Things to Do in Phuket, Thailand

Explore the Beaches

Phuket, Thailand, is an ideal destination for beachgoers with its clear waters and picturesque landscapes. You can sunbathe on the soft sands or enjoy watersports such as sailing, kayaking, and snorkeling.

There are several beaches in Phuket, each offering its own unique experience. Let’s take a closer look at some of the best beaches in Phuket:

Patong Beach

Patong Beach is one of the most popular beaches on Phuket Island, Thailand. Situated on a curve of white sandy coastline, it offers endless activities for anyone looking for fun. Sunbathing and swimming are two major attractions as visitors enjoy soaking in the bright sunshine and clear waters. Most parts of the beach have calm waves due to a shallow ocean floor which makes it perfect for kids and those who are not yet confident in their swimming abilities.

Patong Beach offers a range of water activities, including jet skiing, banana boat rides, canoeing, wakeboarding, and kitesurfing. Small boats also offer island tours with or without sunset dinners or snorkeling trips around Phang Nga Bay. For those wanting something more relaxing, long-tail boats can be rented to tour comfortably around small bays wherever you please and find great snorkeling spots.

Not only does Patong Beach offer relaxation on the beach, but there’s also plenty to do shore too! With its vibrant nightlife made up of many crowded bars, nightclubs, and bustling pubs, it appeals to all ages, no matter your interest, from live music and shows to martial arts kickboxing matches. There’s something new every night down by the beachfront! Not far from Patong Beach, you’ll find plenty of souvenir shops and local markets selling everything from handmade hats to traditional Thai crafts. The shopping here creates an exciting atmosphere with numerous stalls offering good bargains throughout the day while street food vendors provide traditional delicious snacks all along the shoreline after dark!

Kata Beach

Kata Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Phuket, located on the island’s west coast, just a few kilometers south of Patong. Kata Beach offers something for everyone, ranging from a treasure trove of restaurants to exciting adventure activities.

The white sands and crystal clear waters make it an ideal spot for families and those who just want to relax. The unique backdrop of lush green hills and spectacular views over neighboring islands makes Kata Beach especially beautiful. Visitors can look forward to plenty of sunbathing options, with several beach clubs offering umbrellas and loungers for rent.

There are plenty of beach activities to enjoy here, too – from banana boat rides and parasailing to snorkeling in the deeper waters closer to the nearby islands where sea turtles can sometimes be seen. There’s also no shortage of restaurants catering to all tastes, plus shopping opportunities at colorful markets along the beachfront promenade.

Karon Beach

Karon Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Phuket, Thailand. It is blessed with gorgeous white sand, sparkling clear waters, and sweeping views of offshore islands. The beach stretches three kilometers along the island’s western shore and provides an array of activities for travelers. Karon Beach has something for everyone, from enjoying a stroll on the beach to splashing in the waves.

The enticing aquamarine waters are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and aquatic sports. Countless tour companies offer trips to nearby coral reefs and world-class dive sites like Shark Point and Anemone Reef – exciting boat trips that can be enjoyed even by novice divers. For a more leisurely day at Karon, you can chill out by lying in the sun or taking a horse riding trip along the coastline or further inland.

In terms of nightlife entertainment options, plenty of seafood restaurants serve delicious Thai dishes on the beachfront, and numerous bars pump reggae music all night long; many have fire shows with incredible acrobats, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a bit of flair! If you’re looking for something calmer, there are also several tasty eateries where you can sample delicious local dishes anytime during your stay.

Karon Beach undoubtedly makes for an exciting getaway in beautiful South East Asia. No matter what kind of activity you seek during your travels to Phuket, Thailand – whether it be soaking up the waterfront atmosphere or exploring underwater adventures – Karon Beach certainly isn’t one to miss!

Visit the Temples

A visit to Phuket would not be complete without exploring the temples. There are over 30 temples scattered around the island, each with its unique style and charm. Visiting the temples can be a great way to learn more about the local culture while also getting a glimpse into the spiritual life of the people of Phuket.

Let’s take a closer look at some of the temples and what they have to offer:

Big Buddha

The Big Buddha is one of the most visited and talked about landmarks in all of Phuket, Thailand, and is an important part of Thai culture. Located at the top of Nakkerd Hill near Chalong Bay, the impressive statue stands 45 meters tall and offers visitors breathtaking views when climbing.

The Big Buddha statue was constructed in 2004 through a project funded by donations from local people and people worldwide who wanted to share their respect and admiration for this sacred site. It contains over 800 pieces of white Burmese marble and would take around two weeks to assemble once it arrives. The top three tiers represent heaven, earth & hell, and each contains statues from which visitors can learn more about Buddhism.

Many come to this unique landmark for spiritual peace and tranquillity. In contrast, others want to explore the area for its fantastic photo opportunities – depending on weather conditions, you can often get some beautiful sunsets here, also! Guests are advised to dress respectfully when visiting this sacred site, as it’s a place of worship and one of Thailand’s most beloved landmarks.

Wat Chalong

Wat Chalong is your place if spiritual reflection is on your to-do list. Located 7.5 km south of Phuket Town in a district called Chalong, Wat Chalong (or Chaiya Mongkol Temple as it’s known officially) was built to honor two Acariya (Teachers/Masters).

Like most temples in Thailand, you must remove your shoes and make sure you’re appropriately dressed before entering – no shorts or singlets. When visiting the temple complex, you will come across several Chedi (Monastery Towers), gardens, Buddha statues, and shrines worshipped by Thai people from far away provinces, too – with plenty of monks mingling around.

If it happens to be during Chinese New Year, visitors flock here for the candlelit procession that substitutes a natural museum of human pastimes with its collection of traditional folk performances and handcrafted decorations from various parts of Thailand.

Wat Phra Thong

Wat Phra Thong is one of the most distinctive temples in Phuket and a must-see tourist attraction when in the area. It is located just outside the city center. This temple is unique not only for its architectural structure but also for its hidden mysteries. The temple’s golden Buddha statue, believed to bring good luck to those who visit it, makes it unique. It’s a great place to come if you want to explore religion or spirituality.

Apart from its stunning architecture and decor, one of Wat Phra Thong’s main features is the mysterious religious objects inside the temple grounds, including ritual weapons from ancient martial arts and statues symbolizing fortune, bravery, and immortality. Visitors can take a guided tour through the grounds or explore independently — an excellent option for those looking to integrate mindfulness into their vacation. There’s also a small souvenir shop should visitors wish to purchase items that commemorate their spiritual journey at Wat Phra Thong.

Enjoy the Nightlife

Phuket, Thailand, is known for its vibrant nightlife, with various bars, clubs, and music venues. Whether it’s a club filled with EDM, an open mic night, or a bar with karaoke, Phuket has something for everyone.

In this section, we’ll explore the best nightlife spots in Phuket and what each has to offer:

Bangla Road

Bangla Road is the epicenter of nightlife in Phuket, Thailand. This bustling stretch of road teems with energy, attracting locals and tourists looking for a good time. Bangla Road has something for everyone, from loud live music to lively ladyboys and street performers. It is well-known as Phuket’s most happening and active location after dark.

The mile-long stretch of road is lined with bars, pubs, and clubs that serve up an array of music styles, including rock and roll, hip-hop, and techno. In addition to its wide selection of nightlife establishments, Bangla Road offers many vendors selling food, handcrafted jewelry, and other souvenirs.

During the daytime, Bangla Road can seem relatively peaceful; however, do not be fooled by its daytime demeanor! As soon as the sunsets, this colorful strip comes alive with dancers, vendors, go-go bars lit up like discos, and some unforgettable party experiences outdoors or within one of the many nightclubs located along this well-known street. So whether you are looking for a chilled-out night out or an all-night rave, Bangla Road will have you covered!

Soi Tiger

If you’re looking for a night on the town in Phuket, Soi Tiger is an excellent place to start. This narrow alley off Bangla Road is one of the busiest nightlife spots on the island, with an array of attractions to choose from. Along the winding roads, you will find bars, pubs, and clubs catering to people from all walks of life.

Plenty of restaurants and street food stalls open late into the night, serving local Asian dishes and international favorites. The atmosphere is festive and lively, and most places stay open until 4 or 5 am each morning – making it an excellent place for late-night festivities! Most bars serve up alcoholic drinks at great prices, with buckets (mixed drinks) proving particularly popular amongst revelers.

Another must-do experience at Soi Tiger is watching cabaret shows, colorful performances where gender-bending dancers portray comedic dramas while lip-syncing to classical Thai music. In addition, live bands often perform in venues throughout Soi Tiger, playing anything from classic covers to modern chart hits – so you’re sure to find something that inspires you!

There are also significant DJ events held throughout each week, spinning all genres of music – whether you’re into house, reggae, or rap music, there is something for everyone!

No matter what kind of night-out experience you seek in Phuket, Soi Tiger has it all – so come down and join the festivities!

Phuket Simon Cabaret

For a night of bursting color, music, and show-stopping performances, visitors to Thailand should experience the magical Phuket Simon Cabaret show. As the largest transvestite theatre in the country, this lounge offers an array of magnificent costumes and daring acts – an unforgettable night out!

In addition to its glittering stage productions, this lounge has stunning lighting effects that highlight the impeccably choreographed routines put on by its talented performers. Throughout the show, these lively actors bring elements of comedy and Thai culture through traditional costumes – captivating the audience in each scene.

The performances revolve around classic love stories combined with modern pop songs that get visitors clapping with each routine. These comedic monologues, funny skits, and passionate singing captivated audiences until the very end – making for a unique experience found nowhere else in Thailand or beyond! With entertaining video clips of spots from around Phuket playing during intermissions as a backdrop to socialize with other viewers, it’s no wonder guests look forward to coming back for more.

Therefore, if you want an entertaining night out with plenty of laughs and happy moments, pay a visit to Phuket Simon Cabaret for an unforgettable experience.

Sample the Local Cuisine

Phuket is a destination full of unique culinary experiences. The local cuisine offers a host of flavors to sample, with dishes spanning the spectrum of spicy, sweet, and savory. Seafood is prevalent in this part of Thailand, with various popular dishes such as Pad Thai and Tom Yum Goong. From street food to fine dining, Phuket has something for everyone regarding cuisine.

Let’s explore some of the bests foods Phuket has to offer:

Street Food

Phuket is a paradise of flavors and spices, where streets are lined with delicious food stalls and vendors. Street food is one of the best things to do in Phuket, especially if you want to try something new. It offers abundant indigenous dishes with fresh Thai flavors and spices. So whether you’re searching for small snacks or large meals, everyone can find something on the streets in Phuket to suit their taste!

You can sample street food like noodle soups, fried rice dishes such as Pad Thai, sushi rolls, and khao soi (curried noodles). Grilled chicken and pork Satays are everyday street eats in Thailand; adding some sticky rice or nam prik (spicy sauces) gives the dish some additional flavor. Thai specialties like som tam (green papaya salad), kai jeow moo sab (Thai-style omelet), giew moo (Pork rind), and gai yang (grilled chicken marinated in turmeric paste) will please your taste buds with these delightful dishes. Other popular ones, such as firefly squid and squid balls, should also not be missed while roaming the streets!

Take care to ensure hygiene at street eat spots when picking out your favorites – make sure that food looks clean, that your utensils are clean, and that hot foods are served hot. If possible, try asking locals for recommendations on where to eat to ensure maximum enjoyment of this experience. Finally, enjoy your wanderings through all the countless stalls throughout Phuket – happy tasting!

Seafood

Seafood is a major staple of the diet in Phuket, and the seafood served here rivals some of the freshest in the world. Famous for its incredible variety of seafood dishes, most recipes are made using locally harvested ingredients and pair well with traditional spices.

When visiting Phuket, beachfront restaurants offer delicious ways to sample the local cuisine – from fresh fish to crustaceans, you’ll find plenty of options.

  • Fish and prawns are among the most popular choices here – whether cooked or raw – while squid and mussels can be found across coastal restaurants.
  • Crab meat is often used to make curries, stews, and salads, or it may even be steamed simply before being served with chili peppers and herbs.
  • Other popular seafood finds include cockles, razor clams, and mackerel, fried with garlic or mixed into mouthwatering salads.
  • If you’re feeling semi-adventurous, try some octopus or boiled sea urchins – otherwise, their preparations range from simple steamings to deep-fry alternatives.

Traditional Thai Dishes

When traveling to Thailand, sample its rich and diverse cuisine. Thai food is traditionally characterized by complex, balanced flavors that marry sweet, sour, salty, and spicy together.

A typical Thai meal starts with an appetizer of a tangy salad like som tam papaya, which is made from shredded green papaya mixed with sour lime juice, fish sauce, and dried shrimp. Then, moving onto the main course, traditional Thai dishes include savory noodle soups like kuaytiaw ruea – Pork boat noodles served in a refreshing pork broth with fresh toppings – or green curry packed with coconut milk, herbs, and vegetables.

In addition to the wide variety of savory dishes are related sweet-dessert options such as sticky mango rice; made with ripe mangoes and fragrant glutinous sticky rice – or Khao niao mamuang, cooked sticky rice steamed in coconut milk fragranced with pandan leaves and served side by side with sliced fresh mangoes. If you’re feeling adventurous Thai-style ice cream rolls are also available – resulting in rainbow-rolled ice cream that has become very popular! Likewise, many fruits of southeast Asia can be picked up from most street stalls, so don’t forget to try something new!

Other Activities

Although Phuket is an excellent destination for beach lovers, it also has plenty of other activities for travelers! From visiting temples to exploring waterfalls, there are lots of fun things to do in Phuket!

This section will explore some of the most popular activities in this gorgeous island destination.

Island Hopping

Explore beyond the beaches of Phuket to discover a variety of stunning, secluded islands off the coast. Ko Racha Noi, Ko Phi Phi Don, Koh Hong, and Ko Lanta are the most popular for day trips. A day-trip boat or ferry service can be found at Klong Thapmak pier in East Phuket Town but bear in mind that these boats are slow and may take up to four hours from Kata Beach to Koh Lanta; private chartered speedboats are also available.

Depending on your island destination, you may explore stunning emerald cliffs and coves on quieter beaches, rock climbing walls, and snorkeling sites renowned for their impressive corals and marine life. Be sure to bring your sun lotion and a hat, as the tropical sunshine is highly intense here! You’ll also want plenty of water for the trip – some boats have small coolers with limited drinks or snacks. Finally, ensure an insurance policy should an emergency arise while on the island hopping tour.

Shopping

Phuket, Thailand, is considered one of the ultimate paradise destinations by travelers worldwide. From pristine white beaches and crystal clear waters to exquisite seafood and culture, Phuket holds something for every type of traveler.

For those looking to do some shopping while in Phuket, there are plenty of options to meet all budgets and tastes. The main shopping districts in Phuket are Patong Beach and Old Town Phuket. In both locations, you’ll find numerous markets which offer everything from handcrafted souvenirs, clothing, artwork, and jewelry at discounted prices. Additionally, there are several shopping malls in Phuket with luxury designer stores and international brand outlets, such as Central Festival Phuket and Jungceylon Shopping Mall.

In addition to the traditional shopping experience, don’t forget to visit the famous local food markets for fresh produce and authentic Thai dishes from street vendors and small restaurants. There are also plenty of night markets and local flea markets for bargain hunting which remain open until late at night, providing a unique experience sure to excite even the keenest shopaholic!

Water Sports

Phuket boasts some of the best beaches and crystal-clear waters in Thailand, making it the perfect spot for water sports and activities. Whether a beginner or an avid enthusiast, you’ll find plenty to do in and around Phuket’s beautiful waters. Experienced and novice water sports lovers will enjoy thrilling adventures such as surfboarding, kayaking, sailing, and deep sea fishing – among the many activities on offer.

For those looking to explore Thailand’s stunning coral reefs without getting their feet wet, several glass-bottomed boat trips are available that take visitors to view some of the most spectacular marine life in Asia. Snorkeling is also popular here since the vibrant reefs offer excellent exploration opportunities.

For a more intense adrenaline rush, why not try your hand at wakeboarding or windsurfing? If you’re daring enough, then jet skiing is your go-to option; navigate through the waves while taking in remarkable views of Phuket’s rugged shoreline. For family fun, head to Mueang beach, where jet skis can be rented by the hour, or take a banana boat ride along Ao Yon beach with up to 7 people per ride!