Best Places to Visit in Phuket: Paradise for Beach and Party Lovers

Welcome to the tropical paradise of Phuket! Located in the Andaman Sea, off the coast of Thailand, Phuket is a destination that captures the essence of a perfect beach getaway. With its pristine white sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and vibrant culture, Phuket offers a wealth of experiences for every type of traveler. Whether you're seeking relaxation under swaying palm trees, exhilarating water sports, or immersing yourself in the rich cultural heritage, the hypnotic places to visit in Phuket have it all. So, visit these amazing places to create memories for a lifetime.

Top 10 Places to Visit in Phuket: Unforgettable Adventure Awaits in the Land of Beaches

Escape to Phuket, a magnificent island where natural beauty meets bustling city life. Phuket is known for its stunning surroundings, which include towering limestone cliffs, lush jungles, and pristine beaches that reach as far as the eye can see. Aside from its stunning environment, Phuket has a plethora of options for adventure and discovery. Discover Phuket's hidden gems and prepare for an incredible voyage packed with unforgettable encounters while exploring these captivating places to visit in Phuket.

1. Patong Beach
2. Old Phuket Town
3. Big Buddha
4. Phi Phi Island
5. Promthep Cape
6. Kata Noi Beach
7. Similan Islands
8. Phang Nga Bay (James Bond Island)
9. Wat Chaithararam (Wat Chalong)
10. Phuket Elephant Sanctuary

1. Patong Beach: The Heartbeat of Phuket

Patong Beach Phuket is the pulsating core of Thailand’s lively atmosphere, combining calm and excitement. Couples find it to be heaven when coming for their honeymoon in Thailand with silky white sands and crystal-clear seas. During the day, you can soak up the rays of the sun, swim in the cool sea, or enjoy exhilarating water sports. But Patong changes into a busy entertainment center as the sun goes down, with pulsating nightlife, bustling streets, and a myriad of restaurants, bars, and stores. Patong Beach is among the top 10 places to visit in Phuket, either for couples, family, or solo. If you want to rest or go on an adventure, Phuket is what you are looking for.

Location: Pa Tong, Kathu District, Chang Wat Phuket, Thailand

Timing: 24*7

Best Time to Go: November to April

Entry Fee: No Fee

How to Reach Patong Beach in Phuket: The nearest airport is Phuket Airport though there are no buses that travel from the airport to the beach, so booking a private cab to Phuket city center and then catching a bus to Patong Beach is the best option, which is 40 km distance and an hour ride.

Places to Stay: La Flora Resort Patong, Palmyra Patong Resort, Amari Phuket, Le Meridien Beach Resort, Fishermen’s Harbour Urban Resort, Burasari Resort, Phuket Marriott Resort, and Spa, Patong Merlin Hotel

Things to Do: Sunbathing, snorkeling, swimming, jet skiing, Hobie cat sailing, parasailing, and banana boat ride.

Famous Attractions: Tri Trang Beach, Merlin Beach, Surf house, KEE Sky Lounge rooftop bar

Patong Nightlife: Bangla Walking Street, or Bangla Road, Illuzion Show and Discotheque, Tiger Disco

Places to Eat: La Gritta, Acqua, Joe’s Downstairs, Home Kitchen, Bar & Bed, Sam's Steaks & Grill, Pan Yaah Restaurant, Kaab Gluay Restaurant

Pa Tong Market: Jungceylon Mall, Malin Plaza Market, Otop Market

Suggested Read: 55 Places to Visit in Qatar for The Stunning Skylines and Attractions

2. Old Phuket Town: Let’s Step Back in Time

If you are a history buff, and cultural explorer, Old Phuket Town is a perfect escape for you. Entering Old Phuket Town is like stepping back in time, just like time traveling. The town is among the best places to visit in Phuket with family to explore Sino-Portuguese architecture, colorful buildings, and tiny lanes dotted with beautiful cafes, galleries, and boutiques. You can explore the unique fusion of Thai and Chinese influences, as well as the complex street art and stunning paintings that grace the walls, and don't miss the weekend night market, where you can eat delicious Thai street food and buy some local handicrafts.

Location: Phuket, Thailand

Timing: 24*7

Best Time to Go: October to February

Entry Fee: No Fee

How to Reach Old Phuket Town: To get to Phuket Old Town, take public transportation such as tuk-tuks and songthaews.

Places to Stay: Royal Phuket City Hotel (SHA Extra Plus), Fulfill Phuket Hostel, Lamoon Hotel @ Phuket (SHA Extra plus), Courtyard by Marriott Phuket Town

Roads to Explore: Thalang Road, Phang Nga Road,  Dibuk Road, Yaowarat Road, Phuket Road

Famous Attractions: Un Un Hotel’, ‘The memory at On On Hotel’, Thai Hua Museum, Phuket Town Historical Centre, Phuket Town Photo Gallery, Phuket Town Photo Gallery, Jui Tui Shrine, Chinpracha House

Old Phuket Town Nightlife: Siam Niramit, Aphrodite, Quip Sky Bar, Simon Star Cabret Show, Timber Hut, Rockin' Angels Blues Cafe

Places to Eat: One Chun Café & Restaurant, La Gaetana Restaurant, Raya Restaurant

Old Phuket Town Market: Sunday Walking Street Market, Limelight Avenue Phuket, Ban Boran Textiles

3. Big Buddha: Where Sits the Lord Himself

Witness the renowned sightseeing places to visit in Thailand, the Big Buddha, perched atop Nakkerd Hill, as a symbol of peace, spirituality, and panoramic vistas. You can see this massive 45-meter monument from many parts of the island, and getting there is an experience in and of itself and that is what makes it one of the most famous Phuket tourist attractions. As you climb the hill, take in the paradisiacal scenery and stunning views of Phuket's famous beaches. When you reach the top, take in the peaceful atmosphere and see the delicate features of the monument. A visit to the Big Buddha is a visual feast for the senses as well as a spiritual experience.

Location: Po Lin Monastery, Phuket, Thailand

Timing: 8 am to 6 pm

Best Time to Go: October to February

Entry Fee: No Fee

How to Reach Phuket Big Buddha: Either take a Tuk Tuk or rent a scooty to reach the site nestled in the mountains

Places to Stay: Tall Tree Poshtel Phuket, DUNE Guest House, Mountain Seaview Luxury Apartments, Thalassa Pool Kata Beach

Things to Do: Daily prayer, Offer Alms, Marble Merit, Offering food to Monks, Novice Ordination for Mother, Ordination for Father, Sightseeing, Photography

Famous Attractions Nearby: Museum of History of this Big Buddha, Tiger Kingdom, Splash Jungle water park

Places to Eat: Nak-Kerd Seaview Café, The Tavern, Red Chair, Red Duck Restaurant

Suggested Read: 35 Things To Do In Qatar That Every Adventure Seeker Would Relish

4. Phi Phi Island: Take Your Love to Paradise

Imagine yourself at the tropical paradise just by taking a short boat ride from Phuket, yes, I am talking about Phi Phi Islands that entice with their natural beauty. One can delight in themselves with the most tempting vacation at this archipelago of six islands, which houses beautiful beaches, blue seas, and towering limestone cliffs. Maya Bay, made famous by the film "The Beach," is a must-see, when you are visiting this place on your honeymoon in Phuket. Explore secret coves, snorkel in brilliant coral reefs, and unwind on picture-perfect beaches. With its abundant marine life and underwater delights, the Phi Phi Islands are a diver's paradise. Allow the tranquility of the islands to enchant your spirit as you immerse yourself in this gorgeous wonderland.

Location:  Phuket, Thailand

Timing: 24*7

Best Time to Go: November to April

Entry Fee: No Fee

How to Reach Phi Phi Island: You may easily travel between Phuket, Rai Leh, Ao Nang, and Krabi Town by boat.

Places to Stay: Zeavola Resort, Viking Nature Resorts, Phi Phi Relax Beach Resort, Phi Phi the Beach Resort, Phi Pi Villa Resort, Saii Phi Phi Island Village

Things to Do: Underwater Sports, Island-Hopping Tours, Kayaking, Sunset & Sunrise View, Cliff Jumping and Rock Climbing

Famous Attractions Nearby: Monkey Beach, Hin Klang, Shark Point, Viking Cave, Maya Bay

Places to Eat: Anna's Restaurant, The Mango Garden, Oasis Bar & Restaurant, Grand PP Arcade, Jasmin BBQ Restaurant

Markets in Phi Island: Phi Phi Market, Namlily, Tonsai East Shopping Alleyway, Tonsai Pier shops, Kunstone

5. Promthep Cape: Get the Gorgeous Sunset View

A place from where you can see Phi Phi Islands, Koh Racha Noi, and Koh Racha Yai and experience being in a fascinating lighthouse and witnessing the hypnotic sunset view or gazing at the glittering stars at night, this is what you will get if you are at Promthep Cape, popularly known as Laem Promthep or God's Cape. At this southernmost edge, you can witness the sky change into a kaleidoscope of stunning colors, sending a golden light over the Andaman Sea at the time of sunset. Promthep Cape is a must-see for people looking for peace, natural beauty, and wonderful experiences. No wonder the place is one of the most photographed spots in Phuket because the panoramic views from this viewpoint are incredibly breathtaking and postcard-worthy.

Location:  Phuket, Thailand

Timing:  6 pm to 7 pm

Best Time to Go: November to April

Entry Fee: No Fee

How to Reach Promthep Cape, Phuket: From Phuket Town, you may either head west from Kata Beach or south through the Soi 7 neighborhood of Rawai to reach Promthep Cape. The distance to Phuket City is roughly 18 kilometers.

Places to Stay: Harmony Naturist Resort Rawai Phuket, Sense of Yanui,  Navatara Phuket Resort, Ya Nui Beach Villas, Windmill Phuket Hotel

Things to Do: Sunset view, Strolling around, Photography, Sightseeing

Famous Attractions Nearby: Promthep Cape View, Buddist Shrine, Lighthouse, Dirt Path

Places to Eat: Promthep Cape Restaurant

Markets nearby Promthep Cape, Phuket: Handicraft stores near the car parking for shells, batik, snacks, sarongs, shawls, toys, and beachwear

6. Kata Noi Beach: Embark on Golden Sand and Blue Waves

Phuket places to visit cannot be complete without Kata Noi Beach, a hidden treasure that emanates calm and charm to tourists, especially those who come here on their honeymoon. This crescent-shaped beach is nestled amid lush green hills and features beautiful golden sand and blue waves. Kata Noi provides a peaceful getaway for sun lovers and ocean fans. You can unwind in a relaxing experience whether you prefer to swim in the pristine seas, sunbathe, or undertake any water sports including surfing and paddleboarding. Relish the palatable seafood lunch at one of the beachside restaurants and let the sounds of the ocean stimulate the romance.

Location:  Southwest side of the island of Phuket, Thailand

Timing:  24*7

Best Time to Go: October to February

Entry Fee: No Fee

How to Reach Kata Noi Beach: Kata Beach is readily accessible by local bus or smart bus, tuk-tuk, taxi, or self-driving. It is only 13 km from Patong Beach, and 17 km from Phuket Town

Places to Stay: The Shore at Katathani, Mom Tri’s Villa Royale, The Sea Galleri by Katathani, The Sea Galleri by Katathani, Katathani Phuket Beach Resort

Things to Do: Snorkeling, Swimming, Sunset view, Stand-up paddleboarding, Strolling around, Photography, Sightseeing

Famous Attractions Nearby: Karon Viewpoint, Kata Noi viewpoint bars, Dino Park Mini Golf, Surf House Phuket, Kata Noi

Places to Eat: Kata Noi Seafood & Restaurant, Siam Smile Wine and Restaurant, La Scala Restaurant, The Sun Deck

Markets nearby Kata Noi Beach: Kata Night Market

Suggested Read: Top 22 Beaches In Qatar To Experience The Surreal Beauty Of The Coast

7. Similan Islands: Heaven for Deep Divers

Similan Islands is primarily designated as a national park, which preserves underwater wildlife, notably the 5000-year-old coral reefs. This archipelago island is among the best places to visit in Thailand with it’s 11 little islands. However, only two beaches are open to visitors, while beaches 10 and 11 are open to divers. One can view sea turtles, rays, moray eels, and whale sharks, as well as a diverse population of tropical fish and other aquatic life, as well as birds like sea eagles, kingfishers, and Nicobar Pigeons. Similan Islands is a popular day excursion from Phuket and Khao Lak and can only be explored through a guided tour.

Location: Around 84 km northwest of Phuket

Best Time to Go: December to January

Remain Closed: May 16th to October 14th

Entry Fee: 300 Baht- for children, 500 Baht- for adults

How to Reach Similan Island: Boat or ferry are available from Phuket, Khao Lak, and Ranong

Places to Stay: Ramada Resort by Wyndham Khao Lak, La Flora Khao Lak - SHA Extra Plus, JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort and Spa, The Briza Beach Resort, Khao Lak SHA Extra Plus

Things to Do: Snorkeling, Scuba Diving, Photography, Sightseeing

Famous Attractions Nearby: Ao Kuerk Bucht, Sailboat rock, Elephant Head Rock

8. Phang Nga Bay: Feel the James Bond Vibes

Prepare to be captivated by the natural beauty of Phang Nga Bay, one of the stunningly gorgeous attractions in Phuket. You cannot miss its towering limestone karsts that rise sharply from the emerald-green sea. Explore the strange landscapes that have captivated not only tourists but also filmmakers. Yes, you guessed it right, the most famed James Bond movie "The Man with the Golden Gun" in 1974 was shot here and thus it got it's name James Bond Island. Phang Nga Bay delivers an incredible natural adventure, whether you want to indulge in the most amazing things to do in Thailand like kayaking, diving, etc., or simply soak in the breathtaking vistas.

Location: Ao Phang Nga National Park, Phuket

Timing: 24*7 (James Bond Island- 8 am to 6 pm)

Best Time to Go: Mid-October to Mid-April

Entry Fee: No Fee

How to Reach Phang Nga Bay:

Places to Stay in Phang Nga Bay: The Simple Koh Yao Noi, The Retreat Khaolak Resort, Cape Kudu Hotel, Casacool Hotel, Rakkawan Residence, Baan Suan Coconut Ko Yao Noi

Things to Do in Phang Nga Bay: Swimming, sightseeing, photography

Famous Attractions Nearby: Phang Nga Elephant Park, Similan Islands, Sa Nang Manora Forest Park, Ruesi Sawan and Luk Suea Cave, Ton Pariwat Waterfall, Wat Tham Ta Pan Temple, Phung Chang Cave, Tam Nang Waterfall

Places to Eat in Phang Nga Bay: Be Friend Restaurant Bangsak, Lanna restaurant and massage, Genesis Garden (Food & Drink), Tha Sai Seafood

Markets nearby: Petchkasem Road, Bang Niang Market, T.T. Plaza, Khao Lak-Bang Niang Fresh Market, Build Market

9. Wat Chaithararam (Wat Chalong): Immerse in Thai Cultural History

Wat Chalong's majestic temple complex is among the best places to visit in Phuket Thailand, provides an insight into Thai religious traditions and architectural majesty, and lets you enter the spiritual core of Phuket. Explore the artistically adorned pagodas, pay your respects to the renowned sculptures, and marvel at the exquisite workmanship on the temple walls. As you stroll around the tranquil surroundings, you will feel a sense of calm and tranquility all over you. Don't miss the chance to get blessings from the monks. Immerse Thai spirituality while celebrating the island's cultural history at Wat Chalong.

Location: Chao Fah Tawan Tok Rd, Chalong, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83000, Thailand

Timing: 7 am to 7 pm

Best Time to Go: Anytime of the Year

Entry Fee: No Fee

How to Reach Wat Chaithararam:

Places to Stay: Signature Phuket Resort, The Lake Chalong, The Fusion Resort, Pennapa Chalet, Happy Cottage

Things to Do in Wat Chaithararam: Prayer, taking part in rituals, sightseeing, photography

Famous Attractions Nearby Wat Chaithararam: Phuket Zoo, Big Buddha Phuket, Karon Beach, Kata Noi Beach, PaTong, Sirinat National Park, Ko Phi Phi Don

Places to Eat: Mor Mu Dong, Aroi Vietnam at Filling Station Phuket, Rimtang @Chalong, O2 Beach Club Phuket

10. Phuket Elephant Sanctuary: Let's Meet the Giants

Visit the Phuket Elephant Sanctuary to meet and greet the giants in a most ethical and meaningful manner. You can witness these magnificent creatures walking freely in their native environment, free of shackles and rides. You can discover the elephants' tales and learn about the significance of ethical elephant tourism. Participate in elephant feeding and washing, which will help you to interact with these gentle giants on a deeper level. This is going to be your best chance to get up close and personal interactions with the giants at one of the best places to visit in Phuket with family.

Location: 100, Moo 2, Paklok, Thalang, 83110, Thailand

Timing: 9:30 am to 1 pm, and 1:30 pm to 5 pm

Best Time to Go: October to February

Approximate Entry Fee: INR 1870

How to Reach Phuket Elephant Sanctuary: Take a taxi or bus ride to the meeting point of the sanctuary

Places to Stay: The Oceanic Sportel, Boutique resort Private Pool Villa, Be Live residence, The Rubber Hotel, Parida Resort

Things to Do: Jungle Safari, sightseeing, photography

Additional Information about Phuket: Map to Navigate in Your Trip

After reading about these top 10 famous places to visit in Phuket, if you are thinking of making your trip to this charismatic land in the Andaman Sea, here’s some more additional information to help you make the best tour of your life.

How to Reach Phuket

Phuket Island is accessible by plane and bus. Phuket has an international airport, which is also the second busiest airport in Thailand after Bangkok. Direct flights are available from India, Australia, Malaysia, and other nations. There are also domestic flights. Phuket is also accessible by bus from Bangkok. There are direct buses to Phuket.

Best Hotels and Resorts in Phuket

List of the best hotels and resorts are listed below, choose the best stay for you and your loved ones.

1. Keemala

Address: 10 88 Moo 6 Nakanai Rd, Kamala, Kathu District, Phuket 83150, Thailand

2. The Naka Phuket

Address: 1/18, 1/20 Kamala, Kathu District, Phuket 83150, Thailand

3. The Surin Phuket

Address: 118 Soi Hat Surin 8, Choeng Thale, Thalang District, Phuket 83110, Thailand

4. Roserood Phuket

Address: 88/28, 88 30-33 Muen-Ngern Rd, Patong Kathu District, Phuket 83150, Thailand

5. Trisara

Address: Moo 6, 60/1 Srisoonthorn Road, Choeng Thale, Thalang District, Phuket 83110, Thailand

6. Como Point Yamu Phuket

Address: 225 Pa Klok, Thalang District, Phuket 83110, Thailand

7. Sri Panwa Phuket Luxury Pool Villa Hotel

Address: 88 Sakdidej Rd, Wichit, Muang Phuket 83000, Thailand

8. InterContinental Phuket Resort

Address: 333, 333/3 Moo 3, Kamala Beach, Kamala, Kathu District, Phuket 83150, Thailand

Places to Eat in Phuket

One cannot enjoy traveling without savoring delicious food, so, listing below the top-class restaurants in the top-class city of Thailand for you:

1. PRU Restaurant at Trisara

Location: Trisara Resort, Naithon Beach

Address: 60/1 Moo 6, Srisoonthorn Road, Cherngtalay, Thalang, Phuket 83110 Thailand

Open: 6 pm – 10:30 pm (Sunday closed)

2. Tu Kab Khao Restaurant

Location: Phuket Town

Address: 8 Phang Nga Road, Phuket Town (the restaurant with a giant lobster hanging on the side)

Open: Daily 11 am – 12 midnight

3. One Chun Restaurant

Location: Phuket Town

Address: 48/1 Thepkrasattri Rd., Talat Yai, Phuket Town, Phuket 83000

Open: 10 am – 10 pm daily

4. Raya

Location: Phuket Town

Address: 48/1 Dibuk Road, Tambon Talat Yai, Phuket Town, Phuket 83000

Open: 10 am – 10 pm

5. The Charm

Location: Phuket Town

Address: 212 Thawewong Rd, Pa Tong, Kathu District, Phuket 83150

Open: 11 am – 10 pm

Best Food to Try in Phuket

• Mee Hokkien (mèe hók·kêe·an)
• Loba (loh·bà)
• Oh tao (oh đôw)
• Oh eaw (oh ăa·ou)
• Moo hong (mŏo hong)

Places to Visit in Phuket at Night

Phuket is known for it’s bustling nightlife, so how can we leave this part? Apart from hopping on many beaches, below are the places where you can experience the best after-sunset Phuket vibes.

1. Soi Bangla Road:

Timings: 12 pm to 12 am (nightclubs till 4-5 am)

Address: Soi Bangla, Patong, Kathu, Phuket

2. Illuzion Show & Discotheque:

Timings: 9 pm to 1 am

Address: 31 Bangla Road, Patong Beach

3. Simon Cabaret:

Timings: Shows start at 6 pm to 11 pm

Address: 8 Sirirach Road, Patong Beach, Phuket

4. White Room Nightclub:

Timings: 10 pm to 3 am

Address: Soi Gonzo, off Bangla Road, Patong Beach, Phuket

5. Club No 43:

Timing: 10 pm to 3 am (daily)

Address: 43 Bangla Road, Patong, Kathu, Phuket 83150, Thailand

Suggested Read: Nightlife in Thailand: Cheers Begin Every Night!

Places for Shopping in Phuket

• Jungceylon Shopping Mall- 11 am to 10 pm
• Phuket Weekend Market/ Talad Tairod- Saturday & Sunday 4 pm to 11 pm
• Central Festival Phuket- 10:30 am to 10 pm
• Chillva Market Phuket- Monday to Saturaday- 5 pm to 11 pm
• Phuket Walking Street- 4 pm to 10 pm
• Banzaan Market- 6 am to 9 pm

Famous Beaches in Phuket

• Freedom Beach
• Kata Beach
• Patong Beach
• Karon Beach
• Nai Harn Beach
• Kata Noi Beach
• Laem Singh Beach
• Ya Nui Beach
• Kamala Beach

Suggested Read: Top 10 Beaches in Thailand: Explore the Palm-Fringed Sandy Stretches

Water Sports in Phuket

• Snorkeling
• Scuba Diving
• Sea Kayaking
• Surfing
• Kitesurfing
• Jet Skiing
• Wake Boarding
• Flyboarding
• Parasailing
• Banana Boat Ride
• Paddling

Romantic Beaches in Phuket

• Kata Noi Beach
• Pansea Beach
• Surin Beach
• Pa Tong Beach
• Freedom Beach
• Naithon Beach
• Nai Yang Beach
• Mai Khao Beach
• Kamla Beach
• Phi Phi Islands

Suggested Read: Honeymoon Destinations In Qatar For The Most Romantic Getaway For Couples

Islands to Visit Near Phuket

If you are visiting famous attractions and places in Phuket, you should know what you can get around this vibrant city. Here’s a list of the best places to visit nearby Phuket on your tour:

• Similian Islands
• Phi Phi Islands
• Ko Yao Yai
• Koh Tao
• Koh Lipe
• Ko Racha Yai
• Ko Samui

Suggested Read: Islands In Maldives To Satisfy The Wanderlust Of Every Traveller

After reading the entire blog, I hope you've been inspired to see these lovely places to visit in Phuket for yourself. Whether you want to relax on the sun-kissed beaches, plunge into the colorful undersea world, or immerse yourself in the local culture, Phuket has everything you can desire for. This island has something for everyone, from the vibrant districts of Patong to the calm coastlines of Kata Noi. So, avail yourself of the best Phuket tour packages and bask in the warmth of the Thai sun and prepare to make memories that will last a lifetime in Phuket's fascinating paradise.

Best Places to Visit in Phuket - FAQs: