Welcome to the tropical paradise of Phuket, a jewel in the Andaman Sea that beckons with its crystal-clear waters, stunning beaches, and vibrant culture. Whether you’re a beach lover, an adventure seeker, or a culture enthusiast, Phuket has something to offer for everyone. Here’s a list of the most interesting places in Phuket to explore and some helpful tips for your unforgettable trip.
Patong Beach: a vibrant hub.
Kick off your Phuket adventure at Patong Beach, the heartbeat of the island. This bustling area is famous for its lively atmosphere, water activities, and vibrant nightlife. Stroll along the beach, enjoy water sports, and experience the vibrant energy of Bangla Road after the sun sets.
The main artery of Patong is Bangla Road. Many tourists and locals come here in the evening. It is the most vibrant street in Phuket. During the day, the sweet sound of the sea is heard here. In the distance, graceful palms wave like the spread fingers of wide green palms, lined up along the famous promenade. The sluggish morning crowd turns into a crazy, obsessed crowd at night. People stroll and have fun, peering into cafes, shops, shooting ranges, bars, restaurants, budget discos, and expensive clubs, of which there are many here. This is where all the infamous places of Phuket are located, a huge number of bars, both regular and Go Go.
From Patong, you can expect a lot of noise and fun, bars everywhere, loud music, everything is lit up, and everyone is laughing. In one quiet pub, someone quietly sips the famous Thai beer Chang to the tune of Deep Purple, and in another, everyone stands on their ears, a local rock band with cute Asians performs famous covers, and waitresses in nurse outfits kindly offer intoxicating shots.
Big Buddha. Serenity amidst splendor.
Among the man-made attractions of Phuket, the most interesting is the 45-meter statue of the Big Buddha, installed on Nakkerd Hill. Here, you can admire the surroundings from the viewpoint, visit the Buddhism museum, or the active Buddhist temple.
Old Phuket Town: cultural extravaganza.
Take a step back in time by visiting Old Phuket Town. The charming streets are adorned with colorful colonial buildings, vibrant street art, and a plethora of quirky cafes and boutiques. Explore the rich cultural heritage of the island through the museums and galleries that dot the area.
Beaches in Phuket.
The beaches of Phuket are very long and wide, with white, fine sand. The most popular beach is located in Patong, where the entire “life” of the island is concentrated. Interestingly, the southern beaches such as Patong, Kata, Karon, or Naihan are popular among “youth” tourists, while the northern ones – Kamala, Surin, and Nai Yang – are favored by those seeking a more tranquil experience – those who came to Thailand not for entertainment but for tranquility.
For me, the best beach turned out to be Surin Beach. Few people, huge waves. As befitting the best beach on the island, there are plenty of activities here from volleyball to parasailing over the sea. The water here is warm and inviting.
Viewpoint at Cape Phromthep.
This is the furthest point on the southwest of Phuket island and is located 30 km away from Patong. The main attraction of Cape Phromthep is the viewpoint, which is considered one of the most famous and beautiful viewpoints on the island. Comfortable sandy harbors are located on its sides, and its slopes are high, steep, and rugged. In addition to the panoramas from the viewpoint, you can see a Hindu temple adorned with elephant statues.
If you are planning to visit Phuket for the first time, the Similan Islands are a place I highly recommend you see.
Wat Chalong Buddhist Temple.
This is an amazing Thai temple of stunning beauty. Essentially, it is the best place to immerse yourself in Thai religion. It happens that temples are not as common in Phuket as in Bangkok, for example, but here, you have a real opportunity to see the religious life of the Thais.
Before entering the sacred abode, it is necessary to remove shoes, cover shoulders with a cloth, and cover legs. Inside the temple, three statues are placed at the center: the monk Luang Pho Chem and his disciples. This saint served in the monastery in the late 19th century and helped the wounded during the Chinese uprising.
Also, in one of the structures of the Wat Chalong temple complex, a fragment of Buddha’s shoulder is kept, a gift from the authorities of Sri Lanka to the King of Thailand. There is also a small pond with lotuses and a lot of greenery and flowers.
Phi Phi islands: a tropical haven.
Embark on a boat trip to the Phi Phi Islands, a stunning archipelago that has become a must-visit destination. With its emerald waters and towering limestone cliffs, Phi Phi offers breathtaking scenery for snorkeling, diving, or simply basking in the sun. Click here to find out more about this place.
Getting to Phuket.
Getting to this tropical paradise is easier than you think. Phuket International Airport is well-connected, receiving flights from major cities worldwide. Once you land, you can easily reach your destination by taxi, shuttle, or rental car.
I highly recommend traveling by car as it is the most convenient and direct option. If you don’t have a car, you can rent one at very reasonable prices here.
Be sure to inspect the car for scratches or damage that are noted in the contract before leaving the parking lot, and return to the office to let the manager know what you think is not mentioned.
Check Aviasales to find the cheapest flights to Phuket if you’re traveling from another country.
Best hotels in Phuket.
When traveling, I only book accommodation through Booking, as there you can always find fantastic options for villas, hotels and guest houses. I love staying in quirky and wonderful hotels as it adds an authentic feel to the place I’m in.
If you’re seeking a serene and peaceful getaway, look no further than Thavorn Beach Village and Spa hotel in Phuket. Nestled in the heart of nature, this hidden gem promises an idyllic escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life (Click here to check prices).
Situated on the stunning Nakalay Bay, Thavorn Beach Village and Spa is a haven of tranquility. The resort boasts lush greenery, panoramic ocean views, and a private beach, creating a picture-perfect setting for guests seeking a peaceful retreat. As soon as you step onto the property, you’ll be greeted by the soothing sounds of nature and a gentle sea breeze that sets the tone for a relaxing stay.
Budget-friendly options include Patong Backpacker Hostel and The Memory at On On Hotel in Old Phuket Town.
Useful recommendations before visiting.
Respect the local culture: while Phuket is known for its vibrant atmosphere, it’s essential to respect the local customs and traditions. Dress modestly when visiting temples and remove your shoes before entering.
Stay hydrated: the tropical climate can be intense. Ensure you stay hydrated, especially if you’re out exploring during the day.
Try local cuisine: indulge in the delicious local cuisine, from street food to seafood restaurants. Don’t miss the chance to savor the unique flavors of Phuket.
Sunscreen is a must: with the sun shining bright, make sure to apply sunscreen regularly to protect your skin.
Phuket is a destination that captivates the soul with its beauty and warmth. Embrace the laid-back atmosphere, explore the hidden gems, and let the enchantment of this island stay with you long after you leave. Your adventure in Phuket awaits!
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