The Best Things to Do in Phuket: Your Top 10 Options
Phuket is one of the most well-known tourist destinations worldwide. Serene beaches and severe coasts, historical sites, cultural activities, bustling nightlife, and many eco-activities attract a wide range of visitors -from honeymooners and couples to history buffs and nature enthusiasts. So, are you planning to visit the exotic island located on the north side of Thailand? Here are the top things to do in Phuket!
1. The Phuket Elephant Jungle Sanctuary
Get ready for one of the most unforgettable experiences of your life! The Elephant Jungle Sanctuary is one of the not-to-be-missed things to do in Phuket. Pay a visit to this thrilling rescue establishment and reinforce the relentless conservation efforts of the park’s staff. You’ll meet the impressive animals, learn everything there is to know about their habits and the personal histories of each of the park’s elephants, and even feed them. At the same time, you’ll fully enjoy your walk in nature, taking in the rugged jungle scenery. Last but not least, you’ll attend a rubber tapping experience, becoming familiar with the traditional process of extracting natural latex from rubber trees.
2. The Most Lavish Thing to Do in Phuket: The YONA Beach Club
How would you feel about spending your day at a floating beach club? YONA Beach Club is exactly that: a beach club that floats among the turquoise, crystal-clear waters of the Andaman Sea. It spreads over several levels, featuring four bars, an infinity pool, and a restaurant facility. Inspiring music, a wide number of comfy sunbeds and sofas, and delicious cocktails ensure a thrilling experience. Various live music events make it even more exciting. While mornings are chill, afternoons entail a different vibe for adults only, combining breathtaking sunsets with lively parties.
3. The Big Buddha
You can’t leave Phuket without having visited the Big Buddha. At first, you’ll be amazed by the statue’s size, representing the Maravija Buddha. Also known as the Great Buddha of Phuket (or Phra Phutta Ming Mongkol Eknakiri as it is officially named), the religious monument is an actual part of a temple, meaning that services are likely to take place in the area. Apart from its impressive scale, Big Buddha also offers panoramic views of the island. Sunrises and sunsets are a true highlight of the visit. On the other hand, no matter the time of the day visiting the statue, you’ll observe playful monkeys climbing around the trees and interacting with visitors.
4. The Most Picturesque Thing to Do in Phuket: Visit the Old Town
The Old Town of Phuket is one of the island’s most popular locations. Let yourself be captivated by the amazing Sino-Portuguese architecture. Visit the cashew nut factory, grab quick bites from the scattered food stalls, and explore the stores and the few museum facilities. Opt for long walks around the scenic streets, discovering the multi-colored buildings, the art galleries, the traditional cafes, the temples, and the shrines. Nothing will let you delve into Phuket’s atmosphere more than the time spent in the Old Town.
5. The Wat Chalong Temple
Phuket’s spiritual heritage is undoubted. If you want to find your inner peace and uncover the spiritual character of the island, a visit to the Wat Chalong Temple is a must. The most renowned temple of Phuket -Wat Chaiyathararam, as it is actually named- lies 8km/5 miles from the city of Phuket and is the largest temple on the island. Countless visitors flock to the 19th-century temple every day to pay their respects to the temple’s late monks, particularly to Luang Pho Cham and Luang Pho Chuang, the temple’s founders. You’ll be amazed by the works of art adorning the walls of the complex and enjoy serene moments while wandering around the temple’s gardens. Moreover, its latest addition, Phra Mahathat Chedi, splits over three floors, with the last-floor terrace allowing guests to relish seamless, amazing views.
6. Make your Pick Among the Amazing Phuket Beaches: Patong Beach
The bustling and lively Patong Beach attracts crowds like bees to honey. Indeed, it is a sought-after destination for visitors to Phuket. In fact, many claim that it is the top thing to do in Phuket, and there are many reasons justifying that opinion. The beach covers a 3km/1.8 miles area. Here, you’ll find countless hotel facilities, beachfront restaurants, and cafes, while watersport activities are among the best at Patong Beach. What’s more, shopping is also a major attraction. Nevertheless, the highlight of Patong Beach is its vibrant and wild nightlife. During the night, the area is just as lively as in the morning, with parties continuing until the early hours.
7. Alternatively, Go Visit the Nai Harn Beach
If you are looking for a quieter than Patong Beach alternative, wishing to relax and enjoy calm moments under the sun, you should head to Nai Harn Beach. Feeling the soft, white sand beneath your feet, taking in the surrounding green hills, and enjoying the tranquil blue waters will guarantee the time of your life when relaxation is the goal. The beach is also one of the top destinations on the island for families. Moreover, although there is no town or village nearby, a selection of shops and restaurants are available to complete the experience.
8. The Most Spectacular Thing to Do in Phuket: Phuket FantaSea
If you want to get acquainted with Phuket’s history and tradition in the most thrilling way, Phuket FantaSea should be on your to-do list while in Phuket. Unraveling the history of Thailand, the theme park offers breathtaking shows, combining a wide variety of special effects, performances, spectacular acrobatics, and animal appearances. In addition to the unique spectacle, it features several stores, ensuring a pleasant shopping experience, as well as dining facilities, introducing guests to the mouthwatering world of Thai cuisine.
9. The Top Fun Thing to Do in Phuket: Andamanda Water Park
Can you think of a more fun thing to do in Phuket than visiting a water park? The largest water park facility on the island is located in Kathu District, close to Phuket. Here, you’ll have an unbelievable experience combining the cultural history of Thailand with tons of entertainment and fun. Featuring an astonishing number of water activities, Andamanda Water Park is the place to be to have the time of your life. With 29 waterslides, 5 differently-themed zones, 12 extreme slides, an artificial wave pool, and relaxation zones, you’ll certainly enjoy a day full of excitement. Are you feeling hungry after the thrilling adventure? The park’s dining facilities are equally satisfying.
10. The Top Things to Do Near Phuket: The Phi Phi Islands
A cruise to the nearby Phi Phi Islands is definitely recommended during your stay in Phuket. The waters around the islands are almost too good to be true, the beaches are, one-of-a-kind, and the marine life is abundant. From the popular Maya Bay (where the movie Beach was filmed) to Monkey Beach, where visitors can observe monkeys in their natural environment, and from the Viking Cave with the ancient paintings to vibrant Phi Phi Don with its restaurants, cafes, and nightlife, the Phi Phi Islands offer everything you could ask for!