Things to do in Phuket

In this travel guide, learn about the best activities to do in Phuket for families, couples and first-time travellers. From clicking photos with tigers to snorkelling in Phi Phi islands and from exploring night markets to visiting water parks, there is a lot you can do in Phuket.

Phuket is the largest island in Thailand known for its enchanting natural beauty, nightlife and beachfront resorts. Known as the ‘Pearl of the Andaman Sea’, this gorgeous Andaman Island is blessed with all the best tropical wonders. It has also been a top favourite destination for honeymoon couples. However, with each passing year, this Thai Tropical Island has managed to pull all kinds of tourists. So, if a Phuket trip has been on your mind and you’re wondering what to do in southern jewel of Thailand , check out this guide. Here are the best things to do in Phuket:

Best Things to Do in Phuket for Couples

Phuket is a renowned honeymoon destination for newly married couples, and why not? Its irresistible tropical charms, expanse of beaches and aquamarine waters can captivate anyone’s heart and soul. Let’s look at the best activities to do in Phuket for couples.

Explore the Serene Beaches of Phuket

If you and your partner are beach bums, you will be glad that Phuket has some of the best beaches in Thailand. These beaches include Freedom Beach, Karon Noi Beach, Ya Nui Beach and Kata Noi Beach. The sun kissed beaches of Phuket offer the best Instagram-worthy backdrop. Imagine taking long walks on the beach, hand in hand and toes in the sand. They give you just the right amount of seclusion, natural beauty and lesser crowds. However, if you like bustling fun and watersports, Patong Beach is amongst the best to revel in those activities. Whether you’re an adventurous couple or a couple who wants a calm atmosphere, Phuket’s beaches cater to all.

Watch the Sunset at Promthep Cape

One of the free Phuket activities to do is to catch the sunset at Promthep Cape viewpoint. The pink, purple and orange-ish hue scattered across the sky makes for a perfect photo backdrop for couples. Make sure to reach here by 5:30 pm as this place gets crowded. This Phuket attraction is on the bucket list of many tourists; hence, it’s a busy spot. Apart from the picture-perfect backdrop, the swaying palm trees and calming sea waters add to the picturesque setting. The Promthep Cape sunset viewpoint lies between Nai Harn Beach and Rawai Beach.

Address: Rawai, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83100, Thailand

Kayaking at Phang Nga Bay

If you want to experience Phuket’s nature in its pristine form, try kayaking in Phang Nga. The easiest way to get to Phang Nga Bay from Phuket is to take a taxi. Upon visiting Phang Nga Bay, you will find dense mangroves, lagoons, corals and stalactite caves. Passing through these caves while gliding over the sea waters will be an unforgettable experience. On your way, you will also get to see the breathtaking Hong Island and James Bond Island. If you’re new to kayaking, you may take a guided tour with a professional who can give you in-depth details about the island.

Have a Romantic Beachfront Dinner

Treat yourself and your spouse to a romantic beachfront dinner in Phuket. Many beachfront resorts and hotels in Phuket may offer a special, intimate candlelit dinner to honeymoon couples. You may select the menu, lighting, decor, etc., according to your taste and budget (if available) and create everlasting memories with your partner. If you are staying away from the beach, look for beach restaurants in Phuket to relish a romantic dining experience.

Relax at a Couple Spa

Nothing is better than taking a Day Spa session on a Phuket honeymoon. Thankfully, Phuket has various spa centres that cater primarily to families and couples. You can select from the best spa centres in Phuket and have a rejuvenating spa session with your partner. Having this shared experience builds strong companionship and memories. The couple’s spa sessions are designed for two people, where they have relaxing massage therapy in the same room. A spa session costs an average of THB 2000/- to THB 3000/- per person. The spa therapy typically lasts an hour and involves a full back massage, head massage and foot reflexology.

Explore Waterfalls in Phuket

Phuket is home to astonishing waterfalls such as Bang Pae, Kathu and Ton Sai. Visiting a waterfall is a perfect way to let off some heat. Amidst nature and stunning greenery, couples can seek privacy and enjoy camping in the splendour of nature. Bang Pae can be visited any time of the year among all the waterfalls, as it doesn’t dry up. It is also easy to accommodate in your Phuket itinerary. This Phuket attraction is located in the Thaeo National Park, for which you have to pay a fee of THB 200/- for Thai locals, the price is THB 20/-. The opening hours to see the waterfall is from 8 am to 4.30 pm. There are also two restaurants near Bang Pae Waterfall – Piang Prai (located at the park entrance) and Bang Pae Seafood.

Shop at Chillva Market

Chillva Market is one of the major night attractions in Phuket. The street market is famous for its youthful and hippie flair. You can find accessories, shoes, clothes, trinkets and other souvenirs for your loved ones back at home. And like the general rule of thumb, bargain only a little since prices are reasonable. You will also find stalls selling/serving fruits, veggies, meats and plates of seafood. Remember to taste the lip-smacking Thai street foods, and we suggest you go beyond the typical Pad Thai noodles and mango sticky rice. After hopping and eating, relax in the Chillva Retro area, which has a seating arrangement for visitors.

Tip: Make sure to reach here at 5 pm as the crowds get more with time.
Hours: Everyday 5 pm to 11 pm (timings may change on Thai national holidays)
Address: Ratsada, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83000, Thailand

Best Things to Do in Phuket for Families and Kids

Being a family-friendly destination, Phuket has a lot to offer in terms of animal and bird parks, aquariums, waterparks and cultural shows. Please check out the best activities to do in Phuket for families and kids.

Upside Down House Phuket (Baan Teelanka)

Upside Down House is the quirkiest tourist attraction in Phuket, which is ideal for families. As the name suggests, this place is a literal 3-storey house built upside down; it also features A-Maze-in-Phuket, a room escape, and a garden maze from which people have to find their way back. All the attractions in this place will put your thinking skills to the test as you have to solve the puzzle to escape. You can click some hilarious upside-down photos of you and share them with your friends. There is also a coffee kiosk and a souvenir store for tourists. This Phuket attraction is located only 20 minutes away from Patong. The ticket price will cost you THB 470 for adults and THB 240 for children.

Opening Hours: Opens daily from 10 am to 6 pm
Address: Chalermprakiat Ratchagan Thi 9 Road, Ratsada, Phuket 83000, Thailand

Aquaria Phuket

Aquaria Phuket is the largest aquarium in Thailand, perfect for a family day out. And if you’re looking for things to do in Phuket on a rainy day, this is the place! Located in Central Phuket Mall, this aquarium gives you the underwater experience. With over 25000 marine creatures divided into different zones, get ready to be enthralled. From clicking photos to feeding marine animals such as penguins, blacktip reef sharks, and stingrays, there is a lot you can enjoy with kids. You can also enjoy the mermaid show, the underwater ballet, and the glowing underwater show. In addition, you may also visit the AR TrickEye Museum to experience the art and paintings coming to life in 4D inside the mall.

Tickets: Aquarium + AR TrickEye Museum – THB 1305/- per adult and THB 756/- per head (for international tourists)

Aquarium only: THB 981/- per adult and THB 581/- per head (for international tourists)

Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday From: 10.30 am – 7:00 pm

Watch a Theatrical Show at Phuket FantaSea

Phuket FantaSea is an exuberant cultural theme park and a top tourist attraction. It is a cultural show based on Thai tradition, myths, and legends. The park is a beautiful amalgamation of sightseeing, shopping, and entertainment. The 70-minute cultural show is an audio-visual spectacle. It infuses Thai storytelling and state-of-the-art technology to present phenomenal performances. There is also a Golden Kinnaree Buffet Restaurant, which is designed by taking influences from Ayutthaya architecture. It is one of the most prominent buffet restaurants in the world, with a seating capacity of 4,000 people. Your kids can also enjoy the gaming town, while there is a shopping street for the ladies. Overall, it is a must-visit place for every tourist visiting to this beautiful island.

Opening Hours: 5:30 pm – 11:30 pm (Every Tuesday, Friday and Sunday)

Ticket Prices:
Cultural Show + Buffet Dinner: THB 2200/- (per adult) and THB 2000/- (per child)
For show only: THB 1800/- (per adult) and THB 1800/- (per child)

Address: 99, Kamala, Kathu District, Phuket 83150, Thailand

Ride the Waves at Surf Day

Surf House Phuket is ideal for spending time with family and kids. Located near Patong Beach, at Surf House, you can overcome your fear of water or surfing by riding on artificially generated waves. It gives you a simulation experience before going surfing at the beach. It is possible due to the Double FlowRider surf machine, which allows one to surf on consistent waves without getting knocked off. Kids, too, can enjoy water sliding on boards. The trainers here are friendly and professional. In addition, there is an on-site cafe that serves impressive drinks and food.

Prices: There are different sessions that cost different charges. The Jumbo 90 is a ninety-minute session that starts at the standard price of 990/- THB from 09:30 am to 11:00 am. The Jumbo 60 is a sixty-minute session that begins at 1.00 pm and ends at 7 pm.

Address: 162/7 Thaweewong Rd, Patong Kathu, Phuket 83150 Thailand

Splash Jungle Water Park

Splash Jungle Water Park is one of the best water parks in Phuket for families with kids. This massive water park is divided into different zones and is decorated with various styles of African, European, and Asian motifs. You may begin your ride by floating across the Lazy River. Then, try the simulating ride experiences of Wave Pool or Aqua Play Pool and the famous Super Bowl inflated tube. After all the splashing and riding on water waves, catch quick bites at the various Snack Huts across the park. They serve you mocktails, cocktails, pizzas, grilled cheeseburgers, Thai street food and delicious desserts. The ticket price costs THB 850 for ages 12 and above, THB 650 for ages 5 to 11, and free entry for infants and senior citizens above 60.

Opening Hours: 10 am – 5:45 pm

Address: 65 179 Soi Mai Khao 4, Mai Khao, Thalang District, Phuket 83110, Thailand

Phuket Bird Park

Have a fun family time at the Phuket Bird Park, which is the largest bird park in Thailand. It is home to various bird species from Asia, Africa, and Latin America. Along with parrots, macaws, hornbills, eagles, and owls, you can also spot rare species of birds. The highlight of the bird park is the bird show, which happens three times a day at different times. The birds showcase their different talents (you have to see it to believe it!) You can feed the beautiful birds and take photos with them. It will be a delightful experience for you and your children.

In addition, there are three eating joints in the park that serve tasty Thai food along with global food options. You can also take home some souvenirs, such as coffee cups, T-shirts, umbrellas, etc., from the souvenir shop before heading out from the exit gate. A total of 2–3 hours would be enough to explore the park.

Opening Hours: 1 pm to 5 pm; the bird shows begin at 10:30 am.
Address: 3 6/2 Chao Fah Tawan Tok Rd., Wichit, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83000, Thailand

Get Photos Clicked with Tigers and Cheetahs

Visit Phuket and get a photo clicked with tigers and cubs at Tiger Kingdom. It is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and you won’t regret it. There are cubs, small tigers, and giant cats that were trained and controlled from birth by human trainers. Along with clicking photos, you can also learn about the tiger’s behaviour, habitat, and protection efforts that are being made. It stands as one of the best activities for families as well as couples. If your child is under 16 years of age, make sure to accompany them while visiting a tiger. The timings of the Tiger Kingdom are 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Tip: While clicking photos with tigers seems like a fun and thrilling idea, it is important to show the utmost care and respect towards the creature.

Address: 118/88 Moo 7, Kathu, Phuket, Kathu District, Phuket 83120, Thailand

Best Things do in Phuket for First Time Visitors:

The Big Buddha

Visiting Big Buddha is a popular tourist activity in Phuket

Aerial shot of Big Buddha

The Big Buddha is one of the significant landmarks in Phuket. It is undoubtedly also one of the most visited tourist places in Phuket. The Big Buddha is a giant statue positioned in Maravija in a contemplative pose. It is made of white marble and is 45 metres tall, making it the third tallest statue in all of Thailand. The best time to visit the Buddha statue is either early in the morning or during the sunset. There is a flight of stairs that you can climb to reach the top. From here, you get to see a breathtaking view of the island, which also pulls in many tourists.

Travel Tip: Make sure to dress modestly by covering your shoulders and knees. The opening hours are 6:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Visiting the Big Buddha is also one of the free things to do in Phuket, as there is no ticket price. However, you may give out donations.

Address: Soi Yot Sane 1, Chaofa West Rd, Nakkerd Hill, near Chalong

Take a Stroll on Bangla Road

Phuket’s famous Bangla Road, locally known as “Soi Bangla“, is a neon-lit lane near Patong Beach. It is a walking street filled with bars, clubs, restaurants, and retail stalls. This 400-metre-long road gets shut down for moving traffic at sunset, making it easier for pedestrians to navigate. There are different Soi on Bangla Road, such as Soi Freedom, Soi Seadragon, Soi Hollywood, etc., each with its own unique vibe. This place also has some go-go bars and adult-themed bars, so it’s not suitable to visit with family or kids. If you’re looking for cheap food, be assured that you’ll get a full-plate meal for 200 to 300 Thai baht. Even if you decide to skip entering any of these bars, just strolling on Bangla Road and watching life unfold is an experience.

Address: Tambon Patong, Amphoe Kathu, Chang Wat, 83150, Thailand

Explore the streets of Old Phuket Town

Another key tourist spot in the Sino-Portuguese Gem is the ‘Phuket Old Town’. The old town is a remnant of Sino-Portuguese influence, which can be seen in the buildings and the street art. It is one of the free things to enjoy in here. Unless you are on a guided tour, exploring this town hardly costs anything. You can easily spend two to three hours walking in this area and discover attractions such as the Jui Tui shrine, old cafes, museums, and colonial buildings. There is an old-school charm to this place, and it feels like a trip into the past. It is a place that is absolutely Instagram-worthy. If you plan to visit in January, make sure to join the Old Town Festival. This area is easily accessible from all parts of the Thai isle . You can take a bus or a tuk-tuk for a cheap ride.

Snorkel around Phi Phi Island

Located 46 km away, the Phi Phi Islands are a popular tourist spot for visitors coming to Phuket. It takes around three hours to reach the Phi Phi Islands by boat or ferry. The travel time is entirely worth it once you realise how breathtaking the islands are for snorkelling or scuba diving. There are several spots on the island where you can find thriving colonies of corals. Some of the sites include Maya Bay Beach, Hin Klang, Loh Sama, Bamboo Island, etc. Keep your snorkelling gear ready and discover a thriving underwater world in the azure waters of the Andaman Sea.

Shop at the Night Markets

A visit to Sunset Island is incomplete without shopping at its enchanting night markets. These include the Phuket Sunday Market, Malin Plaza (at the southern end of Patong Beach), Phuket Weekend Market (Naka Market), and OTOP Market. From souvenirs to fresh fruits, and from t-shirts and sarongs to spa items, you will get all these items here at a reasonable price. Carry cash and change, as vendors might not be willing to accept digital payments. And there could be a possible long line at ATMs. Typically, these night markets open from 5:30 p.m. until midnight.

Try Some Local Street Food

Eating at restaurants and cafes is great, but trying the street food will surely enhance your travel experience. The street food here is extremely affordable and delicious. It will cost you anywhere from 80 to 200 Thai baht. Make sure to try Thai fried rice, noodle soup, Thai dumplings, grilled chicken skewers, meatballs, stir-fried noodles, and ice cream sandwiches. If you’d like to step out of your comfort zone, there are also exotic meats and worms you might try! The top places to try delicious street food are Yaowarat Road, Thalang Road, Phuket Road, and Dibuk Road.

Wrapping up this list, one can conclude that Phuket is rightly one of the best places in Thailand. There is something so magical and gorgeous about its aquamarine waters and pristine natural beauty. And now, with the list of the best things to do, you are prepared to have a blissful trip to the Island of Fun.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. What is Phuket best known for?

Phuket is best known for its white sandy beaches, emerald blue waters, thriving coral reefs, delicious seafood, and exhilarating nightlife.

Q2. Is 3 days enough in Phuket?

Three days in Phuket are good enough to cover the major tourist attractions and do some island-hopping.

Q3. Is Phuket good for couples?

Yes. Phuket is the best destination in Thailand for couples. Whether you’re a couple going on a honeymoon or simply looking for a romantic getaway, Phuket offers a satisfying experience.

Q4. What are the best areas to stay for couples?

Couples can choose to stay in resorts or hotels near Kata Beach, Nai Harn Beach, or Kamala Beach. These places are away from the hustle and bustle of Patong and provide the necessary seclusion and privacy.

Q5. What are some free things to do in Phuket?

The free things to do in Phuket are:
Click Photos at Phuket viewpoints
Explore the Kathu waterfall
Climb to Big Buddha
Take a walk in Phuket Old town
Go beach hopping
Visit the Soi Dog Foundation

Q6. Is Phuket worth visiting with family?

Absolutely, Phuket makes for an ideal destination to visit with family. With its family-friendly resorts and plethora of attractions for kids, it’s completely worth it.

Q7. What is there in Phuket for kids?

Phuket has a lot of places that cater to kids. Some of these are:

Splash Jungle Water Park
Surf Day in Phuket
Baan Teelanka
Phuket Bird Park
AR Trick Eye Museum
Phuket Aquarium, and more!

Q8. Is Bangla Road suitable for kids?

Bangla Road is famous for its adult bars, clubs, and neon-lit alleys. It’s not a space conducive to kids. Therefore, it’s not suitable for kids.

Q9. Is Phuket an expensive destination?

The resorted island is regarded as a high-end, luxurious holiday destination, but it’s not that you can’t find budget accommodations. All you need is an affordable Phuket tour package and smart planning with costs.

Q10. Do we get vegetarian food in Phuket?

Yes, there are restaurants that serve vegetarian food. You can check out restaurants like Golden Paradise Restaurant, Highway Curry, Amritsr Phuket Road, etc.

Q11. What to wear in Phuket?

One should wear light and breathable fabrics like cotton and linen. You can pack shorts, T-shirts, skirts, summer dresses, and a stole (in case you want to visit a religious site).

Q12. What is the best time to visit Phuket?

The best time to visit Phuket is from November to April. It’s a time when the weather is pleasant, there is no drizzling, and the visibility underwater is clear.