Phuket is a province (changwat) in southern Thailand and also the name of the island Phuket which forms the bulk of this province – together with 30+ smaller islands nearby. The island of Phuket is the largest island in all of Thailand and it offers a diverse range of attractions, from stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife to rich cultural experiences and natural wonders. Located in the Andaman Sea, it caters to all types of travelers, whether they’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or cultural enrichment.

Where is Phuket?

Phuket is found off the western coast of mainland Thailand, in the Andaman Sea. The island of Phuket is today connected to the mainland thanks to the Sarasin Bridge, which runs from northern Phuket to the mainland province Phang Nga.

Beaches and natural attractions

Patong Beach

Patong Beach is the heart of Phuket’s tourism, known for its lively atmosphere, bustling nightlife, and numerous water activities like jet skiing and parasailing. The beach is lined with restaurants, bars, and shops, making it a hub for social activities.

Kata and Karon Beaches

Kata Beach and Karon Beach provide a more tranquil setting compared to Patong. Kata is known for its palm-lined beach and vibrant surf scene, making it popular with surfers and families. Karon Beach, with its long stretch of white sand, is ideal for long walks and quiet relaxation.

Phang Nga Bay

Phang Nga Bay is famous for its emerald green waters and dramatic limestone karsts. A popular activity here is kayaking through the bay’s sea caves and hidden lagoons. The iconic James Bond Island, featured in “The Man with the Golden Gun,” is a popular spot for tours.

Similan Islands

The Similan Islands are a group of islands surrounded by crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life. They feature white sandy beaches and are a top destination for scuba divers and snorkellers.

Cultural and historical sites

Big Buddha

The Big Buddha is a 45-meter tall statue located on Nakkerd Hill. It is a major religious site offering panoramic views of Phuket. Visitors can explore the temple complex and learn about Buddhism.

Wat Chalong

Wat Chalong is the largest and most revered temple in Phuket. It is dedicated to two highly respected monks and is a center of spiritual healing. Visitors can explore the temple grounds, observe local worship practices, and enjoy the serene atmosphere.

Old Phuket Town

Old Phuket Town showcases the island’s cultural heritage with its well-preserved Sino-Portuguese architecture. The area is filled with colorful buildings, boutique shops, cafes, and street art. The Sunday Walking Street Market is a highlight, offering local food, crafts, and entertainment.

Activities and entertainment

Scuba Diving and Snorkeling

Phuket is a gateway to some of the best diving spots in Thailand, including the Similan and Surin Islands. These areas are known for their diverse marine life, including colorful coral reefs, fish, and the occasional manta ray or whale shark.

Phuket FantaSea

Phuket FantaSea is a cultural theme park offering a spectacular nighttime entertainment show that combines traditional Thai myths with cutting-edge technology and pyrotechnics. The park also features shopping and dining experiences.

Nightlife

Phuket’s nightlife is diverse and vibrant, especially in Patong. Bangla Road is the epicenter, filled with bars, nightclubs, and entertainment venues. Other areas like Kata and Karon also offer a more laid-back nightlife experience with beach bars and live music.

Ziplining

Adventure seekers can enjoy ziplining through Phuket’s lush jungles at places like Hanuman World and Flying Hanuman. These parks offer various zipline courses, rope bridges, and abseiling.

Muay Thai

Phuket is a hub for Muay Thai, Thailand’s traditional martial art. Visitors can watch live Muay Thai fights or even participate in training camps to learn the basics of this ancient sport.

Accommodation

Phuket offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury resorts and boutique hotels to budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses. Areas like Patong, Kata, and Karon have numerous options catering to different budgets and preferences.

Transportation

Various transportation options are available, including tuk-tuks, taxis, motorbike rentals, and public buses. For exploring nearby islands, ferries and speedboats are readily available.

The city Phuket

Phuket is not only the name of the largest Thai island and the entire province to wich it belongs; it is also the name of the most populous city on this island. The city Phuket is located in the south-eastern part of the island. As of 2020, roughly 80,000 people lived here.

Phuket is one of the oldest towns in Thailand but did not received formal city status until 2004. In the past, a lot of Chinese immigrants settled here. The older parts of the town, known as Phuket Old Town, contain a lot of older buildings constructed in the Sino-Portuguese style, and many of them were built when the tin industry was booming on the island. The architectural style blends Chinese and Portuguese / Southern European elements.

Phuket International Airport is found 36 km (22 miles) northwest of Phuket Old Town, and there is a scheduled bus service between the two.

Examples of attractions in and near Phuket City

• Chinatown is located on the north-western side of the city, around Thanon Thalang.
• AC´s Phuket Fishing Park. Hire equipment and a local guide, and fish for red-tailed catfish, Siamese sharks, alligator gars, and more.
• The Butterfly House Patong
• The abovementioned Wat Chalong, the largest temple in Phuket. Also known as Chaiyathararam.
• Put Jaw, the oldest Chinese Taoist temple in Phuket. It is 200+ years old and dedicated to the goddess Kwun Im.
• The Phuket Butterfly Farm is located circa 3 km from town.
• Phuket Cultural Center is a great spot for learning more about local history, arts and culture, and we can also recommend the Phuket Culture Museum at Rajabhat Unversity, another great spot for learning more about Phuket´s rich and colourful history. If you want to find out more about the history of Chinese immigration to Phuket, visit the Thaihua Museum on Krabi road – it is housed in an old Chinese language school.
• Thai Village and Orchid Farm is located roughly 3 km from town. Here, you can watch Thai dance shows and Thai boxing, listen to Thai classical and folk music played on traditional instruments, learn more about Thai handicrafts, and see over 20,000 varieties of orchids and tropical trees.

Final thoughts

Phuket is a versatile destination offering something for everyone, from stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife to cultural sites and adventure activities. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, explore cultural landmarks, or engage in thrilling adventures, Phuket provides a rich and diverse travel experience.