Choose from 21 Fun Things to Do in Phuket
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Koh Yao Yai
Along with the smaller but more developed Koh Yao Noi, Koh Yao Yai sits in the middle of Phang Nga Bay, with Phuket to the west and Krabi in the east. A beach-lover's paradise, Yao Yai is one of only a few of Thailand’s southern islands that remains a quiet, unspoiled refuge away from the crowds.
Meaning ‘Big Long Island,' Ko Yao Yai is 18 miles (30 km) from top to bottom. It’s populated by thick mangroves, coconut groves, rubber plantations and picturesque villages, all of which are fringed by pristine white-sand beaches. The island has thus far managed to avoid any major tourism development, though it features a smattering of resorts and guesthouses. Fishing and farming remain the primary source of income for residents.
A visit to Koh Yao Yai means to slow down and enjoy the lush landscapes, making it ideal for couples on a romantic break, families seeking a quiet beach holiday or those simply looking for peace away from the crowds of Phuket. Beach-hopping, snorkeling and relaxing are among the simple pleasures to enjoy while on the island, while exploring by motorbike or bicycle is also fun, with the island's scenic main road being mostly smooth and easy to navigate.
Insider’s Tip: It’s a good idea to withdraw some cash before you leave for Koh Yao Yai, although ATMs can be found at each of the government offices in Chong Lad and Prunai villages.
Practical Info
It's a 30-minute speedboat trip from Phuket’s east coast to Koh Yao Yai. Long-tail boats also make daily trips to both Yao Noi and Yao Yai. Island infrastructure is good, with decent internet and phone service throughout.
Address: Koh Yao Yai, Phuket, Thailand
From $ 27
Wat Chalong
As the most significant of Phuket’s 29 Buddhist temples, Wat Chalong attracts hundreds of visitors daily. A mountain backdrop emphasizes a golden spire, while wall paintings inside each temple depict vibrant Buddhist images. The main stupa, known as the Grand Pagoda, is said to harbor a splinter of the Buddha’s bone.
The Basics
Due to its great religious significance, Wat Chalong is an integral part of most Phuket sightseeing tours. Full-day tours often combine a visit to the temple with stops at Old Phuket Town, a cultural melting pot of Malay and Singaporean architecture, and Wang Talang, where you can shop for artisan crafts.
Excursions that combine cycling and jungle trekking with stops at the Chalong Big Buddha and Wat Chalong are a great way to tick off natural and cultural highlights even in limited time.
Things to Know Before You Go
- If you plan to enter the temple, wear clothing that covers your legs, chest, and shoulders.
- Make sure you remove your shoes before entering the temple.
- Photography is allowed inside the temple; however, mobile phones must be in silent mode.
- If you want to cool down, head to the air-conditioned exhibition hall that features life-size wax models of Buddhist figures.
- The temple is free to enter, but donations are encouraged.
How to Get There
Wat Chalong is 5 miles (8 kilometers) outside of Phuket City and is accessible by car or taxi. If you want to skip the hassle of public transport and the expense of taxis, consider visiting Wat Chalong as part of a sightseeing tour that includes round-trip transport.
When to Get There
The large crowds that Wat Chalong attracts are testament to its cultural significance. For the best chance of crowd-free photos, head to Wat Chalong either early in the morning or late in the afternoon. For the best photography opportunities, visit during sunrise or sunset.
Buddhism in Phuket
Each year, during the sixth full moon, Wat Chalong hosts processions in celebration of Wan Phra Yai, which translates as “major holy day.” Buddhist monks carry offerings of candles, incense, and lotus flowers to the Buddha, making this celebration a must-see if you’re in Phuket.
Address: Chaofa West Road, Phuket, Thailand
Admission: Free, but donations accepted
From $ 11
Patong Beach
Patong Beach may not offer travelers a true taste of Southeast Asia, but the kinetic energy of this popular destination has made it a favorite among westerners looking to party. Like the rest of Phuket, Patong is home to white sandy beaches, clear blue water and plenty of sun, making it an ideal spot to catch some rays. But bustling neon streets lined with crowded open-air discos and dozens of bars serving strong island drinks have made this a destination for the younger set looking to party long into the night.
Practical Info
Bangla Road is the hub for Patong nightlife. While it can be difficult to avoid the nightlife scene in Patong, the Simon Cabaret—the largest transvestite cabaret in all of Asia—and Bangla Boxing Stadium’s Muay Thai match ups offer alternatives to dancing and drinking the night away.
Address: Patong, Phuket, Thailand
From $ 6
Bangla Road
This eclectic strip of bars, discos, shops and attractions is the epicenter of entertainment in Patong. It offers a taste of some local traditions, as well as near unlimited access to plenty of western amenities. Travelers can shop for high-end fashions, flashy new swimsuits or local souvenirs at the massive Bangla Mall.
Bangla Road is also a popular drinking destination. Beer bars serving ice-cold Thai brews ice cold entice passersby with aircon and open tables filled with favorite board games. But perhaps Bangla Road is best known for its evening entertainment. Stop by Rock Hard—one of the street’s oldest institutions—for live go-go dancers, center-stage pole dancing and strong drinks, or grab a ticket to the popular Simon Cabaret in Patong’s Paradise Complex. The famous ladyboys put on one of the largest transvestite shows in all of Asia.
Bangla Road is also a popular drinking destination. Beer bars serving ice-cold Thai brews ice cold entice passersby with aircon and open tables filled with favorite board games. But perhaps Bangla Road is best known for its evening entertainment. Stop by Rock Hard—one of the street’s oldest institutions—for live go-go dancers, center-stage pole dancing and strong drinks, or grab a ticket to the popular Simon Cabaret in Patong’s Paradise Complex. The famous ladyboys put on one of the largest transvestite shows in all of Asia.
Practical Info
Bangala Road is the liveliest stretch of nightlife in Patong, but the 10 or so side streets between Beach Road and Rat U Thit Road offer even more options for dance, music, drinks and ladies.
Address: Patong, Phuket, Thailand
From $ 6
Old Phuket Town
The prominence of Phuket’s beaches and out islands mean that Old Phuket Town is often overlooked. Yet, it offers a wealth of 19th-century architectural delights and fantastic photo ops. Beside the latticed windows of Malay-style shop-front buildings on Soi Rommanee, Old Phuket Town boasts temples, museums, and restaurants.
The Basics
Due to the compact size of Old Phuket Town, the area lends itself well to walking tours and is easy to explore in a couple of hours. It's a popular choice for visitors with limited time. The majority of Phuket sightseeing tours combine a stop at Old Phuket Town with a visit to Wat Chalong, Phuket’s most famous Buddhist temple, and the Karon Viewpoint. More in-depth tours of Old Phuket Town reveal the wet market and Chinpracha House (Baan Chinpracha).
Things to Know Before You Go
- Old Phuket Town is a must-see for travelers interested in colonial history and architecture.
- Don’t miss the Amulet Market for special Buddhist souvenirs.
- Wear comfortable shoes and a hat if you’re planning to explore old town on foot.
- By day and night, old town takes on a different identity, so it’s worth visiting twice.
When to Get There
If you’re planning to explore Old Phuket Town on foot, its recommended to do so early in the morning, before the midday heat makes sightseeing uncomfortable. If you do need a break, Old Phuket Town has a plethora of cafes and bars that you can dip into for a cold drink. At night, Old Phuket Town’s bars come to life with live music and free-flowing drinks.
How to Get There
If you’re staying by the beach, you can take either public transport or a chartered taxi to old town. If you’re staying in one of the many nearby hotels, all attractions are within walking distance.
Culinary Delights in Old Phuket Town
Phuket’s vibrant mix of cultural influences means that its cuisine is as rich and varied as its architecture. A prime location beside the sea means it’s a great place to try seafood and classic southern Thai dishes such as tom som pla krabok, a hot and sour fish soup, and gaeng sataw, a combination of green beans and prawns.
Address: Phuket City, Thailand
Admission: Free
From $ 6
Phi Phi Islands
From the emerald waters of the Andaman Sea, the jungle-shrouded limestone cliffs of Thailand’s Phi Phi Islands rise majestically, giving way to white-sand beaches and lush green jungles further inland. Longtail boats putter between the islands, surrounded by the turquoise waters and colorful marine life.
Where to Go Around the Phi Phi Islands
Uninhabited Phi Phi Leh, whose beauty was brought to attention when Maya Bay starred in the 2000 film The Beach, is the smaller of the two main islands and boasts coral reefs abundant with tropical fish, making it a popular diving and swimming spot. There are no hotels on Phi Phi Leh, and camping is prohibited, meaning it’s only accessible by day trip.
Phi Phi Don is a thriving hub of activity—by day, a coastal paradise typified by bobbing longtail boats and sparkling white sand; by night, a beating, hedonistic heart with beaches that pulsate with loud music and fire parties. Ao Ton Sai, the island’s principal dock, houses a promenade lined with shops, bars, and restaurants fragrant with the aromas of Thai food. Activities such as snorkeling, rock climbing, Thai boxing, and cooking classes keep travelers entertained throughout their stay on Thailand’s Shangri-La.
How to Visit with Viator
The unbridled popularity of the Phi Phi Islands means that travelers enjoy a wide range of visiting options. Day trips are available from Phuket, Ko Lanta, and Krabi via either a speedboat or express ferry, and typically cover Phi Phi highlights such as Maya Bay, Bamboo Island, Monkey Beach, Viking Cave, and James Bond Island in Phang Nga National Park. Island tours generally include a helpful tour guide, hotel pickup and dropoff, a buffet lunch, and free time to enjoy some of Asia’s best beaches.
Best Ways to Enjoy Marine Life Around the Phi Phi Islands
Take a Phi Phi island tour by speed boat charter or cruise boat to spend time swimming and snorkeling in the crystal clear water. Island-hopping adventure tours also allow for exploring the underwater world around some of the area’s smaller islands.
Insider Tips
- If you want to avoid Ko Phi Phi Don’s increasingly popular party scene, head to the island’s more secluded eastern coast, where white-sand beaches play host to rustic bungalows and five-star resorts away from the revelers.
- For a more immersive experience, choose to visit the Phi Phi Islands as part of a three-night sailing cruise, or on a deluxe six-island tour that also takes in Koh Khai, Koh Yao, Mosquito Island, and Bamboo Island.
Address: Phuket, Southern Thailand and Andaman Coast, Thailand
Admission: Free
From $ 19
Chalong Big Buddha
The Chalong Big Buddha is hard to miss. Built on a patch of virgin rain forest on Khao Nakkerd Hill high above Phuket, this gigantic 148-foot (45-meter) statue is one of the island's most prominent landmarks, easily seen from most places in the south. From the statue’s base, visitors enjoy panoramic views of Chalong Bay and Phuket town.
The Basics
As one of Phuket’s most recognizable attractions, the Chalong Big Buddha features on most sightseeing tours of the island, along with beaches and other notable religious sites. Those who enjoy hiking can book a tour that includes a trek through lush jungle before a visit to the Big Buddha, as well as a trip to Wat Chalong, the largest Buddhist temple in Phuket. A small museum at the base of the statue chronicles the history of the project. Private tours often visit this site.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Chalong Big Buddha is a must-see for photographers and first-time visitors.
- Entry to the Big Buddha is free, but donations are accepted.
- Make sure your knees and shoulders are covered during your visit; avoid beachwear.
- Be prepared to remove your shoes before entering the temple at the Big Buddha.
- There’s a public restroom at the statue about halfway down the stairs.
How to Get There
The Big Buddha is located along a 4-mile (6-kilometer) road just off the main route from Phuket to Chalong. Turn down Soi Yot Sane and follow the signs up the hill. Public transportation to the statue is scarce, so it’s a good idea to hire a taxi or visit as part of a guided tour.
When to Get There
The statue is at its busiest around sunset (a beautiful time to visit to be sure), but if you want to enjoy the sight when it’s a little less crowded, plan to visit at sunrise when the eastern-facing statue is illuminated by the rising sun.
Messages of Faith
Look closely at the Big Buddha statue, and you’ll see thousands of white-marble slabs engraved with messages from those who donated toward the construction of the statue. Some are words of good luck, while others are in memory of loved ones who’ve died.
Address: Soi Yot Sane 1, Phuket, Southern Thailand and Andaman Coast, Thailand
Admission: Donations accepted
From $ 11
Splash Jungle Water Park
Splash Jungle Water Park's exhilarating rides, including Boomerango and the Superbowl, and six-level wavepool attract hundreds of visitors to this coastal Phuket destination every day.
Themed rides give a nod to the ancient Mayans, lush landscapes of Turkey, old-world architecture of Northern Europe and the culture and colors of Africa. This continental vibe means that travelers will find thrills beyond just the rides. Splash Jungle Water Park has something for the less adventurous set too, with quiet play pools for kids, soothing hydrotherapy springs and a lazy river perfect for floating the day away.
Practical Info
Splash Jungle Water Park is located at 65 Moo 4 Mai khoa Soi 4 in Phuket, a short drive from Phuket International Airport. It is open daily from 10am until 6pm. Adult tickets cost TBH 1,295 and children can enter for TBH 650.
Address: Mai Khao 4 Alley, Mai Khao, Thalang District, Phuket 83110, Thailand
Hours: Daily 10am-6pm
Admission: Adult: THB 1,295.00, Children (Ages 5-12): THB 650.00, Children Under 5: Free
From $ 46
Phang Nga Bay
With limestone rock formations jutting out of the emerald green sea, Phang Nga Bay in Thailand is famous the world over for its natural beauty. Many visitors to Thailand will find themselves crossing the bay on the way to popular tourist spots, such as Phuket or Krabi, but this place deserves some dedicated exploration time of its own.
The Basics
With beaches, caves, lagoons, mangrove forests, and more, Phang Nga Bay is a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. The island first captured popular attention when it was featured in the James Bond movie The Man With the Golden Gun.
Today, boat tours offer regular guided trips to Koh Tapu, the so-called “James Bond Island.” Kayaking tours—often with snorkeling included—are another popular way to explore the bay and its spectacular limestone karsts.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Boat trips and other tours visit the bay from several locations, including Phuket, Krabi, and the Phi Phi Islands.
- Boat, kayak, and snorkel tours are best suited for active travelers and families.
- Remember to wear suitable water-friendly footwear and bring plenty of sunscreen for boat or kayak excursions.
- Tours often provide a lunchtime meal and refreshments.
How to Get There
Officially part of Ao Phang Nga National Park, Phang Nga Bay is located in the Andaman Sea between the southern part of the Thai mainland in the east and the island of Phuket in the west. The easiest way to access the bay is by long-tail boat, speed boat, or kayak as part of a guided tour with round-trip transport provided. Passenger ferries also cross the bay.
When to Get There
Phang Nga Bay enjoys the best weather through the winter months of November–March. April and May are the hottest months of the year here when temperatures and humidity are both high. Rainy season—May to October—can see heavy rainfall.
Visit the Sea Gypsy Village of Koh Panyee
Built entirely from wooden stilts by Indonesian fishermen 200 years ago, the village of Koh Panyee—floating in the middle of the ocean next to towering limestone rocks—seems like something out of a storybook. A trip to the village offers a fascinating look at a totally unique way of life. Do take note that the village is a Muslim community, and dress modestly, if you’re planning to visit.
Address: Thailand
From $ 44
Freedom Beach
Not far from the electric energy of the ever-popular Patong lies the small 300-meter shore of Freedom Beach—a quiet gem of a destination on Phuket’s west coast. Hop aboard a traditional long-tail boat at the southern end of Patong Beach and enjoy the cool breeze of a peaceful 10-minute ride to what many say feels like a remote island shore.
Sunbathers can stretch out on pristine beaches and relax in the sand surrounded by scenic tropical hills, while more active sorts can play beach soccer or snorkel in the crystal clear and always warm waters that wash Freedom’s shore.
Sunbathers can stretch out on pristine beaches and relax in the sand surrounded by scenic tropical hills, while more active sorts can play beach soccer or snorkel in the crystal clear and always warm waters that wash Freedom’s shore.
Practical Info
Roundtrip boat rides to Freedom Beach are offered on a sliding scale, between 1,000 and 1,500 baht. The beach is also accessible by car, with a public parking lot a short—but challenging—walk from the bay near Avista Hideaway Resort. Locals keep watch on the lot and charge about 100 baht to park.
Address: Phuket, Thailand
From $ 44
Racha Island
Racha Island is, in fact, two islands—Racha Yai and Racha Noi—both known for their excellent snorkeling and diving. Whether for day-long underwater exploring trips or stays of a few days to relax on the unspoiled beaches, the southern Thai islands are popular with water sports enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
The Basics
Around 20 miles (40 kilometers) south of Phuket, Racha Island is quintessential Thailand—white sand, turquoise ocean, and softly swaying palm trees. Racha Yai has a small number of resorts and bungalows, and is becoming a popular place to stay for visitors to Phuket, while Racha Noi is uninhabited. Both islands offer excellent diving offshore, and you can snorkel right from the beach on Racha Yai. Many travelers choose to visit the islands as part of an organized snorkeling, diving, or catamaran tour from Phuket.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Racha Island is ideal for snorkelers, divers, and those looking for a quiet island escape from Phuket.
- Most tours leave Phuket in the morning to spend the day around both Racha Yai and Racha Noi.
- Snorkelers and divers can expect to see colorful corals and many types of tropical fish.
- If snorkeling or diving is not your thing, catamaran trips are also available.
- Many tours include lunch, refreshments, and water sports gear.
How to Get There
Racha Island, located south of Phuket in the Andaman Sea, is accessible only by boat. Speedboats travel from Ao Chalong and Rawai on Phuket, or you can book a snorkeling, diving, or catamaran tour to access the islands.
When to Get There
High season in Phuket runs from November to March, when the weather is warm and sunny. April and May can be very hot, and tropical rainstorms are possible from June to November. Some resorts and tour operators close up shop or run only limited services in the rainy season.
See Phuket’s Big Buddha
For a photo opportunity extraordinaire, take a trip to see Phuket’s Big Buddha, a 150-foot-high (45-meter) statue sitting atop the Nakkerd Hills, close to Kata. The statue was constructed in 2004 and is made of concrete overlaid with glittering white jade marble. From the base of the Buddha you can enjoy panoramic views over the whole island.
Address: Racha Island, Phuket, Thailand
From $ 107
Ao Phang Nga National Park
Known for its limestone rock formations rising out of the turquoise Andaman Sea, the protected Ao Phang Nga National Marine Park covers a large swathe of water in southern Thailand. Many visitors come to the area to enjoy the scenery and take part in watersports.
The Basics
Ao Phang Nga National Marine Park was created by royal decree in 1981 to preserve area marine life. The park covers more than 40 islands in the Andaman Sea, including Khao Phing Kan, known as “James Bond Island” after its islet Ko Ta Pu appeared in the movie The Man With the Golden Gun. Diving, snorkeling, and kayaking are popular, as are island-hopping boat tours, which usually include swimming and snorkeling.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Boats and ferries visit Phang Nga Bay from Krabi, Phuket, and the Phi Phi islands.
- See multiple highlights in one day on an island-hopping boat tour.
- Many tours include lunch or other refreshments.
- Remember to wear suitable footwear if you’re planning to take part in watersports.
- Pack your sunscreen: the sun is strong here.
How to Get There
Ao Phang Nga National Park covers most of Phang Nga Bay in the Andaman Sea. Most people come by ferry or private boat from Krabi or Phuket, or they enjoy the islands as part of a pre-booked guided tour. The closest airport is Krabi.
When to Get There
To get the best of the weather, plan to visit Phang Nga from November to March. This part of Thailand is hot during April and May, and in the rainy season (late May to October), there are often heavy downpours.
See Ancient Rock Art in Phang Nga
A number of the limestone islands in Ao Phang Nga National Park have ancient wall paintings, some more than 3,000 years old. Khao Khian island is one of the best sites for viewing the cave paintings, which include depictions of humans, bats, boats, birds, fish, and elephants. While most drawings are monochrome, there are some done in color.
Address: Phangnga, Thailand
Admission: Varies
From $ 27
Simon Cabaret Show
One of the most popular shows in Thailand and certainly the glitziest drag show in Phuket, the Simon Cabaret Show is an evening of glamorous entertainment that wows night after night. A family-friendly show, the performance tends to appeal to a wide range of people of all ages.
Rivaling many Las Vegas shows in terms of sheer size, charm and glitter, the show sees Simon Cabaret’s world-famous ladyboys decked out in dazzling costumes to perform comedy acts and show-stopping song-and-dance routines inspired by Thai culture and traditions. Clever choreography and rapid set changes, plus the sheer energy of the highly skilled transgender and transvestite entertainers, ensure a good night out for everyone, while bright lights, booming sound and elaborate sets all add to the theatrical extravaganza. Guests also have the opportunity to meet the stars afterwards and have their photos taken with them.
The Simon Cabaret Show is hugely popular, so it’s best to book tickets in advance; this will give you the choice of show times—either the early evening show at 7:45pm, or the later show starting at 9:30pm.
Practical Info
The Simon Cabaret venue is located along Sirirach Road at Patong Beach. A popular place, it is easy to reach via taxi or tuk tuk.
Address: 8 Sirirach Road, Phuket 83150, Thailand
Hours: 7:45pm and 9:30pm
Admission: Varies
From $ 22
Phuket FantaSea Show
There's nothing subtle about Phuket FantaSea, a 140-acre (56-hectare) cultural theme park best known for its glitzy Las Vegas-style stage show.
Set in the Palace of the Elephants Theater, the family-friendly Fantasy of a Kingdom performance treats guests to a mythical story that combines traditional Thai dance, music and costumes with colorful special effects, magical illusions, pyrotechnics and dancing elephants. Hundreds of cast members showcase Thai culture on stage and charm the audience with circus acts, acrobatics and magic illusions. Guests can upgrade their experience to also include an international buffet dinner for a full night out.
Outside the theater, the PhantaSea theme park also features an enormous shopping village, multiple restaurants and a dizzying sea-themed arcade of neon lights and cartoon characters. To experience more of the park, travelers can take part in craft demonstrations, pose for photos in traditional Thai garb, ride an elephant or watch one of the vibrant cultural parades.
Practical Info
Phuket FantaSea is located north of Patong at Kamala Beach. Cameras are not allowed in the Palace of the Elephants Theater. Activities such as elephant rides and photo studio sessions have additional costs.
Address: 1 99 M3, Kamala Beach 076-385000, Thailand
Hours: Friday-Wednesday 5:30-11:30pm
Admission: Varies
From $ 650
Phromthep Cape
Situated at Phuket’s most southerly point, Promthep Cape (or Laem Promthep) is the rocky headland than juts out into the sea here, offering incredible views over the east and southeast of the island, particularly at sunset.
Promthep Cape is a popular spot with ample parking and a large open space on top of the hill from which to enjoy the views. There’s also an elephant shrine plus a lighthouse with historical maritime artifacts on display for those interested in the history of the area. If you go up to the viewing balcony of the lighthouse, you will be rewarded with some spectacular views of the surrounding islands – on a clear day, you can even make out the distinctive shapes of Koh Phi Phi, Koh Racha Yai, and Koh Racha Noi.
Every evening, tour buses and other vehicles arrive at Promthep Cape full of tourists and locals looking to catch the sunset. As a result, an inevitable series of stalls selling the usual tourist fare have been set up on the hill. After the rush at sunset, a sudden peace descends on the area, and those who like dining with a view can enjoy a peaceful dinner overlooking Nai Harn Beach at the Phromthep Cape Restaurant.
A trip up to Promthep Cape can be combined with visiting Phuket’s other viewpoints and attractions on a half-day Phuket city tour or a full-day island and city tour from Krabi. Those into their motorbikes will love exploring the island’s most scenic parts on a ‘big’ motorbike day trip.
Insider’s Tip: Promthep Cape gets extremely busy at sunset. If you want more privacy, take the fishermen’s trail down to the rocky peninsula that reaches out into the ocean. Here you can enjoy the sun descending into the sea in peace, but beware that the climb back up is somewhat challenging!
Practical Info
If not arriving as part of an organized tour, you can reach Promthep Cape by hiring a motorbike or taking a taxi and heading south from Rawai Beach.
Address: Promthep Cape, Phuket, Thailand
From $ 11
Kata Beach
Most people hit the beach to catch some serious sun, but the palm tree lined shores that offer plenty of shade along Kata Beach still manage to draw active families, young travelers and eager surfers from around the globe. The calm turquoise waters of Kata Center and Kata South are lined with boutique hotels and quaint souvenir shops. Enjoy a picnic on the beach, then wander to the Buddhist Temple on Patak Road or take an easy hike to the spectacular viewpoint between Kata and Rawai for incredible views of this beautiful beach.
Practical Info
Similar to Phuket’s other beaches, the peak season at Kata is from November to April. But serious surfers make their way to the shores between May and October when waves are best.
Address: Phuket, Thailand
From $ 16
A-Maze Garden
Well-oriented travelers will love testing their directional skills amid the towering hedges of Puket’s A-Maze Garden. Situated just outside this popular coastal town, A-Maze Garden has become a destination for family fun and a unique alternative to the temples and beaches southern Thailand is known for. Travelers can wander (or race!) through the 1,000-square-meter labyrinth in search of a quick escape, or take their time navigating the twists and turns of this one-of-a-kind southeast Asian destination. It’s the perfect place to spend an afternoon—or an entire day—on a visit to Phuket.
Practical Info
The A-Maze Garden is located behind the Upside Down House in Phuket off of Route 402. The maze is open daily from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. and the entry fee is THB 150 for adults.
Address: Mueang Phuket District, Phuket, Thailand
Hours: Daily 10am-6pm
Admission: Adult: THB 150, Child Age 4-11: THB 100
From $ 5
Nai Harn Beach
Nestled amid jungle-covered mountains, Nai Harn Beach is a favorite among locals. Its crystal clear waters, white sandy beaches, freshwater inlet and spectacular ocean views make for one of the most relaxing beaches in Phuket. Active travelers can log miles on the l.5 mile lap around Nai Harn Lake, surf some of the areas spectacular waves, rent kayaks and paddle into the sea or play a game of pick-up beach volleyball on the sandy shore’s court.
Practical Info
Nai Harn Beach is a 20-minute drive from Patong Beach with parking next to the nearby Buddhist temple. It’s an ideal swimming spot where conditions are best from November to April. Visitors should take caution from May to October when undertows are stronger.
Address: Nai Harn Beach, Nai Harn, Thailand
From $ 47
James Bond Island (Khao Phing Kan)
A starring role in the 1974 James Bond movie The Man With the Golden Gun put the sleepy limestone island of Khao Phing Kan (now known as James Bond Island) firmly on the Thailand tourist trail. While the island's increased popularity created a higher risk of pollution and boats are now forbidden from approaching the colossal limestone islet known as Ko Tapu, opportunities for swimming, kayaking, and sightseeing still abound in the surrounding area.
The Basics
The lush vegetation, turquoise water, and secluded caves of Phang Nga Bay, home to James Bond Island, make Ao Phang Nga National Park one of Thailand's top destinations. Visitors should spend a full day exploring the islands on a boat tour — opt to get around in a luxurious speed boat, a traditional junk ship, a longtail boat, or in less intrusive sea canoes and kayaks.
The Basics
The lush vegetation, turquoise water, and secluded caves of Phang Nga Bay, home to James Bond Island, make Ao Phang Nga National Park one of Thailand's top destinations. Visitors should spend a full day exploring the islands on a boat tour — opt to get around in a luxurious speed boat, a traditional junk ship, a longtail boat, or in less intrusive sea canoes and kayaks.
In addition to admiring Koh Tapu from afar, James Bond Island tours typically include a sightseeing cruise of Phang Nga Bay; canoeing or kayaking to the limestone caves, mangrove forests, and beaches of Thalu Island and Khao Phing Kan; and a visit to the floating Muslim fishing village of Ko Panyi.
How to Get to James Bond Island
Due to the protected nature of the national park, visiting the islands independently is nearly impossible, unless you have a permit and a personal boat. There are a number of tours to the area, however, most of which depart from the marinas in Phuket and Krabi Noi. If you're traveling down from northern Thailand, save time by taking a tour from Phang Nga town.
- Tours of the bay are generally 8 to 10 hours long, so be sure to bring sunscreen, plenty of water, and a sun hat.
- Given that Khao Phing Kan is one of south Thailand's most popular attractions, tour boats can sell out quickly. Book in advance to avoid disappointment.
Due to the protected nature of the national park, visiting the islands independently is nearly impossible, unless you have a permit and a personal boat. There are a number of tours to the area, however, most of which depart from the marinas in Phuket and Krabi Noi. If you're traveling down from northern Thailand, save time by taking a tour from Phang Nga town.
When to Get There
Although the region is warm all year round, the hottest period is between April and May, when all-day sunshine is pretty much guaranteed. Rainy season in southern Thailand occurs between September and October, when the tropical monsoon climate comes in full force and there is a risk of destructive tropical storms.
Address: Phuket, Southern Thailand and Andaman Coast, Thailand
From $ 44
Chalong Bay Rum Distillery
Sold around the globe, Chalong Bay Rum is Thailand’s best-known rum brand. At the Chalong Bay Rum Distillery in Phuket, travelers can go behind-the-scenes to discover how the facility uses centuries-old French distillation techniques to transform freshly pressed sugarcane into smooth white rum.
The Basics
Chalong Bay Rum Distillery is the perfect destination for a laid-back morning or afternoon of rum sampling. Opt for a guided tour to learn about the rum-making process, sample rum cocktails at the distillery bar, or take part in a masterclass or cocktail workshop to learn the secrets of cocktail making and whip up favorites including Chalong Bay mojitos, Spicyrinhas, and Piña Coladas. You can also combine a rum-tasting session at Chalong Bay Distillery with a private tour of Phuket Town to see city highlights such as a local cashew factory and scenic viewpoints overlooking the city.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Chalong Bay Rum Distillery is a must-see for rum and cocktail aficionados.
- The legal drinking age in Thailand is 20 years old.
- The distillery is wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
The Chalong Bay Rum Distillery is located on Soi Palai in Chalong Bay, roughly five miles (eight kilometers) southwest of Phuket Town. There are no public transportation options, so it’s best to arrive by private vehicle, taxi, or as part of a guided tour.
When to Get There
The distillery is open year-round but can get busy during the dry season (November through February), so opt for an early morning visit to avoid the crowds.
The Natural Rum of Chalong Bay
Chalong Bay is renowned for its natural rum production—inspired by traditional French-Caribbean methods—and uses pure sugarcane juice instead of the molasses typically used in industrial rum. The distillery is proud of its eco credentials and uses only the finest Thai sugarcane sourced from local farmers, grown without chemical fertilizers, and harvested by hand.
Address: 14/2 Moo 2 Soi Palai 2 Tambon Chalong Amphur Muang, Phuket 83130, Thailand
Hours: Daily, 11am - 10pm. Distillery tours start every hour from 2pm - 6pm.
From $ 125