Thailand's largest island is a tropical paradise offering something for everyone. Pristine beaches range from party-central Patong to serene hidden coves. Beyond the beaches, you'll find jungle-clad hills, ornate Buddhist temples, Sino-Portuguese old town architecture, and some of Thailand's best seafood. It's the gateway to island-hopping adventures in the Andaman Sea.
Top Attractions
Patong Beach
The most famous beach is also the most developed. By day, enjoy water sports, beach bars, and people-watching. By night, Bangla Road transforms into a neon-lit party strip. Love it or hate it, Patong is essential Phuket - though many prefer the quieter southern beaches.
Visitor Information
- Best For: Nightlife, shopping, water sports
- Vibe: Busy, touristy, party central
- Alternatives: Kata, Karon, or Kamala for quieter options
- Tip: Negotiate prices for beach chairs and water sports
Big Buddha
The 45-meter white marble Buddha sits atop Nakkerd Hill with panoramic views over Phuket. The ongoing construction (since 2004) lets you see monks and craftsmen at work. Visit at sunset for spectacular colors. Dress respectfully - sarongs are available at the entrance.
Old Phuket Town
The historic heart of Phuket reveals its tin-mining heritage through beautiful Sino-Portuguese architecture. Thalang Road's colorful shophouses now house cafes, galleries, and boutiques. The Sunday Walking Street Market (4-10pm) is a highlight with street food, crafts, and live music.
Phi Phi Islands Day Trip
The stunning Phi Phi Islands are 90 minutes by speedboat from Phuket. Maya Bay (from "The Beach" film) reopened with visitor limits after ecological recovery. Snorkel with colorful fish, kayak through caves, and witness some of Thailand's most dramatic scenery. Book early as spots fill up.
Wat Chalong
Phuket's most important temple complex honors revered monks who helped end a rebellion in 1876. The Grand Pagoda houses a bone fragment of the Buddha. Watch locals make offerings, light incense, and release birds for merit. The intricate murals inside tell Buddhist stories.
Phang Nga Bay (James Bond Island)
The dramatic limestone karsts of Phang Nga Bay featured in "The Man with the Golden Gun." Day trips include kayaking through sea caves, visiting floating Muslim villages, and the famous Koh Tapu (James Bond Island). Best explored by kayak for an intimate experience away from crowds.
Phuket Food Guide
Phuket's cuisine blends Thai, Chinese, and Malay influences into something unique. The island is famous for fresh seafood, sold by weight at beachside restaurants. Local specialties like Hokkien noodles and Moo Hong (braised pork) reflect its multicultural heritage.
Must-Try Dishes
Grilled Seafood
Fresh prawns, fish, and squid grilled beachside. Sold by weight - point and choose your catch. 200-500 THB per dish.
Try: Rawai Beach seafood market restaurants
Mee Hokkien
Phuket's signature stir-fried yellow noodles in rich gravy with pork, seafood, and vegetables. 60-100 THB.
Try: Mee Ton Po in Old Town
Oh Aew
Refreshing shaved ice dessert with grass jelly, seeds, and syrup. Perfect for hot days. 30-50 THB.
Try: Any Old Town dessert stall
Roti
Thai-Muslim flatbread served sweet (condensed milk, banana) or savory. Street food perfection. 30-60 THB.
Try: Roti Lady in Patong or any night market
Moo Hong
Phuket's famous slow-braised pork belly in soy, palm sugar, and spices. Melt-in-mouth tender. 80-150 THB.
Try: Lock Tien restaurant in Old Town
Lobster & Crab
Fresh lobster grilled or in Thai curry. Best value at Rawai Beach restaurants. 500-1,000 THB per kg.
Try: Nikita's or Sea Gypsy Village restaurants
Practical Information
Getting Around
- Tuk-tuks: Fixed prices, negotiate before. 200-500 THB between beaches
- Scooter Rental: 200-300 THB/day. International license required
- Grab: App-based taxis work well here
- Songthaew: Blue local buses 30-50 THB to Phuket Town
Budget Guide (Per Day)
- Budget: 1,500-2,500 THB (hostels, street food, beaches)
- Mid-range: 4,000-7,000 THB (3-star resort, restaurants, tours)
- Luxury: 15,000+ THB (5-star resort, yacht tours, spa)
Best Time to Visit
- Nov-Feb: Best weather, dry season, peak prices
- Mar-Apr: Hot but still dry, Songkran water festival
- May-Oct: Monsoon season, rain but still sunny, best deals
- Tip: Shoulder season (Nov, Apr) offers best value
Interactive Map
Explore Phuket's top attractions on the map. Click markers for details and directions.
Key Attractions on Map
Want the Complete Guide?
Get our 80+ page Phuket ebook with all beaches, itineraries, maps, and more.
Ebook Coming Soon