Phuket Travel Guide

For several years, Phuket has been Paradise Island, well known to many travelers in search of sun and beautiful beaches. Nicknamed the “Pearl of Andaman”, this famous island covers more than 540 km2, making it the largest island in Thailand.

General Information

Phuket is a giant mix of everything Thailand has to offer. No matter what you are looking for, this island has something to offer everyone as the gateway to your vacation. For beach lovers, Phuket is immensely covered with numerous white-sanded beaches with emerald blue waters. You will find plenty of beaches for sunbathing, as well as excellent diving and snorkeling spots for your Phuket vacation. The views alone will make you fall in love with Phuket. For party lovers, you can experience a ton of lively activities on the island, from day to night.

Climate and the Best Time for a Vacation in Phuket

Phuket, with its tropical climate, varies widely between hot, cool, and rainy. It never really gets too cold.

• Dry Season (November – February): November to February is the high season in Phuket, known as the best weather of the year. The temperatures are the most comfortable. The sun shines for 7–9 hours a day, allowing you to do more activities. The most expensive period is the fortnight that covers the Christmas and New Year holidays, so be sure to book your hotel well in advance.
• Hot season (March – April): Although the dry season theoretically ends in March, days are usually still sunny with blue skies, and rainfall does not reach moderate levels until April. April is the hottest month in Phuket. It can be hot. The month is gradually affected by the monsoon and the humidity increases. This is still a good time for a beach vacation.
• Rainy season (May – October): During the rainiest months (August, September, and October), it rains for 1–2 hours in the afternoon. In May, June, July, and October, the showers are generally shorter and last only half an hour. After a brief downpour, the rest of the day remains mostly clear. Your trip will not be affected too much by the rain. The rain offers advantages: it lowers the temperature a little, and the rainy season offers calmer beaches and more affordable prices.

Getting to Phuket

By plane

Nothing is easier than getting to Phuket by plane. Phuket is served by an international airport with many scheduled and charter flights from Europe and Asia.

However, the majority of visitors fly to Bangkok first, where more than a dozen domestic flights serve Phuket daily. With the growth of budget airlines such as Nok Air, Air Asia, and Orient Thai (One2Go), ticket prices are now very low. Thai Airways, the national carrier is slightly more expensive but offers a higher level of service.

Flights from Bangkok take approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes. Book your tickets early, especially during the high season, from November to April.

By bus

This is the cheapest option for getting to Phuket. Buses from other parts of Thailand, including Bangkok, Krabi, Phang Na, and Surat Thani, run to the BKS terminal, located just off Thanon Phang Nga in Phuket Town. Buses from Bangkok’s South Bus Terminal to Phuket are the most reliable and convenient way to travel between the two cities. It takes up to 13 hours to reach Phuket. Air-conditioned and non-air-conditioned buses are available at different prices.

Getting around Phuket 

There are several inexpensive types of transport to get around Phuket island.

By Tuk Tuk

The tuk-tuks are small taxis, almost often painted red, that can be found all over Phuket. In Phuket, tuktuk-tukse is more like four-wheeled mini-trucks, rather than the three-wheeled tuk-tuks elsewhere in Thailand. If you want to travel by tuk-tuk, indicate your destination and negotiate the price before getting on.

By Songthaew

Songthaew is the most used mode of transport in Phuket. They are basically pickup trucks with two wooden benches to sit on either side of the vehicle. Songthaews run on most roads, especially from Phuket Town to the beaches. But they do not go from one beach to another. They have no fixed stops and pick up and drop off passengers on demand.

Songthaews can be picked up from the local bus station on Ranong Street in Phuket Town. They run from 7a.m to 18p.m and fees range from 25 THB to 40 THB depending on the travel distance.

By taxi

The yellow and red taxis with meters are a cheap and reliable mode of transport in Phuket, but they are very rare and you may not find them easily. They are safer and more comfortable than tuk-tuks but you may have to negotiate during peak tourist season.

By moto-taxi

The moto-taxis are easy to find and the drivers are recognizable by their brightly colored vests. Drivers are usually good at recognizing the body language of lost tourists and they may approach you before you can even wave at them. This mode of transport is fast and relatively inexpensive. The price is discussed with the driver before the start of the trip.

By private car

Renting a car with a driver is an economical way to travel in Thailand. Most car rental services provide a driver who also works as a guide, which is extremely helpful to explore tourist sites. Do not hesitate to contact us if you wish to rent a private car with a driver in Thailand or Phuket.

By Smart Bus

The Phuket Smart Bus is a new transport service that was launched in 2018. It takes passengers from the airport to Rawai, for 11 stops. It will stop at Bang Thao, Surin, Kamala, Patong, Karon, Kata, and Rawai, which are all recommended areas along the west coast of the island. You can check the Phuket Smart Bus website for more information.

By boat

If you want to move between islands, you can take a long-tail island hopping. Although you can trade for a good price, the cost should be around 500 THB per hour or 1,800 THB for a day. Boats are generally not equipped with life jackets, so be careful if you are with children or non-swimmers.

Best Accommodations in Phuket

Deciding where to sleep in Phuket is not a simple problem, the diversity of activities and landscapes makes the choice very difficult: swim in the sea or swim in the crowd? Peaceful nights or parties till dawn? Lazing on the beach or on sports days?

Patong, for a party

Located on the west coast of the island, the very iconic Patong is one of the most popular places to stay in Phuket. It is best known for its lively nightlife, its worthy shopping centers, and its magnificent long beach, a meeting point for swimming, tanning, and water sports enthusiasts.

• Paresa Resort Phuket
• Holiday Inn Resort Phuket

Karon, a mix of tranquility and animation

Karon is the second most popular resort area in Phuket, as it has one of the longest, nicest, and cleanest beaches on the island. Its gastronomy is absolutely sublime and its atmosphere is the perfect blend of modernity, animation, and relaxation.

• Mandarava Resort and Spa, Karon Beach
• The Village Resort & Spa

Kata, for a family vacation in Thailand

The picturesque town of Kata is on the podium of the most beautiful beaches in Phuket, a promise of sweet moments of idleness and activities for couples and families.

• Malisa Village Suites
• Ozo Phuket

Surin Beach, for a luxury journey

Reputed to be one of the most luxurious and exclusive places in Phuket, its modest size makes it an oasis of peace and relaxation, perfect for those who don’t like confusion: It’s a big playground for those who love nature and captivating adventures.

• The Surin Phuket
• Outrigger Surin Beach Resort

Phuket city, for an expensive trip

The city benefits from several advantages: a rather central geographical location for accommodation and a city where there are finally some places of interest to visit. There are many accommodations in Phuket Town and you can find the most affordable accommodations there.

• Novotel Phuket City Phokeethra
• Courtyard by Marriott Phuket Town

In addition, this island has several other regions to satisfy your desires: Rawai in peace, Mai Khao to live in the sun and swim in the sea, etc. If you want the best choice of accommodation for your stay in Phuket, do not hesitate to contact us.

Best places to visit and best activities to do in  Phuket

Old Phuket Town

During your stay, the old town is a must-see place in Phuket. You will discover magnificent buildings and old residences. Thalang Street, the heart of the old center, has been almost completely renovated. You will discover quite astonishing Sino-Portuguese architecture there. And then, take a break in one of the many restaurants and taste the local cuisine. You will also find many souvenir shops to do some shopping.

Sirinat National Park

Close to Phuket International Airport and about 30 km from Phuket Town, Sirinat Park covering 90 km2, has uninterrupted beaches over a length of 13 km. Two of them, Hat Nai Yang and Hat Mai Khao, are the only two beaches where leatherback turtles come ashore at night to lay their eggs. The best time to see them is from November to February when locals patrol the beaches and help protect their eggs.

Museums and pagodas

This island doesn’t only have idyllic beaches! You will also find museums and stunning temples.

Thalang National Museum

This small museum presents the history of Phuket through its archaeological collections. A visit at the same time as that of the heroine monument located nearby. It is indeed the most famous monument on the island. You will contemplate the commemorative statue of the heroines Thep Krasattri and Thao Sisunthon who chased the Burmese invaders from Phuket.

Phuket Trickeye Museum

The Phuket Trickeye Museum is the first of its kind in southern Thailand. This is an interactive museum designed to spark your imagination and creativity. The museum allows the visitor to come into contact with art in a new way, becoming part of the arts during the brief moment you look at them.

Wat Pra Thong Temple

This temple is famous on the island because it preserves a partially buried Buddha. Remember to cover your shoulders and knees, out of respect for the Buddhist religion. You will experience a moment of serenity and calm in this remote part of the city.

Wat Chalong Temple

Wat Chalong is the largest, most popular, and arguably the most beautiful of Phuket’s 29 temples. It houses the statues of the two most respected monks, Luang Pho Chaem and Luang Pho Chuang. The architecture of this temple is superb, with several buildings and many golden statues. A must-try visit to Phuket!

Big Buddha Statue

Located on top of Nakkerd Hill, the Big Buddha has a temple that is open to visitors. 45 meters high, it has been built since 2004. Given the financial cost of these gigantic works, each visitor is free to buy a marble slab which will be used to continue the construction of the Buddha and his surroundings. From the terrace surrounding it, you will have a breathtaking view of Phuket Town and Chalong Bay. Visit this place at sunset, you will be amazed by a splendid spectacle!

Beautiful beaches

Some beaches in Phuket are among the most beautiful in the world. Here are some of them where you can have a good time in the sun!

Patong Beach

Patong Beach is certainly one of the best-known on the peninsula. Indeed, this beach is a spot where tourism has developed for a long time. The hotel offer is varied, from cheap guesthouses to 5* hotels. But Patong is above all of the party beaches, with many bars and nightclubs. The more adventurous can even spend an evening on Bangla Street (Soi Bangla), a really lively place!

Mai Khao Beach

The largest beach on Phuket Island. This place, which has remained natural, has seduced and still attracts people who love unusual spaces. Far from the bustle of Patong, Mai Khao will allow you to enjoy a moment of relaxation far from the urban bustle of the island. Indeed, only a few hotels that are well integrated into the environment have taken up residence in this corner of Phuket. Therefore, you will not be disturbed by the hordes of visitors who have come to enjoy the charm of the Thai islands.

Nai Yang Beach

This beach is part of the Sirinat National Park, which includes a forest of casuarina pines and mangroves. In continuity with Mai Khao Beach, so it’s just as quiet. It is also a stunning snorkeling place.

Pansea Beach

This beach is sheltered and very quiet. Its atmosphere is unique! It is the most beautiful beach on the island, and certainly the dream destination for a honeymoon.

Kamala & Karon Beach

About 40 minutes south of Phuket International Airport along the coast are Kamala and Karon beaches. Two huge beaches, where large hotel complexes follow one another. Family rooms, multiple pools, and quick entry to restaurants and other amenities are offered. These two beaches are very friendly and are mainly appreciated by families. Indeed, it is on these beaches that we can find many activities! They are very good alternatives to Patong Beach if the crowds put you off.

Rawai Beach

Rawai Beach, located at the end of southern Phuket island, is not a suitable beach for swimming but offers beautiful views of the many neighboring islands and a pleasant local atmosphere. It’s a great place to taste the local seafood and a good base from which you will have a chance to explore nearby islands.

Chalong Bay

Chalong Bay, located a few kilometers south of Phuket Town, is not a preferred destination for swimming. On the other hand, it is one of the ideal places to take yachts or sailboats in a paradisiacal setting as Chalong is the main port to go on a sea excursion to discover the surrounding magical places, such as the island of Koh Phi Phi or Phang Nga Bay.

Promthep Cap

Promthep Cap is surely one of the best places to watch the sunset from Phuket. Of course, it is possible to watch the sunset from any beach on the west coast of the island. However, from Cape Promthep, the view is really different. The place is very photogenic and quite lively at sunset!

Monkey Hill

Monkey Hill is 2 or 3 km north of Phuket Town. So it’s very easy to access. As soon as you arrive at the parking lot, you can already see many monkeys there.

For less than a euro, you can buy bananas or peanuts to feed the monkeys. Unlike other places in Asia, they are pretty cool and not pushy. Be careful though if you are going with your family. With precision, it is not a park or zoo. Many monkeys live in the middle of nature, on this hill.

Night Markets

If you are looking for what to do in Phuket at night, the night markets will be a good idea. Walking, shopping or simply eating there.

The market of Walking Street in Phuket

Located on the road to Thalang and called by the locals “Lard Yai”. This market faithfully represents the dynamic atmosphere of Thailand and offers a particularly successful view. The colorful colonial buildings that line it, the unique items sold there, and the traditional food stalls, made the market a must-try destination on a trip to Phuket. This market takes place every Sunday from 16/17 p.m until 22 p.m.

Phuket Weekend Market

Located a little away from all the festive bustle of the island, on Chao Fa West Road, this is the largest market on Phuket Island. The weekend market is called “Naka Market” in the local language. It is known as one of the best and most popular markets here. The market offers goods of all kinds: from electronics to clothing and toys at incredibly low prices.

Furthermore, the market is a culinary paradise. It is recommended to come hungry and taste a bit of everything: among others exotic fruits, grilled corn, sausages, grilled chicken and, if you are adventurous, you need to try fried insects. This market takes place on Saturday and Sunday evenings at the same times as the previous one.

Chillva Night Market

A particularly trendy market, with a dynamic and lively atmosphere. Most of the products are original and handmade, unlike most Thai markets which are filled with brands and counterfeits. The environment is colorful and in the center of this market, you can attend music concerts. The stalls are inside shipping containers and will sell you natural cosmetics, sunglasses, and fashionable, high-quality clothing. The hippie style is also felt in cool bars, chic cafes, cute ice cream parlors, and extremely delicious street food.

Best Restaurants in Phuket

Mom Tri Kitchen

Mom Tri’s Kitchen Royale Restaurant at Kata Noi Beach is one of the oldest restaurants in Phuket. It is also one of the first places on this island to serve authentic Thai cuisine, making it a must-visit restaurant in Phuket. Today, its extensive menu includes everything from traditional cuisine to fusion creations. One of the most popular dishes on the menu, not to be ignored, is the “Provençal” tuna from Phuket accompanied by mashed carrots, grilled yellow peppers, and cherry tomato ketchup.

Black Ginger

Located in the middle of a small lake inside the Slate Resort on Bangtao Beach, Black Ginger is an excellent Thai restaurant with a magical set-up. Here, a raft will take you across illuminated waters to the restaurant, where you can enjoy mouth-watering traditional Thai dishes with modern twists. We recommend the Tom Yum, the Som Tam, the Panaeng curry, and the crispy prawns with breaded cha-plu leaves. The specialty of the Black Ginger, the Poh Pia Sod Phuket, is also to be tasted. The design of the restaurant, combined with excellent cuisine, will give you an exceptional gastronomic experience.

Suay Restaurant

Suay Restaurant (Suay means “beautiful”) serves modern and innovative cuisine in the simplicity of a small house and a warm and friendly atmosphere in Phuket town. Suay’s location is in the center of Phuket Town makes it easy to get to, but parking can be tricky. The architecture is a bit European but relaxed. Everything is absolutely delicious, thanks to the wonderful combinations and use of flavors.

Pak Nam Seafood

The Pak Nam Seafood Restaurant is an excellent Thai restaurant, located away from the tourist areas. With its fresh seafood, reasonable price and parking spaces, this restaurant is definitely one of the best choices for seafood. Locals and residents know Pak Nam Seafood Restaurant very well and like to bring their friends there for a relaxing lunch or dinner. This restaurant is ideal for people who love seafood and a cozy atmosphere. The menu is surprisingly detailed, well-illustrated and in English.

Phuket is a beautiful island with a lot to offer. Do not hesitate to contact us if you want more information or to organize a tailor-made trip to Thailand!