What are the Best Places to Visit in Phuket?

Phuket is an island province in Thailand with some of the most stunning beaches in Southeast Asia. This paradise of white sand and crystal clear waters has become one of the top tourist destinations in Thailand. It is famous for its beautiful bays, sparkling waters, and its thriving entertainment industry – from lively beach bars to nightclubs and excellent restaurants. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach holiday, or a fun-filled excursion for your entire family, Phuket has something for everyone. Here are the best places to visit in Phuket:

1. Phang Nga Bay National Park

Phang Nga Bay National Park is a spectacular grouping of limestone cliffs, emerald waters, and tropical forests. There are over 40 islands in the national park, and visitors can choose to get closeup views of some of the most dramatic island profiles, like James Bond Island. You can visit with a boat tour, and kayak around the secluded lagoons. There are also options such as rock climbing, caving and exploring the interior of the park.

2. Patong Beach

Patong Beach is Phuket’s liveliest destination with endless possibilities and overnight beach-goer attractions. The main beach is known as Patong Beach, where you can enjoy plenty of water sports, including parasailing and jet skiing, or relax on the beach and watch the sun go down. In addition to its golden shores, Patong offers a wide selection of restaurants and cafes, as well as an abundance of shopping options – from bespoke tailors to fashion boutiques. Beside the beach, Bangla Road at night is definitely worth a visit, especially if you’re looking to experience the lively nightlife scene.

3. Karon Beach

Karon Beach is considered one of the top 3 beaches in Phuket and is more laid-back than nearby Patong Beach. What makes Karon Beach stand out is its crystal blue waters and white sand, along with its peaceful atmosphere. In Karon Beach area you can also find plenty of shopping opportunities, a variety of seafood restaurants, nightlife spots and several resorts to choose from – from budget-friendly to luxurious 5-star accommodations.

4. Kata Noi Beach

Kata Noi is one of the five beaches that make up Kata Beach area. It’s a great destination for couples who crave a romantic vacation away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Although being one of smaller beaches here, it packs a punch with its stunningly clear waters making this beach postcard-perfect choice for swimming and snorkeling. It also has amazing views overlooking Kata Tiau, which can be reached by a short walk along the beachfront path.

5. Big Buddha

The Big Buddha is a must-see destination while on vacation in Phuket – it’s not just one of largest images of Buddha in Thailand but it’s still one of the most revered landmarks on this island province. The giant gold Buddha sits atop a hill is visible from many parts of southern Phuket, giving off a stunning view from any time of day, sunrise or sunset. Make sure you don’t miss the “Wat Chalong’ temple grounds where many ancient relics made of marble can be seen along with other Buddha statues in the shrine hall.

6. Phi Phi Island

An hour by boat from Phuket takes you to Phi Phi Island – an iconic group of limestone cliffs jutting out from an unbelievably turquoise sea that possess an almost magical allure – seen in many Hollywood movies. There you can enjoy water based activities such as snorkeling and kayaking spot colorful reef fish around some of Phi Phi’s many coral gardens, or take a dive and explore deeper waters around sites such as King Cruiser Wall Dive in Hin Klang and Manong Wall Dive in Hin Phaeo Reefs.

7. Wat Chalong (Chalong Temple)

Wat Chalong or Chalong Temple is one of the oldest temples in Phuket and has been a center of worship and learning for centuries. Not only is Wat Chalong visually impressive with its grand structures but its importance as a spiritual center that many believe has miraculous healing properties cannot be skipped on any visit to Phuket. Wak Chalong’s central ordination hall serves as local people’s homes dedicated to religious ceremonies like blessing and ordination for Buddhists throughout southern Thailand both locals and tourists visit everyday to pay respect to monks on duty and make merits by offering donations and food to Buddhist monks living in the temple.

The charm and mystery of Phuket has continued to grow over time and there are so many potential experiences one can have on this beautiful Tropical island. Whether you are looking for adventure or looking for a peaceful place to relax, there is something for everyone here, so go ahead and explore this paradise!