When you are travelling to a new place, it can be useful to know what things there are to do in the area before you arrive. In Phuket there are enough things to keep you occupied for weeks and because it is a fairly small island – you can get to opposite ends within a short drive. This will give you the opportunity to see large parts of the island while you are here regardless of whether you plan to stay for a long or a short period of time. Here is a list of some of the absolute must-see’s on the island!
Snorkelling and Diving
Phuket is known for its crystal clear waters and wonderful underwater world and this makes it a fantastic destination if you want to try Snorkelling and Diving. There are many fantastic areas to choose from all around the island so you will be spoilt for choice. If you are looking to keep costs down during your trip, simply buy a mask and a snorkel and you are ready to go into the water at no extra cost! Be careful and make sure to ask locals where is safe to go if you choose to go without an instructor.
Visit Phuket old town
If you want to explore more of the historical side to Phuket, then you should definitely pay Phuket old town a visit during your stay. The old town boasts funky shops and intriguing Buddhist and Chinese influenced architecture. If you are looking to eat out during your stay, you are sure to find a restaurant to suit your taste here with a great variety of restaurants available for you to choose from.
Do some sport
Although you may be in Phuket for a holiday, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t try something a bit sportier than sunbathing during your stay. Phuket makes even exercise pleasurable and there are different fun sport options available, including fantastic golf courses and wonderful sailing facilities. If you are more of the surfing type, there is plenty of opportunity to catch some waves on the island too!
Visit Temples
Are you looking for more of a cultural experience during your stay? There is a selection of different temples in Phuket that are certainly worth seeing (29 to be exact!) These temples all hold a special place in the local community’s heart and hold an important component of the islands character. Each and every one is individually characteristic and we recommend that at least some of the temples be fitted into your schedule when you visit Phuket.
Explore the natural beauty
Although there are plenty of places in the world with more greenery and forest than there is on Phuket, there are some hidden gems on the island that are worth the trip. There are stunning waterfalls, hiking tours and animal spotting opportunities available on the island.
Explore the beaches
Phuket has plenty of superb beaches around the entire island and whether you are after a bustling beach, somewhere shallow and child friendly or looking for that perfect secluded beach to yourself, you will find your perfect beach match on Phuket.
Visit Phuket Fantasea
Phuket Fantasea is a cultural theme park which is open all year round. At the theme park, you will see lots of different shows including magicians, circus acts, elephant shows, tiger jungle adventures and much more. The park is perfect for families looking for a day out with plenty of activities to keep the kids occupied (but it is also great for adults!) There is an onsite buffet style restaurant if you want to grab a bite to eat during your visit. If you’re looking for a fun day out in Phuket Fantasea could be the perfect place for you.
Go see the Phuket Big Buddha | Opening Hours: From 08:00 – 19:30
At the top of the hill, looking down over Chalong, you will find this fantastic 45meter tall Buddha watching over the island. The Statue is covered in stunning white Burmese marble which gives it a lovely glow in the sunshine. Not only is this a fantastic landmark worth seeing in Phuket, but it is also positioned on a hilltop with 360 degree panoramic views of the island. If you do plan on visiting, be mindful of the fact that this is a religious site where beachwear and revealing clothing isn’t appropriate.
Watch a Thai boxing (Muay Thai) Match
Thai boxing is becoming a worldwide phenomenon and what better way to experience a match in the country where it originated? Visit Saphan Hin stadium in Phuket and get in on the action. Watching these matches is extremely exciting and the spectators really get involved in the action – creating a great atmosphere. Muay Thai takes exemplary skills and great fitness to do well and it’s inspiring to see the boxers strength and ability. You can book tickets in advance to see the matches for around 450 THB at the local tour shops.
Enjoy the view
There are lots of fantastic places where you can enjoy the view over the island. As mentioned above, the view is spectacular from the Phuket Big Buddha, but there are other fantastic places where you can enjoy a nice view too. Some of the best views to experience are Kata viewpoint, Rang Hill and Phromthep Cape. If you have the energy to, you can hike up to the viewpoints and we strongly recommend staying to watch the incredible sunset over the island.
Go on an elephant ride
Want to experience Phuket from a different perspective? Going elephant trekking in the hills of Phuket is a great experience with plenty of fantastic panoramic views over the island! The prices for the rides start at around 1600 THB and you can get picked up and taken to the elephant park by the trip organisers. If you’re lucky, you may even be introduced to some young elephants in training!
If you are looking for more specific activities according to who you are travelling with, there are plenty of great activities for children, fun things for couples and lots of activities perfectly suited for teenagers on the island.
We hope that this has given you a better idea of all the fun activities that are available to you on the island. If you would like to see daily updates from us, please like our Facebook page and follow us on Twitter.