Thinking about a tropical escape? In my experience, Phuket in Thailand might just be the paradise you’re looking for. From its pristine beaches to vibrant markets, Phuket has a lot to offer. Whether you’re a sun-seeker, an explorer, or a food lover, this island seems to have it all.
But is it the right destination for you? Could this be your next travel adventure? Keep reading to find out!
Getting there
Getting to Phuket is pretty straightforward. You can fly directly to Phuket International Airport from many major cities around the world. I’ve visited Phuket many times, and often fly with Qatar Airways from Europe, with a layover in Doha.
Once you land in Phuket, you’ll find various transportation options available to get you to your accommodation. There’s private taxis, shared cars and a bus you can take. You don’t need to book a taxi beforehand unless you want to!
Simple, right? But there’s more to explore – let’s dive into the heart of Phuket!
Best Areas to Stay
Phuket has a spot for everyone, and here’s where you fit in.
Patong is the most popular place to stay in Phuket. It’s definitely not my personal favorite as there’s a lot of nightlife, and I prefer more calm areas with better beaches. But, Patong could be a good option if you’re seeking romance and nightlife. Patong Beach’s vibrant atmosphere is a great choice in this case. Also, If you’re traveling solo and want to meet people, Patong Beach is your go-to.
Families can find their haven in Kamala or Kata Beach, known for their kid-friendly vibes. Kata Noi, which is south of the big Kata beach, is one of my favorite places in Phuket!
Are you looking for luxury? The Laguna area near Bang Tao beach offers upscale resorts and more developed areas as it’s privately owned.
If you’re after a local experience, Rawai and especially the area near Nai Harn beach is ideal. Whatever your style, Phuket’s got your stay covered.
Personally, I wouldn’t stay overnight in Phuket city, but one hundred percent you should visit it during your stay on a day trip. Phuket old town is a must see while you’re on the island!
Best things to do
Ready to dive into the fun? In my experience, Phuket offers a world of activities.
If you’re a beach lover, don’t miss out on the stunning Kata Noi and Nai Harn beaches. Couple smaller, but stunning beaches I can recommend are Yanui beach in the south, and Freedom beach south of Patong. Getting down to Freedom beach requires a little hike, just to let you know, but it’s definitely worth it. Just bring some drinks with you!
While you are south to visit Yanui beach, visit the Promthep Cape, which is the very south point of Phuket. Visiting here during sunset is one of the most popular things to do while in Phuket, and I can definitely understand why! It’s super beautiful, and I love the atmosphere. After the sun sets, you could go enjoy some delicious food nearby in Rawai!
For some cultural exploration and stunning views of Phuket, the Big Buddha statue is a must-visit. It’s 45 meters, or about 150 feet tall, sitting on top of a mountain. Driving up there is also pretty fun regardless if you drive on your own motorbike, or take a tuk tuk!
Like I mentioned before, don’t miss Phuket Old Town while you’re on the island. I would recommend visiting the old town as the sun sets. The town comes alive with street food vendors, and all kinds of interesting things to see. It has a super nice vibe during this time!
Other popular things to do while staying in Phuket, are tours such as the James Bond island tour. I can recommend this one. You’ll see really cool rock formations including the island where they filmed part of the James Bond movie “The Man with the Golden Gun“.
Another tour that most people do while in Phuket, is visiting Phi Phi islands. There’s definitely a reason why it’s so popular. The islands are just so beautiful. You can do snorkeling, relax on beaches and more. There’s different options for this tour, so choose what sounds the best to you. If you want to party on a small island in the middle of the ocean, you can also stay overnight in Phi Phi, and party until the sun rises!
These would be the best things to do in my opinion. But here’s a few other things I want to mention quickly:
Visit Blue Tree Phuket, which is a large waterpark near Surin and Bang Tao beaches. They have massive water slides there which are a lot of fun!
Climb to Black Rock Viewpoint overlooking the south of the island. Watching the sunset here might not be the best idea, unless you want to go through the jungle in complete darkness. Yep, I learned this the hard way!
Stop at Karon View Point between Rawai, and Kata Beach. It’s a beautiful little viewpoint overlooking Kata Noi, the big Kata and Karon Beaches.
Best way to get around the island is by hiring a motorbike. However, if you have not experienced driving a bike before, some areas in Phuket could be a little bit too much for beginners. Please be careful! Using apps like “Grab” is an easy way to get around.
Accommodation
Time to rest and relax in style! If luxury is your game, Phuket’s got you covered. Here are three top-notch resorts to consider:
First luxury resort I can recommend is called Trisara, which is located north of Bang Tao beach, in a quiet area. This exclusive resort offers private pool villas nestled within lush gardens or perched on the hillside, all overlooking the turquoise waters of the Andaman Sea. With a private beach, exceptional dining, and world-class spa treatments, Trisara ensures a stay of unparalleled elegance and relaxation.
Second, Banyan Tree Phuket, located near Bang Tao beach, in the Laguna area which is close to many restaurants and shops, but still within a calm area. Banyan Tree has well-appointed pool villas, each offering a secluded oasis of calm. The resort’s renowned spa treatments, inspired by traditional Asian therapies, promise a relaxed day in the paradise. Nestled amidst the Laguna Phuket Golf Club, golfers can enjoy the beautiful course, or those who wish to try golf for the first time, this is the perfect opportunity to do so!
And lastly, Sri Panwa. This resort is not near any area I recommended earlier, but if you’re looking to mostly relax at the resort, this could be a great option.
Prepare to be captivated by the breathtaking views of Sri Panwa’s panoramic pool villas. Perched on a hilltop, this resort offers a sense of seclusion, complemented by infinity pools that seem to merge with the sea. With multiple dining options, a private beach, and a vibrant nightlife scene close by, Sri Panwa is the epitome of lavish island living.
These luxury resorts promise a stay beyond imagination, where every detail is meticulously designed to provide an unforgettable experience.
For those seeking comfort, but don’t want to spend a fortune on your holiday, here are two fantastic options:
Amari Phuket: Nestled on the southern end of Patong Beach, Amari Phuket offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities. With a stunning beachfront location and a range of facilities including a spa, fitness center, and multiple dining options, it’s a great value choice for a memorable stay.
Centara Karon Resort: Located near Karon Beach, this mid range resort offers comfortable rooms, lush tropical gardens, and a variety of amenities. With multiple swimming pools, a spa, and easy access to the beach, this resort provides a pleasant and convenient stay.
Both of these mid-range resorts provide quality comfort and amenities without breaking the bank.
Wherever you end up staying, just remember, that it’s the things you do and people you’re with or meet that makes the holiday great! You can have the best holiday of your life regardless if the choice of accommodation is a good one or not.
Budget
Now, let’s talk about the budget. Keep in mind that costs can vary, so here’s a rough estimate to help you plan.
Accommodation: On average, luxury resorts can range from $300 to $800 per night, depending on the season. Mid-level resorts might cost around $100 to $250 per night. Thailand can be done on a very low budget too. If you’re backpacking, there are hostels for just $10 a night, or a little bit more than that during the peak season.
Local street food can be as cheap as $2 to $5 per meal. Dining in mid-range restaurants could cost around $15 to $30 per person. For a fancy dinner in a high-end restaurant, be prepared to spend $50 to $100 or more.
Phuket’s transportation is a bit more expensive than elsewhere in Thailand. Taxis and tuk-tuks can be around $5 to $10 for short rides. Renting a motorbike might cost around $10 to $25 per day. Day tours or boat trips can range from $30 to $100, depending on the activities.
Admission to attractions is generally pretty cheap. Nightlife activities, like attending a cabaret show, can cost around $20 to $40.
Overall: For a mid-range traveler, a daily budget of $50 to $100 should cover accommodation, food, transportation, and some activities. For a more luxurious experience, budgeting around $200 to $400 per day is a good estimate.
Remember, these are just averages, and prices can fluctuate based on the time of year and your personal preferences. Whether you’re on a tight budget or ready to splurge, Phuket has options to fit your wallet.
From stunning beaches to cultural experiences, we’ve explored the best of what this tropical paradise has to offer. Whether you’re a beach bum, an adventurer, or a foodie, Phuket has it all. I have traveled and lived in Phuket for a long time. It’s one of my favorite places anywhere, so I would definitely recommend it for your next holiday destination!
