Phuket is a well known destination for a stay in Thailand. Whether it’s for a bachelor party with thai models, a team building or any other group event, it is well known for its multiple assets. But what to do in Phuket? What can we see and visit?
The beaches
Phuket is famous for its fine sandy beaches. However, all are not equal. They have different characteristics, whether in terms of setting, frequentation, or facilities around. Beyond the stretches of sand in itself, one usually chooses a place to sleep nearby.
Patong Beach
Patong is the most famous and popular beach resort of Phuket. On the west coast and relatively large, it has everything you need for a lively stay: great beaches, water activities to do, easy pick-up for excursions, restaurants, bars or nightclubs. And even a Muay Thai boxing stadium, for those who would like to discover this sport, a real institution in Thailand.
Karon Beach
Just below, Karon is relatively similar but with a lower attendance. It is already more suitable for families and budgets a little higher. You can find there this beautiful establishment of the Hilton chain.
The other beaches in the west of Phuket
In addition to the two main beaches mentioned above, there are other beaches along the western side of Phuket. Among them: Kamala Beach and Bang Tao which are less frequented but very pleasant.
Boat excursions
Going to Phuket without enjoying the richness of the surroundings would clearly be a mistake. Indeed, its surroundings, and especially the Andaman Sea that surrounds it, is home to beautiful islands. Here are those that can be discovered through excursions from Phuket.
Koh Phi Phi and its Maya Bay, the must-see
You’ve probably already seen this picture: a sandy beach with boats and green rocks in the background. It was even used as a film location in the movie The Beach with Leonardo di Caprio and Virginie Ledoyen. It is located on one of the islands that make up Koh Phi Phi and is called Maya Bay.
The day trip from Phuket consists in going to Koh Phi Phi, with several snorkeling stops and in places that are worth a visit. On the program: Lo Sama Bay, Monkey Beach or Pileh Lagoon.
It is one of the most popular, and you will have understood it one of the most touristy. Despite its beauty and the fact that it looks like a place at the end of the world, do not expect to be alone on this beach.
Phang Nga Bay with its mythical James Bond Island
Direction this time the north of the Andaman Sea with the bay of Phang Nga, south of Krabi. This magnificent place shelters a multitude of small islands which seem to rise above the water. Made of rocky formations, more or less narrow and partially covered with vegetation, they have been shaped by erosion, which gives them amazing looks.
Among them, one of them is more famous than the others because it was used as a set in one of the James Bond movies. Hence its name. It is the Man with the Golden Gun with Roger Moore and dates from 1974.
The objective of this excursion from Phuket is to go there, and more particularly on the small beach which faces it. Because of its steep and very abrupt side, it is indeed impossible to walk on the James Bond Island. But beyond this one, it also allows to discover many other points of interest of the sector, as well as to practise canoeing. The opportunity to venture into areas that are impossible to access by boat in some places.
Snorkeling in the Similan Islands
Similan is a group of small heavenly islands located northwest of Phuket. Still in the Andaman Sea, but on the other side. Because of their remoteness, the closest starting point is even Khao Lak, but day trips are also available from Phuket. The sea navigation is done by speedboat.
These are famous for their rich natural underwater environment, with corals, fish, but also large turtles. Several snorkeling sessions are planned during the day. They allow you to enjoy a variety of spots.
And beyond the seabed, you will also have the opportunity to go to the Sail Rock, in Donald Duck Bay. Set on top of the cliffs, this big rock overhangs the surroundings and seems to be able to fall at any moment. There is even a short hike to get there to enjoy the view.
Cultural visits
Visit Phuket Town, the nerve center of the island
Renowned for its evening entertainment with its bars, restaurants and night market, Phuket Town is also pleasant to visit during the day. The most striking feature of the old town, along Thalang Street in particular, is the beautiful buildings with Sino-Portuguese architecture and colorful facades. Yellow, pink, green, blue, all the colors are there to brighten up the place.
Night Market in Phuket Old Town
During your walk you will have the opportunity to browse through various stores and to see several temples. Many stops are to be made but half a day is enough to soak up the atmosphere and walk through its main streets.
Note also that this city is relatively well located for accommodation in Phuket. Rather central geographically, it is also the starting point for boat trips to the islands. On the other hand, if you plan a trip by yourself in the south of Thailand, you can take the ferry to Krabi, Koh Phi Phi, Koh Lanta, or Koh Yao Noi and Yai. It is indeed from here, on the Rassada Pier, that departures and arrivals are made.
Going to the big Buddha
At the top of a hill in the heart of Phuket, a giant Buddha is distinguished by its white color and its 45 meters high. This imposing side confers to him the place of 3rd highest statue of Thailand. In spite of a relatively recent construction (it started in 2004), it is a highly touristic and unavoidable place.
Beyond the Buddha itself, the fact that it is on a mountain allows to enjoy a beautiful panorama on the surroundings, and especially on the bay of Phuket. It is easy to get there by scooter.
Temple of Chalong in Phuket
In the north of Phuket, Wat Phra Thong is a little less known. However it is also worth a visit. Set of Buddhist buildings, richly decorated, it is especially known for its golden Buddha statue whose upper part seems to come out of the ground.
