Things To Do in Phuket
So, you’ve landed in Phuket. It looked magical on Instagram. But now you’re here, sipping lukewarm hotel coffee, wondering, “What are the actual things to do in Phuket that aren’t a scam or a tourist trap?” You want the real deal—not a brochure. Let’s sort that out.
Explore Old Phuket Town
Strolling through Phuket Old Town feels like stepping into a living painting. You’ve got Sino-Portuguese buildings, vintage cafes, and odd little art galleries where you can lose track of time. Pop into Chillva Market later for weird street food and handmade trinkets.
Catch Views at Big Buddha
The Big Buddha, perched above Chalong, watches over everything. It’s free, which already makes it better than half the things on your list. The view? Jaw-dropping. It’s a great breather from the madness of Patong Beach.
Island Hop Like a Local
Island-hopping from Phuket isn’t optional. It’s law. Do yourself a favour and skip the touristy cattle boats. Head to Rassada Pier early and book a private longtail boat to Coral Island or Koh Racha. The Similan Islands are heaven if you’re into snorkelling and scuba diving.
Want a list of islands worth your time?
- Phi Phi Islands: Hype-y but still beautiful
- James Bond Island: Touristy, but iconic
- Koh Panyee: Floating football pitch and grilled seafood
Sunset Hunt at Promthep Cape
You want romance? Go to Promthep Cape. Bring a coconut ice cream. Go for sunset. That’s the rule. Bonus: climb a bit up to the lighthouse for fewer crowds and better views.
Beach-Hop Without Regret
Beaches here are not all created equal.
- Kata Noi: Clean, quiet, good for swimming
- Nai Harn: A local favourite, not too built-up
- Laem Singh: Hidden and worth the effort
Avoid: central Patong Beach if you hate crowds or jet ski scams.
Go Full Jane Bond with a Day Trip to Phang Nga Bay
Yes, James Bond Island is here. But that’s just one bit. Kayak through sea caves, float past limestone karsts, and eat lunch at Koh Panyee. Feels cinematic.
Eat Everything at Phuket Night Markets
Forget diets. Phuket night markets are your best intro to real Thai life. Malin Plaza, Chillva Market, and the Sunday Walking Street are the ones to aim for. Try the fried scorpions or don’t, but definitely try the coconut pancakes.
Get Drenched in Culture at Wat Chalong
Among all the temples, Wat Chalong is the local favourite. Gilded stupas, monks offering blessings, and incense smoke curling through golden halls. No entrance fee. Just good energy.
Chill Out With a Thai Massage or Ice Bath
Your back is probably screaming. Treat it.
- Thai massage: intense but magical
- Ice baths: try Le Spa if you want to feel like rebirth in a tub
Spas worth your baht Places to freeze your soul
Take a Thai Cooking Class
Yes, even if you can’t cook toast. Thai cooking classes in Phuket are fun and strangely therapeutic. Chop lemongrass, pound chillies, make pad thai, eat. Easy.
Local favourites
Zipline Through Hanuman World
Think you’re brave? Try Hanuman World. 400 metres of ziplines, sky bridges, jungle canopy walks. Wear sneakers. Don’t eat noodles before.
Watch a Ladyboy Cabaret at Simon Cabaret
Glamour, glitter, and high heels higher than your standards. Simon Cabaret is Phuket’s most famous ladyboy show and yes, it’s family-friendly. Wildly entertaining.
Best Things To Do in Phuket with Kids
You’ve got small humans in tow?
- Trickeye Museum for 3D selfies
- Dino Park Mini Golf for some Jurassic chaos
- Blue Tree Lagoon for a splash day
Every traveller wants their own list of unforgettable things to do in Phuket, and now, you’ve got yours.