Phuket Travel Guide

Hey there travelers and welcome to my Phuket Travel Guide for this year. Phuket is a beautiful island located in the Andaman Sea, in the southern part of Thailand. It is the largest island in the country and attracts millions of tourists every year.

Known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters and vibrant nightlife, Phuket offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages. From exploring the old town’s Sino-Portuguese architecture to enjoying delicious local cuisine, there is something for everyone. Visitors can also enjoy water sports such as snorkeling and scuba diving, or take a boat tour to explore the nearby islands.

The island is also home to several national parks, where visitors can hike and enjoy the beautiful scenery so whether you are looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an adventurous getaway, Phuket has something to offer. Let’s check it all out below.

Phuket Travel Guide: the Facts

Phuket is the largest island in Thailand, with an area of approximately 543 square kilometers (210 square miles). This makes it slightly smaller in size than the city of Singapore. It is located in the Andaman Sea, off the west coast of Thailand in the Indian Ocean.

• As of September 2021, Phuket had an estimated population of around 400,000 to 420,000 people (Thailand total population is 71.8 Million).
• The currency in Thailand is the Thai baht (THB)

Entry requirements

Passport holders from many countries are not required to obtain a visa when entering Thailand for tourism purposes and will be permitted to stay in Thailand for a period not exceeding 30 days on each visit. However, entering Thailand without visa through land border check-points is restricted to only twice per calendar year.

That said, always check with the Thai immigration website prior to leaving home.

Book your trip to Phuket here!

When to Visit Phuket

Phuket is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences and what you want to do. The island has a tropical climate, with two distinct seasons: the dry season and the wet season as follows:

• Dry Season (November to April) – The dry season is the peak tourist season in Phuket and is characterized by sunny days, low humidity and comfortable temperatures. The sea is calm and clear, making it perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. The dry season is also the best time for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking and exploring the island’s natural beauty. It is also good if you are planning a wedding there as well.
• Wet Season (May to October) – The wet season in Phuket is characterized by heavy rain, high humidity and occasional thunderstorms and the sea can be rough and choppy, making it unsuitable for water activities. However, the wet season has its own charm, with lush greenery and fewer crowds. The prices of hotels and tours are also lower during this period.

If you are planning to visit Phuket during the wet season, it is important to note that the rain usually comes in short bursts and does not last all day. It is also a good idea to pack a raincoat or umbrella and waterproof shoes.

Overall, the best time to visit Phuket depends on your preferences and what you want to do. If you want to enjoy the beaches and water activities, the dry season is the best time to go. If you prefer fewer crowds and lower prices, the wet season can be a good option.

Check out these: Best Things to Do in Phuket Month by Month

How to Get to Phuket

Phuket is a popular travel destination in Thailand and there are several ways to get there including by air, boat or bus. Let’s check in out in more detail below:

By Air

Phuket International Airport (HKT) is the second-busiest airport in Thailand, with flights arriving from all over the world. There are direct flights to Phuket from major cities such as Bangkok, Singapore, Hong Kong and Kuala Lumpur. The airport is located in the north of the island, about 32 kilometers from Phuket Town.

Travelers can take a taxi or a shared minivan from the airport to their hotel or destination. Alternatively, many hotels offer airport transfer services for their guests.

By Boat

Phuket is an island, so it’s no surprise that boats are a popular way to get there. There are several options for boat travel, including ferries, speedboats, and catamarans.

Ferries are the most common way to travel to Phuket from nearby islands such as Phi Phi and Koh Lanta. Speedboats and catamarans are faster but more expensive options that are popular for day trips or private charters.

Travelers can book boat tickets and tours through travel agencies or online platforms such as TripAdvisor or GetYourGuide.

By Bus

Traveling to Phuket by bus is a cheaper option than flying or taking a boat. Buses from Bangkok to Phuket take about 12 hours and depart from the Southern Bus Terminal. There are also buses from other cities in Thailand such as Chiang Mai and Krabi.

Travelers can choose between VIP buses, which offer more comfortable seats and amenities such as snacks and blankets or standard buses. Buses arrive at the Phuket Bus Terminal in Phuket Town, where travelers can take a taxi or a local bus to their destination.

Getting Around Phuket

Phuket is a large island and it can be challenging to navigate without the right transportation. Luckily, there are several options available to tourists, including Tuk-Tuks, motorbike rentals and public buses.

Tuk-Tuk

Tuk-Tuks are the most popular mode of transportation in Phuket. They are three-wheeled vehicles that can accommodate up to four people. Tuk-Tuks are available all over the island and they are easy to spot due to their bright colors and noisy engines.

Tuk-Tuks are ideal for short trips such as going to the beach or a nearby restaurant. However, they can be expensive, and the drivers often charge higher rates to tourists so it is essential to negotiate the price before getting in.

Motorbike Rental

Motorbike rentals are a popular option for tourists who want to explore the island independently. Renting a motorbike is relatively cheap and it allows visitors to see more of Phuket than they would on foot.

However, it is essential to be cautious when renting a motorbike. Phuket’s roads can be dangerous and accidents are common. Visitors should ensure that they have a valid driver’s license and wear a helmet when riding a motorbike.

Public Bus

Phuket’s public bus system is an affordable option for tourists who want to travel between different parts of the island. The blue buses run from Phuket Town to selected beaches and are air-conditioned.

The non-air-conditioned Potong buses are a cheaper option and run by most of the major beach resorts on the west coast such as Patong, Surin, and Kamala. However, they can be crowded and uncomfortable, especially during peak tourist season.

Accommodation in Phuket

When it comes to accommodation in Phuket, visitors have a plethora of options to choose from. From luxury resorts to budget hostels and vacation rentals, there is something for everyone.

Luxury Resorts

Phuket is well-known for its luxurious resorts that offer world-class amenities and services. The island is home to some of the best resorts in the world such as the Banyan Tree Phuket, The Naka Island and The Surin Phuket. These resorts offer stunning views of the Andaman Sea, private beaches and top-notch facilities like spas, swimming pools,and fitness centers. Prices for these resorts can range from $300 to $1000 per night.

Check out these: All-Inclusive Resorts in Phuket

Budget Hostels

For those on a budget, Phuket has a range of hostels that offer affordable accommodation without sacrificing comfort. Some of the best budget hostels in Phuket include Lub d Phuket Patong, The Neighbors Hostel and BearPacker Patong Hostel. These hostels offer dormitory-style rooms with shared bathroom, as well as private rooms for those who prefer to be alone. Prices for these hostels can range from $5 to $30 per night.

Vacation Rentals/Villas

Vacation rentals are a popular choice for families and groups traveling to Phuket. These rentals offer a more home-like experience with amenities like fully equipped kitchens, living rooms and multiple bedrooms. Some of the best vacation rentals in Phuket include Villa Amanzi, Villa Yin, and Villa Baan Phu Prana. These rentals can accommodate up to 10 people and prices can range from $200 to $1000 per night.

Book your trip to Phuket here!

Cuisine and Dining

Phuket is a food lover’s paradise, offering a diverse range of cuisine and dining options to suit all tastes and budgets. From street food to fine dining, the island has it all.

Street Food

Phuket is famous for its street food which is both delicious and affordable. Visitors can find street food vendors all over the island, especially in the night markets. Some of the must-try street food dishes include:

• Pad Thai: a stir-fried noodle dish with shrimp, tofu, and bean sprouts.
• Som Tam: a spicy papaya salad with peanuts, tomatoes, and lime juice.
• Moo Ping: grilled pork skewers marinated in a sweet and savory sauce.
• Roti: a crispy, flaky flatbread served with sweet or savory fillings.

Fine Dining

Phuket also has a thriving fine dining scene, with many world-class restaurants offering exquisite cuisine and stunning views. Some of the best fine dining restaurants in Phuket include:

• Acqua Restaurant: an Italian restaurant with a Michelin-starred chef, serving modern Italian cuisine with an Asian twist.
• Suay Restaurant: a contemporary Thai restaurant with an emphasis on organic and sustainable ingredients.
• Black Ginger: a romantic restaurant set in a floating pavilion, serving traditional Thai cuisine with a modern twist.

Seafood

As an island, Phuket is known for its fresh seafood. Visitors can find seafood restaurants all over the island, especially in beach towns like Rawai and Kata. Some of the best seafood dishes to try in Phuket include:

• Tom Yum Goong: a spicy and sour soup with shrimp, lemongrass and galangal.
• Grilled Fish: fresh fish grilled with herbs and spices, served with steamed rice and vegetables.
• Crab Curry: a rich and creamy curry made with fresh crab meat and coconut milk.

Overall, Phuket is a food lover’s paradise, offering a diverse range of cuisine and dining options to suit all tastes and budgets. Visitors should be sure to try the street food, indulge in some fine dining and savor the fresh seafood while on the island.

Check out these: 12 Best Restaurants in Phuket

Attractions in Phuket

Phuket, Thailand is a tropical paradise that offers a diverse range of attractions for visitors to explore. From stunning beaches to ancient temples and historic towns, Phuket has something for everyone. Here are some of the top attractions in Phuket.

Beaches

Phuket is known for its beautiful beaches, and there are many to choose from. Some of the most popular beaches in Phuket include:

• Patong Beach: This is Phuket’s most famous beach, known for its lively atmosphere and nightlife.
• Karon Beach: This is a quieter beach that is popular with families and couples.
• Kata Beach: This is a popular surfing spot and is known for its clear waters and white sand.
• Freedom Beach: This secluded beach is perfect for those who want to escape the crowds and enjoy a peaceful day by the sea.

Check out these: Top 10 Best Beaches in Phuket

Temples

Phuket is home to many ancient temples that are steeped in history and culture. Some of the most popular temples to visit in Phuket include:

• Wat Chalong: This is one of the most important temples in Phuket and is home to a large statue of Buddha.
• Big Buddha: This is a giant statue of Buddha that sits atop a hill and offers stunning views of the island.
• Wat Phra Thong: This temple is famous for its half-buried Buddha statue, which is said to have been protected by a curse.

Old Phuket Town

Old Phuket Town is a historic district that is home to many beautiful Sino-Portuguese buildings. Some of the top attractions in Old Phuket Town include:

• Thalang Road: This is the main street in Old Phuket Town and is lined with beautiful buildings and shops.
• Phuket Baba Museum: This museum is dedicated to the history and culture of the Baba-Nyonya people, who were early Chinese settlers in Phuket.
• Chinpracha House: This is a beautifully preserved Sino-Portuguese mansion that offers a glimpse into the island’s colonial past.

Outdoor Activities

Phuket is known for its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters, but there’s more to this island paradise than just sunbathing and swimming. The island offers a wide range of outdoor activities for those who want to explore the natural beauty of the area. Here are some of the top outdoor activities to try in Phuket.

Scuba Diving

Phuket is a popular destination for scuba diving, with its warm waters and diverse marine life. There are many dive sites around the island, including the famous Shark Point, Anemone Reef, and King Cruiser Wreck. Novice divers can take a PADI course to learn the basics, while experienced divers can explore the deeper waters and see a variety of sea creatures such as colorful fish, sea turtles, and even sharks.

Hiking

For those who prefer to stay on land, hiking is a great way to explore the natural beauty of Phuket. The island has several hiking trails that offer stunning views of the coastline and lush jungle. One popular trail is the Bang Pae Waterfall Trail, which takes hikers through the jungle to a beautiful waterfall. Another popular trail is the Khao Phra Thaeo National Park, which features several trails of varying difficulty levels.

Elephant Trekking

Elephant trekking is a unique way to experience the natural beauty of Phuket. Visitors can ride on the back of an elephant and explore the jungle, rivers and hills of the island. Many tour operators offer elephant trekking packages that include a visit to a local elephant sanctuary, where visitors can learn about the care and conservation of these gentle giants.

Golf

For the golf enthusiast, Phuket it home to some fantastic golf courses as well. There are options for all levels of ability and budget with many offer club hire services as well.

Book your trip to Phuket here!

Shopping in Phuket

Phuket is a paradise for shoppers with an abundance of shopping options. From bustling night markets to modern shopping malls, there is something for everyone. Here are some of the best places to shop in Phuket.

Night Markets

Phuket’s night markets are a must-visit for anyone who loves shopping. They offer a unique shopping experience with a wide variety of products at affordable prices. Here are some of the most popular night markets in Phuket:

• Phuket Weekend Market: This market is open on Saturdays and Sundays and is one of the largest night markets in Phuket. Visitors can find everything from clothing to souvenirs to street food.
• Chillva Market: This market is a trendy night market that is popular with younger crowds. It offers a wide range of products, including clothing, accessories, and handmade crafts.
• Sunday Walking Street: This market is located in the heart of Phuket Old Town and is open on Sundays. Visitors can find a variety of products, including antiques, souvenirs, and street food.

Malls

Phuket’s shopping malls offer a more modern shopping experience with air-conditioned comfort and a variety of international and local brands. Here are some of the best malls in Phuket:

• Jungceylon Shopping Mall: This mall is one of the largest and most popular shopping destinations in Phuket. It offers a wide range of products, including clothing, electronics and souvenirs.
• Central Festival Phuket: This mall is located in the heart of Phuket and is one of the largest shopping malls in Southern Thailand. It offers a variety of products, including clothing, electronics and home decor.
• Premium Outlet Phuket: This mall is a great destination for bargain hunters. It offers a range of international and local brands at discounted prices.

Overall, shopping in Phuket is a delightful experience with something for everyone. Visitors can find everything from traditional handicrafts to luxury brands.

Check out my post: Best Shopping in Phuket: Where to Go and What to Look for

Nightlife in Phuket

Phuket is known for its vibrant nightlife and party scene. The island has a variety of options for those looking to experience the nightlife, ranging from beach clubs to bars.

Beach Clubs

Phuket’s beach clubs are a popular option for those looking for a unique nightlife experience. These clubs leverage the island’s gorgeous seascapes to create a uniquely local experience. Here are some of the best beach clubs in Phuket:

• Paradise Beach Club: This club is the site of Phuket’s top Full Moon/New Moon party, the best outside of Koh Phangan. Expect spectacular laser light shows, fire dances, and copious drinks.
• Catch Beach Club: Located in Bangtao Beach, this club is known for its stunning sunset views and lively atmosphere.
• Xana Beach Club: Located on Bang Tao Beach, this club is known for its pool parties and live music events.

Bars

Phuket’s bars offer a wide range of options, from laid-back beach bars to upscale cocktail lounges. Here are some of the best bars in Phuket:

• Taipan Disco: This is one of the oldest and most popular nightclubs in Phuket, known for its lively atmosphere and top-notch DJs.
• Illuzion: This is the largest nightclub in Phuket, known for its state-of-the-art sound and light systems and world-class DJs.
• Suzy Wong’s: This is a popular go-go bar in Patong, known for its lively atmosphere and stunning performers.

Overall, Phuket’s nightlife scene has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a laid-back beach bar or a high-energy nightclub, you’re sure to find it in Phuket.

Safety Tips

Phuket is generally a safe place to visit, but it’s important to be aware of the potential risks and take necessary precautions to avoid them. Here are some Phuket guide safety tips to keep in mind when traveling in this region:

• Avoid renting a motorbike: Phuket has a high rate of motorbike accidents and many tourists are injured each year. It’s best to avoid renting a motorbike unless you are an experienced rider.
• Book tours safely: When booking tours or activities, make sure to use a reputable company and check reviews beforehand. Some companies may cut corners on safety measures to save money.
• Be cautious with water sports: Water sports, such as jet skiing and parasailing can be dangerous if proper safety measures are not followed. Make sure to wear a life jacket and follow all instructions given by the operator.
• Beware of Phuket’s taxi mafia: Some taxi drivers in Phuket may overcharge or scam tourists. It’s best to use a reputable taxi service or negotiate the price beforehand.
• Be careful on boat trips: Boat trips can be dangerous if safety measures are not followed. Make sure to wear a life jacket and choose a reputable company.
• Eat safely: To avoid food poisoning, be cautious when eating street food and make sure to choose restaurants that have good hygiene practices.
• Be aware of dangers for female tourists: Female tourists should be cautious when traveling alone, especially at night. It’s best to stay in well-lit areas and avoid walking alone.
• Watch out for scams: Tourists may be targeted by scams, such as fake gemstone sales or tuk-tuk drivers who take them to overpriced shops. Be aware of these scams and avoid them.

By following these safety tips, tourists can enjoy their time in Phuket while minimizing the risk of accidents or scams.

Phuket Travel Etiquette

When traveling to Phuket, it’s important to be aware of the local customs and etiquette to ensure a smooth and respectful visit. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

Dress Code

Phuket is a predominantly Buddhist region, so it’s important to dress modestly when visiting temples or other religious sites. This means covering your shoulders, knees and chest. Additionally, it’s important to remove your shoes before entering any temple or home.

Greetings

The Thai greeting is called the “wai,” which involves placing your palms together at chest level and bowing your head slightly. It’s appropriate to return the wai when someone greets you, particularly elders or those in positions of authority. Handshakes are also common, especially in more formal settings.

Cultural Sensitivity

Thai culture places a strong emphasis on respect, so it’s important to avoid causing offense. This means avoiding public displays of affection, raising your voice or using aggressive body language. Additionally, it’s important to avoid touching someone’s head, as it’s considered the most sacred part of the body.

Tipping

Tipping is not customary in Thailand, but it’s becoming more common in tourist areas. If you receive exceptional service, consider leaving a small tip of 10-20 baht. However, it’s important to note that tipping is not expected and should not be seen as mandatory.

Language

The official language of Thailand is Thai, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas. It’s always a good idea to learn a few basic phrases in Thai, such as “hello” (sawadee krap/ka), “thank you” (khob khun krap/ka), and “goodbye” (la gon krap/ka).

FAQs

Conclusion

So there you have it, my travel guide to Phuket. I hope it has been of assistance but as usual, if you have any questions please do not hesitate to reach out by commenting below.

Do you have any other tips or favorite things to do in Phuket? If so, please comment below.

Until next time

Have fun

Paul