The island of Phuket ranks high as one of Thailand's top tourist destinations. Regrettably, it has garnered an unfavorable image of excessive development and over tourism. So, you might wonder, is Phuket worth visiting? The answer is yes, with plenty of compelling reasons to visit the island.
Patong Beach is the most popular destination. Yes, it's overdeveloped and packed with tourists. But Phuket is a big island, covering 576 sq km (222 sq miles), and Patong Beach is a small spot. There are more than 30 less busy beaches on the island, and some are hidden gems. Besides, Phuket offers more than just beaches.
Phuket is far from a deserted island, but doesn't deserve the overcrowded reputation as portrayed by some. It's a big island with plenty of personal space for those who prefer to venture beyond bustling Patong Beach. There are plenty of compelling reasons to visit Phuket, and here are 10 of them.
Table of Contents
- Phuket is Affordable for Tourists
- Island Offers Stunning Beaches
- Charming Nearby Islands to Visit
- Tropical Rainforest to Explore
- Cultural and Historical Sites to Visit
- Delightful Foods to Savor
- Nightlife Without Partying
- Lively Night Markets to Explore
- Phuket is Family-Friendly
- Charming Phuket Old Town
- Concluding Thoughts on Phuket
Phuket Is Affordable for Tourists
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Being a popular tourist destination, is Phuket expensive? It is but relative compared to other parts of Thailand. The island is affordable and within the means for tourists from many middle-income countries. Tourists from high-income countries will find their strong currencies can go a long way in Phuket.
How much you'll be spending depends on your budget and choices. It's free to enjoy the island's many beaches. Budget-friendly accommodations and inexpensive dining options are plenty. But you'll spend more if you stay in a 5-star resort, scuba dive, and go on an evening dinner cruise.
Accommodation
Phuket offers a variety of accommodations, from backpacker hostels to luxury resorts. Yes, the island is expensive compared to other parts of Thailand, but accommodations are still cheaper than in North America or Western Europe. To give you an idea, here's how much you can expect to pay in Phuket.
- Bed at a hostel: 200-400 THB (6-12 USD)
- Budget-priced hotels: 500-1,000 THB (14-28 USD)
- Mid-range hotels: 800-2,000 THB (22-54 USD)
- High-end hotels: -1,600-5,000 THB (43-136 USD)
How much you'd be paying depends on the location. It's cheaper if you opt to stay outside the touristy areas, especially Patong Beach. It's even cheaper if you stay away from the beachfront. For bargains, visit Phuket outside the tourist season from May to October, with the cheapest rooms in September and October.
Eating Out
You can choose to dine cheap or expensive. There are plenty of street stalls and small local restaurants offering cheap eats. You can also find fast food chains and mid-range restaurants that won't break the bank. Of course, you could lavish on fine dining. The following is how much you can expect to spend daily on meals.
- Low-budget: 180-360 THB (5-10 USD)
- Mid-range budget: 500-700 (14-19 USD)
- Big budget: 900-1,800 (25-50 USD)
How much it costs to eat depends on the location. Restaurants in busy tourist areas often levy higher prices due to their prime location. Simply strolling a block away, within the same vicinity, can reveal cheaper dining options for the same quality of food and dining atmosphere.
Transportation
Luckily, there are budget-friendly options to get around the island. The cheapest is the open-air minibuses called Songthaews. There are also the air-conditioned Phuket Smart Bus (traveling between Phuket Airport and Rawai Beach) and Phuket Airport Bus (between Phuket Airport and Phuket Town), making several stops during the trip.
- Songthaew: 20-50 THB (0.40-1.20 USD) depending on distance
- Phuket Airport Bus: 30-100 THB (0.80-2.80 USD) depending on distance
- Phuket Smart Bus: 100 THB (2.80 USD) each trip regardless of distance
Another cost-effective way to get around the island is to rent a motorbike or scooter. Renting these two-wheelers cost 250-300 THB (7-8 USD). Just be sure you have the necessary license and insurance, and follow the safety rules.
Negotiate fares with taxi and tuk-tuk drivers in advance to avoid overpaying. Use prices shown on the app from the ride-hailing service Grab (similar to Uber) for reference. If you do take a taxi, Grab, or tuk-tuk, try to share it with other travelers to split the cost. It can also be cost-effective if traveling with the family.
Island Offers Stunning Beaches
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Phuket's beaches are some of the most beautiful in Thailand, and there are over 30 on the island. The beaches are stunning, with their white sand and emerald waters. And with so many to explore, the island offers a range of beach experiences, from bustling and lively to tranquil and secluded. They are indeed worth enjoying.
Whether you want to enjoy the lively beach vibe, engage in water sports, or unwind and soak up the sun, you'll find a beach that suits your preferences. If you feel one beach is too crowded or doesn't fit your style, there are plenty of other beaches that you can go to. Here are some popular beaches on the island.
Patong Beach: Patong Beach is the most famous and bustling beach. It's known for its vibrant nightlife, numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants. During the day, you can relax on the sandy shore, swim, or try water sports like jet skiing and parasailing.
Kata Noi Beach: Kata Noi Beach is known for its picturesque scenery. The atmosphere is laid-back compared to Patong Beach. The beach is a fantastic place for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing, with a surf school available for beginners.
Karon Beach: Just north of Kata, Karon Beach features a long stretch of golden sand, crystal-clear water, and a calm sea. The beach has a laid-back atmosphere and is ideal for families and those searching for a quieter beach experience..
Paradise Beach: This small beach is in a remote location and relatively secluded. Lush greenery and rocky outcrops surrounded the beach, with a beautiful view of Patong Bay. There's an entrance fee, which helps maintain the beach and facilities.
Bangtao Beach: The beach, also known as Laguna Beach, is one of the longest in Phuket. It's famous for its natural beauty and an excellent spot for sunbathing and long walks along the shore. A good choice for a relaxed beach experience.
Nai Harn Beach: Located in the southern part of Phuket, Nai Harn Beach is quiet with a village atmosphere. The beach is loved for its natural beauty and is another popular spot for swimming and snorkeling. A park surrounding the beach adds to the charm.
Ao Sane Beach: Ao Sane is a small beach near Nai Harn Beach. Small and simple houses and trees lining the beach, give it a rustic feel compared to the more developed beaches. The beach is another great spot for snorkeling and diving.
Surin Beach: Surin Beach is popular with both locals and tourists for its upscale atmosphere. The beach area offers several 5-star resorts, exclusive beach clubs, and high-end shops. You can expect a relaxed ambiance at Surin Beach.
Ya Nui Beach: This L-shaped beach is another small beach. It's not as crowded and offers beautiful views of the nearby islands. It's a quieter alternative for those seeking a more secluded experience and an excellent location for snorkeling.
Freedom Beach: Accessible by boat or a short hike through the jungle, Freedom Beach is known for its pristine beauty and crystal-clear waters. It's another excellent choice for those seeking a secluded and tranquil environment.
Charming Nearby Islands to Visit
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There are numerous islands nearby Phuket to visit and explore. You'll find several options to get to the islands, from group tours to private charters on traditional long-tail boats to speedboats. Choose a trip that matches your interests, whether snorkeling, diving, sightseeing, or simply relaxing on the sandy beach.
Phi Phi Islands: The islands include Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Leh, some of the most scenic in the Andaman Sea. Crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life off the islands make them a favorite among snorkelers and divers.
Koh Tapu: Located in Phang Nga Bay, the island's famed karst formations and emerald-green waters are captivating. Boat tours usually include a stop to the island, and you can opt for a canoe trip through sea caves.
Koh Hae and Racha Islands: These islands are relatively close to Phuket and perfect for a short day trip on the boat. Both offer beautiful beaches, not to mention excellent opportunities for snorkeling, parasailing, and jet skiing.
Similan Islands: The Similan Islands are part of a national park and teeming with rich marine life. The pristine underwater landscapes and vibrant coral reefs are a paradise for snorkelers and scuba divers exploring the rich marine life.
Koh Yao Islands: Located between Phuket and Krabi, Koh Yao Noi and Koh Yao Yai are tranquil and less touristy. These serene islands feature stunning sandy beaches, lush landscapes, and opportunities for kayaking and biking.
Krabi and Railay Beach: While not islands, these cliffs on the mainland are easily accessible by boat from Phuket. It's a dramatic landscape of limestone cliffs, caves, and beautiful beaches, ideal for rock climbing, hiking, and relaxation.
Koh Panyee: It's not an island, but a remarkable fishing village in the sea. Built on stilts, the history of this village goes back to the 18th century. Today, it's a popular boat stop for lunch with tourists exploring the nearby islands.
Tropical Rainforest to Explore
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Khao Phra Thaeo National Park is a serene escape from the beaches. Covering 22 sq km (8.5 sq miles), this is one of the last rainforests in Phuket. There's a small fee to enter, which helps to fund the park's conservation effort. Before exploring, stop at the visitor center for maps and to learn about the park.
Khao Phra Thaeo is a hiker's paradise, with a network of well-maintained trails that wind through the forested hills. Along these trails, you can observe the park's rich biodiversity. The most popular trek is the hike to the highest point, Khao Phra Thaeo Hill, offering panoramic views of the island and the sea.
The park features several picturesque waterfalls, including Bang Pae Waterfall and Ton Sai Waterfall. The park teems with wildlife, and you may encounter macaques, gibbons, and various species of tropical birds. Visit the Gibbon Rehabilitation Center, dedicated to rehabilitating rescued gibbons taken from the wild.
Cultural and Historical Sites to Visit
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Though tourists primarily come to Phuket for its beautiful beaches and emerald waters, there are several cultural and historical sites you can visit. Though they may not be as extensive as in other parts of Thailand, they add to the island's charm and are certainly worth visiting.
The Great Buddha of Phuket: This massive white marble statue sits 45 meters (148 feet) high at the top of Nakkerd Hill. The iconic Buddha statue is the third-tallest in Thailand. At the top of the hill, you enjoy panoramic views of Phuket.
Wat Chalong: Wat Chalong is the most revered Buddhist temple and the largest in Phuket. Built in the early 19th century, the temple features traditional Thai Buddhist architecture with intricate details and vibrant colors.
Wat Phra Thong: The temple is relatively small. The main attraction is the Buddha statue, made from solid gold with the upper half exposed and the lower half buried in the ground. Local belief says, bad luck will fall on whoever tries to dig the statue out.
Phuket Thai Hua Museum: Opened in 1934, it was initially a school and now a museum. Housed in a beautifully preserved Sino-Portuguese building, the museum tells about the history of the Chinese ethnic community on the island.
Delightful Foods to Savor
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Phuket has a vibrant and diverse food scene, which is a significant part of the island's charm. It's a culinary delight that caters to all budgets and a wide range of tastes and preferences. So be adventurous and try the variety of dishes in Phuket, from spicy curries to fresh seafood.
You'll discover a unique twist on traditional Thai cuisine in Phuket. Dishes on the island have a distinct flair incorporating flavors from the southern Thai region. The island boasts a variety of tasty specialties like Mee Hokkien, O Taw, Hormok Talay, Oh-Eaw, O-Taw, and Tor Sao.
Phuket's prime coastal location has earned it a well-deserved reputation as a seafood lover's paradise. You can savor fresh catches of the day, including prawns, crabs, squids, and various fish. The seafood is prepared in an impressive variety of flavors and culinary styles, such as grilled, fried, and steamed.
Phuket's street food scene is lively and offers a fantastic opportunity to sample local dishes at budget-friendly prices. Look for street vendors selling dishes like Pad Thai, satay, grilled chicken, and fresh fruit juices. The night markets are the best places to explore the varieties of street food. The local markets are other great places to try.
The island caters to a diverse international crowd. So don't be surprised to find restaurants devoted to international cuisines, including Italian, Japanese, Chinese, and Indian to name a few. You can find many of the international restaurants located in the tourist areas and high-end resorts.
Phuket is home to several American fast-food chains, including McDonald's, Burger King, KFC, Pizza Hut, and Subway. You can usually find them in the shopping malls and tourist areas. Besides the international chains, there are also homegrown American-style chains like the Pizza Company.
Nightlife Without Partying
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Not everyone wants to join the raucous nightlife of Bangla Road in Patong. Phuket offers a variety of things to do at night that don't involve partying, clubbing, or bar hopping. So, if you're not a partygoer and prefer a relaxed or cultural experience, here are some nighttime activities.
Watch a Live Show: Enjoy theatrical shows, including the fabulously staged-designed Simon Cabaret Show, or cultural performances at Phuket Fantasea. The shows are first-class entertainment featuring dance and music.
Dine by the Sea: Many restaurants on the island offer seaside dining with tranquil ocean views. Enjoy a romantic or family dinner while listening to the soothing sounds of the waves while enjoying the cool sea breeze.
Visit the Night Markets: Visit night markets like the Phuket Weekend Night Market and Chillva Market. These markets offer shopping, street food, and a lively atmosphere, perfect for a casual outing at night.
Watch a Muay Thai Fight: Experience the excitement of Muay Thai, also known as Thai boxing or kickboxing. It's more than a combat sport. Muay Thai holds cultural significance as an art involving various body movements.
Board a Sunset Cruise: Book a luxury cruise and enjoy views of the beautiful sunset and islands in the Andaman Sea. These cruises often include dinner and entertainment. Pick-up options are available from specific locations.
Treat Yourself to a Spa: You can pamper yourself with a relaxing spa treatment or traditional Thai massage at one of Phuket's wellness centers. It's a perfect way to relax, unwind, and rejuvenate yourself.
Golf at Night: If you're a keen golfer, Phuket is home to several golf courses, complete with clubhouses and restaurants. Most offer night lighting, allowing golfers to enjoy the sport even after dark.
Watch a Movie: If you prefer indoor activities, Phuket has several cinemas showing Western, Asian, and Thai movies. Cinemas include SF Cinemacity, SFX Coliseum Phuket, SFC Jungceylon Phuket, and Coliseum Paradise Multiplex.
Lively Night Markets
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Phuket is home to several lively night markets. The markets are not events for tourists but an inherent part of Thai culture. They offer a unique blend of local culture, street food, shopping, and entertainment. Visiting one is an experience you shouldn't miss, and there are several night markets around the island.
Naka Weekend Market: This market in Phuket Town is the largest on the island. Opening Saturdays and Sundays, it's packed with stalls selling a jumble of everything and lots of food. There's also live music and entertainment.
Chillva Market: This night market in the outskirt Phuket Town is known for its vibrant and artistic atmosphere. The market caters to a younger crowd and features a mix of food stalls, vintage shops, boutiques, and live music.
Phuket Indy Market: In the heart of Phuket Town, this night market is a haven for thrift shoppers looking for unique items, including vintage, handicrafts, and old curiosities. It's also a platform for local artists to show their talents.
Phuket Walking Street Market: The night market opens on Sundays in Phuket Old Town. It's fantastic place to shop for local products, crafts, and a hub for Thai cuisine. The historical setting of the Old Town adds to the market's charm.
Malin Plaza Patong: Located in the bustling Patong Beach area, the market is popular for seafood. Choose the seafood you like and have it prepared to your liking. There are also arrays of stalls selling clothing, accessories, and souvenirs.
Karon Temple Market: This market opens on Tuesdays and Fridays, near Wat Karon. You'll find a wide array of items from T-shirts to cheap watches, as well as original pieces of handicraft and delicious varieties of Thai street snacks.
Phuket is Family-Friendly
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Phuket is a place that caters to the needs and interests of families, especially those traveling with young children. Fun with the kids is more than just hitting the beach. The island offers a variety of entertaining attractions that not only kids will love but the whole family as well.
The island offers a range of family-friendly accommodations, including resorts with dedicated kids' clubs, family suites, and babysitting services. Most resorts will have a pool suitable for young children, and some feature a water slide. Accommodations catering to different budgets and preferences are available.
Phuket boasts 3 huge water parks that kids will love to spend a day. Splash Jungle Water Park and Andamanda Phuket offer a host of thrilling water slides, long lazy rivers, and large wave pools. Blue Tree Phuket is another huge water park and features a zip line above the water.
For an educational experience, the Phuket Trickeye Museum is known for its optical illusions and 3D artworks. Butterfly Garden and Insect World features a diverse collection of butterflies and insects. If your family enjoys wildlife, you'll love the Phuket Elephant Sanctuary.
Phuket Aquarium is home to marine life from the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand. The highlight is the underwater glass tunnel, surrounded by swimming marine life. Another is Aquaria Phuket, and besides the underwater tunnel, there's a touch pool where kids can touch marine creatures like starfish and sea cucumbers.
Phuket Old Town is Charming
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Phuket Old Town is a charming area in the heart of Phuket Town, the capital of Phuket. Visiting the Old Town is like a step back in time and a world apart from the bustling beaches and tourist hotspots. It's a place where you can appreciate the island's rich history, explore its artistic side, and savor the local flavors.
The Old Town's most recognizable character is its well-preserved Sino-Portuguese architecture. The buildings are colorful and ornate, with intricate facades, shuttered windows, and decorative details. They date back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries when the island was a thriving trading port.
The area is small and compact, and you can easily walk your way around. It's a fun place to explore. The Old Town is a unique blend of Thai, Chinese, and European cultures through its architecture, temples, shrines, and museums. The area is also famous for its colorful shophouses, street art, and vibrant atmosphere.
Besides the shops, there are little cafes and restaurants inside the historic buildings to take a break from walking. The vibrant street art has added an artistic flair to the Old Town. At the Phuket Indy Market and the Phuket Sunday Night Market, you can shop for local products and handicrafts, not to mention varieties of street food delicacies.
Thoughts on Visiting Phuket
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Phuket does tend to be pricier than other parts of the country due to its international appeal. But the island is still an affordable destination, especially for travelers from high-income countries with strong currencies. Besides, you'll find plenty of budget-friendly options, including accommodation, food, and transportation.
As for overcrowding, Phuket is indeed a magnet for tourists, and some parts of the island, particularly the well-known beach areas, can get crowded during peak seasons. However, this doesn't apply to the entire island. Some parts of Phuket are less-visited, offering a more serene and peaceful experience.
Phuket is for sure worth visiting. The island is a beautiful part of Thailand, offering a mix of natural beauty, culture, local food, and lots of activities. To enjoy Phuket, spend at least 3-4 days but 2 weeks to fully savor the experience. Phuket is an exceptional destination that should not be missed.
