in Phuket. Feel free to haggle while shopping in the market, but always be courteous.
One of the most amazing and enjoyable things to do in Phuket, Thailand, with family and kids is to visit one of the dolphinariums named Nemo’s Dolphin Bay, which is located in Chalong Province on the southeastern coast of Phuket. Everyone will enjoy watching these adorable aquatic creatures perform tricks, spin, and dance to the music. You could also have your picture taken with these witty and adorable dolphins after the performance. The show airs twice a day, at 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m., for about 45 minutes each time. It is advised to take a private cab or rent a scooter to cover the most ground while travelling in southern Phuket.
The brother islands Koh Racha Noi and Koh Racha Yai make up the Raya islands, also known as Racha islands, which are situated south of Phuket. In addition to the island's natural beauty, it is ideal for swimming, scuba diving, and snorkelling. The uninhabited Racha Nai is preferred for fishing, while Racha Yai is typically preferred for diving and snorkelling in its clear waters. The Raya Islands, which are remote from the main island city and offer peace and tranquillity, are ideal for honeymoon getaways. One can escape from their busy lives and routines by visiting this place because of its peaceful atmosphere and soothing surroundings. The Racha, an opulent resort, is among Phuket's top accommodations. Most people come here for a day trip, but one of the best things to do in Phuket for couples is to spend the night in one of the island resorts and take in the tranquil atmosphere.
Visiting the Tiger Kingdom, located at the base of Patong Hill in Phuket's Kathu District, is one of the best things to do in Phuket with kids. Visitors have the chance to get close to these tigers, which range in age from cubs to adults. The cost of visiting these animals varies according to their size and age. Additionally, they have cheetahs on their campus. One could feed the cubs, relax with them, and take photos with them. Visiting the tiger kingdom in the morning is advised, as the animals are usually active at that time.
One of the main factors influencing Southeast Asia's night markets' popularity is the region's geographic location. These tropical countries experience hot, muggy weather all year due to their location. Night markets became well-liked and a staple of their culture as a way to escape the heat. Some of Thailand's top night markets are also located in Phuket. The Phuket Walking Street, the Phuket Weekend Market, the Fun Friday Avenue Market, and the Phuket Vintage Market are a few of them. These night markets are great places to purchase locally made Thai crafts, electronics, clothing, footwear, and other goods. These are also the perfect places to sample Phuket's local cuisine and street food. One of the best things to do in Phuket at night is simply to wander around these vibrant night markets and sample their cuisine, even if you have no interest in purchasing anything.
Phuket is the place to go if you love to party. Nightclubs and cafes open their doors when the sun sets. One of the best places in Phuket to experience nightlife is on Patong's Bangla Road. Participating in pub crawls or bar hops is affordable, enjoyable, and among the best things to do in Phuket at night. Typically, you can book your tickets in one location and enter multiple bars. You are permitted to dance and enjoy yourself in the bars while receiving a complimentary drink. You can also enjoy the regional cuisine by visiting the nearby street stalls along these roads.
The cultural significance of elephants is well known in Thailand. Elephants frequently appear in artwork, coins, bottles, and clothing in addition to being the national animal of Thailand. Elephant parks in Thailand have gained popularity as people's fascination with animals and animal entertainment grows. It is advised to visit ethical elephant parks and sanctuaries instead, where you can observe elephants residing in an environment that is similar to their natural habitat. Spending time with elephants, like preparing food for them, feeding them, and taking baths with them, is among the fun things to do in Phuket with family. The best ethical elephant parks in Thailand include the Phuket Elephant Sanctuary, the Elephant Retirement Park close to Bang Tao Beach, the Phang Nga Elephant Park, and the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary.
As Phuket's beaches become more popular as a tourist destination, beach clubs close by have grown into their own attractions. Visits to these clubs are among the top things to do in Phuket. In the morning, these clubs serve delectable meals, and in the evening, they host wild parties. The dance parties, dance performances, and fire shows are all incredibly entertaining and spectacular. The best places to spend the night with our friends are at parties held on special occasions like birthdays or New Year's Eve. The Pine Beach Bar, Cafe De Mar, Carpe Diem Beach Club, and Catch Beach Club are a few of the well-known beach clubs in Phuket that are close to Kamala Beach and Bang Tao Beach.
Halfway between Phuket Island and the Strait of Malacca is Thailand's Phi Phi Island, a must-visit location. The popularity of this island can be credited to the Hollywood film “The Beach," starring Leonardo DiCaprio. This tropical island is a dreamland with stunning coral reefs, enormous limestone caverns, stunning beaches, and an abundance of marine life. One of the best things to do in Phuket is to visit these locations for a romantic getaway or honeymoon. You can also swim, dive, kayak, snorkel, and explore the waters. Checking out Tonsai Bay, the Viking cave, and relaxing on the area's beaches are a few of the best things to do.
Among all beverages in Thailand, Chalong Bay Rums are quite distinctive and well-liked. So if you enjoy the drink, one of the things to do in Phuket city when exploring Chalong Bay is to spend a couple of hours at the Chalong Rum Distillery. They take pride in using the locally grown cane and refrain from using artificial sweeteners. The tour typically lasts an hour and features their wine-making process as well as opportunities to sample their products. Additionally, you can eat at one of their on-site restaurants or shop inside their building for their wines and products.
There are numerous hills and mountains in Phuket, which provide breathtaking views of the island. Visiting the Karon Viewpoint, which is located on top of Khao Sam Haad, is one of the most amazing things to do in Phuket. Due to the breathtaking views of Kata Noi Beach, Kata Beach, and Karan Beach, the viewpoint is also known as the "three-beach viewpoint." Additionally, to the east of here, you can see the Big Buddha Temple. For the most picturesque view of the sun setting over the water, go to the viewpoint in the evening.
Cooking is one of the few arts whose traditionalism and originality have been passed down to subsequent generations and have always been an essential component of all cultures. Learning Thai cooking is among the fun things to do in your Phuket trip. Understanding the locals' food cultures brings us one step closer to comprehending their culture. Learning regional styles would also help us gradually improve our own. Some schools also give tours of the neighbourhood markets and give us advice on how to pick particular vegetables. Attending cooking classes also enables us to meet locals and other like-minded individuals. The Phuket Thai Cookery School and Express Thai Cooking School in Patong are a couple of famous cooking schools in Phuket.
Visiting the Soi Dog Foundation is among the best free things to do in Phuket, Thailand. It is a popular tourist destination that is open year-round, so off-season travel is also advised. The Soi Dog Foundation's mission is to enhance the lives of cats and dogs. Tourist donations, volunteer hours, sponsorship of the animals, and purchases of their goods are all gratefully accepted by the foundation. They do have guided tours happening inside the foundation, with the trainer well-versed in English.
One of the more casual things to do in Phuket is to hike along the paths of the Khao To Sae mountains, also known as the Monkey Hills. Despite the mountain's passable road, it is advised to walk along it to see lots of monkeys. Aside from seeing the monkeys, other things to do include visiting the small Chinese temple and the Khao To Sae viewpoint. Additionally, you'll see locals here feeding the monkeys and training them to perform tricks. Visitors to the monkey hill are advised to exercise caution when interacting with the baby monkeys and to avoid flashing shiny objects.
Visit the Phuket Trickeye Museums to explore the world of optical tricks. These are astounding paintings that allow you to stand in a specific spot and take pictures. As a result of 3D printing, the photographs will appear authentic. Taking pictures from different angles at this art museum is one of the top things to do in Phuket Town with your kids and family. The paintings are segmented into various areas based on jungles, mystical worlds, and other distinctive themes. There are paintings by well-known Renaissance artists in this art museum. Due to its town location, you have easy access to the nearby eateries and coffee shops. The museum is a fun place to spend a couple of hours in Phuket's sweltering afternoons.
A vibrant and well-kept family-friendly tourist destination in Phuket is Phuket Bird Park. Many exotic bird species from Asia, Africa, and South America live there, including hornbills, macaws, white pigeons, barn owls, and many others. One of Thailand's largest bird parks, the Phuket Bird Park is a sister enterprise of the Phuket Botanical Garden and spans an area of about 12 km. One of the best things to do in Phuket with kids is to spend an afternoon exploring this lush, green bird park. Their main attraction, the Bird Show, which takes place twice daily, not only amuses kids and adults but also both. One is amazed to see birds following instructions based on their nicknames, cycling, and performing math. They also have other domesticated animals like rabbits, goats, turtles, otters, and others; you are welcome to feed both the domesticated animals and the birds.
With everything from planned activities to all-inclusive spas, fitness centres, and sporting opportunities, luxury resorts in Phuket are developing into vacation destinations in and of themselves. For those looking for prolonged periods of solitude, there are even remote villas available. In Phuket, upscale resorts will always be in demand due to rising tourism and wedding events. The best five-star hotels in Thailand can be found all over Phuket, with options like lodging with a private pool, beachfront resorts, and resorts on mountaintops. Surin, Racha Resorts, Banyan Tree Phuket, and Wyndham Sea Pearl Resort are a few of the well-known resorts. Choosing to stay in these luxurious resorts and exploring the nearby attractions is among thefascinating things to do in Phuket for couples during their honeymoon trip or romantic trip.
A Buddhist temple called Wat Phra Thong can also be found in Phuket's Thalang neighbourhood under the name "Wat Phra Phud" or "Temple of Protruding Buddha." Here, the main draw is a statue of a half-buried Buddha with only his upper torso and head showing. Wat Phra Thong is a peaceful haven away from the busy town of Phuket. The intriguing historical connection between this temple and the local folktale is another noteworthy aspect of this site. In addition to being a popular temple, the area has a nearby museum with artefacts from the time of the tin mines and supplies used by Chinese soldiers. One of the offbeat things to do in Phuket is to visit this location, which is located on the outskirts of Phuket's main city.
Among the interesting and enjoyable things to do in Phuket Thailand with family and friends are going on an adventure and taking part in the waterpark rides. Phuket offers a variety of amazing and distinctive water rides. The Andamanda Waterpark, Splash Jungle Waterpark, and Blue Tree Waterpark are a few locations in Phuket where you can have fun and play with your kids. It is also not difficult to get to these parks because they are typically close to the main road. Also recommended is a trip to Tribhum- The Mystical Three Worlds, the first 3-D walkthrough adventure theme park in the world. This theme park's shows are based on mythical creatures like Naga and Garuda and legendary Thai folktales, creating a stunning fusion of mythology and modernity.
Phuket enjoys lush tropical forests thanks to consistent rainfall and abundant sunshine. Recently, an increasing trend toward eco-tourism has become popular in Phuket. One such eco-tourist idea that one could try out is eco-adventure rides through these forests. Experiencing the rides at Hanuman's World Phuket and Flying Hanuman is one of the more adventurous things to do in Phuket. Without disrupting the ecosystem of the forest, these rides provide excellent service, excitement, enjoyment, and a once-in-a-lifetime experience. In addition to zipline gliders, these attractions in Phuket also offer spiral stairs, walking on sky bridges, riding dual zipline gliders, and climbing trees of various heights. Before the rides begin, you will receive some preliminary instructions and warm-up exercises. The equipment is generally secure, and each team will have a guide to keep an eye on the travellers.
Visiting the upside-down house, also known as Baan Tilanka, is one of the more eccentric and crazy things to do in Phuket. You’ll be literally entering the house through its roof. The house is built in such a way that not only the outside but also the interior, including the bedrooms, playrooms, and hallways, appear to be upside down. This building is a marvel of architecture, and it takes some time for the brain to adjust to the inverted environment. A garden maze is located close by, and both are open from morning 10:00 a.m. to evening 6:00 p.m.
The island's tropical climate and distinctive topography have been used to create several excellent golf courses in Phuket. These exquisitely crafted golf courses, which make excellent use of the abundance of water and trees in the area, draw a lot of visitors who come specifically to play golf. One of the best things to do in Phuket city is to play golf, which is easy to do because many golf courses are nearby resorts. The Red Mountain Golf Club, Loch Palm Golf Club, Laguna Phuket Golf Club, and Blue Canyon Country Club are a few of the golf courses that are regarded as the best. Some of these golf courses have the honour of hosting international competitions.
When one has completed a thorough tour of Thailand, one ought to depart feeling at ease and unworn. One of the top things to do in Phuket is to get a Thai massage after exploring the city for a while. Thai massage uses a variety of movements and techniques to treat our muscles, joints, and bones. Improved circulation, increased energy and mood, and improved joint flexibility are just a few advantages of Thai massage. Thai massage is another effective method for easing and getting rid of persistent muscle pain. Despite the fact that there are luxurious resorts in Phuket that provide Thai massage services, many other spas and facilities have begun to do so at reasonable rates.
If you're a devoted fan of boxing, MMA, and fitness, you shouldn't miss seeing Muay Thai in its native land. Thai people take great pride in and adore muay Thai, which is the country's national sport. While Muay Thai may appear straightforward, it requires tremendous power and efficiency when striking. One of the most amazing things to do in Phuket is to watch fights at the Patong Boxing Stadium or Bangla Boxing Stadium. One's body, soul, and mind are all toughened and strengthened by learning Muay Thai. A Muay Thai academy in Phuket can offer professional instruction if you want to take it further. You can also sign up at the local gym.
The Wat Chalong Temple is one of the top things to do in Phuket Town when taking a temple tour of the island of Phuket. The temple was constructed to honour the efforts of the Buddhist monks who, at the time, stood up to the Chinese rebellion. According to legend, the Buddha's fragment of bone is housed in the 60-meter-tall chedi. Additionally, there are enjoyable activities, fairs, and stores inside the temple's grounds. It is advised for visitors to the temple to dress appropriately because it is a temple attraction.
The nightlife in Phuket is renowned for its entertaining performances and shows, in addition to its parties and beaches. There are programs that are not just for adults but are also suitable for families. Family-friendly shows typically feature lively, colourful performances that are based on Thai culture. One of the best things to do in Phuket at night, if you're looking for events to attend, is to check out a cabaret show. The Aphrodite Cabaret Show and the Phuket Simon Cabaret Show are a couple of well-known cabaret performances in Phuket. One is kept entertained the entire time by these shows' loud music, hanging confetti, and sparkling lights.
Southeast Asia's tropical and subtropical rainforests are home to gibbons, which are diminutive arboreal apes. The demands of the tourism industry, the loss of their forest habitat, as well as historical hunting and poaching, threaten these arboreal acrobats. The Gibbon Rehabilitation Project in Thalang, Phuket, makes an effort to keep these gibbons from going extinct. One of the unusual things to do in Phuket with family is to go here and feed the gibbons. In Kha Phra Theo National Park, you could also see these gibbons released into the wild.
Even though Phuket is well-known for its beaches, nightlife, and island-hopping tours, little is usually said about exploring its mountain trails. One could explore the amazing viewpoints, wildlife sanctuaries, waterfalls, and ethical zoological parks that can be found along these mountain trails. One of the most adventurous things to do in Phuket is taking a hike through the forest, through the jungle, or up a mountain to explore its natural beauties. These mountains are typically grouped in Phuket's west, running north to south. Among the well-known mountains are Khao Bang Pae and Khao Rang. Phuket's islands each have a tiny mountain on top of which you can gaze out over the water. Black Rock Viewpoint, Karon Viewpoint, and Panwa Viewpoint are a few of Phuket's best vantage points.
Ever since antiquity, Phuket has been documented as having visitors. Travellers from China and India used this island to dock their ships and rest during the monsoon season due to its location. The majority of Phuket's income up until the 1970s came from its tin mines, which were governed by Thai Kings and European settlers. As a result, European and Chinese influences can be seen in Phuket Island's art, architecture, and artefacts. The artefacts that resulted from these influences are documented and gathered in museums. Thalang National Museum, Phuket Mining Museum, and Phuket Thai Hua Museum are a few of Phuket's top museums. Additionally, among the unusual things to do in Phuket is to visit interesting and entertaining museums like the Phuket Trickeye Museum and the Phuket Sea Shell Museum.
To understand Phuket's culture, one must fully immerse themselves in the lavish celebration of its festivals. Chinese New Year, New Year's celebrations, the Vegetarian Festival, and the Phuket International Boat Show are a few of the well-known festive occasions. The well-known Phuket vegetarian festival is a novel way for them to celebrate their beliefs, and you can typically find a lot of vegan food in Phuket. It is a fun and interesting way to learn about their culture, making attendance at this celebration one of the best things to do in Phuket. Also not to be missed during these holiday seasons are street festivals and late-night fireworks displays.