Best Things To Do In Phuket
From beautiful beaches and island hopping adventures to night markets, viewpoints and local experiences. These are the best things to do in Phuket that I personally think are worth adding to your itinerary.
My Personal Recommendation
If it's your first time visiting Phuket, I'd recommend spending at least four full days here, although many people could easily spend a week or two without running out of things to do. Phuket is one of Thailand's most popular holiday destinations for a reason. You'll find beautiful beaches, island hopping tours, viewpoints, night markets, great food and plenty of opportunities to simply relax and enjoy the tropical atmosphere. Whether you're staying in Patong, Kata, Karon, Kamala or somewhere quieter, there's always something new to discover.
One thing I really like about Phuket is how versatile it is. It works just as well for a traditional two week holiday as it does for longer term travellers and backpackers exploring Thailand. You can spend your days relaxing on the beach, exploring Phuket Old Town, taking boat trips to nearby islands, visiting viewpoints or enjoying the nightlife after dark. The island is large enough that every area feels a little different and it's easy to build an itinerary that suits your own travel style. This guide covers some of the best things to do in Phuket, but don't be afraid to leave some time for exploring because some of the best experiences often happen when you have no real plan at all.
If you're still planning your trip, be sure to visit my complete Phuket travel guide where you'll find everything you need to know before you arrive. From choosing the best area to stay in Phuket and discovering the top beaches to finding day trips, restaurants, nightlife and local travel tips, it's designed to help you make the most of your time on the island.
DISCOVER THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN PHUKET
My Favourite Things To Do In Phuket
From relaxing on some of Thailand's most beautiful beaches and exploring Phuket Old Town to taking boat trips to nearby islands, discovering local markets and watching unforgettable sunsets, these are the best things to do in Phuket that I personally think every visitor should experience at least once.
Visit Big Buddha & Karon Viewpoint
One of the first things I ever did in Thailand was visit the Big Buddha in Phuket and it's still something I recommend to anyone visiting the island. At the time I was staying in a hostel in Karon and wasn't confident enough to rent a scooter yet, so I grabbed a taxi up the mountain instead. The first thing that struck me was the sheer size of the statue. Photos really don't do it justice. Standing beneath it for the first time is a real eye opener and gives you an appreciation for just how impressive the construction is. The views from the top are equally memorable, with panoramic scenery stretching across Phuket's coastline, beaches and surrounding hills. Even after visiting many other places around Thailand, it's still one of the attractions that stands out in my memory.
If you're looking for some of the best things to do in Phuket, visiting the Big Buddha should be high on your list. Sitting on top of Nakkerd Hill between Chalong and Kata, the 45 metre tall white marble statue is one of Phuket's most famous landmarks. Alongside the statue itself, visitors can enjoy spectacular views over southern Phuket, including Kata Beach, Karon Beach, Chalong Bay and the surrounding countryside. As this is an important religious site, visitors should dress respectfully. Both men and women should ensure their shoulders are covered and clothing should extend below the knees. If needed, the site usually provides free sarongs or wraps for visitors who arrive without suitable clothing. Many visitors combine the Big Buddha with a stop at nearby Karon Viewpoint, making it one of the most popular sightseeing routes on the island.
📍 Location
Nakkerd Hill, Chalong, Phuket
⏱ Time Needed
1 - 2 hours
💰 Cost
Free
(Donations welcome)
🚗 Getting There
Grab / Taxi / Scooter
⭐ Best For
First-time visitors
✅ Don't Miss
The panoramic views over Kata, Karon and Chalong Bay
Recommended Tour
If you'd rather not organise transport yourself, this popular half day Phuket sightseeing tour is a great way to visit the Big Buddha while also seeing several other highlights around the island. Alongside Phuket's famous hilltop landmark, you'll also visit Wat Chalong, Phuket Old Town and a local night market, making it a fantastic introduction to the island for first-time visitors.
📍 Planning to Visit Yourself?
The Big Buddha is located on Nakkerd Hill in southern Phuket, around 20 minutes from Kata and Karon Beach. The winding road up the hill offers several scenic viewpoints along the way and the elevated location provides some of the best panoramic views on the island.
Explore Phuket Old Town
One of my favourite memories from my first trip to Phuket was exploring the island with someone I met at the first hostel I stayed in. We spent the day riding around Phuket, stopping at different beaches and viewpoints before eventually making our way into Phuket Old Town. After spending time around the coastline, it was surprising to see a completely different side of the island. Instead of beaches and resorts we found colourful streets, old buildings, cafés, local restaurants and a much slower pace of life. I always enjoy visiting Phuket Old Town because it's a great place to simply park the bike, walk around with no real plan and see what you stumble across. There always seems to be a cafe, shop, restaurant or food stall worth stopping at and it's a side of Phuket that many visitors completely overlook.
If you're looking for some of the best things to do in Phuket, exploring Phuket Old Town should be high on your list. Known for its colourful Sino-Portuguese architecture, the area reflects Phuket's rich history as a trading hub during the island's tin mining boom. Today, the old streets are filled with boutique cafes, local restaurants, art galleries, street art and beautifully restored shop houses. Popular areas include Thalang Road, Soi Romanee, and the surrounding streets, which are perfect for wandering on foot. Phuket Old Town also hosts the popular Sunday Walking Street Market, where visitors can enjoy local food, live performances and a lively atmosphere. It's a completely different experience from Phuket's beach resorts and offers a fascinating glimpse into the island's cultural heritage.
📍 Location
Phuket Old Town
⏱ Time Needed
2 - 4 hours
💰 Cost
Free to explore
🚗 Getting There
Grab / Taxi / Scooter
⭐ Best For
Culture, cafes & photography
✅ Don't Miss
Thalang Road, Soi Romanee and the Sunday Walking Street Market
📍 Planning to Visit Yourself?
Phuket Old Town is located on the east side of the island and is easy to reach from Patong, Kata, Karon and most other popular tourist areas. Parking can be limited on some streets, so arriving earlier in the day can make exploring a little easier. If you're visiting on a Sunday, try to time your visit with the Walking Street Market for an even livelier experience.
Relax on Phuket's Beaches
One of the reasons I think Phuket is such a popular holiday destination is because you're never far from a great beach. During my first visit, I stayed in Karon and spent a lot of time exploring different parts of the island, stopping at beaches and viewpoints whenever something caught my eye. What surprised me was how different each beach felt despite being relatively close together. Karon Beach was where I spent most of my time early on, enjoying the long stretch of sand and the more relaxed atmosphere compared to Patong. Kata Beach quickly became another favourite and even now my partner still enjoys spending time there, recently trying surfing for the first time. Rawai offers something completely different again, with its fishing boats, seafood restaurants and local feel. If you're anything like me, you'll probably end up visiting several beaches rather than sticking to just one.
If you're looking for some of the best things to do in Phuket, spending time on the island's beaches is an absolute must. Kata Beach is one of Phuket's most popular beaches thanks to its soft sand, clear water, restaurants and seasonal surfing conditions. Karon Beach offers one of the longest stretches of sand on the island and is often a little quieter, making it a great choice for those wanting more space to relax. Rawai Beach, located on Phuket's southern coast, isn't known for swimming but is famous for its seafood restaurants, longtail boats, and access to nearby islands. Whether you want to relax on the sand, enjoy a sunset drink, go for a swim or simply take in the views, Phuket's beaches are a huge part of what makes the island such a popular destination.
📍 Location
Kata Beach, Karon Beach & Rawai Beach
⏱ Time Needed
Half Day - Full Day
💰 Cost
Free
🚗 Getting There
Grab / Taxi / Scooter
⭐ Best For
Beach lovers
✅ Don't Miss
Watching the sunset from Karon Beach
Kata Beach
One of Phuket's most popular beaches, perfect for swimming, relaxing and seasonal surfing. Great restaurants, cafes and bars are all within walking distance.
Karon Beach
A huge stretch of golden sand with plenty of room to spread out. Ideal if you want a slightly quieter beach while still having easy access to restaurants and accommodation.
Rawai Beach
A more local side of Phuket, known for its fishing boats, seafood restaurants and island hopping trips rather than swimming and sunbathing.
Visit Patong Beach & Bangla Road
I've stayed in Patong before and while it's not somewhere I choose to spend all my time these days, I can completely understand why it's so popular. If you don't mind a bit of noise and a busy atmosphere, it's one of the easiest places in Phuket to base yourself. During the day you've got the beach right on your doorstep and at night you can walk straight into the bars, restaurants and nightlife around Bangla Road. Everything is within walking distance, which makes it incredibly convenient for first-time visitors.
That said, Patong definitely isn't for everyone. In my opinion, it's not the best area for families with young children, especially around Bangla Road in the evenings. The nightlife can be great fun, but it can also get tiring pretty quickly if you're doing it every night. I've spent evenings in places like New York Bar and Kangaroo Bar before wandering further down Bangla Road to Illuzion, which is probably the most famous nightclub on the street. The whole area is designed around the hustle and bustle and that's exactly why people stay there. If you're looking for peace and quiet, there are much better parts of Phuket but if you want nightlife, entertainment and plenty going on around you, Patong delivers.
If you're looking for some of the best things to do in Phuket, spending some time in Patong is almost unavoidable. Patong Beach is Phuket's busiest and most developed resort area, offering a huge range of hotels, restaurants, shopping centres, beach activities and nightlife venues. Bangla Road is the centre of the action after dark, with bars, live music venues, clubs, street performers and entertainment stretching along the entire street. During the day, visitors can relax on Patong Beach, try water sports, browse Jungceylon Shopping Centre or enjoy the countless cafes and restaurants nearby. Whether you love it or hate it, Patong is one of the most famous destinations in Thailand and remains a popular stop for visitors from around the world.
📍 Location
Patong Beach, Phuket
⏱ Time Needed
Half Day - Full Day
💰 Cost
Free to explore
🚗 Getting There
Grab / Taxi / Scooter
⭐ Best For
Nightlife & first-time visitors
✅ Don't Miss
Experiencing Bangla Road after dark at least once
📍 Planning Your Visit To Bangla Road
The heart of Phuket's nightlife scene and something every first-time visitor should experience at least once. Expect loud music, busy bars, street entertainment and plenty of people.
Take a James Bond Island Boat Tour
One of the things I always enjoy about Phuket is getting out on the water. Whether it's travelling between destinations, exploring nearby islands or simply spending a day on a boat, some of my favourite views in Thailand have come from being out at sea. The coastline around Phuket is incredible, with limestone cliffs, hidden beaches and small islands appearing in every direction. Even if you're not normally someone who books organised tours, I think getting out on the water is one of those experiences that's worth making time for while you're here.
If you're looking for some of the best things to do in Phuket, a James Bond Island tour is one of the island's most popular day trips. Located in the stunning Phang Nga Bay, James Bond Island became famous after appearing in the 1974 James Bond film The Man With The Golden Gun. The area is known for its dramatic limestone karsts rising out of the water, hidden lagoons, sea caves and beautiful scenery that feels completely different from Phuket's beaches. Most tours also include stops for canoeing, sightseeing, swimming and visits to other islands around Phang Nga Bay, making it one of the most memorable boat trips available from Phuket.
📍 Location
Phang Nga Bay
⏱ Time Needed
Full Day
💰 Cost
From 1,500 THB+
🚗 Getting There
Organised Tour / Speedboat
⭐ Best For
Island hopping & first-time visitors
✅ Don't Miss
The famous limestone rock featured in The Man With The Golden Gun
🚤 Recommended Budget Tour
If you're looking for a great value way to experience Phang Nga Bay, this James Bond Island tour is one of the best budget friendly options available from Phuket. Alongside a visit to the famous James Bond Island, you'll also explore the incredible limestone scenery of Phang Nga Bay, canoe through the caves and lagoons of Panak and Hong Islan and enjoy lunch in the unique floating village of Koh Panyi. With hotel transfers included and consistently excellent reviews, it's easy to see why this is such a popular choice for first-time visitors wanting to experience one of Thailand's most beautiful coastal regions without breaking the budget.
💎 Premium Luxury Tour
If you're looking to make the experience extra special, this luxury James Bond Island sunset cruise is one of the highest rated tours available from Phuket. Unlike standard speedboat trips, you'll spend the day aboard a spacious luxury vessel complete with day beds, a full bar, lounge areas and panoramic viewing decks. Alongside visiting the famous James Bond Island, you'll kayak through the stunning lagoons of Hong Island, swim in the warm waters of Phang Nga Bay and enjoy both lunch and dinner on board. The real highlight comes at the end of the day as the boat cruises through the bay at sunset, offering incredible views of the limestone cliffs as the sky begins to change colour. If you're celebrating a special occasion, travelling as a couple or simply want a more comfortable and premium experience, this is an excellent choice.
Visit an Ethical Elephant Sanctuary
One of the highlights of my first trip to Chiang Mai and Thailand as a whole was visiting an ethical elephant sanctuary. It was the first time I'd ever seen elephants in person and they're even more incredible than I imagined. Watching these gentle animals roam freely, feed and interact with each other was something I'll never forget. Since then, I've visited several ethical elephant sanctuaries in different parts of Thailand and every experience has been just as memorable. Unfortunately, I've also unknowingly stopped at an unethical elephant attraction near Lampang while taking a break from driving and it was genuinely upsetting to see how the elephants were being treated. That experience made me appreciate even more how important it is to choose an ethical sanctuary where the animals welfare comes first.
If you're looking for some of the best things to do in Phuket, visiting an ethical elephant sanctuary is an unforgettable experience. Phuket Elephant Sanctuary is one of the island's most respected ethical elephant attractions and provides a safe home for rescued elephants that have previously worked in logging, riding camps or other forms of tourism. Unlike traditional elephant camps, there are no rides, performances, or forced interactions. Instead, visitors can observe the elephants as they roam freely, bathe, socialise and behave naturally in a peaceful environment. It's a fantastic opportunity to learn more about these incredible animals while supporting responsible tourism and animal welfare in Thailand.
📍 Location
Phuket
⏱ Time Needed
Half Day - Full Day
💰 Cost
Varies by tour
🚗 Getting There
Tour Transfer / Taxi
⭐ Best For
Animal lovers & families
✅ Don't Miss
Watching rescued elephants roam freely in their natural environment
🌿 Find an Ethical Elephant Experience
Choosing the right elephant sanctuary is one of the most important parts of your trip. I'd recommend browsing the available tours, reading recent reviews and choosing an experience that focuses on observing, feeding and caring for rescued elephants rather than riding or performances. Ethical standards can change over time, so it's always worth doing a little research before booking.
Explore a Phuket Night Market
One thing I always enjoy doing in Thailand is visiting night markets and Phuket is no different. Me and my partner will often spend an evening wandering around a market with no real plan, grabbing food whenever something looks good and stopping to browse whatever catches our eye. That's part of what makes them so enjoyable. You never quite know what you'll find. One minute you're looking at handmade souvenirs, the next you're trying a snack you've never seen before or listening to live music while deciding what to eat next. Night markets are one of those experiences that feel much more local than sitting in a restaurant and they're a great way to spend an evening without spending a fortune.
If you're looking for some of the best things to do in Phuket, visiting a night market should definitely be on your list. Phuket is home to a number of excellent markets, with Naka Weekend Market and Chillva Market being two of the most popular. Naka Market is known for its huge selection of street food, clothing, souvenirs, electronics and local products, making it one of the largest markets on the island. Chillva Market offers a more modern atmosphere, with colourful container style shops, live music, trendy food stalls and plenty of places to sit and enjoy the evening. Both markets are fantastic places to experience local food, pick up gifts and soak up the lively atmosphere that makes Phuket's night markets so popular with both tourists and locals.
📍 Location
Naka Market & Chillva Market
⏱ Time Needed
2 - 4 hours
💰 Cost
Free Entry
🚗 Getting There
Grab / Taxi / Scooter
⭐ Best For
Food lovers & souvenir shopping
✅ Don't Miss
Trying a few different street food dishes instead of sticking to one meal
🍜 My Recommended Markets
Naka Weekend Market
Often considered Phuket's largest and most famous night market, Naka Market is packed with street food stalls, clothing vendors, souvenirs, local snacks and just about everything else you can imagine. If you're only planning to visit one night market in Phuket, this is probably the one I'd recommend.
Chillva Market
A smaller but more modern market built around colourful shipping containers. Chillva is popular with younger locals and visitors thanks to its relaxed atmosphere, live music, trendy food stalls and unique shopping options.
Watch the Sunset at Promthep Cape
One of the things I love most about Thailand is that sometimes the simplest experiences end up being the most memorable. You don't always need a tour, an activity or an entrance ticket. Sometimes all you need is a good viewpoint and a bit of time to sit and take it all in. My partner recently visited Promthep Cape and the photos she came back with were incredible. The views out across the Andaman Sea are absolutely stunning, especially as the sun begins to drop towards the horizon. It's one of those places that reminds you why Phuket has become such a popular destination over the years. If you're already exploring the south of the island around Rawai and Nai Harn, it's an easy stop that I think is well worth making.
If you're looking for some of the best things to do in Phuket, watching the sunset at Promthep Cape is one of the island's most iconic experiences. Located on Phuket's southern tip, Promthep Cape has become famous for its panoramic sea views and spectacular sunsets. Visitors can enjoy sweeping views across the Andaman Sea, nearby islands and Phuket's rugged coastline from one of the island's most photographed viewpoints. As sunset approaches, people gather along the viewpoint to watch the sky change colour, creating some truly memorable scenery. While it can get busy during peak season, the views more than justify its reputation as one of Phuket's must visit attractions.
📍 Location
Promthep Cape, Southern Phuket
⏱ Time Needed
30 Minutes - 1 Hour
💰 Cost
Free
🚗 Getting There
Grab / Taxi / Scooter
⭐ Best For
Sunsets, photography & couples
✅ Don't Miss
Arriving 30 - 45 minutes before sunset to enjoy the changing colours and secure a good viewing spot
📍 Planning to Visit Yourself?
Promthep Cape is located at the southernmost point of Phuket and is easily accessible from Rawai, Nai Harn, Kata, and Karon. There is parking available near the viewpoint, although it can become busy around sunset, particularly during the high season.
Go Surfing at Kata Beach
Surfing is probably not the first thing most people think about when they plan a trip to Phuket, but it's becoming increasingly popular, especially around Kata Beach. My partner recently decided to give it a go for the first time and absolutely loved it. She booked a beginner lesson, learned the basics on the beach and before long was out in the water catching waves. To be fair, she was much better than either of us expected, managing to catch multiple waves and even stand up properly a couple of times. One of those moments was even caught on camera. It ended up being one of the highlights of her trip and something she's already said she'd like to do again. If you're looking for something a little different from the usual beaches, viewpoints and boat tours, surfing is definitely worth considering.
If you're looking for some of the best things to do in Phuket, surfing at Kata Beach is a fantastic activity for beginners and experienced surfers alike. Kata Beach is widely regarded as Phuket's best surfing beach, with small to medium sized waves that are ideal for learning. Surf season generally runs from around May to October when the southwest monsoon brings more consistent waves to the island. During this period, surf schools, instructors and board rental shops line the beachfront, making it incredibly easy for first-timers to get started. Even if you've never stepped on a surfboard before, most schools offer beginner lessons designed to get you standing up and riding waves as quickly as possible.
📍 Location
Kata Beach
⏱ Time Needed
1.5 - 3 Hours
💰 Cost
From 1,000 THB+
🚗 Getting There
Grab / Taxi / Scooter
⭐ Best For
Adventure seekers & first-time surfers
✅ Don't Miss
Booking a lesson if it's your first time
🏄 Recommended Surf Lesson
If you've always wanted to try surfing, this beginner friendly lesson at Kata Beach is a great place to start. With expert instructors, small group sizes and all equipment included, it's designed specifically for complete beginners. Lessons begin with beach based training before heading into shallow water where instructors help you catch your first waves safely. With hundreds of excellent reviews and a reputation for getting beginners standing on the board quickly, it's easy to see why this is one of the most popular surf experiences in Phuket.
📍 Planning to Visit Yourself?
Kata Beach is Phuket's main surfing beach and during surf season you'll usually find numerous surf schools and rental shops operating directly along the beachfront. If you'd rather learn independently, boards can often be rented by the hour, allowing you to practice at your own pace while enjoying one of Phuket's most beautiful beaches.
Visit a Phuket Beach Club
One thing Phuket does incredibly well is beach clubs. Sometimes it's nice to swap the busy bars, sightseeing and day trips for a few hours relaxing by the water with good food, a cold drink and a great view. Phuket has taken the beach club concept to another level, with everything from laid back beachfront venues to luxury floating clubs out at sea. Whether you're travelling as a couple, with friends or simply want to enjoy a more relaxed afternoon, a beach club can be a great addition to your Phuket itinerary.
If you're looking for some of the best things to do in Phuket, visiting a beach club offers a different side of the island compared to temples, markets and sightseeing attractions. Phuket is home to some of Thailand's most famous beach clubs, particularly around Bang Tao Beach, Kamala Beach and Patong. Most offer beachfront seating, swimming pools, restaurants, cocktail bars, live DJs and fantastic sunset views. Some focus on a relaxed daytime atmosphere, while others become much livelier as the evening approaches. Whether you're looking for luxury, entertainment, or simply somewhere to unwind by the sea, Phuket's beach clubs have become one of the island's most popular experiences.
📍 Location
Various Locations Across Phuket
⏱ Time Needed
Half Day - Full Day
💰 Cost
Varies by Venue
🚗 Getting There
Grab / Taxi
⭐ Best For
Couples, groups & luxury travellers
✅ Don't Miss
Arriving in the afternoon and staying through sunset
Recommended Experience
YONA Floating Beach Club
If you're looking for the best things to do in Phuket and truly unique experience, YONA Floating Beach Club is unlike anything else in Phuket. Located offshore and accessed by shuttle boat, this multi level floating beach club combines luxury dining, bars, music, ocean views and a stunning infinity pool all in one location. Guests can choose between a more relaxed daytime atmosphere or a lively afternoon party experience featuring DJs and entertainment. With food and drink credit included, panoramic views across the Andaman Sea and thousands of excellent reviews, it's easy to see why YONA has become one of Phuket's most talked about attractions.
YONA Floating Beach Club
A one of a-kind floating beach club located offshore with an infinity pool, multiple bars, DJs, and incredible 360-degree sea views. Perfect if you're looking for something a little different from the usual beach clubs.
Café Del Mar Phuket
Located directly on Kamala Beach, Café Del Mar is one of Phuket's most famous beach clubs and is known for its relaxed daytime atmosphere, sunset views and evening entertainment.
Catch Beach Club
One of Phuket's longest running beach clubs, located on Bang Tao Beach. Great food, beachfront seating, live music and a fantastic sunset atmosphere make it a favourite with visitors.
DISCOVER PHUKET
Ready To Explore More Of Phuket?
Whether you're visiting Phuket for a week, a two week holiday or using it as a base to explore Southern Thailand, these are the best things to do in Phuket that I personally recommend. From visiting the Big Buddha and exploring Phuket Old Town to relaxing on beautiful beaches, taking boat trips through Phang Nga Bay, watching the sunset at Promthep Cape and experiencing the island's famous nightlife, there's something here for every type of traveller.
If you're still planning your trip and enjoyed this best things to do in Phuket guide, be sure to visit my main Phuket travel guide, where you'll find everything you need to know before you arrive. From choosing the best area to stay in Phuket and discovering the island's top beaches to finding day trips, restaurants, nightlife, travel tips, and much more, it's designed to help you make the most of your time on Thailand's largest island.
What are the best things to do in Phuket for first-time visitors?
The best things to do in Phuket for first-time visitors include visiting the Big Buddha, exploring Phuket Old Town, relaxing on Kata and Karon Beach, taking a James Bond Island boat tour, and experiencing the nightlife around Patong and Bangla Road. These attractions provide a great mix of culture, beaches, food and adventure.
How many days do you need to experience the best things to do in Phuket?
I'd recommend spending at least four to five days in Phuket. This gives you enough time to enjoy many of the best things to do in Phuket without rushing, including visiting the island's beaches, viewpoints, markets, temples and nearby islands.
What are the best free things to do in Phuket?
Some of the best free things to do in Phuket include visiting Promthep Cape for sunset, exploring Phuket Old Town, relaxing on Kata Beach, walking around Rawai Beach and taking in the views from Karon Viewpoint. These attractions cost little or nothing but are among the island's highlight
Are the best things to do in Phuket suitable for families?
Yes. Many of the best things to do in Phuket are perfect for families, including visiting ethical elephant sanctuaries, exploring Phuket Old Town, spending time on the beaches, visiting local night markets and taking family friendly boat trips around the surrounding islands.
What are the best things to do in Phuket for couples?
Couples will find plenty of romantic experiences among the best things to do in Phuket. Watching the sunset at Promthep Cape, taking a luxury boat tour through Phang Nga Bay, enjoying a beach club and exploring Phuket Old Town together are all fantastic options.
What are the best things to do in Phuket at night?
Some of the best things to do in Phuket after dark include visiting Bangla Road in Patong, exploring Phuket's night markets, enjoying beachfront dining, watching live music and relaxing at one of the island's popular beach clubs.
Are boat tours one of the best things to do in Phuket?
Absolutely. Boat tours are often considered some of the best things to do in Phuket. Popular options include James Bond Island, Phang Nga Bay and island hopping tours, all of which showcase the incredible scenery surrounding the island.
What are the best things to do in Phuket besides visiting the beaches?
While Phuket's beaches are famous, there are plenty of other attractions worth visiting. Some of the best things to do in Phuket include exploring Phuket Old Town, visiting the Big Buddha, discovering local markets, visiting ethical elephant sanctuaries and enjoying panoramic viewpoints across the island.
When is the best time of year to enjoy the best things to do in Phuket?
The best time to enjoy many of the best things to do in Phuket is between November and April, when the weather is generally sunny and dry. However, activities such as surfing at Kata Beach are often best during the rainy season between May and October.
What is the number one attraction in Phuket?
While everyone has their own favourite, the Big Buddha remains one of the most iconic attractions on the island. For many visitors, it's one of the best things to do in Phuket thanks to its impressive size, cultural significance and incredible views over the island.
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Continue Planning Your Phuket Trip
I hope this guide has helped you discover some of the best things to do in Phuket and given you plenty of ideas for your own itinerary. Whether you’re visiting for a few days, spending two weeks on the island or travelling around Thailand for longer, Phuket offers something for every type of traveller. From visiting the Big Buddha and exploring Phuket Old Town to relaxing on beautiful beaches, taking boat trips through Phang Nga Bay, watching the sunset at Promthep Cape and experiencing the nightlife of Patong, these are the best things to do in Phuket that I personally think are worth adding to your trip.
If you’re still planning your Thailand adventure, be sure to explore the rest of my Thailand travel guides. From discovering the best things to do in Phuket and choosing the best area to stay in Phuket to exploring destinations like Chiang Mai, Bangkok, Krabi, Koh Samui, and beyond. You’ll find everything you need to help plan your trip. Whether you’re searching for beaches, islands, culture, food, nightlife, day trips or travel tips, my location guides are designed to help you make the most of your time in Thailand.