7 Things to do in Phuket

Are you looking for a tropical destination that offers pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a vibrant nightlife? Look no further than Phuket! This Thai island paradise is a tourist hotspot that promises to leave you with unforgettable memories. With so much to see and do, it can be overwhelming to plan your trip. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! Here are 7 must-do activities in Phuket that will make your vacation one for the books.

Top 7 Things to Do in Phuket

Phuket is a beautiful island located in southern Thailand and it has plenty of attractions for tourists to enjoy. Here are the top 7 things to do in Phuket:

  1. Visit the Big Buddha: The Big Buddha is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Phuket. This impressive statue stands at 45 meters tall and can be seen from many parts of the island. Visitors can climb up to the top of the hill where it’s located, and enjoy stunning panoramic views of Phuket.
  2. Explore Old Phuket Town: Old Phuket Town is a charming area filled with colorful Sino-Portuguese buildings, trendy cafes, art galleries, and boutique shops. It’s a great place to wander around and soak up the atmosphere while learning about Phuket’s rich history.
  3. Relax on the Beaches: Phuket is famous for its beautiful beaches, and there are plenty to choose from depending on your preference. Patong Beach is the most popular beach with plenty of water sports activities available, while Kata Beach offers a quieter and more relaxed atmosphere.
  4. Experience the Nightlife in Patong: Patong is known for its vibrant nightlife scene with numerous bars, nightclubs, and live music venues. Bangla Road is the main party street where visitors can experience an unforgettable night out.
  5. Take a Boat Trip to Phi Phi Islands: The Phi Phi Islands are a group of six islands located just off the coast of Phuket. Visitors can take a boat trip to explore these stunning islands which offer crystal clear waters, white sandy beaches, and incredible marine life.
  6. Enjoy Thai Cuisine at Street Markets and Restaurants: Thai cuisine is renowned for its delicious flavors and spices. Visitors should try local street food such as Pad Thai or Tom Yum Goong at markets or visit high-end restaurants that serve authentic Thai cuisine.
  7. Visit Wat Chalong Temple: Wat Chalong is the largest and most important Buddhist temple in Phuket. Visitors can admire intricate Thai architecture, learn about Buddhist culture, and even receive blessings from monks.

Phuket offers a wide range of activities for tourists to enjoy. Whether you prefer to relax on the beach or explore cultural attractions, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful island.

1. Visit the Big Buddha

The Big Buddha is one of the most popular attractions in Phuket. This stunning statue stands at 45 meters tall and can be seen from many parts of the island. It is located on top of a hill in the southern part of Phuket and provides breathtaking views of the surrounding areas.

To get to the Big Buddha, visitors must climb a staircase with over 300 steps, but it’s worth it once you reach the top. The statue itself is made of white marble and shines brightly in the sunlight. Visitors can walk around the base of the statue and take in all its glory.

Aside from the statue itself, there are also several smaller statues and shrines surrounding it that visitors can explore. These include statues of Buddha’s disciples and various animals that are important in Thai culture.

There is also a bell tower near the Big Buddha where visitors can ring bells for good luck. The sound echoes throughout the area and adds to the peaceful atmosphere.

Overall, visiting the Big Buddha is a must-do activity when visiting Phuket. Not only is it an impressive sight to see, but it also offers stunning views of the island and provides a serene environment for reflection and relaxation.

2. Explore Old Phuket Town

Old Phuket Town is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Phuket. This charming district is located in the heart of the island and offers visitors a glimpse into the town’s rich history and culture. The area was once a major trading hub, attracting merchants from China, India, Malaysia, and Portugal. Today, Old Phuket Town is home to an impressive collection of Sino-Portuguese architecture that reflects its multicultural past.

One of the best ways to explore Old Phuket Town is on foot. Take a stroll down Thalang Road and Soi Romanee to admire the colorful shophouses with their distinctive shutters and intricate tilework. These buildings have been beautifully restored and now house trendy cafes, boutique shops, and art galleries. Don’t forget to look up at the ornate balconies that adorn many of the buildings.

Another highlight of Old Phuket Town is its museums. The Thai Hua Museum provides insight into the island’s Chinese heritage through interactive exhibits and displays. The Peranakan Museum showcases the unique culture of the Baba-Nyonya people who settled in Phuket during the 19th century.

Foodies will also love Old Phuket Town for its abundance of street food vendors serving up delicious local dishes like Hokkien noodles, dim sum, and fresh seafood. If you’re looking for something more upscale, there are plenty of restaurants offering fusion cuisine that blends traditional Thai flavors with contemporary techniques.

Finally, no visit to Old Phuket Town would be complete without stopping by one of its many temples. The Jui Tui Shrine is particularly impressive with its ornate roof decorations and colorful dragon statues.

Overall, exploring Old Phuket Town is a fantastic way to experience a different side of this popular tourist destination. With its mix of history, culture, and cuisine, it’s sure to be a highlight of any trip to Phuket.

3. Relax on the Beaches

Phuket is known for its stunning beaches, and it would be a shame to visit without taking some time to relax on the sand. Here are some of the best beaches in Phuket that you should check out:

  1. Patong Beach: This is the most famous beach in Phuket and it’s always buzzing with activity. You can sunbathe, swim or try out some water sports like jet skiing or parasailing. There are also plenty of restaurants and bars nearby where you can grab a drink and watch the sunset.
  2. Kata Beach: If you’re looking for something a little quieter, Kata Beach might be more your style. It’s a beautiful stretch of sand with crystal clear water that’s perfect for swimming. There are also some great restaurants and cafes in the area where you can grab a bite to eat.
  3. Nai Harn Beach: Located on the southern tip of Phuket, Nai Harn Beach is one of the island’s most picturesque beaches. It’s surrounded by lush green hills and has calm waters that are great for swimming or paddleboarding.
  4. Surin Beach: Surin Beach is another popular spot that’s great for swimming and sunbathing. It’s also known for its beach clubs, which offer drinks, food, and music right on the sand.
  5. Mai Khao Beach: This is one of Phuket’s longest beaches and it’s located on the northwest coast of the island. It’s relatively undeveloped compared to other beaches in Phuket, so it’s a great place to escape from the crowds.

No matter which beach you choose, make sure to bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water to stay hydrated in the hot tropical weather!

4. Experience the Nightlife in Patong

Patong is a must-visit destination for those who are looking for a vibrant nightlife experience in Phuket. This lively town is famous for its bustling streets, neon lights, and loud music that can be heard from miles away. There are plenty of options to choose from when it comes to experiencing the nightlife in Patong.

The most popular area for nightlife in Patong is Bangla Road. It’s a pedestrian street that comes alive at night with bars, clubs, and restaurants lining both sides of the road. The atmosphere here is electric, with people from all over the world coming together to enjoy the party scene. You can find everything from live music to go-go dancers here.

If you’re looking for something more laid back, there are plenty of quieter bars and pubs scattered throughout Patong. These places offer a more relaxed atmosphere where you can sit back and enjoy a few drinks with friends or family.

For those who love to dance, there are several nightclubs in Patong that cater to different tastes in music. From techno to hip-hop and everything in between, you’ll find something that suits your style here. Some of the popular nightclubs include Illuzion and Seduction.

Apart from drinking and dancing, there are other activities you can do at night in Patong as well. One such activity is visiting the Simon Cabaret Show, which features stunning performances by ladyboys dressed in flamboyant costumes. It’s an entertaining show that shouldn’t be missed.

Overall, experiencing the nightlife in Patong is an essential part of any trip to Phuket. Whether you want to party hard or just relax with a few drinks, there’s something for everyone here. Just remember to drink responsibly and stay safe while having fun!

5. Take a Boat Trip to Phi Phi Islands

The Phi Phi Islands are a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Phuket. These islands are located in the Andaman Sea and consist of six different islands, each with its own unique charm. Taking a boat trip to the Phi Phi Islands is an unforgettable experience that offers stunning views of crystal clear waters, white sandy beaches, and towering limestone cliffs.

One of the most popular activities on the Phi Phi Islands is snorkeling. The waters around the islands are home to an abundance of marine life, including colorful fish and coral reefs. Visitors can explore these underwater wonders by taking a guided snorkeling tour or renting their own equipment.

Another popular activity on the islands is rock climbing. The towering limestone cliffs offer a challenging but rewarding climb for experienced climbers. For those who prefer something less strenuous, there are plenty of hiking trails that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

If you’re looking for some relaxation time, head to one of the many secluded beaches on the islands. Loh Dalum Bay and Maya Bay are two of the most popular beaches on Phi Phi Island, offering soft sand and calm waters perfect for swimming or sunbathing.

When it comes to food and drinks, there are plenty of options available on the island. You can find everything from fresh seafood to traditional Thai cuisine at local restaurants and street vendors.

Overall, taking a boat trip to the Phi Phi Islands is an excellent way to spend your day in Phuket. With so many activities available, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Don’t forget your camera – you’ll want to capture every moment of this unforgettable experience!

6. Enjoy Thai Cuisine at Street Markets and Restaurants

When it comes to Thai cuisine, Phuket is a food lover’s paradise. The island is famous for its street markets and restaurants that serve up delicious and authentic Thai dishes. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a full meal, there are plenty of options to choose from.

One of the best places to experience local food culture is at the night markets. These bustling markets offer a wide range of street food, from grilled meats and seafood to noodle soups and curries. One popular market is the Chillva Market in Phuket Town, which has a hipster vibe with live music and trendy food stalls.

If you’re looking for a more upscale dining experience, there are many restaurants in Phuket that offer traditional Thai cuisine with a modern twist. Some of the top-rated restaurants include Suay Restaurant in Cherngtalay, which offers contemporary Thai dishes made with organic ingredients; Raya Restaurant in Old Phuket Town, which serves classic Southern Thai cuisine; and Black Ginger at The Slate resort in Nai Yang Beach, which offers an elegant dining experience on a floating platform.

No matter where you choose to eat in Phuket, be sure to try some of the local specialties. Some must-try dishes include Pad Thai (stir-fried noodles), Tom Yum Goong (spicy shrimp soup), Massaman Curry (a rich curry dish with potatoes and peanuts), and Mango Sticky Rice (a sweet dessert made with glutinous rice and fresh mango).

Overall, enjoying Thai cuisine at street markets and restaurants is one of the top things to do in Phuket for any foodie. With so many options available, you’re sure to find something delicious that will satisfy your taste buds. Just be sure to bring your appetite!

7. Visit Wat Chalong Temple

Wat Chalong Temple is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Phuket. This temple is the largest and most revered Buddhist temple on the island, attracting thousands of visitors every year. The temple is located in Chalong, which is about 8 km from Phuket town.

The temple’s architecture is stunning, with intricate carvings and decorations that reflect Thai culture and history. Visitors can explore the main hall, where they will find several statues of Buddha, including the Grand Pagoda that houses a fragment of Buddha’s bone. The walls are adorned with beautiful paintings depicting Buddha’s life story.

Wat Chalong Temple also has a museum where visitors can learn more about Buddhism and its history in Thailand. The museum displays artifacts such as old photographs, ancient books, and other religious objects.

One of the unique features of Wat Chalong Temple is the opportunity to receive blessings from the monks. Visitors can purchase offerings such as flowers or candles and offer them to the monks who will bless them in return. This experience provides tourists with an insight into Thai culture while also being spiritually fulfilling.

Visitors are required to dress appropriately when visiting Wat Chalong Temple; this means covering their shoulders and legs out of respect for Thai traditions. There are also strict rules about behavior within the temple grounds; visitors must be quiet and respectful at all times.

In conclusion, visiting Wat Chalong Temple should be on every tourist’s list when traveling to Phuket. It offers a unique cultural experience that allows visitors to learn about Buddhism while appreciating Thailand’s rich history and beautiful architecture.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Phuket has so much to offer for tourists who are looking for a perfect vacation spot. From exploring the ancient streets of Old Phuket Town to relaxing on the beautiful beaches, there is something for everyone. One of the top highlights is visiting the Big Buddha and marveling at its grandeur beauty. The nightlife in Patong is a must-see with plenty of bars and clubs to enjoy. A boat trip to Phi Phi Islands offers breathtaking views and exciting water activities. Don’t miss out on indulging in Thai cuisine at street markets or local restaurants, where you can taste authentic flavors. Finally, pay a visit to Wat Chalong Temple and immerse yourself in the rich culture and traditions of Thailand. With these seven activities on your itinerary, your trip to Phuket will be unforgettable!