Thailand: Reasons to Love Phuket
Phuket is Thailand’s largest island and it is located on the Andaman Sea.
Phuket is known for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, rich culture, and beautiful natural scenery.
And, for all the reasons above, Phuket is probably the most popular tourist destination in Southeast Asia.
So, this year, I decided to find out what all the fuss was about and headed to Phuket for a week’s vacation holiday. I chose to stay at the beach town of Patong on the west coast.
As my flight arrived late into Phuket International Airport (HKT) I planned to stay for one night at a nearby hotel at Kamala Beach and then head down to Patong in a local taxi later the next morning.
When my taxi pitched up I was kind of amazed that it was a luxurious and spacious mini-van!
Then, for the rest of my week – exhausted from having been travelling extensively for several months in Asia – I was hoping for a bit of rest and recuperation and also a bit of luxury.
So booked into (affiliate link) The Holiday Inn Resort Phuket at Patong Beach.
This Four Star IHG resort promised an ‘oasis of peace’ but just to be sure I could dip in and out of Patong’s busy vibe and be sure of finding my oasis of peace, I’d booked a premium room in resort’s adults only Busakorn Wing.
The Holiday Inn Resort Phuket did not disappoint and I was delighted to be upgraded to a luxuriously appointed suite with direct pool access from my room.
I booked all my Phuket accomodation using Booking Dotcom.
When I eventually left my beautiful room and private sun lounger, I took a walk to the main street, which runs the length of the beach, to enjoy the bustling holiday atmosphere.
It seems that Phuket is many things to many people and this diversity is what makes it an absolute winner when it comes to the things people want and need for a fabulous holiday vacation all in one place.
And now I get it because there are so many reasons to love Phuket.
Stunning beaches, a wide range of accommodation, fun activities, a vibrant nightlife, great local food, nature, culture, history, and great accessibility.
In this post I’m going to share all those reasons to love Phuket with you!
TABLE OF CONTENTS
- THE STUNNING BEACHES
- WHERE TO STAY IN PHUKET
- PHUKET ACTIVITIES
- PHUKET NIGHTLIFE
- CULTURE AND HISTORY
- NATURE
- DELICIOUS THAI FOOD
- GETTING AROUND PHUKET
- HOW TO GET TO PHUKET
- WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT PHUKET
- TRAVEL TIPS FOR PHUKET
- IS PHUKET WORTH VISITING?
THE STUNNING BEACHES
Phuket boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in Thailand.
Each beach offers a unique vibe in terms of atmosphere, amenities and activities.
With soft white sand, crystal-clear waters, and lush greenery, all catering to different preferences and types of travellers.
Here’s a description and the location of each beach to help you narrow down your choices!
Patong Beach – the most famous and busiest beach in Phuket, known for its vibrant nightlife, restaurants, and shopping.
Karon Beach – the third-longest beach in Phuket, known for its long stretch of white sand and clear waters. It’s usually less crowded than Patong so ideal for families and those seeking a quieter atmosphere.
Kata Beach – popular with surfers during the low season, Kata offers a relaxed vibe with a beautiful beach and nearby amenities.
Kata Noi Beach – a smaller, more tranquil beach just south of Kata Beach, perfect for a peaceful day by the sea.
Surin Beach – known for its clear waters and luxury resorts, Surin Beach is popular with both locals and tourists. Surin is sometimes called “Millionaire’s Row” as it’s popular with celebrities and offers luxury resorts and upscale dining.
Kamala Beach – a quieter alternative to Patong, Kamala Beach is family-friendly with a laid-back atmosphere and it’s not far from the airport so also convenient for that first or last night of your holiday.
Nai Yang Beach – also close to Phuket International Airport, Nai Yang Beach offers a relaxed vibe with plenty of local restaurants and bars.
Bangtao Beach – one of the longest beaches in Phuket, Bangtao is home to high-end resorts, beach clubs, and a beautiful stretch of sand.
Nai Harn Beach – located in the southern part of Phuket, Nai Harn Beach is popular for its crystal-clear waters and serene environment.
Mai Khao Beach – peaceful and remote beach, Mai Khao is part of a national park and is less developed than other beaches on the island.
Freedom Beach – a hidden gem near Patong, Freedom Beach is accessible by boat or a hike, offering pristine sands and clear waters.
Laem Singh Beach – once a hidden spot, Laem Singh is accessible via a steep path and offers a more secluded beach experience.
Ao Sane Beach – a small, rocky beach located near Nai Harn, Ao Sane is great for snorkelling and a quiet day away from the crowds.
Yanui Beach – a small and picturesque beach between Nai Harn and Promthep Cape, Yanui is popular for kayaking and snorkelling.
Panwa Beach – located on Cape Panwa, this beach is quieter and offers stunning views of the surrounding islands.
WHERE TO STAY IN PHUKET
Phuket offers a wide range of accommodation options with perhaps more attractive and affordable prices than you might find in other popular tourist destinations in Thailand or indeed elsewhere.
Patong is lively and close to nightlife while Kata and Karon are more family-friendly and if you prefer something quieter then consider staying in areas like Kamala or Nai Harn.
Many of the best luxury resorts in Thailand are located on Phuket’s secluded beaches or the hillsides with stunning views.
These resorts offer world-class amenities, private pools, and a luxury service.
Phuket is also a great place for relaxation and wellness and many resorts and standalone spas offer traditional Thai massages, spa treatments and wellness programs, make it an ideal destination for rejuvenation.
More affordable accommodations, cheap street food, and a variety of free or low-cost activities make it possible to enjoy Phuket without breaking the bank.
During the high season, especially around holidays, it’s a good idea to book your accommodation in advance to secure the best options and rates.
I recommend using Booking Dotcom to source and book your accommodation.
ACTIVITIES
Phuket provides a wide range of activities, from water sports to more relaxed options like spa treatments, yoga, and wellness retreats.
Phuket is a diving hotspot with several PADI-certified dive centres.
Visit local markets, cooking classes, and temples to experience Thai culture.
Many attractions and activities are suitable for all ages, including water parks, animal sanctuaries, and cultural performances.
Boat tours to nearby islands are also very popular indeed and highly recommended.
Three of these islands include the famous Phi Phi Islands – a short boat ride from Phuket – these islands are famous for their crystal-clear waters and were made famous by the movie The Beach.
Phang Nga Bay – famous for its limestone karsts and emerald-green waters.
And Similan Islands – a group of islands offering some of the best snorkelling and diving spots in Thailand – known for their vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life.
Many activities and tours can be booked once you’re in Phuket but if you have specific experiences in mind (like a Phi Phi Islands tour) then booking in advance can ensure you get a spot.
I recommend using Klook and Get Your Guide to book your tours and activities.
NIGHTLIFE
It has to be said that Phuket’s nightlife is legendary, particularly in Patong, which is the epicentre of this scene and where Bangla Road comes alive at night with bars, nightclubs, live music, and entertainment venues.
There are also cabaret shows, live music venues, Muay Thai fights, and beach parties to enjoy.
Beyond Patong, you’ll find chic beach clubs like Catch Beach Club or Baba Beach Club, where you can enjoy cocktails by the sea in a more laid-back setting.
CULTURE AND HISTORY
Phuket combines the charm of traditional Thai culture with modern amenities, offering festivals and historical sites that make it a versatile destination for all kinds of travellers.
You’ll find deep cultural experience with its temples like Wat Chalong and the Big Buddha and the island’s Old Town showcases historical and well-preserved Sino-Portuguese architecture, colourful street art, and vibrant markets.
NATURE
Beyond the beaches, Phuket’s natural beauty extends to lush rainforests, waterfalls, and scenic viewpoints.
The surrounding Andaman Sea is home to coral reefs, marine life, and dramatic limestone cliffs, making it a paradise for nature lovers.
I do recommend you take a boat tour and even better a snorkelling trip out onto the Andaman Sea.
You might like to read my popular post on how to go Island Hopping On The Andaman Sea.
DELICIOUS THAI FOOD
Phuket is a culinary haven, offering a mix of traditional Thai dishes, particularly southern Thai cuisine, and international options.
I found the street food scene is a must-try experience with local specialties favourites like Pad Thai, Hokkien noodles, green curry, Tom Yum Goong, and my own Som Tam (papaya salad).
Being an island, Phuket is known for its fresh seafood, which you can enjoy at beachfront restaurants, markets, or even cooked fresh from the sea at local shacks.
You can also get hands-on cooking experience by taking a Thai cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional dishes.
Klook.comGETTING AROUND
Taxis and tuk-tuks are fun for short trips common in Phuket but always agree on a price before starting your journey as meters are rarely used.
Renting a motorbike is a popular way to explore Phuket. It’s affordable and gives you the freedom to go where you want but traffic can be chaotic so drive carefully, wear a helmet, and make sure you have a license and insurance.
Songthaews are shared open-air buses that operate on fixed routes and are a cheaper alternative for getting around.
Grab (similar to Uber) is a ride-sharing Apps widely used in Phuket and can be a convenient option for getting around without haggling over prices.
Klook.comHOW TO GET TO PHUKET
Phuket is so easily accessible that it makes it a super convenient destination for travellers from around the world.
And, if Phuket is only part of your travel itinerary, there are also many options to consider for your onward travels.
Of course, each option has its pros and cons, depending on your budget, time, and travel preferences and also your starting point.
By Air: Phuket International Airport (HKT) is well-connected with direct flights from many major cities worldwide.
You can take a connecting flight via Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi Airport – BKK or Don Mueang Airport – DMK) or Kuala Lumpur (Kuala Lumpur International Airport – KUL) which are major hubs in the region.
By Bus: From Bangkok’s Southern Bus Terminal (Sai Tai Mai) the journey to Phuket takes around 12-14 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
Buses come in different classes, including VIP and first-class options, offering varying levels of comfort.
There are also buses from other cities in Southern Thailand, like Krabi, Surat Thani, and Hat Yai, with travel times ranging from 3 to 8 hours.
By Train from Bangkok: While there is no direct train to Phuket, you can take a train from Bangkok to Surat Thani (the nearest major train station) and then continue the journey by bus or taxi to Phuket.
The train journey to Surat Thani takes about 8-9 hours, followed by a 4-hour bus ride to Phuket.
You might like to read about my fabulous iconic journey Chiang Mai to Bangkok By Train.
By Car: If you prefer to drive, you can rent a car and drive from Bangkok or other parts of Thailand to Phuket.
The drive from Bangkok to Phuket is around 850 km and takes around 10-12 hours. The route is well-maintained with scenic views along the way.
Private Transfer: For a more comfortable and hassle-free option you can hire a private car or van with a driver.
This option is popular for groups or families traveling from nearby cities like Krabi or Surat Thani.
Ferry or Boat: If you’re already in southern Thailand, particularly on islands like Koh Phi Phi, Koh Lanta, or Krabi, you can reach Phuket by ferry or speedboat.
Ferries run regularly, especially during the high season, and the journey can take anywhere from 1 to 3 hours, depending on the starting point.
By Cruise: Some international cruises stop in Phuket as part of their Southeast Asia itineraries. If you’re on a cruise that includes Phuket as a port of call, you’ll dock at the Phuket Deep Sea Port or Patong Bay.
There are also domestic cruises and boat tours that operate in the Andaman Sea and Phuket is often a key destination on these routes.
Train and Bus Combo: If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, a combination of train and bus is an economical choice for many.
You can take an overnight train from Bangkok to Surat Thani and then board a bus that takes you directly to Phuket.
I use and recommend booking your travel tickets in advance using the reliable Asia ticket agent 12Go.
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT PHUKET
Phuket has a tropical climate, making it a year-round destination.
The very best time to visit Phuket is during the dry season, from November to April, when the weather is most pleasant with clear skies and calm seas.
But even during the monsoon season the island remains attractive due to fewer crowds and lower prices.
High Season (November to February): This is the best time to visit but it’s also the busiest time so expect higher prices and larger crowds.
Shoulder Season (March to May): The weather is still good but it’s hotter so great for those looking to avoid crowds while still enjoying decent weather.
Low Season (June to October): This is the monsoon season so if you don’t mind the occasional downpour it’s the best time for deals on hotels and activities and the island is less crowded.
Find out more in my post The Best and Worst Time To Visit Thailand.
TRAVEL TIPS
The local currency is Thai Baht (THB).
You should be able to pay for most accommodation online using your cards if you are booking with Booking Dotcom and for all transportation tickets in Asia using 12Go.
But it’s always best to have an emergency cash fund as a backup.
I recommend you book accommodation in advance during peak season using Booking Dotcom and boat tickets with 12Go and activities with Klook.
Do make sure you have adequate travel insurance.
You can get no-obligation quotes for travel insurance from World Nomads and also from Genki Travel Insurance.
If you are travelling in midlife, you might like to read my post on Travel Insurance for the Over 50’s.
Remember to stay hydrated as the tropical climate can be dehydrating and stick to bottled water for drinking and brushing your teeth.
Use sunscreen, wear hats, and seek shade during peak sun hours.
Purchasing a local SIM card with data is affordable and you can get one at the airport or any convenience store like 7-Eleven.
Thailand is a Buddhist country so be mindful of local customs.
Dress modestly when visiting temples (cover your shoulders and knees), remove your shoes before entering and avoid touching Buddha statues.
Bargaining is common in markets and tuk-tuk rides so do always negotiate prices.
IS PHUKET WORTH VISITING?
I personally believe Phuket is worth visiting for your Thailand holiday vacation because it is a destination that offers a wonderful beach scene and a mix of natural beauty, cultural richness, adventure, and relaxation.
So whether you’re seeking a party, a peaceful retreat, or an action-packed vacation, Phuket really does have something for everyone.
Is Thailand on your travel wish list?
Have you ever visited Phuket?
Let me know – leave a comment below.
I’ll be delighted to hear from you!
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