Phuket province is located in southern Thailand. It is the biggest island in the country and sits on the Andaman Sea with the province of Krabi to the east. With Phuket’s many beautiful beaches and panoramas, it’s no wonder so many gorgeous photos of the region are turned into calendars as well as phone and desktop wallpapers.
But the region has much more than beaches to offer travelers that wish to visit. There is interesting classical architecture and many temples to admire, landscapes to explore, and museums and exhibits to visit. There is also a multitude of restaurants, both local and international, and a bevy of accommodations, including indulgent luxury resorts. And, as most people know, there is a thriving nightlife scene. So, to help you choose what to see in the region here are the Top 10 Things to do in Phuket.
Laem Phromthep
Laem Phromthep, locally dubbed ‘Laem Chao’, is located on the southernmost point of the island. With its breathtaking scenery and beautiful sunset spot, the cape is among the favored locations for tourists, especially those interested in photography. From the edge of the cliff, a line of palm trees inclines downward to the cape’s end, which features rocky reefs where the island, Ko Kaeo Phitsadan, appears at the front. It is also a site of the Laem Phromthep Kanchanaphisek Lighthouse, built to commemorate the Golden Jubilee of King Rama IX’s accession to the throne. Inside the lighthouse showcases the construction, keeping standard time, and the calculation and display of the times of the sunrise and sunset. From the top of the lighthouse, visitors can view the endless spectacular scenery.
Old Phuket Town
Strolling around town is a favorite activity for tourists that want to explore the history of Phuket, which is comprised of a diversity of ethnicities and religions. These include Chinese, Indian, European, and Muslim, most of whom made a living as merchants and came to reside in the town. They constructed houses in a row-house pattern along both sides of the streets. Some buildings have been preserved as museums; for example, the Phuket Thai Hua Museum and Peranakan Nithat Museum, while other buildings have been adapted as restaurants, stylish coffee shops, or accommodations.
It is recommended for tourists to explore the lifestyle of the local people, taste the local food, as well as take pictures with more than 20 kinds of street art. Every Sunday, the Lat Vai market fair is held for visitors to enjoy and try local foods.
Ko Racha and Ko Mai Thon
Located in southern Phuket, Ko Racha is composed of two islands: Ko Racha Noi and Ko Racha Yai. Ko Racha Yai covers a white sandy shoreline with crystal water. It is known as a paradise for tourists, especially for those fond of diving. However, it is recommended for professional divers only, with a chance for encountering manta rays and even great white sharks. Equipped with full facilities, this island is ideal for staying nature lovers.
Ko Mai Thon is a stunningly gorgeous island, rich with nature and beautiful beaches. Many tourists, particularly those with limited time, opt for a speedboat to get to the island. This mode of transportation is popular from many ports.
Phuket Fantasea
Located at Hat Kamala, the show is one of the famous attractions in Phuket and the world’s first Thai cultural theme park. The show’s highlight is the Performance called the ‘Amazing Kamala’, which is a combination of Thai arts and culture with cutting-edge special effects of light and sound. The performance includes Thai elephants and other animals on the stage of the grand theatre. The show also includes an international buffet dinner. Souvenir shops are available. Open daily from 5.30-11.30 p.m. with the exception of Thursday.
Wat Chalong (Wat Chai Tharam)
Wat Chalong (Wat Chai Tharam) is a historical temple highlighting the powerful faith of the Phuket people. The temple carries the legend of Luangpho Chaem, a monk who mastered insightful meditation, magical power, and traditional medicine. During the time of the Ang Yi (Chinese Secret Society) rebellion, he gave good luck charms to those who fought and defeated them. It is believed that his sacred objects are famous for providing charm, protection from danger, and good fortune.
Location: Chao Fa Road, TambonChalong, Amphoe Mueang, Phuket province.
Hat Patong
Patong Beach, which is located 15 kilometers from Phuket town, features a wide curvy bay enhanced by the indigo sea and a beautiful white beach that is suitable for many watersports. It is internationally known and a popular destination for tourists.
The beach region is almost like a small town given that it is equipped with hospitals, large department stores, a wide range of accommodations, and restaurants. From Phuket Town, take Highway No. 4019 or Wichit Songkhram Road for 9 kilometers, turn left along the Highway (following the signpost of Hat Patong) for 6 kilometers. And beware because the road is quite meandering and sloping.
Hat Nai Yang
Located in the Sirinath National Park, this beach is ideal for relaxing and swimming and features a prominent pine backdrop. It water hosts large coral reefs, a variety of marine life species, including sea turtles that lay their eggs from November to February.
From Phuket Town, follow Thep Kasat Tri Road, pass through Thalang town, turn left at the intersection with the signpost to Hat Nai Yang. Then follow the signposts to the entrance of the National Park. Hat Nai Yang will be on the left-hand side.
Festivals
The Old Phuket Festival is held annually held after the Chinese New Year Festival to highlight the local life and culture of Phuket as well as entice tourists to experience the attractions in Old Phuket Town. During the Festival, prominent roads in old Phuket town including Thalang, Krabi, Dibuk, Phang-nga, Thep Kasat Tri, and Phuket are blocked off for walking only. Spectacular parades of local culture, traditional costumes in the Baba-Nyonya style, local food and cooking demonstrations, and other interesting activities are offered to the public.
Hat Surin
Hat Surin is yet another beautiful beach, situated at the foothills and fringed with pine trees on the north side. It is located 25 kilometers from Phuket in an area that was formally a golf course under the reign of King Rama VII. During monsoon season, strong storms often bring dangerous waves, so the waters are not recommended for swimming during that time.
From Phuket, follow Thep Kasat Tri Road to the Monument of Thao Thep Kasat Tri and Thao Si Sunthon, then turn left and drive for approximately 12 kilometers.
Hat Laem Sing
Hat Laem Sing is a tiny and tranquil sandy beach with plenty of shade under palm trees. The area is ideal for swimming and relaxing, and the waters contain beautiful rock reefs.
The beach is only one kilometer from Hat Surin located towards the south. From Hat Surin, drive along the road leading to Hat Kamala, there will be a small signpost on the right hand to Hat Laem Sing.
Source: Thailand Tourism – Amazing Thailand